Claddagh Ring

ive only visited once and im reaaaally torn...i typically adore dive bars but i draw the line at stinky moldy corn sittin in coolers where im sittin down to grab a drink

ill even put up with dirty old men...in fact if a dive didnt come stocked with the blokes id be worried; anyhow...its an older crowd and my roomie and i got the stink eye when we walked in to check the joint out

i like that its homey and about as laid back as u can get wo sittin in ur undies in ur own apt...they also have games that u can snag and play...ladies room is beyond weird, two toilets...one stall...i guess if u and a friend really gotta go u can give it the ol college try

Commonly known as "the Ring" by students, this is a great Irish pub to hang out with friends over a pint or pitcher.  The place is relatively large for a typical pub and has a back area for those who want a smoke.  The back section has a few dart boards and there is plenty of seating, but expect to stand if the place is packed.  They have roughly five beers on draft with at least one being a Goose Island, and a large selection of mass domestics bottled.  Their food menu is limited, but the main idea visiting this place is to have a drink.  So if you're looking for something to do on a Friday or Saturday night, look no further than the Ring.

I expected that the Claddagh Ring bartenders could pour a proper pint of Guinness (they can).

However - I didn't expect a whole pig roast* in the back replete with homey backyard feel, regulars that look like mom and dad (who smoke cigs purchased from the old school cigarette vending machine), picnic benches that have been around long before communal seating became trendy, a bar staff that doesn't let you wait for more than 60 seconds and an awesome rocking chair (which yes, I rocked).

You know a bar's legit when the regulars swear they go nowhere else... bonafide one-bar patrons 4eva. I even made besties with Wanda, a 'mature' woman (and veritable bombshell) who enjoyed doling out some sage relationship insights... I definitely got her two cents' worth!

Also unexpected - Claddagh happens to be an Eastern European hangout! Who knew... oh yeah, my friend Phil. He always does.

*Insiders say the pig roasts happen on the regular during the warm months. Also, we were treated to slow-cooked brisket and sausages... can you say meat orgy?