Dana Gardens

I went here with a group of 20+ friends on a Saturday. This bar is unique in the fact that it has 2 floors. I haven't been to many bars in Cinci that have 2 floors. It gets crowded fast on Saturday nights so I'd advise going early. I did and found a great parking spot right next to the bar. The drinks are reasonable prices and so is the food. It's a little dirty around the stair way. The bathrooms are packed on weekends. I even saw a woman going into the men's because the wait for the women's was long.  You will find a lot of Xavier students here as well especially during the later part of the night. I had a good time with my friends...played some pool, caught up with them, and enjoyed the scene. I wouldn't mind coming back here again even if its a little dirty on the stairs and waiting to use the bathroom.

As a XU alum, I am biased.  It really should only be about 3 stars, but I can't do that to beloved Dana's. Dana's is a dive bar for sure.  If it weren't for the proximity to Xavier, I don't know if I would have ever gone.  It is one of Xavier own though.  The only bar within walking distance of the school makes Dana the go to bar.  

During the school year, it's packed with students!  It has two level with a bar on each floor as well as the two level porch as well that is nice when the weather is warm.  During the game days, the alumni revisit the bar before games and it's a great place to run into old class mates.  They have about 4 beers on tap, a couple old TVs above the bar to show game and a dart board.  The bar is overrun with messages and notes carved or written everywhere from students throughout the years.  Some interesting reads and some you may not.  Definitely gives it character.

If you're a Xavier fan, alumni, student or prospective student, this is the place to be!

Dana's is a staple for XU students, which honestly makes me kind of sad.  Dana's has a lot of character but I do wish that "Xavier's Bar" was slightly nicer and larger.  The owner (BJ) and Herschel are always friendly, but I have met some unfriendly staff members there.  

Dana's is the go-to spot for Xavier students and fans before and after basketball games.  This place is tiny so it gets packed!  Their food is standard bar food so you get what you pay for.  I highly recommend their cheesy tater tots!  Drinks are cheap which is great for a college bar.  This is a beer and hard liquor type of bar.  I had a friend order a glass of wine there once for some unknown reason.  She got lots of ridicule, but all in good fun.

My biggest complaint is the bathroom.  It is very small and there is often a line.  People have written on the walls over the years so that is fun to look at.  It's always entertaining when someone finds their mom's signature!

Make sure to order the "Herschel Special!"