The Other Place

Gorgeous female patrons? Rarely. A swing'n and bump'n night spot? Not really. Sleek interior design and stylish location? Who are you kidding (you gotta park on side streets with the residents, but I'll get to that).

Let me start by saying there are few places on earth that are still a well keep secret (what with growing population, technology, the combustion engine and all). Yet odds are even after I create the 1st ever post on this diamond in the rough, it will still get little recognition. Regardless, I feel I must give one of my favorite places it's due.

Tucked deep in A rather quiet residential area, you might just drive by without even noticing its there. Back when Haverhill was a mill town, this gem was built to grab all the factory workers as they poured out at 5pm from the industrial building a few blocks away. Nothing like tying one on to make the evening more tolerable, right? The locals says this joint's had numerous names over the years as it continues to change hands. My personal favorite is... The Office. "Hey honey, gonna go down to the office to pull some overtime. Be back in a few hours." God that is genius.

When I began frequenting it went by The 8th Ave Tavern. Now new ownership dubs it The Other Place. Yet no matter the name, it's the same - a perfect little dive bar.

Cheap drinks, jukebox, wood pellet stove, darts, pool table, three flat sceen TVs, a nice wooden bar top and for the modern crowd... a Wii. Hell, they even have a few table tops by the stove or a booth for the rare party of five, that is to say if sitting up at the bar ain't your fancy. The most wonderful thing about being here is how they always keep your glass full. Don't particularly care for their selection of beverages? Write the recommendation up on the chalkboard. Next time you swing by, they'll have it. Now that's how you create customer satisfaction.

Minutes can turn into hours as you tip the glass (or can, based on your preference) and if you walk in with $20 - it'll last you the night.. In 2012, that's saying a lot.

I imagine the place looks much like it did 50 to 100 years ago when it started. Which ain't putting it down. Sometimes we don't need change. Sometimes the more things stay the same, the more comfortable they become. The Office, The Tavern, The Other Place - call it what you will - it may not be in a great location or even look great - but that's just what it is: GREAT.

(my 100th Review)