The Charm of Local Dive Bars
Dive bars may not always be the most glamorous places, but they often hold a special place in the hearts of locals. These unpretentious spots, sometimes referred to as “holes in the wall,” offer a sense of community and belonging that can’t be found elsewhere. As one publication noted, “Just like a good joke makes you laugh, a great dive makes you feel connected. Whether it’s your own neighborhood bar where everyone proverbially knows your name or another town’s local haunt, you belong — for a night, for a while, or forever.” A great dive isn’t just a bar; it’s a gathering place with a unique character shaped by its people.
With this sentiment in mind, several publications have taken on the task of identifying the best dive bars across the country. One such list highlighted some of the top 50 dives in the nation, showcasing their distinct charm and history.
Georgia’s Top Dives
Two notable dive bars from Georgia made the list. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Pinkie Masters
Located in Savannah, Pinkie Masters has become a staple in the city’s Historic District. Despite the influx of tourists, this bar remains a favorite among locals, including professors and students from the Savannah College of Art and Design. The bar’s unique atmosphere is partly due to its proximity to Flannery O’Connor’s childhood home, drawing in a mix of characters and stories.
The original owner, Luis Chris Masterpolis, who was nicknamed Pinkie, had a significant impact on the area. He was a former boxer and played a role in electing Jimmy Carter, who would often visit the bar when passing through town. In 2015, two regulars took over the bar, which had been neglected for years, and with the help of other longtime patrons, they restored it to its former glory.
Pinkie Masters is open from 1 p.m. to 3 a.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to 3 a.m. Friday and Saturday. It’s located at 318 Drayton St. in Savannah.
Northside Tavern
In Atlanta, Northside Tavern offers a different kind of dive bar experience. While Clermont Lounge often steals the spotlight as Atlanta’s oldest strip club, Northside Tavern stands out for its lively atmosphere. The bar features regular blues band performances and a small, cinderblock space that adds to its charm. The iron over the windows serves as a reminder of the time before high-rise developments surrounded it.
Northside Tavern is open from noon to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to midnight on Sundays. It can be found at 1058 Howell Mill Rd NW in Atlanta.
Other Notable Dives in the South
Beyond Georgia, there are several other standout dive bars throughout the South. Some of these include:
- Callaghan’s Irish Social Clubin Mobile, AL
- Low Key Hideawayin Cedar Key, FL
- Mac’s Club Deucein Miami
- The Pearl of Germantownin Louisville, KY
- Snake & Jane’s Christmas Club Loungein New Orleans
- BJ’s Loungein New Orleans
- Vaughan’s Loungein New Orleans
- Red’sin Clarksdale, MS
- Burger Barin Asheville, NC
- The Green Roomin Durham, NC
- The Krakenin Chapel, NC
- The Recovery Roomin Charleston, SC
- Alex’s Tavernin Memphis, TN
- Wilburn Street Tavernin Nashville
- The Cloak Roomin Austin, TX
- Deep Eddy Cabaretin Austin, TX
- Donn’s Depotin Austin, TX
- Poison Girlin Houston, TX
- Valentine Texas Barin Valentine, TX
Each of these bars brings its own unique flavor and history, contributing to the rich tapestry of Southern culture. Whether you’re looking for live music, a friendly crowd, or just a place to unwind, these dives offer something special for every visitor.
