Ladies and gentlemen, the definition of a dive bar per the internet is: A dive bar, or simply a dive, is a drinking establishment (or sometimes a restaurant) with a run down appearance and atmosphere. In a dive bar, the drinks tend to be cheap and of low quality, but frequently are of a high alcohol content. Since dives lack an appealing atmosphere, people tend to frequent dives for the sole purpose of drinking (or sometimes eating) inexpensively, though sometimes there are regulars who appreciate the laid-back atmosphere.
If you live in the West LA area, Del's provides a great night cap to a Saturday Night spent dancing and bumping hips with snobbish industry people. One reviewer mentioned Busby's. Sure it could be a better option, if you get there early enough to avoid the ridiculous 50-person line that usually is formed by 10pm, don't mind paying the $10-$20 cover, and love a cramped and musty dancefloor.
Del's sort of wings it every night that I've been there. I've never been accosted, jostled, or relentlessly pursued, something that tends to happen at Meat Markets in the area. You can always find a great pool competitor. Karaoke on Sat nights brings regulars from around LA. Bobby, the host, deals with a lot of drunk a-holes pleading to get their song first. So, if you slip a little in the tip jar, you may get taken care of faster. Just be respectful. One night everyone was sick of the karaoke so Bobby just started playing Top-40 and turned the stage into a dance party. Fun was had by all.
I'd rather pay $5.50 or so for a heavy-handed drink than $12.50 for some foo-foo martini that doesn't give you the slightest buzz. You can go with your friends and be the party, or roll up alone and be guaranteed to get a good conversation.
But remember, this is a dive bar. It ain't the Ritz, it isn't Sunset, and it sure as heck isn't some pretentious little yuppie sports bar down the street. It's got real people with really affordable drinks.
Pros: drink prices, parking, people
Cons: one bathroom
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