You know it's a dive when: The makeshift "patio" has old booths held together with duct tape for seating, and a big, flat rock for a coffee table. You think you spot Gregg Allman, but it's just a regular with gray hair down to his ass, rocking a plaid shirt and leather vest. When you order a beer, the bartender asks, "bottle or can?" The couple next to you, who both look to be in their 40s, are arguing over the pros and cons of moving out of the guy's father's house.
Relics of a dive bar: Toad's Tavern opened four years ago and really plays up the "Toad" name. Everywhere you turn, there are toads: dancing on key rings, swinging from the ceiling, even decorating tea towels. Welcome to their "pad."
Like a lot of dives, Toad's is in an old building, and you feel comfortable the moment you walk into the intimate, cozy space. Get into a game of pool or Buck Hunter, play Seger or Petty on the jukebox, or belly up to the bar for a chat with bartender Sarah.
What we ordered: The November special is $2 draws of Fat Tire, a pleasant surprise that we couldn't pass up (between 4-6 p.m. a Fat Tire draw is just $1.50). Thursday nights Toad's also has a $2 rum special, which most patrons seemed to be enjoying.
Local flavor: Toad's Tavern seems to attract all walks of life. From long-haired hippies to bar-hopping east side ladies, the quaint bar was packed on Thursday night. For most of the night, older guys behind us were "play-fighting," which consisted of punching at each other and cussing, then hugging and patting each other's backs, then repeating.
Best deals: Happy hour is 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with $1 draws, $2 beers and $.50 off all cocktails.
You'll be back for: Cheap draws, friendly fights and hanging out on the "patio." Stop in on Thursdays for $2 rum drinks.
Toad's Tavern, 3002 State Ave.; 264-8623.
Hours: Noon-2 a.m. Monday through Saturday and open for football games on Sunday, usually until around 7 p.m.
