There is something about the high-ceilinged, former cigar bar that gives it a cozy, neighbourhood-bar vibe right downtown. It’s a safe retreat, whether in a group or on your own. You wouldn’t feel weird reading a book while cradling your shot of whiskey. A lot of the appeal is in the great selection of tunes they play, programmed by whoever’s tending bar. A reliable choice of No Depression alt. country (Johnny Cash, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle) and quality rock tunes (Tom Petty, Neil Young, Van Morrison) completes the picture, and makes every solo beverage a pleasure. 5428 Doyle Street, 423-8667
1st Runner-up: Ginger’s/Granite Brewery , 1662 Barrington, 422-4954
2nd Runner-up: Bearly’s House of Blues & Ribs , 1269 Barrington, 423-2526
