Thomas Street Tavern

"This townie dive has a killer back patio, which reigns supreme because it has ping-pong tables — fully fenced off — where matches are high-stakes serious. Regulars know to grab drinks — nothing fancy but the kind that do the trick — at the outside back bar, because the front bar is always slammed, especially on the weekends. At the end of the night (which, for Thomas Street, is usually around 2 a.m.), people buy drinks for the band members who performed on the inside stage earlier that evening. Be ready to pay cash for the entry fee on certain evenings." - Kayleigh Ruller

"Thomas Street Tavern is exactly what you want from a neighborhood hangout: a perfect outdoor area, good food, live music, and ping pong. The interior looks like a typical pub, with ideal sightlines on TVs, pool tables, and a small stage that regularly hosts local bands. Outside are two additional bars, tables, and lawn games like cornhole. Those craving an experimental cocktail should venture elsewhere; here, it's all about tried-and-true cocktails and beer, all reasonably priced." - Lauren Levine