Welcome to Carnahan’s Tavern – Carbondale’s Neighborhood Corner Dive Bar – It’s Simple…

Definitions:

A bar (also called a pub, tavern, or saloon) is an establishment that serves alcoholic drinks - beer, wine, liquor, and cocktails - for consumption on the premises.  Bars provide stools or chairs that are placed at tables or counters for their patrons.  Some bars have entertainment on a stage, such as a live bands.  The term "bar" is derived from the specialized counter on which drinks are served. The "back bar" is a set of shelves of glasses and bottles behind that counter. In some establishments, the back bar is elaborately decorated with woodwork, etched glass, mirrors, and lights.

A dive bar is a type of bar or pub.  These bars generally have a relaxed atmosphere — they are often referred to by local residents as "neighborhood bars," where people in the neighborhood gather to drink and socialize.  A well-worn, unglamorous bar, often serving a cheap, simple selection of drinks to a regular clientele.They are the low-down American interpretation of the local pub. Typically locally owned, relatively small, and highly informal, dive bars are a place to go to unwind and heave a booze-filled sigh of relief at the end of a long day.

Things to do:

Freed as they are from high-end cultural pretenses, patrons of dive bars are free to take a load off, drop the charade of fast-paced modern life, and simply stare off into space (or watch a sports game) in silence. Conversation is welcome, though don't expect to get a ton in. For extra amusement, dive bars often offer games. They give patrons something to do when all the seats are taken and conversation gets dull. Pool and video games (mostly of the vintage variety) are common.Dives may also offer live music from time to time, usually in the form of a local band or musical artist, who, if not paid, at least gets free booze for the night. If seeing live music at a dive bar, ear plugs are recommended, especially if one expects repeated exposure to such environments and would like to avoid the indignity of hearing aids or deafness in middle or old age.One might also find diversion from snacks located about the bar. While dive bars are rarely known for serving food (unless beer may be considered a food, and veritably, it should be), they do often offer packaged, fatty snacks.

Conclusion:

Dive bars are well worth visiting. Between the drink, the company, and the atmosphere, you shall find no dearth of fascinating details. Welcome to Carnahan’s Tavern. It’s Simple…