The Watering Hole

For those who aren’t sober, the bar is a refuge.  It’s a place to gather with friends, to meet a first date, to tune out life’s woes or to celebrate a new job.  There are different types of bars for each occasion, though all of life’s troubles and joys are befit a drink or three at one’s local watering hole.

A watering hole is a bar that suits your personality, a bar you vibe with because of atmosphere or location.  A good watering hole is no more than a walk or train ride away, a place you don’t need a car to get to.  You don’t return to your watering hole because they have the best drinks in town - maybe they do, but that’s beside the point when comfort, convenience and conviviality are what’s on the menu.

More often than not, I find myself at Republic (in Minneapolis' West Bank neighborhood) when on a date or gathering with friends.  While their cocktails are average, they have a strong beer list and solid wine selection.  Though Republic's predecessor was a fusty dive bar, the polished wood paneling and stained glass fixtures take the establishment upscale.  When I don’t feel like trekking to my favorite cocktail bar or brewery, I know Republic will have something on their menu that gets the job done and satisfies the soul, if not the palate.

Location: Republic at Seven Corners