Don’t expect much and you won’t be disappointed. We found ten of our favorite so-called dive bars across Long Island. Basically, local places to have a drink or two and maybe a bite to eat. No pretense. No gimmicks. No dress code. Just a local place to hoist a few.
The Broken Down Valise - One person online gave it a two-star review and commented, "it's not the place to get a fancy cocktail or a wide wine list,” which is probably the biggest compliment a dive bar could ever get. Where: 180 Pike Street, Mattituck, (631) 298-9796.
Tara Inn - Once a bowling alley, the Tara Inn has been a local watering hole where those who know can get decent drinks and okay food at a great price. It’s been around so long that the owner’s young daughter who the bar was named after in 1977 grew up to now own the place and is actually a village justice in Port Jefferson. Where: 1519 Main Street, Port Jefferson, (631) 828-5987.
Valencia Tavern - Described by patrons as “classic,” “old-school,” “one of the last remaining authentic dive bars,” and “an old fashioned bar like the old days.” Newsday says it was built in 1933 as a residence but the owner had it rezoned so he could serve food from his home - smart dude. Where: 236 Wall Street, Huntington, (631) 683-4166.
Misfits Tavern - A place where people who stand out fit in. Live music. Cold beers. Good times. Where: 800 Middle Country Road, Ridge, (631) 775-8733.
Jillys 11 - As one reviewer put it on Google, “Yes, it’s a dive bar, but welcoming and fun. We had a great time here. Not for everyone, but perfect for us!” Where: 713 Medford Avenue, Patchogue, (631) 475-6323.
Nolan's Pub - "Nothing wrong with a cool dive bar!!! Cheap and fun and a pool table old house fun." - Guy who knows a thing or two about dive bars on Google. Where: 435 East Park Avenue, Long Beach, (516) 432-9530.
Railroad Inn - They have dart boards and railroad themed decor. Conveniently, also near the railroad. You get drinks there. Hits all the marks. Where: 151 S Franklin Avenue, Valley Stream, (516) 561-9397.
SomePlace Else - Touts itself as “the cleanest dive bar on Long Island.” Nuff said. Where: 226 Higbie Lane, West Islip, (631) 539-9777.
Jax Cocktail Lounge - Cocktails? Yes. Lounge? Maybe. Dart tourneys and beer at this long-standing staple in Lake Ronkonkoma. Where: 720 Portion Rd, Lake Ronkonkoma, (631) 467-9703.
Charlie Bullfrogs - Like Cheers where everyone knows your name but is named Charlie Bullfrogs. Where: 316 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, (516) 352-2384.