A bar is a business that specializes in the service of alcoholic beverages, such as beer, liquor, and mixed drinks, to be consumed at the bar. There are countless types of bars, ranging from low-key establishments, such as taverns, pubs, lounges or dance clubs. These establishments often have live entertainment, such as a live band, comedian, or even dancers.
There are many different types of bars, which are categorized according to the type of entertainment, patrons or beverages served. People generally favor one type of bar over another depending on the ambience or beverages served. The term “bar” refers to the specialized counter the drinks are served from, but can refer to any number of drinking establishments, such a saloon, tavern or pub. The drinks are usually mixed and served by a bartender and can be found anywhere from a hotel or restaurant, or as a freestanding building anywhere in a town or city.
Another type of bar is known as a beer garden. This usually refers to an open-air area where alcohol is served. The term originated in Germany, but has also become popular in other parts of the world.
Many bars specialize in serving a particular type of alcoholic beverage, such as a martini bar or wine bar, or bar with locally brewed beers or international beers. Patrons who go to these specialized establishments know they will find a cocktail, wine or beer they may not be able to obtain at any other bar in the city, which is the draw for these types of establishments.
Martini and wine bars are increasing in popularity in the United States. Both of these types of bars specialize in one type of drink, although other types of alcoholic beverages are usually also served. Martini bars tend to be very trendy places, and may also be referred to as a cocktail lounge. Wine bars specialize in wines from around the world and may offer choices by the glass or bottle, or even allow you to taste several different wines in smaller servings.
The idea of a saloon originated in the western United States and was popularized in old cowboy movies. These bars typically served whiskey and beer, however over the years became more sophisticated and now are typically the same as other generalized bars.
A pub, or public house, is another name for an establishment serving alcoholic beverages, especially beer. The term pub originated in England and Ireland, although countless drinking establishments throughout the world now use the term pub in their name. Generally, there is no major difference between pubs, bars, taverns or lounges and consumers tend to enjoy them all for the same reasons.