Atlanta's Best Dive Bars

There's just something comforting about a dive bar. They're cozy, cheap and most of them still let you smoke inside. Here are my take for the top 5 dingy watering holes in Atlanta. Happy diving!

Updated: January 22, 2010

Dive Bars


50.0
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Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge

644 North Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306

First, it's in a basement. Second, they have checkers and chess. Third, you feel like you're in some movie from the 60s. It's a little big for a dive, but that's ok.


42.0
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Star Community Bar

437 Moreland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307

Located in Little Five, there's probably no more perfect spot for a dive bar. Plus they have free rock shows and $2 PBR.


50.0
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Elliott Street Deli & Pub

51 Elliott St, Atlanta, GA 30313

Elliott's is downtown and super hard to find. But that's part of what makes it cool. They don't serve Miller products, but I don't hold that against them.


40.0
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El Bar

939 Ponce de Leon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306

This place is in the bottom of a Mexican restaurant. I don't think you can get any more dive-y than that!


50.0
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529 Bar

529 Flat Shoals Ave Ne, Atlanta, GA 30318

Seeing a show at the 529 makes you feel like seeing a show at someone's house. It's tiny, smokey, and the bands are usually pretty decent.