The Dive Crawl
Cobalt Club // It might not look like a whole lot from the outside, but Cobalt Club’s lasting legacy might be how it cares for its patrons, i.e. everyone who gets off work late, those who want to keep drinking when the sun rises in the morning. A haven for hospital employees, this straight-friendly gay dive has staying power. 2022 McCullough Ave., (210) 251-2027.
Coco Beach // If you’re into Hurricanes and kitschy tropical décor without a hint of pretentious tiki, you’ll want to head to Coco Beach. The spot off Nakoma is decked out with palm huts and a strung up marlin above the door so you can’t miss it. Once inside, the “Port Aransas-fucked-South-Padre-and-this-is-their-lovechild” vibe persists. Get cozy in the indoor cabanas at your own risk. 12159 Valliant St., (210) 341-5330.
Crazy Ape // Miss Harambe? Crazy Ape does, too. Actually they were fans of ape decorations long before Cincinnati Police shot the Western lowland gorilla in May of this year. Inside, you’ll find friendly staff, cheap drink specials, all the popcorn you can eat, pool tables and a general refuge from all things work-related. 9930 San Pedro Ave., (210) 375-5813.
Marty’s Cocktails // Practice your karaoke skills in one of the most welcoming of settings. This tiny nook of a bar delivers wild comedy shows, great drink specials, and chill vibes. This country-esque bar is filled to the gills with Texan sport memorabilia (including a painted scene out of most Spurs games with David Robinson and Timmy held in sweet embrace). And there’s free wi-fi. 603 Isom Road, (210) 341-9259.
Make My Day Lounge If you’re fresh off the late shift, still going from the night before or in need of a morning fix, Make My Day Lounge might be your bar. Stop in early for a dark escape from the morning sun or head in during the evening when they host rowdy karaoke sessions. It’s a catch-all bar for anyone looking to satiate their thirst. 12144 Nacogdoches Road, 210-655-6367.
Texas T Pub // Neons and Lone Star in the heart of Downtown: What more do you need? Visit 2016’s winner of Best Dive Bar, if you haven’t, for cheap drink specials, peanuts, chips and puro nostalgia. 121 Broadway, (210) 271-1058.
