Readers' Picks for the Best Dive Bars in Atlanta

Nothing fancy at these local favorites.

by Chris Fuhrmeister@ccfuhr Oct 23, 2014, 3:30pm EDT

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by Chris Fuhrmeister@ccfuhr Oct 23, 2014, 3:30pm EDT

Local readers have chimed in via comments, Twitter, Facebook, and email to talk up their favorite dive bars in Atlanta. With a long list of nominees, this map includes the 10 most popular choices. There might be some omissions — Sister Louisa's Church isn't included because Grant Henry himself says it doesn't qualify — but the options here do a nice job of representing the city's dive scene. Don't see your favorite? Give it a shoutout in the comments.

Red's Timbers

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Does not having a website add to a bar's dive reputation? If so, Red's is doing things right. This place claims to be the oldest bar in Smyrna.

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730 Concord Road Southeast, Smyrna, GA 30082

Rusty Nail

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Located on Buford Highway, a large smoker that takes the shape of a revolver scares off the faint of heart. [Photo]

2900 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30329

(404) 634-6306

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Smith's Olde Bar

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The Fox Bros. stopped serving their barbecue at Smith's a long time ago, but the bar is still a good spot to catch a rock show. [Photo]

1578 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324

(404) 875-1522

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Northside Tavern

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This Westside hole in the wall likes to proclaim itself "Atlanta's home to the blues." It's hard to think of a better pairing for a gritty bar than gritty guitar licks. [Photo]

1058 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

(404) 874-8745

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Moe's and Joe's Tavern

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Look at the signage and much of the decor inside, and you'll deduce that the folks behind Moe's and Joe's are big fans of Pabst Blue Ribbon. Cheap beer is a dive bar classic. [Photo]

1033 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

(404) 873-6090

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Eight of Atlanta's Most Iconic Dive Bars

The Highlander

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In addition to the laid-back weekdays and metal shows on weekends, The Highlander proudly boasts its lack of wi-fi.

931 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

(404) 872-0060

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Euclid Avenue Yacht Club

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No, the Yacht Club isn't anywhere near water, but it attracts an eclectic crowd in Little Five Points. [Photo]

1136 Euclid Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

(404) 688-2582

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Elmyr Restaurant & Cantina

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Another favorite in Little Five, Elmyr fits into the rare "burrito dive" genre. The beer is cheap, the air is smoky, and the burritos and quesadillas are as big as your head. [Photo]