Wp Callaghans — Mobile has the best dive bar in the country (The Bama Buzz)

Everybody seems to have a different way to judge their favorite dive bars. From bar food and drink deals to low lighting and empty pool tables, plenty of things can help a local spot stand out as the place to be.

But only a select few can be talked about among the most iconic bars across the South.

Southern Living recently took on the task of finding some of those legendary dive bars, naming 25 across the region and three from Alabama made the list:

Callaghan’s Irish Social Club in Mobile
The Garage in Birmingham
Pirate’s Cove in Elberta

Keep reading to learn more about each spot + what you need to know before visiting the dive bars for yourself.

Callaghan’s Irish Social Club

Callaghan’s is no stranger to getting national attention. Earlier this year, it was named the best dive bar in the country by Huckberry and Southern Living might agree.

“This unassuming corner pub in Mobile is regularly written up for its food, primarily due to its ultra-popular house specialty burger. The plate will leave you feeling like you just got let in on a secret. Most patrons choose to accompany the greasy order with a cold pint at the Irish-style pub.”
Southern Living

Location: 916 Charleston Street, Mobile, AL 36604
Hours: 11AM-11PM, Monday-Saturday | 10AM-11PM, Sunday
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The Garage

The Garage is a staple for the Birmingham crowd and while the debate remains on whether its a true dive bar, its recognition is well deserved.

“When the weather is nice, there’s no better place in Birmingham to spend an afternoon than at The Garage, a beer garden known for its build-your-own sandwiches (try the house-favorite Fritz Sandwich) and local beer. The outdoor space, where you can snag a picnic table, is accented with garden antiques, lush hanging wisteria, and familiar locals. Until recently, the bar only took cash. However, that won’t stop you now.”
Southern Living

Location: 2304 10th Terrace S, Birmingham, AL 35205
Hours: 11AM-11PM, Wednesday-Thursday | 11AM-2AM, Friday-Saturday | 12-10PM, Sunday
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Pirate’s Cove

The dive bar on the coast may be more known for its food than anything else but the setting certainly helps Pirate’s Cove stand out.

“On the Alabama Gulf Coast, this legendary third-generation beach shack can be found in the tiny town of Elberta and is accessible by boat or car. Along with waterfront views and chilled-out good times, the restaurant is known for three main things: Bushwackers, cheeseburgers, and the many friendly pups who are free to play along the sandy beach.”
Southern Living