Red Dwarf

Red Dwarf is the kind of place that gives dive bars a good name. There's no smoking or video poker, just great cocktails and spirits in a cozy environment that follows a modest tiki theme -- with a small corner stage for live music, and vintage punk-rock concert posters on the wall.

The bar itself wraps around the room at odd angles that encourage conversation, whether with other customers or the bartender. Rums are the specialty with at least 100 on the list. A blackboard lists the beer selection, which includes a few local favorites and Dwarf Piss, an exclusive house brew produced by Astronomy Aleworks.

If you get hungry, there's always wings, salads and garlic bread, but the square-shaped Detroit-style pizzas steal the show. The combo of brown sugar-glazed ham, jalapenos, and yes, pineapple is a perfect sweet, savory, and spicy combination that pairs well with anything you're drinking.

Local beverage writer and Gayot contributor Bob Barnes predicts you'll "want to become a regular."