A stuffed buffalo head above the bar and various Wild West paraphernalia on the walls greet you as you enter this Capitol Hill hotspot. But it ain't no hick Texan Honkey Tonk, more a warm, laid-back neighbourhood tavern full of local trendies who don't take themselves too seriously.

DJs spin alternative beats every Monday and Thursday and the brand-wearing locals opt for pitchers of microbrew or vodka cocktails while bantering about bands and brands and politics. The Southern fare menu includes chicken pot pie and meatloaf and despite the in-crowd feel, the locals are inviting and friendly. A nice place for nice people, reads one blurb. Be prepared to wait in line for the pool table, though, and don't bring credit cards -- cash only.