• James Buck
• Esox

Esox

194 Main St., Burlington, 862-7314

Barflies, punks and hipsters coexist peacefully around Burlington's most awkwardly placed pool table. The bartenders here don't force small talk — and that's part of the appeal. Named best place to go if you have resting bitch face in the 2015 Seven Daysies readers' picks awards, this relaxed bar is home of the PB Army. Grab a seat by the large open-air window facing Main Street and watch the world go by.

JP's Pub

139 Main St., Burlington, 658-6389

If it's karaoke you seek, look no further. This classic dive serves up wannabe rock stardom at least three nights a week.

Manhattan Pizza & Pub

167 Main St., Burlington, manhattanpizzaandpubvt.com

• Matthew Thorsen
• Manhattan Pizza & Pub

This cozy and usually low-key hang is noted for a killer beer selection, good pub grub and local bands on the weekends. (Pro tip: Swing by on Fridays for deals on Philly cheesesteaks and Heady Topper.)

Olde Northender Pub

23 North St., Burlington, 864-9888

Owner Bob Beauvais describes this true neighborhood watering hole as "the best damn make-you-feel-at-home bar."

The Other Place

4 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-5803

• Matthew Thorsen
• The OP

The OP is the crown cubic zirconium of Burlington dives. It features drink specials every day of the week — we're partial to PBR pitchers on Tuesdays — and one of the more competitive pool tables in town.

T. Rugg's Tavern

149 Elmwood Ave., Burlington, 658-0456

This Old North End staple has the distinction of being the only bar in town with a view of a cemetery. So that's something.

Three Needs Brewery & Taproom

185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889

The Needs has great beer, lively pool tables and an enormous outdoor patio. Swing by at 5 p.m. on weekdays for Duff Hour: a double dose of "The Simpsons" and dollar drafts.