A good dive bar will usually have a surly staff and an endless supply of peanuts that ultimately becomes dinner. Hangar 17 has a dive bar mentality, but forget the Chex mix and order a bone-in pork chop here while playing a heated game of darts. The bar on 16th and S streets is industrial looking with an aluminum awning, an outdoor patio and bistro-style tables inside. It has a slithering granite-topped bar illuminated with a red light that is led by bartenders who know how to use a cocktail shaker. The menu ranges from typical to eclectic with chicken wings to lumpia for appetizers, and sandwiches such as the Philly cheese sandwich made with prime rib or the Italian pocket sandwich. Entrees include an Asian skirt steak (marinated in sweet chili sauce), a number of pasta dishes and gourmet pizzas. There’s a lively Friday happy hour with specialty drinks such as the Swayze shot (Sky berry vodka and cranberry juice.) Or try the after dinner minitini. Cindy Arora

Insider tip: Video games, darts and a jukebox will keep you entertained.

Reservations: Not needed

Payment methods: Amex, ATM, Visa, Mastercard

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $10

Hours: Monday–Friday: 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., bar open until 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.–midnight
Sunday: 10 a.m.–11 p.m.