Lava Lounge

2226 Second Ave, 441-5660

Description: A dimly lit Belltown dive with a Polynesian theme.

Decor: A cramming of tropical riffraff (sunset murals, mounted shark jaws, thatched roofs) interspersed with props from a madman's basement (skulking ventriloquist dummies, a taxidermied crow covered in dust).

Celebrity guests: According to the bartender, everyone from Alice in Chains guitarist Jerry Cantrell (who would come in with his pit bull and play shuffleboard alone, all alone) to movie star Kevin Spacey (who was quiet and had wine).

Fair warning: There isn't an official dress code, but if you were planning on showcasing your favorite purple sweatpants, go somewhere else. Years ago, a troubled miscreant wandered in from the street and traumatized the staff while wearing purple sweatpants, says the bartender. Purple sweatpants have subsequently come to represent the sum of all chaos that befouls our world. (Cracked-out psychos: 1; the rest of us who prefer casual apparel with a perfect blend of comfort and colorful whimsy: 0.)

Happy hours: Mon–Sat 3–7 pm, Sun 3 pm–close.

Happy-hour drink specials: $3.50 wells, $3.50 pints (Hoegaarden, Old Seattle Lager), $2 PBR.

Happy-hour food specials: None, but you're welcome to bring your own.