High Dive

High Dive is my second-least-favorite bar/venue to which I ever go, which is exclusively to see bands I really want to see more than I dislike the space or for parties friends whom I like more than I dislike the space are throwing. Ironically, these may be the particular kinds of events for which I think the space is worst suited. My dislike has nothing to do with the current incarnation of the bar, High Dive, itself - I've never had issues with the staff or drinks, and it's not objectionably dirty or unsafe. The physical layout of the space is just poorly suited for anything other than talking to one other person; becasue of this, I think it's probably best suited to being a couples' bar, but it would likely have to go much more upscale to support itself without the large crowd draw of bands and DJs, and I'm not sure a Riverwest bar would be sustainable with that model unless gentrification rapidly accelerates. The main (bar) room is long and narrow, which makes it physically difficult to navigate with even two dozen people there, and much more so if there's a band taking up a third of the room. Both restrooms (one with a single toilet, one with a toilet and a urinal) open off of physical choke points, so the lines that form if there's a crowd make physical mobility even more difficult. The rear room has seating for one small group with the rest of the small space occupied by arcade games. I don't find anything about it particularly compelling when there isn't an event in which I'm interested, and it's such a crowded, awkward, difficult-to-order-drinks space for high-volume events that I need to find the event extremely compelling to outweigh that. If you're really into being crammed up against other people for a few hours, or playing the couple of particular arcade games they have by yourself at a bar sounds like your idea of a fun night out, or you're looking for somewhere to chat with one, maybe two other people on a slow night, this is a decent option with reasonable prices. If not, look elsewhere.
2 9 years ago (03-04-2018)

This was a different experience for me it was new. I like the live band on Wednesdays they were on spot with music. I will definitely visit this place again. I just can't have the dark and stormy LOL. The drinks are pretty reasonable and the bartender was really awesome
4 9 years ago (06-02-2018)

Cheap drinks, great staff, friendly patrons, great tunes and the best nachos in town for free every Tuesday! I love this bar! Lots of free live music, too. They never charge a cover!
5 9 years ago (26-01-2018)

For the most part, I really like this place. They have diverse events that serve many kinds of populations within the Riverwest neighborhood. The atmosphere is cozy, albeit a bit small. Drinks are reasonably priced and the staff are friendly. It's a neighborhood staple, IMO.
4 9 years ago (27-10-2017)

Often has music shows with local acts. Seems to be a garage rock club, which is not my scene. The benches outside are a good place to see and be seen
3 9 years ago (14-01-2018)