Best Dive Bars: California Edition

Here at GothRider, we know that traveling bikers need good dive bars to whet their whistle while traveling. To accompany our favorite California scenic rides, we have compiled a list of the five best dive bars in California.

Buddha Lounge, Los Angeles

Located in Chinatown, this is the bar to visit when you want to party. On Saturdays, it?s got more of a nightclub feel. But during the week, the happy hour can?t be beat.

The bartender Mark will make you feel right at home. In fact, he?ll even play a game of dice with you: winner gets a beer. Before the young crowd shows up, the bar has a classic dive feel with cheap drinks.

Chad?s Place, Big Bear Lake

Nestled in the mountains (great views? added bonus!) is a quintessential biker bar. With live music, and huge cheap drinks, it?s a great place to stop during the Ride the Mountain Rally.

They also serve food, which reviews all say is delicious. Plus, it?s still a bar–so you don?t have to worry about screaming children while you eat. They also serve breakfast and mimosas.

Cook?s Corner, Trabuco Canyon

The rugged biker bar was originally a restaurant for miners and ranchers. After Prohibition, it became a proper bar. It was bought out by a motorcycle enthusiast in the 1970s, transforming it into a famous southern California biker bar.

The drink specials are dirt cheap. Every Wednesday night is bike night with a spaghetti dinner. And if you?re around on the weekends, enjoy the live music.

Screaming Chicken Saloon, San Bernadino

Bars don?t get much more divey than this. The bartenders are friendly and make you feel right at home. The morals are questionable (the bartender will flash you) and bikers are welcome.

Beer prices are cheap, but they don?t serve liquor. This is also one of the few places in California that lets you smoke. There is occasionally live music, but there are always pool tables.

Pier View Pub, Oceanside

Located right near the beach, Pier View Pub is a great dive bar for people watching. The staff is friendly, and there is a great beer selection.

There are a couple of pool tables to kill some time. The music is great, and the bar has a closed-circuit TV so you can see the band no matter where you are in the bar.

Where are your favorite dives in California, GothRiders?