Three bars, one block, and you don't even have to cross the street

Che's Lounge
346 N. Fourth Ave.

Rating: 4 of 5

Ok, I'll admit it: some of the paintings scare me a little bit, but that doesn't mean that Che's Lounge isn't a swell place to whet your whistle.

From the moment I found out that Pabst Blue Ribbon was $1 a can in this Fourth Avenue bar, I would never turn it down again. And for those familiar with my in-bar video game obsession, yes, there is sit-down Ms. Pacman.

Che's Lounge is a dimly-lit artsy bar on Fourth Ave whose walls are painted a vivid red. It's main bar area dominates the center of the room and allows ample space for chillin' on a bar stool and hangin' out with your buddies.

Also, the back part features a sweeping, curved sofa that can accommodate a large group.

During the week, Che's is pretty low-key. It's a good place to come if you've had a rough day at school or on the job and you're looking for somewhere quiet to unwind with the drink of your choice ÷ once again, I gotta plug Pabst Blue Ribbon.

On the weekends, however, Che's can quite literally blow up when you might catch a band like Scratching the Surface or Manifold. Having a band at Che's is in itself quite a feat being as the lounge has extremely limited floor space.

However, they do pull it off and with remarkable effect. Che's Lounge features everything from chill bluegrass to gnarly rock 'n'roll. But get there early, because it will be packed by 10.

And if you do like the paintings ÷ okay, some of them are pretty cool ÷ they're all for sale, so inquire if you see one that catches your eye.

What I love about Che's Lounge: $1 Pabst Blue Ribbon and Schlitz cans

What I don't so much love about Che's Lounge: The art, man · the art.

Bison Witches
326 N. Fourth Ave.

Rating: 4.5 of 5

We've all been there. We've all had their tasty sandwiches ÷ although in the three years I've been coming here, the sandwiches have been getting smaller and smaller. But is it a place to drink? Of course!

Its booths, large bar and the overall friendly, college atmosphere that almost requires you to interact with other bar patrons makes this soup-and-sandwich destination a particularly attractive place to drink.

The outside picnic tables in back are also a sweet feature on those hot Arizona nights ÷ or days ÷ where some fresh air is a welcome relief to the sometimes loud interior.

Each night at Bison Witches offers a new deal. My particular favorite is $2 bottles on Wednesdays. The good thing about $2 bottles is Bison Witches' extensive catalogue of brews: domestic, foreign and microbrew. You've gotta hand it to a place that carries Tucson's own Nimbus microbrew.

Another great feature are the board games. Nothing ensures an interesting conversation or night consuming libations than a game of Sorry! And, if you're creative, any one of Bison Witches' board games could turn into a drinking game.

There is one caveat however; the kitchen closes at 10, so if you're looking for a late-night Jayhawk to go with your Sam Adams, you might be out of luck.

What I love about Bison Witches: Board games and Nimbus

What I don't so much love about Bison Witches: We need those big-ass sandwiches back!

The Shanty
401 E. Ninth St.
(corner of Ninth and Fourth Avenue)

Rating: 2.8 of 5

The Shanty, 401 E. 9th St., at corner of 9th Street and Fourth Avenue.

Across the street from the Coronado Hotel and Maloney's is the Shanty, an establishment that will cater to your urge to play pool or foosball and down a pitcher with friends.

Buyer beware though: The Shanty gives you a measly five balls for a dollar for foosball play, which can be extremely inadequate in the midst of a heated match.

The back of the Shanty opens up into a spacious open-air courtyard complete with stone fountain. Its tables and chairs make it perfect for relaxing with some drinks and maybe a cigar if you're into that type of thing.

On weekends however, the Shanty's courtyard can fill up pretty fast so that it's more like wading through fellow patrons and trying desperately not to step on any toes than finding a table with plenty of elbow room.

As far as drinks go, pitchers usually get you the most bang for your buck. Other beers and mixed drinks can be a bit pricey lest they be on special.

What I love about the Shanty: The courtyard's pretty cool

What I don't so much love about the Shanty: Foosball is just too damn expensive.