Boar's Head Lounge

Boar's Head Lounge on E Washington Street has been hosting live music and pouring drinks since the 1970s, making it one of the oldest and most authentic dive bars in Athens. With nearly 180 reviews at 4.3 stars, it carries the kind of history and character that newer bars cannot manufacture. The live music programming is the backbone of Boar's Head's identity. The bar has been a proving ground for Athens musicians for decades, hosting acts that range from punk and rock to folk and experimental. The small stage and intimate room create a raw, unfiltered live music experience that is fundamentally different from the polished productions at larger venues. As a bar, Boar's Head is unapologetically a dive. The drinks are cheap, the decor is worn, and the atmosphere is the product of 50 years of accumulated character. That is exactly the appeal. For people who value authenticity over aesthetics, Boar's Head is the real thing. The E Washington Street location puts the bar in the downtown nightlife corridor, within walking distance of the 40 Watt, Georgia Theatre, and the rest of the Athens bar scene. Cover charges for shows are minimal or nonexistent, making it an accessible option for any night of the week. Boar's Head Lounge is open evenings through late night. Check local listings for the live music schedule.