Char's is one of my absolute fave little dive bars in metro Phoenix...the cover charge is only like $6, you can toss back cheap libations, people-watch a diverse, eclectic crowd aaaand get your groove on to some bomb jams by a live band!*
*SoulPower & Lady J being the best ones IMO*
Never have I come here and not had an absolute blast. The crowd is very mixed- people of literally all ages and ethnicities come here and that's part of its charm. Yes, it's in a sketchy part of town and the parking situation is terrible, BUT it's still a great time. The vibe is so fun here!
There are a few different bands that play here but the theme is generally R&B/funk/soul music- the vast majority of it old school. If you are looking to jam to current music, Char's won't be your spot. BUT if you happen to be in the mood for some throwback hits, this is the best ticket in town.
The biggest negative for me though are the restrooms. Yikes! I'm not gonna sugar coat this- the ladies room is positively atrocious. Cramped, not very private, and definitely no gold stars for cleanliness. Basically it's a horror show.
Moral of the story- come here to get your drink on and shake a tailfeather... but once you have to take a whiz, hightail it outta here as fast as you can.