If I ever walked into the Bistro sober (not terribly likely), I certainly didn't walk out that way. This tiny College street basement bar really shows the youngun's what a dive bar actually is.
The best thing for my money (and everything's cheap here) is the mixed drink 'pitchers'. Ten bucks and you get what amounts to like 2.5 cocktails in a big pitcher glass with a straw. Set me up with a couple of these filled with Long Islands and I'm good for the evening. The beer pitchers are equally popular and for the money what's there to lose (other than possibly the contents of your stomach).
The back patio is nice although insanely popular and just as cramped as the inside. If you don't like the steamy and loud qualities inside then waiting for an outside seat is a winning proposition. In the winter you are left with little option, but it lends a sense of camaraderie when you're all shoved in there like sardines. One caveat - the ladies' washroom is pretty terrifying, all told. Try to go before and hold it until you leave.