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| - The Grand Avenue Tavern is on the corner of Grand Avenue and 24th Avenue, an intersection in an area that is dotted with industrial warehouses, auto repair shops, and strip clubs. This particular building is right up against a very seedy looking motel that advertises singles starting at just $29.95. (What a steal!) As other reviewers have already said, you would definitely not expect to find a sleek, clean, and modern bar in this spot. But in many ways this place's unexpected style is part of its charm.
When we walked in, we found ourselves in a really dimly lit room that looked like just another dive bar, and we wondered whether all the Yelpers who raved about how classy these place was despite the locale had been talking about a different place! However, once we sat down at the U-shaped bar and our eyes adjusted, we observed all the details that really make this place stand out from the crowd - beautiful glass storage for liquor bottles, a sleek mahogany tone to the bar counter, sleek flat-screen TVs that were built into the bar cabinetry, and plentiful seating. The bartender who took our drink order was efficient and friendly, and the drinks (only $4 during happy hour) were nice and strong. The only downside was the DJ was playing the music so loudly that we couldn't hear each other talk, so we decided to check out the outside patio.
We were so glad we did because the patio was even nicer than the inside of the bar. The ground was covered in Mediterranean pavers, and there were plenty of nice-looking and comfortable outdoor furniture sets. There was also a canopy over the space, as well as misters, to keep things cool. We sat on a L-shaped couch in the corner and enjoyed the rest of our drinks. Because the furniture was oriented to allow for individual groups/couples to carve out separate areas within the space, we were able to talk and hear each other, while still enjoying the bar ambience. I really appreciate the fact that the bar owner took the time to create such a nice outdoor space and therefore provide an alternative to the noisy bar area.
I noticed on the bar's website that they have karaoke on Wednesday nights, so we will have to go back to check that out. Since we live on the Phoenix/Laveen border, this location is convenient for us and may just become a regular spot.
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