This VA Dive Bar Named Best In The State

Looking for an authentic dive bar experience? A national food publication says Virginia's best can be found in Richmond.

The Takeout recently named GWARbar its pick for the best dive bar in Virginia as part of a roundup highlighting one standout dive bar in every state.

Ranked the best dive bar in Virginia by Yelp, GWARbar is an homage to Richmond's own heavy metal band GWAR.

"GWARbar might haunt your dreams," The Takeout wrote. "The décor is decidedly gory — blood-splattered walls, giant eyeballs, freakish masks — and metal is blaring.

If all that doesn't scare you, you're in luck, The Takeout adds.

"GWARbar serves really good food and drinks at reasonable prices, and other musicians even stop to take in the vibe," the publication said.

Despite its aggressive theme, the bar located in Richmond's Jackson Ward neighborhood is highly regarded for serving unexpectedly gourmet pub fare with extensive options for both meat-eaters and vegans. It's known for unique dishes including the "Chicken McDuckets" (a blend of duck confit and chicken thigh), "Death to Disco Tots" and "Scumdogs".

Located at 2200 Gough St., locals describe Butt's & Betty's as a classic, unpretentious neighborhood taproom known for friendly locals and a traditional local pub atmosphere.

The Takeout's annual roundup featured bars ranging from neighborhood taverns to live music venues, with one selection representing each state.

Readers can view the full list on The Takeout's website.