While there’s something unbeatable about hanging out at a locally owned and operated pub, and while we’re fortunate enough to have a few of those, we cannot deny the extensive selection at the Flying Saucer chain. It’s thorough and comprehensive, where more local programs have narrowed down to focus mainly on micro-microbrews and a handful of Abbeys and Trappists. The wider range here will include lots of mass-produced beer as well, and so the crowd’s more of a heterogeneous mix of highbrow and lowbrow. Daily specials are as agreeable as the fratty vibe, and trivia nights are emceed by a member of the mini-skirted waitstaff.

The large space has a nook and cranny for every person: comfortable couches, hard wooden tables, booths, and a festively lit patio. And while the attire of the beer goddesses (their official designation—Hooters doesn’t edify its sex-symbol staff nearly as well) may exude vapidity, each possesses an impressive knowledge of beer.

The food’s as predictably pub-grubbish as any, but it still beats the paltry choices at those more focused pubs. Serviceable pizzas are served by the slice; chili-cheese fries are a total reptilian-brain treat; and a gloppy burger with whiskey cheddar is never a bad thing. And a compulsory education in beer and cheese pairing is also available. That’s not so lowbrow, after all.