Pub is an establishment that serves alcoholic beverages. It is often a local community centre, where people gather for social events and entertainment. They may have a separate dining area and a bar where drinks are served.
In Great Britain, a pub is generally seen as a vital part of the community. A pub is also an ideal location to meet for a chat.
Traditionally, a pub offers a range of alcoholic drinks such as draught beer, cider, spirits and soft drinks. The menu may also include meals to restaurant standards. Some pubs have special events such as karaoke nights.
Pubs may be either a private or public house. This depends on the licensee. Traditionally, a pub is operated by a publican, who is a licensed victualler.
During the Industrial Revolution, huge demand for beer led to the emergence of new beerhouses. These were often privately owned.
During the 19th century, a pub was defined as any building that was open to the public. There were traditionally many pubs, each owned by a small number of brewery companies.
Since the 1990s, food has become an important aspect of the pub trade. Chefs have taken traditional pub recipes and added exotic ingredients to create new dishes. Nowadays, most pubs serve meals at the table.
In Britain, the term “pub” is short for Public House. The English common law defines a public house as an inn that is open to the public.
