A pub is a type of drinking establishment that serves food and alcohol. It may also offer live entertainment and a range of social events for its customers. A typical pub has a relaxed atmosphere and caters to a wide age group. Some pubs are family-friendly while others are more adult-oriented. Pubs generally serve a range of drinks including draught and bottled beer, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Some pubs are known for their food and serve meals in a dining room. These pubs are called gastro-pubs.
In the past, pubs primarily served alcoholic beverages such as beer and whiskey. However, today most pubs serve a variety of drinks including draught and lager beer, wine, cocktails, and coffee. The menu at a pub typically includes appetizers, snacks, and full meals. Pubs often feature comfort foods such as burgers, fries, chicken wings, bangers and mash, or a staple club sandwich.
A pub often has a separate bar area and a lounge bar. In the past, Australian pubs used to have gender-segregated drinking areas: the public bar was open only to men, while the lounge bar was a more casual area where women were allowed. However, this tradition was gradually abandoned in the wake of anti-discrimination legislation and feminism.
Pubs are popular venues for live music. Many pubs host local bands and have regular live music nights. Occasionally, large national or international bands will play at pubs as part of a tour.
