Driftwood brings all the luxuries of a souped-up basement to a street-level establishment. The chill Montrose Avenue bar allows patrons to get the game going with darts, Golden Tee, a bar-top arcade game and a ripe-for-competition pool table.

The bar's decor is comfortably frill-free, but the light-blue walls, few pieces of mounted driftwood and home-style liquor cabinet will make you feel right at home. To celebrate your virtual-golf-game victory, grab a $3 domestic draft and score a seat at one of several high-top tables that cozy up to floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Montrose action. Or head to the U-shaped bar and claim a spot among the Uptown crowd.

If the husband-and-wife team of owners is on pouring duty (the jovial duo usually works on Monday nights), prepare to be inducted into the Driftwood family. Patrons have the at-ease air of regulars, and the owners are quick to strike up conversation with any stool-hugging sippers. For a more secluded spot, settle into a large banquette near the internet jukebox and assign yourself the role of DJ Driftwood.

Aside from beer, a whole roster of full-bar beverages is available, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a cocktail that costs more than $5. When it comes to food there's nary a crumb, but patrons are encouraged to order in; Mr. Salsa is right next door.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg