Pecs   

Pecs is one of the few venues in San Diego where mature gay men can exchange "bear" hugs in comfort. In fact, they've been doing so for nearly two decades. The crowd that frequents this neighborhood dive is definitely not composed of the young, trendy scene-stealers who frequent many of Hillcrest's hottest clubs. Most Pecs patrons are rough-and-tumble as well as gregarious; however, all are welcome, as long as they don't transport their drama along with them. Featured events are just as wild and entertaining as these men; for example, the bar is a key stop during the annual Sun Bears Weekend, and was once the meeting place for the San Diego Leathermen. Both in and out, the place is rather nondescript, although the new smoking patio makes an attempt at prettiness. So why the endless years of popularity? Weeklong low drink prices are one of the most appealing attractions, not to mention the sweet-and-sour fruitfly shots, a favorable location smack between Hillcrest and North Park, and an array of diversions such as 50-cent pool tables. However, it's the loyal regulars who reinforce the reason Pecs is the alpha-bear neighborhood bar in town.