Callaghan’s Irish Social Club Crowned America’s #1 Dive Bar

Mobile’s own Callaghan’s Irish Social Club has been named the best dive bar in the nation, topping Huckberry’s just-released list of The 50 Best Dive Bars in America.

Since owner J.T. Thompson took over in 2002, Callaghan’s has transformed a modest neighborhood pub into a cultural centerpiece in the Oakleigh Garden District. As Huckberry describes it, Thompson has “cultivated a cultural anchor with a growing list of headlining artists who started out playing its tiny front room. Sometimes they return even when they could be on the marquee downtown.” That local spirit plays out every St. Patrick’s Day, when “the green river of parade marchers pools in front of Callaghan’s for its annual street party.” And when hunger calls, Huckberry says, “an LA Burger with a spicy, part‑Conecuh sausage patty is the move.”

Huckberry opens its ranking by explaining, “Just like a good joke makes you laugh, a great dive makes you feel connected. Whether it’s your own neighborhood bar where everyone proverbially knows your name or another town’s local haunt, you belong — for a night, for a while, or forever. A great dive isn’t just a bar, and a dive isn’t great without its people.” That idea is the heart of Callaghan’s appeal.

As the only Alabama bar to make the list, Callaghan’s stands apart—proof that genuine community roots and personality can outshine glitz and glamour. The full top ten includes beloved institutions from coast to coast—from Tiki Ti in Los Angeles to Mac’s Club Deuce in Miami and Pinkie Master’s in Savannah.

On social media, Callaghan’s responded with understandable pride. A recent post read, “We just earned #1 Dive Bar in America, according to Huckberry. We never chased headlines—just cold drinks, killer burgers, and a spot where everybody feels like regulars.Thanks for making this official. Now come see what makes #1 worth the hype.”

Callaghan’s Irish Social Club
Location: 916 Charleston Street, Mobile, AL 36604
Hours: 11 AM–11 PM Mon–Sat; 10 AM–11 PM Sun 

With its blend of hearty fare, unpretentious vibe, and live music in a tight‑knit setting, Callaghan’s shines as one of America’s most beloved dive bars. One could argue it’s the kind of place where you leave feeling like you’ve been part of something real—even if only for an evening.

You can see the full list HERE.