The first thing you should know about Champions is that it doesn't serve beer on tap, which seems impossible for a bar catering to sports fans and locals. When I asked Karen the bartender, who looks like she's been doing this for 20-plus years, she simply informed me that it didn't sell. They do, however, have bottles of Miller Lite, Budweiser, Heineken, Corona and the like.

As you start sipping, know the second most important thing about Champions: It's a self-identified saloon, which also doesn't really make sense — there isn't a sense of Western, or even cowboy, theme going on here.

What does work for this Andersonville hangout, however, are the abundance of slot machines (including our favorite, Cherry 96), free pool, free WiFi, and a jukebox packed with tunes by Blues Traveler and ABBA. After you've had enough cheap beer, go next door to Alexander's, an old-time greasy spoon diner that retains its '50s-style charm. (Hint: Ask about the secret window and you may be able to order Alexander's without leaving Champions.)

If you're feeling dramatic — not from having one too many, but in the artsy sense — step across the street to see a play at the Raven Theatre. Champions also hosts live music on select evenings. The musically inclined shouldn't miss karaoke night.

Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler