It seems like these days there are trendy new cocktail joints opening up on every corner – and they're absolutely fabulous and fun for a special night out. No matter how many swanky new spots open, though, we'll always have a special place in our heart for those bars where you always know exactly what you'll get, even if it isn't fancy – the kinds of places where you can relax and just enjoy an evening with friends. Here are a few of our favorites.

1. The Press Room, Portsmouth

Portsmouth's Press Room is the place to go if you're into live music - they have the best acts in town, along with great drinks and a fun atmosphere. At the moment they're closed for renovations, but are hoping to reopen fairly early in 2018. Find them at 77 Daniel St Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

2. Strange Brew Tavern, Manchester

Strange Brew is always packed, and for good reason. With great music, an excellent beer music, and a great casual vibe, you can't go wrong. Find it at 88 Market St Manchester, New Hampshire.

3. The Peddler's Daughter, Nashua

If you love a good Irish pub, you'll love this Nashua spot. It's always cheerful, and has great food to go with your Guiness. Visit at 48 Main St Nashua, New Hampshire.

4. The Stone Church, Newmarket

The Stone Church may be more of a music venue than a bar, persay, but it definitely has a bar, and it's definitely a great place to enjoy a drink and some excellent live music. Check it out at 5 Granite St Newmarket, New Hampshire.

5. Fat Belly's Grill and Bar, Portsmouth

Fat Belly's has an honest-to-goodness ice bar, and it's worth a visit for that alone. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a game while having a few drinks. Find it at 2 Bow St Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

6. Pub 32, Lincoln

This is a total local favorite - unpretentious and simple, focused on beer and pizza. You won't go hungry here, their pizza is amazing! Try it at 264 Main St Ste 3, Lincoln, NH 03251.

7. Broken Spoke Saloon, Laconia

This biker bar is a ton of fun during Bike Week, but it's worth a visit any time of year. It has a fun and welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of outdoor seating in the warmer months. Find it at 1072 Watson Road, Laconia, New Hampshire.

8. McGarvey's Saloon, Manchester

This spot has been in operation for years, and it's the place to go for great deals on drinks, like $9 buckets of beer. They have karaoke, too! Find it at 1097 Elm St Manchester, New Hampshire.

9. Olde Kilkenny Pub, Milford

Beer lovers will adore this spot - it has 47 draught selections. It's also a great spot for bar games, playing pool, and more. Visit at 30 Middle St, Milford, New Hampshire.

10. Area 23, Concord

This funky spot has a super cool and unusual vibe, and great food and drinks to go with it. Visit at 254 N State St, Unit H (Smokestack Center) Concord, New Hampshire.

Love New Hampshire? Then read more about the Granite State here.