There are two entrances to Dive (Tib St. and Oldham), but I came in through the smaller Tib St. entrance, which has a "grungier" sort of feel to it. Best way to enter into a place called "Dive" is through the seedy back door, in my opinion. Going down the stairs you see that seedy quickly turns to classy with awesome wooden interior with a slight Americana feel to it. It's a cool mix of cozy and warm while being fresh and new, with an overall laid back atmosphere. Try to picture something being rough but varnished at the same time. Spool-style wooden tables and high chairs are all over the place, so there isn't a lack of areas to sit and rest your drinks. If you want more of a lounge feel, there are a few alcoves - one with its own bar and big screen TV with leather red/brown couches. It's cut off a bit from the main area with a red curtain partially closing it off, so you can get a slight escape from the rest of the area. The Americana feel isn't overly-apparent just by the decorations and atmosphere, but it becomes obvious that's what they're going for when you see the staff dress. Waitresses are dressed in a 80's TV-style casual southern belle fashion, while bar staff is reminiscent of lumberjacks or Rosie the Riveter, even accompanied with leather half-aprons that look like they could double for a new style of utility belt. Cocktails cost £7.50, and are pretty generous with the liquor - definitely not weak, even though they remain flavourful. I started with a Gin and Juice (Beefeater Gin, cloudy apple juice, elderflower), and moved on to ginger beer and Blind Pig flavoured ciders. Even the gin and tonic or bourbon and coke were pleasantly strong without overpowering things. They've got great food to choose from, and good lunch specials if you're wanting a bite without the evening party atmosphere. The macaroni and cheese balls are a cool take on an American classic, but be careful - they're served hot! That's a common theme with the food it seems; the crab cakes were delightfully crispy/crunchy on the outside while the interior was a bit too hot, but creamy and full of flavour. There was a live band the night we went, with Anna Sin playing 50's and 60's jams. Their opening song was Route 66, and they killed it throughout the rest of the night with classic hits. This definitely fit the atmosphere, but I was less enthused by the DJ music. The house music seemed to be an eclectic mix and fairly disjointed, but got better as the night ran on. It feels like it'd be perfectly suited to some jazz or blues music, or 50's to 80's classic American songs. Dive is open until 5 a.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings, and while the phone reception is poor (usually cuts out as soon as you get downstairs), they've got free wifi so you can connect that way when you get in. As a disclaimer: this is a review based on the launch party I was able to attend. That being said, I've got a strong feeling I'll be back to give an updated review soon! Very tempted to come back for lunch to get a proper meal in. read more