Galaxy Hut

The Scene: Galaxy Hut was supplying Arlington with cool beers, live indie rock and a laidback neighborhood hangout long before Whole Foods or Pottery Barn was a twinkle in some developer's eye. The Hut's one room is barely bigger than a studio apartment, and when bands set up on Sunday and Monday nights, booths and chairs have to be moved out of the way to make room for the crowd. (Official capacity: 48.) Most of the week, though, this is a place where locals gather to talk about their bands, play the vintage arcade games, or even hang out and read while sipping a beer. It's the perfect escape from Arlington's khakis-and-sports bar scene, and one of the places we always recommend to single women who want to chill out by themselves.

In Your Glass: One of Arlington's strongest selections of draft beers, with 20 taps ranging from locals to English ales, and another 30 or so bottles. Galaxy Hut doesn't have hard liquor, and the wine list is just okay.

On Your Plate: Galaxy Hut's recently revamped menu offers marinated chicken breasts, hummus platters and such treats as Cosmic Chili and Space Wheels -- chili served over cheese-covered wagon wheel pasta -- though basics like grilled cheese and piles of nachos are popular choices.

Need to Know: There's a $5 cover for live music nights, which mix local up-and-comers with regional and national touring acts. The Strokes and Godspeed You! Black Emperor are among the bands who played at the Hut before moving on to larger audiences.

Nice to Know: In nice weather, the Hut's patio -- a narrow, alley-width strip of pavement between the bar and an adjacent building -- is a good place to relax.

Price Points: Beers average $5, most bar snacks -- plates of fries, mozzarella sticks or jalepeno poppers -- are $4 to $7, and entrees are $8 to $12. Happy hour is from 5 to 8 daily.

-- Fritz Hahn (Oct. 13, 2008)