Disclaimer: We all love the vibrant establishments that define the soulful downtown of Macon. Whether you’re dancing to the point of sweat at the Crazy Bull or you’re enjoying a nice cocktail to Rocketman at the Piano Bar, there is a place for everyone. However, COVID-19 has curtailed the frequency of our visits to these beloved bars. Fortunately, here are three at-home alternatives to the vibes you get from three of Macon’s finest.
1. Cashman’s Pub
You go for the $10 fishbowls on Friday night, but you stay for the good company and even better live music. Usually, that means a local band performing an acoustic set. Luckily, this intoxicating energy is easily replicated. Here’s what you’ll need to take Cashman’s to your home:
A person who can play guitar (if such a person doesn’t exist in your life, cue up a live acoustic playlist)
Any fishbowl you can find. Spherical ones are my personal favorite!
At least three different types of liquor and three different mixers. Variety is your friend.
2. Macon’s Dueling Piano Bar
Sing us a song, you’re the piano bar. While the bar’s name implies a sort of competitiveness, the feel of this back alley soul zone is strictly friendly. It has a warm, on-key atmosphere, so the at-home alternative requires some creativity. Here’s what I mean:
A single keyboard and someone to play it, maybe not well!
A piano-heavy playlist with people to sing along
Lights turned down low. Ambiance is everything.
3. Society Garden
Wildcard! This bar is not even downtown, which is fun. Gravel, wooden stage and string lights — you’ve been to a place like this. They have a great selection of local craft beers as well as some delicious hard slushies. Just like the other bars, live music is a staple of this establishment. Here’s how you can bring the society to your own garden:
String lights (52 feet is a good start)
Three six packs of Macon craft beer
Acoustic guitar person, again! Or you can cue up a rock music live playlist. Or both. That’s your business.