BEST DOWNTOWN BAR

RI RA IRISH PUB This longtime Irish pub is proof that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Though it was forced to close temporarily due to a fire a couple of years back, it never ceased to draw devoted drinkers back to its dark, dated interior in the heart of Uptown. Many of the lads and lassies working the joint are straight from Ireland, so expect an accent to accompany whatever it is you're slugging down. Ice-cold Guinness, Irish car bombs and creative, quick-hitting cocktails abound. Cheers are in order. 208 N. Tryon St. 704-333-5554 www.rira.com