What Sets A Pub Apart From A Tavern?

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When you're looking for a place to get a cold beer, stiff drink, or a cocktail, there are several titles that you probably identify as ideal locations. Aside from structures labeled "bars," giveaway names include saloons, alehouses, taprooms, pubs, or taverns. In fact, these terms are often used interchangeably and most people know what to expect inside. But, when you get down to the nitty-gritty, there are subtle differences between these types of establishments, or at least there used to be. Take pubs and taverns, for example; these two have existed for longer than many realize and each had similar, but separate purposes.

The concept of pubs and taverns, that is, places of leisure that serve alcohol, has been around since some of the earliest civilizations, like Greece, Babylon, and ancient Rome. A very brief overview of how these places spread across the globe starts with Rome invading England, where pubs and alehouses are a huge part of the country's history. As European explorers traveled west and English settlers came to the New World, they naturally brought the idea of watering holes with them. In short, both pubs and taverns served alcohol and usually some sort of food, but only taverns offered private rooms for sleeping overnight, usually for weary travelers. Today, there really isn't much that differentiates the two, so if you want a convivial place to have a pint or two, either a pub or a tavern will likely do.

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Pubs are a creation of the United Kingdom and the term is a shortened version of "public house," which was first used in the late 17th century. Historically, pubs were places of leisure where the local population would gather for food and drink. They drew regulars and were part of day-to-day life for many. Compared to taverns, pubs had more substantial meals for their patrons; think stews, savory pies, and fish and chips. Early pubs were considered appropriate only for poorer classes of society, but by the mid-18th century, gentlemen and upper classes were enjoying the casual camaraderie of pubs.

Whereas pubs were historically places dominated by male patrons, today they are generally welcoming to everyone. Pubs are still important social gathering spots, particularly in the United Kingdom where locals gather for conversation and relaxation. Modern pub life might include music and game nights, along with meals. Britain's oldest pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, dating back an astounding 1,200 years, was nearly closed after the COVID-19 pandemic, but appears to be open today, showing the resilience of such an historical establishment.

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The best description of what a tavern once was might be an establishment that blends a pub with an inn, as taverns provided drinks, food (although less robust than pub meals), and rooms for rent. Originally called "ordinaries" in the Medieval Ages, taverns had social atmospheres like pubs did, however, they were also used as places of business and meetings. In America, taverns were often among the first structures built in new cities or towns, suggesting their importance to any given community.

It was in taverns that whisperings of the American Revolution began and battles were planned in the late 1700s. Typical early taverns naturally would have had plenty of tables and chairs for patrons, a fireplace for warmth, and likely stables or small pastures for the horses that travelers rode with. Interestingly enough, some of the oldest taverns in America now serve what would be considered fine dining food. For example, the White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island opened in 1673 and features dishes like seared foie gras and beef Wellington. Virginia's Red Fox Inn and Tavern has been serving folks since 1728, and has hosted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. McGillin's Old Ale House is an historic Philadelphia tavern that's been pouring beer since 1860, although its food is more casual and reminiscent of pub food.