MacDinton's Irish Pub

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What to wear: Trendy casual is the norm. For guys, that usually means untucked button-down shirts with jeans or khakis. For ladies, it's spaghetti-strap tops with a skirt or jeans. You want to look good, but not as if you really care.

Signature drink: As manager Barry O'Connor told me, ''What Guinness and Irish whiskey can't cure, there is no cure for.'' With that said, it's safe to say the Irish stout is the drink of choice.

The scene: MacDinton's has the feel of a backyard cookout. The patio is friendly and inviting, and the Irish decor inside gives the bar a homey feel. You'll almost always see someone you know, which adds to the neighborhood vibe.

The crowd: SoHo can be pretentious, which is why MacDinton's is a favorite among locals. It's a laid-back, fun-loving, eclectic crowd. Young professionals mingle with doctors, executives, artists and musicians.

The specials: Friday happy hour (6 to 8 p.m.) features all-you-can-drink beer, wine and mixed drinks for $10. Saturday offers two-for-one drinks between 8 and 11 p.m. On Monday, get a free game of pool or darts with $6 domestic pitchers. Wednesday is karaoke night with $1 Miller Lites.

The scoop: If you're looking for an authentic Irish pub, this is it. Much of the furniture, some of the bricks and most of the staff are from Ireland.

Live music or a DJ energizes patrons inside while south Tampa professionals and artistic types mingle on the patio. Sports fans can watch their teams on one of the pub's many televisions.

Drive by any Friday evening and you'll see the patio packed to capacity. Stop in for a quick beer with friends ... and suddenly it's last call. The traditional Irish regalia is cool, but it's the camaraderie found at MacDinton's that makes it a true European pub.

By Doug Van Sant