Main Tap Tavern, El Cajon

The scene behind Main Tap Tavern's bar would be right at home in an art gallery. A unique glass handle tops each of the 24 taps in glowing, swirling colors that span the gnarliest rainbow imaginable. An impressive sight to be sure, but it's what comes out of the tap that keeps patrons lining up at bar stools or grabbing seats on the patio.

The bartenders specialize in craft beer, with a focus on local microbreweries. For a change of pace, they also mix up cocktails and crack open bottles of wine, champagne, and—of course—more beer.

Chances are, whatever drink a customer chooses will pair nicely with something on the tavern's food menu, which features street food such as tacos as well as updated pub favorites. For an example of the chefs' creativity, look no further than the workman peanut butter burger: a handmade angus beef patty topped with smoked bacon, cheese, and peanut butter.