"Are they still open?" It's a fairly common question, as a lot of bars get lost in the mix due to renovations, a change in ownership, a lack of traffic in the off-season, or other reasons. One causing a stir on City's website lately is The Blue Room at 293 Alexander Street. Yes, everyone, it's very open and its patio should be packed on those upcoming beautiful summer months. Inside you'll find darts, pool tables, and specialty martinis flowing all night, including the Ovaltini: vanilla vodka, crème de cocoa, and Ovaltine. (Delicious and nutritious!) The crowd is pretty mellow, so give it a shot if you're looking for a place to talk, drink, and chow on happy hour munchies. Blue Room is open Mondays-Fridays, 5 p.m.-2 a.m., and Saturday-Sunday 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Another bar that is fantastic all year round is Johnny's Irish Pub at 1382 Culver Road. Many of you have undoubtedly been there on St. Patty's Day, barely able to move through the happily drunken crowd. But remember that Johnny's is an all-year joint, with crowds just as big throughout the week checking out the good brews, atmosphere, and live music. Wednesdays are Irish Night with $3 pints of Guinness, Harp, Smithwick's, and Johnny's Irish Red. Every Thursday is McRick's Steakout starting at 5 p.m. Friday the doors open at 2:30 p.m., the rest of the week at 4 p.m., and partying continues until 2 a.m. (or later).

And finally, the very best place to be in Rochester during the summer is Marge's Lakeside Inn at 4909 Culver Road. This place may get lost in the shuffle during the brutal winter, but when the sun is shining this bar is a classic. Whether you anchor your boat and swim your way in or simply drive, it should not be missed, nor forgotten. Marge's has been around for more than 80 years and deserves the worship of every bar patron in Rochester. It reminds me of a run-down tiki hut in the South Pacific, beautifully aged, with a jukebox playing the same old tunes. People fall in love at Marge's; I've seen it happen twice. Drinks are strong, and be prepared to be ID'd no matter how many grey hairs on your head. The owner, Fran, is a stickler at the door.