I consider the English country pub to be the prototype for a pleasant, convivial bar atmosphere. It has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes the drinking and lounging experience far more pleasant than the standard US tavern atmosphere, and is something that I have very seldom found outside of the UK and Ireland.

I think a fireplace is a necessity, as is a solid beer selection on nitrogen pulls (None of that CO2 crap...), plus a dark and quiet atmosphere. Loud music, televisions blasting sports, shot specials, and a college crowd are the antithesis of the pleasant experience.