Strange, we have gone more to the pubs now that smoking is banned. Brewpubs here in the U.S come close to pubs in the U.K. I think, but they still have a "bar" attitude concerning money, can't blame them. We used to love going to the pub where we were in Canada and spending a few hours reading a magazine or a book, having a pint, getting some chips and talking with the locals without being badgered about drinking more. Sad news.