
Pabst Blue Ribbon at the Recovery Room
Charleston’s Recovery Room Dethroned as Top Pabst Blue Ribbon Seller After Decade-Long Reign
By CC News Network
CHARLESTON, S.C. — The Recovery Room Tavern, affectionately known as “Rec Room,” has lost its title as the top seller of Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR) cans in the nation. After a decade-long run, the 685 King Street bar now ranks second, trailing Robert’s Western World in Nashville, Tenn., according to a social media announcement.
The change marks the end of an era for the Charleston institution, which has become synonymous with the iconic 12-ounce PBR can. Despite the loss, Rec Room’s achievement remains notable, cementing its place in beer lore and Charleston’s nightlife history.
A Decade of Pabst Dominance
Chris DiMattia opened Recovery Room in 2008 with modest beginnings. Without a walk-in cooler for kegs, DiMattia stocked cans of beer and rented an ice machine to keep them cold. What started as a necessity evolved into a legacy. The no-frills bar quickly became a hub for locals, students, and tourists, all drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and the unpretentious appeal of an affordable Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
The bar’s loyalty to Pabst Blue Ribbon turned it into the brand’s top seller for 10 consecutive years, a badge of honor for both Rec Room and Charleston.
“I never thought we’d get that kind of recognition,” DiMattia once said of the milestone. “It’s all thanks to the people who keep coming back.”
Pabst Blue Ribbon: An Iconic American Brew
Pabst Blue Ribbon, a Milwaukee-born beer, dates back to 1844 when Jacob Best founded the company. Originally known as Best and Company, the brand was renamed Pabst Brewing Company after Frederick Pabst, who married into the family and led its rise to prominence.
The “blue ribbon” in its name comes from the silk ribbons Pabst tied around the necks of its bottles in the late 19th century, symbolizing quality and winning awards at international fairs. By the early 20th century, Pabst Blue Ribbon was a staple in American homes.

Though its popularity waned during the mid-20th century, PBR found new life in the early 2000s as a go-to beer for hipsters, college students, and those seeking a no-nonsense, affordable brew. Its resurgence solidified Pabst’s place in the modern beer market as both nostalgic and contemporary.
The Dethroning
Robert’s Western World, a honky-tonk in Nashville, took the top spot this year. Known for its live music and authentic Southern vibe, Robert’s is a fitting rival for Rec Room. The shift highlights the fierce loyalty of beer enthusiasts in both cities.
Despite losing its No. 1 rank, Rec Room remains a cornerstone of Charleston’s Upper King Street, celebrated for its laid-back ambiance and commitment to the blue-collar roots that PBR embodies.

What’s Next for Recovery Room and Pabst?
For Pabst Blue Ribbon, the dethroning speaks to its enduring appeal across generations and geography. The brand continues to thrive as a symbol of Americana, blending its historic roots with a modern-day following.
For Recovery Room, the journey is far from over. “Being second isn’t a loss,” said one loyal patron. “It just means Charleston and Rec Room are still on the map.”
As both the bar and the beer look to the future, one thing remains clear: the bond between PBR and its loyal drinkers is as strong as ever. Whether in Nashville or Charleston, the legacy of Pabst Blue Ribbon lives on in every can popped and every story shared.
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