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Perhaps the most surprising thing about Bar 29 is how subdued it is. Wall-hugging wooden benches and high tables under framed black-and-white photos of 1930’s New York have transformed this former dive into a modern day malt-shop that happens to serve draft beer and well drinks instead of milk shakes or root beer floats. Sports fans convene around five flat-screen televisions, while neighborhood regulars loosen up at the bar. During college basketball season, Syracuse fans knock back free shots (orange vodka and OJ) whenever their team scores. But even at its rowdiest, the jukebox is more likely to cue Al Green or the Smiths than the latest top 40 hit at a volume that won’t shake the walls. When the American Pool Association visits on Monday nights, serious games go down at the pool table that dominates the spacious, bench-lined back area. — Julia Langbein