If you own a tavern in a town where there is substantial competition, you will need to find a way to set your particular tavern apart. However, there's a fine line to walk here — you don't want to make so many changes that the tavern no longer feels like a tavern. Below, you will find some ideas for setting your tavern apart without ruining the tavern atmosphere.
Collect Different Bar Chairs
Part of the appeal of taverns is that they are laid-back, not ornately decorated, and simple. A unique way to play on this vibe while also adding interest is to collect different bar chairs. Look for them at thrift stores and the like; you want every one to be different. In time, your regulars will end up with "favorite chairs" and people will start commenting on their differences. It will be a fun talking point that keeps people coming back.
Have a Steak and Seafood Night
Steak and seafood are not particularly tavern fare, and adding them to your normal menu might be too much for the chef and too much for your atmosphere. Once a week or once a month, though, you can offer a menu with a few steaks and some seafood dishes as a special celebratory thing. Many of your regulars will come because it will feel like a special celebration in a place that's familiar to them. It's also a chance for your chef to show off what they're really capable of!
Have a Guest Tap of Local Craft Beer
Offering a whole line of 30 craft beers is not very tavern-style, but what if you just offered one tap of a local craft beer at a time? When the keg is gone, you bring in a different beer. This gives craft beer drinkers something to talk about and enjoy without transforming your bar into a hipster craft beer emporium.
Offer a Great Happy Hour
Find a way to make your happy hour stand out from others. Guests who visit once or twice during happy hour will soon start visiting at other times. You can offer two-for-one drinks, sell appetizers at half-price, or even offer free baskets of snack foods on the bar. (This last one is a great choice. People love free food.) You want to be the place for happy hour.
Implement one or more of the above ideas in order to set your tavern apart. Before long, you'll have tons of business! Consider looking at good example of this type of establishment, like The Shanty.