Yeah you both make good points.
In a strange way I think Covid coming along has helped me out because before the pubs had to close I'd go most days on top of drinking at home oc. It had become a habit to go and I got to know the people and become friends with them. But now I suspect if I go but don't drink alcohol (like you and your friends Scd) it wouldn't be much fun.
Like you Scott I liked the little Micro brew pubs what with them being independent and doing their own special beers etc. But I think sometimes you have to give up 'good' things in order to replace them with better things? Like a benefit v cost. For eg I might miss the cosy micro pub but I won't miss the damage to my health, self loathing, causing arguments, interrupted sleep etc, etc..