Tavern is a synonym of pub. As nouns the difference between pub and tavern is that pub is a public house where beverages, primarily alcoholic, may be bought and consumed and also provides food and sometimes entertainment, normally television viewing while tavern is a building containing a bar licensed to sell alcoholic drinks; an inn.

While taverns have an American influence, pub is a word that has a distinct British influence. These facilities may also be granted different licenses for the hours of legal operation. A pub, short for public house, is an establishment created for the purpose of selling and allowing customers to consume alcoholic drinks.