I agree that sometimes the drinking is a bit excessive, But I would be sad if pubs disappear and going our becomes more static.

The issue with a "proper" dinner in a restaurant is that (next to it often being to much food which lead to other issues) it feels more like a chore/lethargic/static. specially if done multiply times a week.

While going to a pub you can play a game of cards/pool/darts, walk around and more easily talk to a new bloke you have never seen before.

My point is, (regardless of the drinking) going to a pub is over all more social then sitting in a restaurant.