We MIGHT be saying the same think.   

Am I correct to assume that your pubs bascially have one "brand" of beer available? If I walk into a pub and ask for a pint I would be given whatever ale is available? In that case, the type of ale would be dependent on the brewer.

Bars in the U.S. usually have multiple taps, as well as bottles, available. If you walk into a U.S. bar and ask for a beer the bartender will ask "what kind?" Check out this website - andy's corner bar

This place is a local treasure.   It started out decades ago as a corner bar - formica tops, locals, standard commerical beers.   A number of years ago the owner decided to try a few "different" brands. The idea took off and now the bar is a mecca for good beer sampling. Tiny place, but great beer with knowledgeable personnel that knows how to serve.

While Andy's has more than the normal amount of beers available, most U.S. bars will have several choices available.