Should I go to a gay bar?

I've never been to a gay bar, I go to regular bars at times but not often. I'm gay and I'm legally allowed to drink so that's not a problem. I want to be able to meet other men who are interested in men. But I don't know how to do so effectively. Should I be going to gay bars? And if I so shall I go alone or with people I know?What I'd like is an actual relationship of some sorts, not a general hook up.