What was I tasting?

I had a Pilsner at the Carolina Ale House last night that supposedly was called the ale house pilsner. This was one of the worst beers I've had in a while. Something in the beer reminded me of dirty dish water in flavor/smell. What could this have been?

they probably have poor cleaning practices.

I would probably say that the beer hadn't been served in a while so the beer that went in your glass had been sitting in the line a few days...It has a very very distinctive taste and smell...don't be afraid to tell the bartender and/or let him taste and smell it...they want you to enjoy the beer I promise. If that was the problem they just would have run the line for a few seconds..then gave you a fresh glass...

Just my hunch

Could be very dirty lines...but most places are good at keeping them clean unless you are in a dive bar..