Maybe visiting the bar again was an important way of confirming that their love and connection was real while it lasted. That the feelings evoked in the narrator were true, and his happiness at the time was a good thing no matter what happened later to end their relationship. He might have regrets about their relationship not lasting, but he should never have regrets about loving the guy because it created so many wonderful memories. They can be savored and treasured regardless.
After thinking it over and writing this comment, I changed my like from to The tone of the story may be melancholy, but it's still a beautiful tale of love.