No Malice Palace

Its cavernous interior is surprisingly intimate, thanks to intelligent groupings of furniture, and opens into a run-down, paved garden in the rear. Decorating touches include a heatless electric fire, women's bowling trophies and an eclectically stocked bookshelf ("The Magic Mountain" sits next to "John Wayne: A Tribute"). The crowd is hip-ish but unintimidating, and the bar has also become a favorite with local dog owners, whose pets bound over the furniture as if it were Doggy Disneyland. Drinks could be cheaper, but the cute bartender helps you forget. (Source: Citysearch.com)