Some folks assume gay bars are debauched dens of demonstrative sexual wackiness. Untrue. Catering to a devoted clientele, the Dolphin Bar — whose mascot is a tipsy upright dolphin, which is rather fitting given the animal's pansexuality — hosts such typical pub institutions as karaoke nights, drink specials and pool games. Open since 2001, it's presided over by jocular former professional Elvis impersonator Jim LeBoeuf, who regularly hosts events for the LGBT community. Sure, occasionally it's dead on a weeknight, but sometimes you just need a quiet night alone with a drink and your thoughts, and the Dolphin is refreshingly free of raucous stereotypes. 1995 Artesia Blvd., Redondo Beach. (310) 318-3339, thedolphinbar.com.

—David Cotner

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