Sometimes a dive bar serves as a place to kick back, but other times it's needed as a refuge. Such is the case with Sheddy's Public Parlor, a shadowy Fairfax tavern that's exactly the kind of hole you want to crawl into after battling shoulder-to-shoulder shoppers at the Grove. It's either that or go on a tourist murder spree. So spare some lives and instead head to nearby Sheddy's (it's walking distance), sit on one of the cushy bar stools and order from the first-rate beer selection. Your foul mood will be sure to melt away among the vintage velvet furniture and flickering candles. With a porter in hand and an endless supply of free popcorn, you will forgive the Grove shoppers their sins. 361 S. Fairfax Ave., Mid-City. (323) 651-1442.

—Ali Trachta

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