I've always liked Shales... It gets incredibly busy on game and concert nights but the bartenders always keep up. During non-event days It attracts a nice, down to earth crowd and is a comfortable place to grab a beer after work. George, the bartender, has a friendly disposition about himself and when it's not busy and everyone has been taken care of, he'll pull out his guitar and strum a few chords.
The beer selection could be better but there's always one or two craft beers on tap and a few bottles in the fridge. The drinks are served strong and the shots are generous. I give it four stars for atmosphere and service. With a better beer selection it could be a five star.