The main draw for me to the shady grove is during the summer when you can sit on their patio on a side street just right off of Walnut street. When the weather is nice, we've enjoyed a few nights out there drinking a half priced bottle of wine on Wednesdays.
We recently went to watch a football game inside and it was enjoyable because it wasn't crowded at all and we got a high top table in the corner where we could hang out and talk for a few hours. The inside is not very big and the bar goes down the middle of the restaurant. The food is okay, however we never think to go there for dinner when we are considering options. They do have a pretty large menu and this past time we ordered the spinach and artichoke dip, and nachos and liked both.
I'd recommend this place if you're looking for a laid back place and some straight forward American food.