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If you're looking for pub basics (and the Giants aren't playing), the Abbey can be a quiet, relaxed and spacious retreat. The bar is often crowded with older regulars who really ought to be at an A.A. meeting; Columbia students (many of whom could also use some twelve-step help) favor the cozy wooden booths in back. Weekends and game days can get packed and rowdy, with big parties watching the four TVs. The dinner menu hints at elegance with grilled fish and salads, but since the house wine is like water and cocktails are iffy, stick to burgers and fries with beer. — Shana Liebman