The Crystal Palace Saloon sits directly across Allen Street from Big Nose Kate's and is, in many ways, the better bar. The building dates to 1879 and retains more of its original architectural character — ornate pressed-tin ceilings, a handsome back bar, and long windows that look out onto the boardwalk. It is less aggressively themed than its neighbor and attracts a slightly quieter crowd.
The Crystal Palace went through periods of closure and disrepair but has operated as a saloon for most of the past 140 years. Worth sitting at the bar on a quiet afternoon when you can actually hear yourself think and take in the building properly.