I visited the old Crystal Palace once and it was a very dry, officious formal place. Everyone was uptight, I didn't care much for it. I had the pleasure of visiting Southwest, Delta, Northwest and Alaska as well, Southwest was the best.
As for Mill Ave (street that HQ is on), best pizza in town is there, its called Slices, Boston style thin crust. McDuffeys is the big sports bar, named in the top 10 best sports bars in america (just W of Mill, by the RR tracks). Rula Bula is a Guiness owned pub, with great Irish food. Long Wongs has reopened in a new location, haven't been yet, not sure if they got a music license. Library, Hooters, Big Bang and the Owl's Nest are all in the same building, I'd go if I were younger. Bison Witches, (E. of Mill) is pretty good for cheap beer and sandwiches. Best Mexican food is Resturant Mexico, its central Mexico style, its on University about 2 blocks E. of Mill. Gordon Biersch is a good place for food and beer, its above Starbucks. In Season Deli which is inside a courtyard just N. of Starbucks is a treat for vegitarians, they have fantastic pasta salads, tamales and the like.
Casey Moores is the best bar, but its just off of mill, on 9th and Ash in a residential neighborhood. Ash is the street behind HQ that runs parallel to the railroad tracks, take it south 2 blocks past University. Casey Moores has a great seafood resturant, and a great indoor/outdoor bar. Its located in a historic old house that is haunted (ask Gavin, the bartender/owner, he will give you lots of stories!)
Lots of good stuff within walking distance of the HQ!