Tropical flair colors this lively restaurant, which sports bright interior murals and rhythmic Caribbean music. The cuisine follows suit, from crisp sweet potato chips to zesty jerk chicken, tropically-flavored fresh fish, conch fritters, steaks, and Cuban pork. After you've indulged, move out to the spacious, brick-paved patio, which sports its own large bar. Woven armchairs and sheltered areas add comfort in the open air, and folks often gather to drink and listen to weekend bands.

Occupying space once devoted to a 1940s speakeasy, this alternative club is one of the area's most established. A showroom, a lounge, and an upstairs dance floor offer a variety of venues, and three bars make sure everyone, gay or straight, is accommodated. Pool tables and darts are available, and karaoke performances take place mid-week. Thursday is amateur drag night, and Friday and Saturday are given over to professional performers. IDs are checked stringently, and only those 21 and over are admitted.

Stylish, much-loved Bellini's cultivates a faithful following, who appreciate its well-prepared fare and romantic ambience. Beneath a pressed-metal ceiling, they dine on veal saltimbocca, a grilled house rib-eye, and a boneless, center-cut pork chop served with risotto. A long list of pastas offers ingredients like gorgonzola, prosciutto, eggplant, clams, and asparagus. Regulars agree that the chocolate torte is a perfect dessert option, and the bar makes for ideal mingling when evening comes. Pricey but popular.

When you step inside, pause for just a moment to give your eyes time to adjust. This is, literally, the darkest pub ever. It's also a comfortable haven, thanks to loaded bookcases along the walls and a host of garage-sale sofas perfect for lounging. A few fireplaces also add ambience and a small measure of light. The food, mainly pub fare, is terrific, from great burgers and fries to luscious patty melts and fish sandwiches. Add a cold, iced Bud, and everything's good. A juke box churns out classic rock, and a back patio serves as an awesome hangout. A favorite with local college folks.

Pub ambience colors this local mainstay, especially in the front room, dominated by a large bar, wood paneling, and memorabilia from days past. The back room looks out on the patio and features exposed brick and artwork. Both venues attract frequent downtown crowds, who come for well-prepared pub fare and great draught and bottled beers. Sample a tavern battered halibut sandwich or maybe a smoked turkey reuben or a steak hoagie. Salads, soups, and daily hot entrees make appearances too, along with beef and veggie burgers. Cheapside also boasts an awesome, two-level patio, and live bands play towards the end of each week.