Providence Cafe   

Part classy Myers Park bistro and part cheery neighborhood hangout, Providence Cafe is the Old Faithful of Charlotte cafe dining. Cafe clientele is a mix of wealthy Myers Park types, Manor Theatre fans, groups of friends out for drinks and couples out on a snazzy-casual date. The draw for this mixed crowd? Funky atmosphere, a well-stocked bar, a convenient Providence Road location and just plain good food. Providence serves trendy international fare, but the menu also includes standbys like sandwiches, pastas, pizzas, seafood, salads and prime rib. There's also a rich and inviting dessert menu, as well as liqueurs and espressos to help wash down that creme brulee you swore you couldn't eat all of, but did. Occasional live music includes jazz on Wednesdays and Thursdays. For the total Providence experience, have a seat on the breezy patio and order a ''classic'' martini (Bombay Sapphire gin, dry vermouth and an olive).