Nick-A-Nees — Restaurant in Providence

The last of a dying breed-the inner city neighborhood dive bar. The greatest jukeboxes I've ever seen, a $1 pool table, great selection of alcohols (they even have my favorite bourban-Buffalo Trace-which is hard to find) and bartenders that are somewhat gruff until they get to know you. To top it all off, you will see some of the best local musicians around and there's no cover! Drinks are very reasonably priced and they even have some bar food you can eat in a pinch. Or, a local place that's pretty good will deliver to you there. Also, it's dog friendly. Lastly, it's a real eclectic clientele. From the artsy RISD crowd to old guys like me, it's friendly , laid back and welcoming. I've spent a few lazy afternoons there playing pool and discussing topics from the politics of Cuba to the drumming of Ginger Baker to the physics of String Theory. Its hard...

I may be a bit bias because I get to sing a few with The House Combo that plays on Monday nights, but I also think that qualifies me to speak on my feelings about this bar. I've been coming here for about 10 years, although only here and there the first few years when I moved to Providence. It was about 5 years ago when I started going more regularly and was introduced to Monday nights and The House Combo.

Now I have been there on many other nights and all have been extremely enjoyable, and in different ways. This isn't a fancy place, but they welcome everyone, even dogs, have great music and a laid-back atmosphere. I can't think of one bad thing...

Best live music bar in Providence (shout out to the parlour as well). No cover! Cash only.

Excellent variety of music, mainly connected to roots rock in some way. Bluegrass Wednesday. Best juke box in the city. Bring your dogs! Interesting clientele and excellent pool players. Reasonably priced drinks.

If you are in Providence for more than a week and like music, nick a nees is a must visit. This is the diamond (perhaps on a rusted ring, if you judge it by its shell) of the jewelry district. Watch out for where you park your car, especially if it's nice or has a bag/electronics...