MIDTOWN. Named for a diminutive grandmother, this popular eatery offers relaxed atmosphere and classic Italian fare. Main courses include specialties like chicken or veal parmesan, a grilled NY strip, garlicky shrimp scampi, and more than fifteen pasta offerings, which come with breadsticks and a side salad. Hearty subs, pizzas, and panini (lunch only) are available as well. Wines are presented by the glass or by the bottle.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. Whether you've come for a dinner date or weekend brunch, this neighborhood café doesn't disappoint. Large windows, an outdoor dining space, and a focus on healthy dishes (vegetarian and vegan options are available) ensure lots of business. Popular fare includes spicy Caribbean shrimp, Carolina red trout, Italian sausage lasagna, and a vegetable napoleon. Bolstering these selections are plenty of sandwiches, pastas, soups, and salads. Happily, Firefly is a big proponent of recycling and makes a strong effort to promote sustainability.

MIDTOWN. Bright green walls punch up this whimsical eatery, which delivers healthy, updated versions of traditional Southern eats. An innovative twist on a classic, Jamaican jerk chicken salad is flavored with tomatoes, seedless grapes, cucumbers, and black eyed pea relish vinaigrette. For a more filling meal, try peach-glazed BBQ chicken or fried freshwater catfish with a biscuit and two veggies. Intriguing sides include sliced tomatoes or cucumbers in a vinaigrette, corn pudding, and sweet potato salad.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. This charming cafe makes for a popular breakfast and lunch spot. The morning menu features egg sandwiches, oatmeal, waffles, and a variety of bagels and spreads, plus fresh fruit and a host of coffee drinks. Lunch delivers soups, quiches, sandwiches, and salads. Follow up with a big cookie, a slice of decadent cake, or a dish of comforting bread pudding. Croissants, pastries, breads, and muffins are also delicious pick-me-ups. Breakfast is served all day.

SOUTHSIDE. Bright pink and green walls, pictures of toucans, and animal-print tables accent the interior of this fun restaurant. The eclectic menu draws on flavors from Greece, the Caribbean, and beyond. Options range from Hellenic stuffed chicken with spinach, feta, rice, and baby peas to Jamaican jerk tilapia with black beans, mango salsa, and cilantro. Vegetarian options like spanokopita, a black bean burger, and a tempura portobello are also available. Be sure to end your meal with the signature coconut kiwi layer cake.