Neutral Ground Coffeehouse

Nestled deep within an Uptown residential area, this nonprofit landmark of the local folkie scene boasts a laid-back decor that recalls the common room at a particularly hip (or hippie) college dorm. In fact, if the living-room atmosphere here were any more low key, it wouldn't have a pulse.

This cozy space, known for its comfortable chairs and array of board games (including checkers, chess and Scrabble), is the unofficial center of operations for the local aspiring singer-songwriter set, as well as an attractive venue for more established folk/acoustic acts guaranteed an attentive (if small) audience. There's no alcohol; rather the drinkers cup coffees and teas.