Great Escape: Swing Into The Weekend

Your favorite , and you don't have any plans for the weekend. Fortunately, we're here to help you get into the "" of things, so swap that frown for a smile, and read on.

• is close to home, has a great selection, and reasonable prices.  What's not to like?

• is a perfect choice for those who are interested in more than just food. There are pool tables, several TV's, and trivia contests to keep you occupied.

• Phoenix Dragon, which is located on Broadway in Providence, is my current favorite restaurant. A recent visit cost less than $20 for two people, and the food, atmosphere, and service were terrific.

• If you don't mind waiting for a table, the Cheesecake Factory is an excellent restaurant. The menu us extensive, and their selection of cheesecake is almost unfathomable.

• You will probably have to wait for a table at Dave and Buster's, but unlike other restaurants, you're not just sitting there. Video games, pool, and a bar are just some of your options to pass the time. 

Once dinner is finished, there's still lots to do.  Here are some suggestions for your weekend:

• Badfish, a Sublime tribute band, will have a 10th anniversary show at Lupo's on Saturday, April 16th at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15, and includes supporting acts Scotty Don't, Mellow Mood, and The Rudeness.

• Providence is one of a select few cities who will be showing the movie Atlas Shrugged If you're a fan of Ayn Rand's work, this is a must see. The movie opens on Friday, April 15.

• The Twin River Event Center is the location for the 7th Annual Sounthern New England Women's Expo. The event starts at 11 a.m. and includes seminars, fashion, cooking demonstrations, and wine tasting.

• The Met will be hosting the Until There is a Cure benefit on Thursday, April 14th to benefit local cancer treatment. The show will feature Santa Mamba and Jill Goldberg. Tickets are $12.

• The Rhode Island Philharmonic presents Kim Tchaikovsky, and Lutoslawsky this Saturday at Veteran's Memorial Auditorium. Tickets start at $39.

There you go, another great list of suggestions. Have a great time!