Rhode Island Restaurant Guide

From Newport’s breathtaking ocean view dining experiences to the hip restaurants and nightclubs of historic Providence, Rhode Island’s raved-about eateries are a magnet for locals as well as new visitors. From coffee shops to fine dining, check out Rhode Island’s great culinary delights ~ often found tucked away in historic, scenic neighborhoods across the Ocean State.

Providence

In Providence, you can experience several distinct vibes in the space of a few blocks. There are dozens of great spots to meet colleagues for lunch to “seal the deal” or create new business collaborations. In the evening, kick back with locals in this pedestrian-friendly city while sipping brews at pubs, listening to great live music or browsing through eclectic curiosity shops.

Federal Hill/Providence's Little Italy

La Pigna Arch on Atwells Avenue welcomes guests to Federal Hill, best known as Providence's Little Italy, with its high density of checker-clothed ristorantes and direct-from-the-old-country delicatessens.

Rhode Island State Capital Area

The Independent Man atop the dome of the Rhode Island State Capital anchors this hilltop neighborhood, which offers authentic BBQ cooking; premiere shopping at 150 name brand stores and eateries at Providence Place Mall; and a variety of brewpubs and fine restaurants stateside. During the Legislative Session, restaurant patrons may find themselves surrounded by politicos engaged in lively conversations and negotiations.

River Walk & College Hill

River Walk and College Hill represent two of Providence's signature districts ~renowned for scores of historic landmarks and steep, narrow streets meandering down to the Providence River, host of the world-renowned WaterFire art instillation and experience. College Hill is home to college students and professionals, with Brown, RISD and JWU attracting a diverse set of students from all over the United States and abroad. Before or after grabbing a bite, explore the spectacular RISD Art Museum and Brown University’s Hay Library (home to an exclusive collection of Abraham Lincoln’s writings and artifacts); both smack dab in a neighborhood brimming with galleries, restaurants and remarkable architecture.

Downtown Historic Providence

A patchwork of glittering new office towers amidst smart, refurbished buildings, lively nightspots, residential hotels and art spaces, Downcity offers charming, historic venues and panoramic patio dining ~ providing amazing views of river activities and Providence’s historic and contemporary architecture.

Wickenden Street, Wayland Square and Thayer Street

Exclusive boutiques, high-end antique and vintage-clothing shops, Internet cafés and hip restaurants provide the perfect setting for exploration in and about three of Providence’s popular East Side thoroughfares: Wickenden Street, Wayland Square and Thayer Street.

Commerce Center Area

Just a quick jaunt from Providence’s downcity, these eateries provide a convenient alternative to the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy fresh sushi in an elegant setting, or comfortable American cuisine while playing pool or watching your favorite sporting event by venturing a few minutes from the commerce center in Rhode Island.

Out and About Southern New England

Southern New England is well known for its fine array of restaurants – offering a variety of settings to refuel and reenergize. As your travel takes you to destinations outside the Capital City, we encourage you to stop and explore the unique ambiance and fabulous cuisine at one of these fine establishments: