Providence Is Your East Coast Foodie Sweet Spot

Massimo Ristorante Source: Jaclyn Altieri

A rich cultural hub known as The Creative Capital, Providence, RI is bursting at the seams with a delectable foodie scene. From its cultural roots as a mainstay of world class Italian cuisine and fresh seafood to the latest tastemaking sensations, Providence is carving a path as the premier East Coast foodie destination. Check out our guide below for the finest of dining experiences and discover why visitors and locals alike keep coming back hungry for more.

Fresh Flavors

Providence is at the forefront of new concepts and new flavors to make your visit at once spontaneous and exciting. Grandma's home cooking comes to you at Irregardless Biscuit, a southern cooking eatery that serves breakfast and brunch goodies on, you guessed it, biscuits. But these aren't just any biscuits – they're made with flour from the co-owner's hometown in North Carolina for an oh-so-delicious treat. For the latest dining experience, don't miss out on Gift Horse, serving up a raw bar and featuring perhaps the freshest locally-caught shellfish in PVD. Post up at the bar and sip a creative take on an Italian-inspired Martini or pick from a curated wine list to compliment your raw bar experience.

For a luxe dining engagement nestled in a ravishing hotel, Bellini Providence will light up your senses. This finely-appointed Italian spot excels at zesty plates of pasta and a revolving menu of flavorful bites. Pro-tip: A stay at The Beatrice Hotel not only promises luxury and comfort, but order the restaurant's namesake cocktail, a signature bellini, and take it to the rooftop for breathtaking city skyline views and cozy ambiance. Or add a splash of color to your PVD visit at the vibrant Blu Violet in the Aloft Hotel. The chic rooftop bar has it all: Dazzling views of the jewelry district and Providence River, simple yet tasty American fare and seasonal craft cocktail menu.

LGBTQ-Owned Favorites

PVD's friendly and welcoming vibe has created a haven for beloved LGBTQ+ haunts for yummy bites and flights. Start out your evening at Res, a delightful dining experience in a historically renovated space. Floor-to-ceiling windows cast magical views of downtown while you treat your taste buds to traditional plates served up with distinct Res panache. Finish the night with handcrafted cocktails at Clementine Cocktail Bar. Choose from timeless classics and sparkling favorites, to Clementine's own creations and even alcohol-free concoctions.

Seaside Sensations

Rhode Island is a seafood lover's paradise, overflowing with the freshest top-of-catch fare. Catering to locals and visitors for decades, Hemenway's offers innovative chef creations that always utilizes its locally-caught selections of shellfish and more. Pro-tip: the three-course dinner for two every Tuesday is a must to try all the salivating flavors Hemenway's serves up. Or book a table at Mare Rooftop and let its rooftop scene serenade you with magnificent vistas. Upscale Mediterranean cuisine will liven your palate as you sip a glass of wine from a fine selection of blends and varietals.

It wouldn't be a New England visit without clam cakes and chowder. For the best in the region, check out Dune Brothers, a lively spot with outdoor tables and seating. The casual and inviting vibe is perfect to "bring a chef's sensibility to Rhode Island seafood favorites." If you're hankering for oysters, Providence Oyster Bar is a neighborhood seafood joint serving some of the best fresh-caught oysters around town. The exquisite atmosphere paired with a wide collection of wine, beer and spirits will put you into a reverie of appetizing food and fun.

Italian Classics

The Federal Hill neighborhood – rich in Italian influence – makes it the go-to spot for authentic flavors and delicious dishes. Angelo's Civita Farnese celebrates 100 years of bringing the Mediterranean nation's cooking style to Federal Hill. The family-owned restaurant survived the Great Depression, a few wars, and technological changes and still serves meatballs with french fries. The moniker "if it's Angelo's, it must be delicious" lives on in fresh pastas and fine meats. Pop into Massimo Ristorante and nibble on plates made from locally-grown ingredients and sip organic wines imported from boutique Italian winemakers. Or reserve a spot at Andino's, a thriving casual Italian joint that channels the Rat Pack spirit in a boisterous atmosphere. Show up hungry for a sensational dinner experience because Andino's serves its dishes Italian style – big and bold.

Plan Your Visit

If you're craving curious cocktails and mouth-watering flavors, Providence is the East Coast foodie scene to please your palate. And an added bonus? The Rhode Island capital offers a walkable downtown for you to explore all the wonderful foodie hotspots mentioned above. Book your stay at one of PVD's beautiful hotels – from modern comfort at the Aloft to boutique luxury at The Beatrice or old-school charm at the Graduate to historic accommodations at the Renaissance. Visit GoProvidence to plan your perfect foodie getaway.