Food & Wine in Providence

From end to end, Rhode Island’s array of independent restaurants makes it a destination worthy of any foodie’s pallet. In fact, the diversity of offerings makes the restaurant scene as eclectic as the city itself. Providence’s Italian heritage lends itself to the concentration of noteworthy Italian restaurants, featuring regional cuisine, authentic food markets, bakeries, and an emphasis on local fare. Proximity to the water has engendered a love of seafood, particularly seasonal favorites like clamcakes and chowder, to compliment the more sophisticated offerings at upscale restaurants. A new fleet of food trucks, often representing some of the most coveted restaurants, is posted on the city’s East Side and downtown during the lunch rush and catering to late night indulgences.

More things to do in Providence

What to Eat?

The order is contingent on the neighborhood. On Federal Hill, authentic Italian reigns supreme, but save room for dessert at a historic bakery. Downtown, riverfront bistros offer Continental fare without overdoing the atmosphere. On the East Side, Korean, Indian, and New American are the flavors of the neighborhood.

Tipping

A customary 15 to 20 percent gratuity is appreciated, and most restaurants have valets.

Best Restaurants

Federal Hill: For authentic Italian, including the ambiance, Camille’s or Pane e Vino. Slightly less expensive but no less authentic, The Old Canteen or Antonio’s. Scialo Brothers Bakery, a century-old Federal Hill institution, for the best pastry. Downtown, there are the traditional array of steak houses (Capital Grille, Fleming’s, Ruth’s Chris), but Circe and Bacaro for small plates, Mill’s Tavern and Hemenway’s for steak and seafood, and Parkside for bistro fare, are of the same quality and are more uniquely Rhode Island.