Top Dining Spots in Providence, Rhode Island, Recommended by an Award-Winning Chef and Local Expert

Photo credit: www.travelandleisure.com

When seeking out the finest dining experiences in a city for an upcoming trip, many recommendations revolve around talking to locals, consulting chefs, or perusing tourism websites. After spending four delightful days indulging in the culinary scene of Providence, Rhode Island, alongside three renowned chefs, a local restaurant owner, and a tourism expert, it became clear that the city has a wealth of extraordinary dining options that reflect its unique and diverse gastronomic identity.

Among the standout personalities in this culinary journey was Michael Cimarusti, executive chef and owner of the acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant Providence in Los Angeles. Cimarusti returned to his roots, having spent summers in Providence with his grandparents, and he was in town to share his expertise on sustainable fishing practices with culinary students at Johnson and Wales University. Accompanying him were his wife, pastry chef Cristina Echiverri, and Sam Baxter, executive chef at Cimarusti’s other establishment, Connie and Ted’s, which pays homage to his grandparents.

Our group of enthusiastic diners explored the Providence River, sampling local spirits distilled with oysters, fishing for striped bass, and enjoying a meal prepared by Johnson and Wales students. We also visited the Rhode Island Seafood Festival, immersing ourselves in the local culinary culture.

Dune Brothers

At Dune Brothers, Chef Nicholas Gillespie and his wife Monica present an authentic New England seafood experience with picturesque waterside dining. With a menu featuring items like fish and chips, lobster rolls, and clam chowder, we savored a distinctive bowl of the local clam chowder made with a clear broth that sets it apart from other regional variations. The charm of the restaurant is amplified by its proximity to the historic Looff Carousel, an attraction dating back to 1895.

Dolores

Dolores brings contemporary Mexican cuisine from the Mixteca region to Providence. Run by award-finalist chef Maria Meza and her sons, the restaurant offers an array of unique moles. During our visit, we enjoyed an impressive selection, including mole poblano with chicken and mole verde with octopus, further complemented by well-crafted cocktails. The inviting atmosphere, along with a late-night menu, makes it a vibrant dining spot with a focus on family recipes.

Persimmon

Among the highlights of modern American dining, Persimmon excels with its exquisite presentation of seasonal dishes. Chef Champe Speidel curates a menu that shifts nightly, and we reveled in dishes like oysters topped with caviar, salmon belly tartare, and seared scallops accompanied by rich sauces. For dessert, we savored a heavenly chocolate tart that was as visually stunning as it was delicious.

Dolce & Salato

At Dolce & Salato, Chef Armando Bisceglia showcases his passion for quality ingredients through traditional Italian dishes. The restaurant features beloved family recipes and offers a culinary experience known as “The Armando Experience,” highlighting his Italian roots. We enjoyed a delightful lunch of creamy burrata, spaghetti prepared in a puttanesca sauce, and other specialties, all served in a cozy dining environment.

Gracie’s

A hallmark of fine dining in Providence, Gracie’s boasts an elegant atmosphere perfect for enjoying a carefully curated five or seven-course tasting menu. Chef Matthew Varga impresses guests with artfully presented dishes utilizing local ingredients. Each course is thoughtfully paired with wines, enriching the dining experience even further.

Bellini

Set within The Beatrice, Bellini presents traditional Italian flavors in a sophisticated setting. Starting with enticing antipasti, our meal featured fresh seafood such as crudo and a variety of pastas, beautifully complemented by the option to enjoy cocktails with panoramic views from the Bellini Rooftop.

Gift Horse

Gift Horse stands out as a lively raw bar experience, adorned with colorful stained glass decor. The horseshoe-shaped bar offers a wide selection of local oysters and served dishes, making it a great spot for shellfish lovers. The menu also features unique additions like caviar served with doughboys, a cherished Rhode Island treat.

Oberlin

Located conveniently next to Gift Horse, Oberlin is known for its creative dishes served in a visually stunning ambiance, complete with a hand-painted mural ceiling. Our meal here included whole wood-roasted striped bass and a variety of enticing sides, showcasing the freshness of local seafood alongside a thoughtfully curated wine selection.

Hope & Main

A must-visit in downtown Providence, Hope & Main is a culinary incubator that not only offers breakfast and lunch but also empowers local food entrepreneurs. Here, visitors can grab delicious baked goods like chocolate babka and explore a variety of locally produced items, from granola to artisanal chocolates, each crafted with care.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com