Big City Vibes in the Burbs

A Providence seafood joint’s second location impresses city and coastal diners alike

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With over 400 miles of shoreline, Rhode Islanders know their seafood – so you can imagine a restaurant with “oysters” in its name would work extra hard to live up to its discerning coastal clientele. Providence Oyster Bar does just that. The Federal Hill staple set its sights on being even closer to the water when they opened a second location in East Greenwich just over a year ago, bringing big city vibes to the quaint waterfront town.

Located on bustling Post Road in the former Sweet Twist candy shop, Providence Oyster Bar is a welcome addition to the East Greenwich dining scene, with a sophisticated yacht club feel featuring lots of dark shiplap and many nautical touches. A large bar area is the perfect spot to grab a round of appetizers with a couple of cocktails, choosing from a list that’s creative without being too over the top. I ordered a Paper Plane – made up of Bulleit bourbon, Aperol, St. Agrestis amaro, and lemon juice – which was well-balanced and delicious. My friend enjoyed the Blood Orange Cosmopolitan.

As the name alludes to, Providence Oyster Bar has a robust raw bar. On the night we visited, they were showcasing oysters from Walrus and Carpenter in Charlestown, and some from just over the border: Beach Plum Oysters harvested in Westport, MA, and Connecticut’s Mystic Oysters. I can’t get enough of Walrus and Carpenter mollusks, so I ordered a dozen. They were fresh, buttery, and briny – a perfect way to start the meal. (Pro-tip: catch Appy Hour nightly from 3-6pm and load up on discounted clams, shrimp, and oysters – in EG and Providence!)

Following our server’s recommendation, we also ordered a couple of appetizers. Our surprise favorite was the Loaded Greek Hummus, featuring the creamy spread topped with olives, feta cheese, red onion, and tomato. The grilled naan on the side was excellent even on its own. A round of Bacon Wrapped Scallops arrived cooked to perfection and drizzled with the most delicious espresso maple syrup.

For dinner, I ordered the Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna, which was served with a side of fried lobster wontons. My dining companion ordered the Lobster Gnocchi and was surprised by the huge portion. The dish contained plenty of sweet and tender lobster morsels. We were both impressed by the elevated yet unpretentious meals.

We were too full for dessert but did see the tray of sweets circulating, which included crème brûlée, New York cheesecake, and chocolate cake. They also have daily flavors of house-made gelato or sorbet – the perfect end to the night or palate cleanser. 

If you’re looking for a fun night out, Providence Oyster Bar is sure to please. The menu has something for everyone (even the landlubbers). The sophisticated atmosphere, excellent cocktails, and tasty food will bring me back for more. 

 

Providence Oyster Bar East Greenwich

5707 Post Road, East Greenwich

EG: 715-2526

PVD: 272-8866

ProvidenceOysterBar.com

 

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