Experience: Southern Comfort in Providence at Kin Southern Table + Bar

Nestled in the heart of downtown, at the intersection of Washington and Union streets near the Biltmore Garage, Kin Southern Table + Bar offers a delightful blend of modern ambiance and soul-warming Southern cuisine.

A friend and I were excited to try Kin’s menu after hearing about their recent three-year anniversary celebration. Inside, we were greeted by an inviting atmosphere, with a lively bar in the center and R&B melodies setting the tone for the evening. “I just wanted to create a safe space that highlighted Black culture, whether it’s what’s playing on the TVs, the background music, or artwork on the walls,” shares owner Julia Broome. From morning to nightlife, Kin regularly hosts upbeat brunch events, singles mixers, and after-hours DJ music Saturdays.

We kicked off our visit with the irresistible Black Girl Magic cocktail, a concoction of peach vodka and lemonade – mixed with a dash of edible glitter, it was as dazzling to look at as it was delicious. For a non-alcoholic option, the Southern sweet tea proved a refreshing choice.

A visit to Kin isn’t complete without the Chicken n’ Waffles appetizer. Generously portioned chicken wings fried to crispy golden-brown perfection were surprisingly light, and while delicious on its own, the house-made hot sauce truly elevated the experience. Served with soft, fluffy waffles drizzled with syrup and powdered sugar, it was a delightful marriage of textures and flavors.

For our main courses, we opted for two Southern classics. The Fried Catfish stole the show – crispy and well-seasoned, it paired beautifully with a tangy remoulade. Equally impressive was the Shrimp Po Boy, boasting plump, flavorful shrimp with a great snap – providing an ideal amount of resistance to each bite – packed within a lightly charred grinder roll.

Entrees come with two sides, including potatoes in a variety of styles, but I’d recommend the Collard Greens, with rich, savory notes of turkey, and Baked Mac and Cheese, which is creamy and topped with a coveted brown crust – both were reminiscent of your auntie’s home-cooked Thanksgiving dishes. Kin’s Candied Yams provided a sweet-savory balance. “The menu items are inspired by summer nights and BBQs with family and friends – it includes everything we need to have on the dinner table,” Broome explains.

Before leaving, we couldn’t resist indulging in a slice of Chocolate Cake adorned with whipped cream, a decadent finale to our Southern feast. Though our stomachs were full, Broome recommended a return visit to try the Honey Garlic Chicken Wings, Shrimp and Grits, and Juju Juice – the house rum punch, which she describes as “the perfect balance of sweet, acid, and booze.”

Kin Southern Table + Bar left a lasting impression, not just for its delicious fare but also for its inviting ambiance and attentive service. Its concise, expertly crafted menu evokes the essence of homestyle Southern meals. Whether seeking a taste of home or traveling South without having to leave New England, Kin offers a delightful escape.

Kin Southern Table + Bar

71 Washington Street

401-537-7470 • KinPVD.com