While many European cultures view lunch as the main meal of the day, many of us – especially in a post-pandemic world – have perfected the art of eating leftovers at our desk. In fact, finding a restaurant to rendezvous with friends or colleagues in the wake of working from home may feel like an overwhelming challenge. Our team is here to help! We’ve rounded up a statewide selection of noontime fare, from staple restaurants that have been around 50+ years, to those that are celebrating their first anniversary this month. With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy your midday meal.
Originally established as a station for the Coast Guard in the late 1800s, this restaurant has been a culinary destination since 1979. So swoonworthy with its prime waterfront location, even the pandemic couldn’t keep guests away. “We have a great view,” explains Bob Leonard, co-owner and manager, who shares that in the winter they maintain a steady stream of regulars while summer brings travelers from around the world. They are particularly proud of their locally harvested seafood, which makes it no surprise that their Lobster Roll is one of the most popular dishes year-round, made with chilled lobster salad, fresh herbs, citrus aioli, lettuce, and buttered brioche. This month, their outdoor dining is set to reopen where you, too, can experience the unrivaled view of Narragansett Bay as you feast on lobstah, soup, burgers, and more. Narragansett, TheCoastGuardHouse.com
“Once you’ve gone to a Bellini or a Cipriani establishment, you fall in love,” says general manager Alex Pendergrass. Nestled in the heart of Providence’s Financial District, Bellini combines rustic elegance with authentic Italian recipes, carrying on the tradition of the owners’ great-grandfather, Giuseppe Cipriani, creator of Harry’s Bar in Venice and inventor of the Bellini cocktail. Operating 365 days of the year, you never need to wonder if they’re open for lunch. “It’s a family-run business, and it really shows when you set foot into our restaurant,” Pendergrass continues. All of the bread is made fresh in-house, produce is brought in daily, and the desserts are thoughtfully crafted by their pastry team. From the light and airy dining space to the vibrant floral displays, it’s both luxe and approachable – and don’t forget to try the eponymous peach and prosecco drink (also in a nonalcoholic version). Providence, BelliniRestaurant.com
In just one year, Frank & Laurie’s has become a beloved staple on the East Side and gained notoriety for its neighborhood charm and homemade fare. The restaurant was born from a desire for a good lunch spot. “I’ve been a chef my whole life,” owner Eric Brown explains, “and my wife is a nine-to-fiver, so lunch had been ‘our thing’ when we lived in Chicago. After moving to Rhode Island, we asked a couple chefs where we should meet up for lunch, and they were like, ‘Let us know where you find it.’” When a space (where Rebelle used to be) became available, Brown seized the opportunity. “It’s a perfect spot – on the corner, lots of windows, lots of light all day long. We got lucky and, dare I say, the stars aligned for us.” With a crowd of all ages and backgrounds, it’s a testament to the fact that everyone was looking for this. The menu is inspired by Brown’s grandparents, featuring comfort foods with an elevated twist – deviled eggs, shredded carrot salad, biscuits and jam, and pancakes served until 3pm. Keep an eye out for their new take-out coffee and pastry window that’s set to open this month. Providence, FrankAndLauries.com
Located in Cranston, owners Emily and chef Berke Marye have noticed that All Favorites Cafe is a place for friends to meet up who haven’t connected lately. “It’s a central meeting point for people around the state, and I’m always surprised by the people who come in for lunch – travelers, people working from home, locals. Folks are realizing you don’t have to wait until dinner to go out for great food,” says Berke. After living on Block Island for years, the Marye family moved to Cranston, and it just made sense to open a breakfast and lunch spot where JP Spoonem’s had been for 40 years. “We realized we didn’t have to reinvent the wheel. [Breakfast/lunch] suited our life, our family, and gave us a feeling of community; lunch just feels communal,” Emily says. With the same menu served all day, you can have a burger for breakfast or an herbed goat cheese omelet for lunch. “The Cubano is a favorite, but we have so many regulars that they play the menu like a piano. There isn’t something on the menu that isn’t ordered.” With Berke’s Pantry opening, diners who love the chef’s pimento cheese, pickles, and other favorites will be able to bring them home for the family to enjoy. Cranston, AllFavoritesCafe.com
If you’re hankering for locally roasted coffee and a sweet or savory crepe, there’s no better place than Cafe Water Street. From Ham, Brie & Hot Honey – made with local Aquidneck honey – to their best-selling Nutella and Strawberry, the selection of crepes is wide and creative, not to mention you can build your own. Open seven days a week in the summer, this staple in the heart of Warren’s Town Wharf is perfect for a quick stop or a casual meetup with friends. You’ll find a diverse crowd, from business commuters in the morning to high schoolers in the afternoon, and everything in between – even boat traffic! In more recent years, their neighboring restaurant, Chomp, rebuilt the patio that is shared with the cafe and transformed the scene from “nothing but shells” to an elevated stone patio that’s more than twice the size. According to owner John Valerio, “It was already a million dollar view, but now it’s even better.” Warren, CafeWaterStreet.com
Don’t let the fact they specialize in grilled cheese fool you – Scratch Kitchen & Catering takes their claim to fame to the next level with options like Duck Confit and Los Cubanos Locos. You’ll rethink everything you thought you knew about grilled cheese. And just like their name implies, everything is made from scratch. Their first-place cook-off awards for both chili and mac and cheese are evidence that you can taste the difference. Celebrating 10 years this May, they’ve perfected their lunches, making this a gem that locals love. While their space is small, their flavors are big. With wraps, salads, and soups – the Watermelon Peach Basil soup is a hit in the summer – and the option to turn any grilled cheese into a mac and cheese bowl, Scratch Kitchen & Catering offers the quintessential comfort lunch. Newport, ScratchNewport.com
This beloved local institution harkens a sense of nostalgia for many Rhode Islanders, and it holds a special place in the state’s dining culture. Since its debut in 1972 as a deli, generations have enjoyed Gregg’s Restaurant & Taverns’ classic American fare and welcoming service. This spot is especially perfect for dining on a tight schedule since the team is prepared for the business crowd. “They come in, know what they want, and we get it to the kitchen quickly so they can get back to work,” explains owner Rob Bacon. Most popular are their sandwiches and soup or salad combos, but their dinner entrees are also available in lunch-sized portions. It’s worthwhile, however, to save some room for one of their iconic desserts – from Boston Cream Pie to Hasbro Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake (a portion of proceeds are donated to Hasbro Children’s Hospital), you can’t go wrong. Bonus points for worry-free parking. East Providence, North Kingstown, Providence, Warwick, GreggsUSA.com
Known for its Southern-inspired dishes, Dante’s Kitchen offers a unique and inviting lunch experience that draws a variety of clientele, with transplants from the South feeling especially excited about homecooked fare that reminds them of home. The restaurant truly shines with its popular Fried Green Tomato BLT, gumbo, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, and jambalaya – which, according to owner Lisa Altieri, “You pretty much can’t get anything better in the state.” For those looking for lighter options, you can opt for a salad with house-made dressing, such as an arugula topped with shrimp or fried chickpeas. The welcoming atmosphere, with outdoor seating available in the warmer months, makes it a perfect spot for a casual and enjoyable lunch. Fun fact: Dante’s is named for Altieri’s beloved pup, so this is also a dog-friendly restaurant, adding to its charm. East Greenwich, DantesKitchenRI.com
For a one-of-a-kind dining experience that blends fresh, local ingredients with picturesque views overlooking saltwater ponds, Matunuck Oyster Bar is best in class. The restaurant’s focus on “pond to plate” dining ensures that seafood is sourced directly from nearby waters, including its own oyster farm. A standout feature is their creative sushi menu, which emphasizes fresh, local fish without the traditional sushi accompaniments, offering a lighter, yet flavorful option for lunch. The Yin-Yang roll, made up of hamachi, yellowfin tuna, sea urchin, Hackleback caviar, and miso eel sauce, is a fan favorite that highlights the restaurant’s unique approach to sushi. During the pandemic, they expanded their outdoor dining to include a patio and rooftop deck, providing one of the most unique dining environments in the area. “Estuaries don’t usually have restaurants on them,” says owner Perry Raso. This setting, combined with a focus on fresh, simple seafood, makes Matunuck Oyster Bar a popular year-round destination. Wakefield, RhodyOysters.com
Burgers are that perfect food that transcends definition, satisfying for lunch or dinner, delicious whether wrapped in paper or on an artisanal bun, handheld or knife-and-forked. Here are best bets for making a meal out of the ubiquitous American classic.
By Patty J
The BYOB (in this case meaning “build your own burger”) menu at this well-liked eatery is outstanding. With four different patties (including a veggie), more than 10 cheeses, six breads, and dozens of other options to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Do yourself a favor and make burger night a new tradition. Smithfield, EatAtBlackies.com
This colorful coastal eatery has been attracting locals, URI students, and even visiting celebrities since 1995. Favorites include their Plain and Simple, which you can customize with add-ons; the classic Moo Moo Melt; and the Loco, made of beef, black beans, and cheddar, grilled with avocado in a tortilla and salsa on the side. Narragansett, CrazyBurger.com
If you live for an incredible burger, you’re probably already well acquainted with Chomp. With a new burger joint opening soon in Newport, this multi-location mainstay serves up a juicy selection of traditional offerings (you can’t lose with the House Burger) and newfangled twists like the Crab Rangoon with duck sauce and fried wonton. Providence & Warren, ChompRI.com
This Wickenden Street gem boasts a charming back patio, intriguing cocktail menu, and a delightful house burger with Cabot cheddar and a garlic balsamic aioli – or try the Crunch Wrap, with a black bean and barley veggie patty. A late-night menu of hearty snacks includes handhelds for all tastes. Providence, TheEastEndPVD.com
If it’s a sports bar you’re seeking, Patriots fans rejoice: this spot has plenty of TVs, great service, and a pub menu with a house burger and fries that is sure to please. Go at night to catch the big game over a brew, or take the kiddos during the day for a more family-friendly vibe. East Providence, TheLocalRI.com
Every time I walk by this sweet restaurant on Thames, it looks like the customers inside are having the best time – quite possibly because they’re digging into a Portside Burger with a short rib-chuck patty and candied cherrywood bacon. Their scrumptious veggie burger certainly had me rejoicing – trust me, you won’t miss the meat. Bristol, PortsideTavern.com
Add this non-touristy bar and grill on lower Broadway to your summer itinerary. It’s a no-frills, fun-tastic eatery where City by the Sea residents go for phenomenal burgers, fries, and beers on tap, plus melts, po’boys, burritos, BLTs, and other unfussy handheld fare. Newport, PourJudgementNewportRI.com
This darling casual restaurant on Post Road is popular for brunch, but you can’t miss their dinner menu of classic American fare. Of course, it includes a burger, and it’s a doozie: the Big Ol’ Burger is a half-pound of angus beef topped with special sauce, Cabot cheddar, lettuce, pickles, grilled onions, and tomato on a brioche bun. Yum. Warwick, TheShantyRI.com
Pawtucket, HighMotorGrille.com
Good things come to those who wait and such is the case with The Franklin, the anticipated patisserie, cocktail bar, and restaurant opening soon on its namesake Bristol street. Brought to you by Groundswell Guild, patrons can expect the same level of detail in everything from serveware to surroundings to a sumptuous menu. At press time, look for a possible late-May opening. 195 Franklin Street, Bristol
Sampling the work of celebrated chefs doesn’t need to be fancy, cost a lot, or
require a plane ticket. If you’re a foodie living in the Ocean State, by now you’ve likely heard the news about Rhody’s own James Beard Foundation Award® semifinalists, announced in January. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the prestigious awards, which recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries. Key components of the designation include creating a culture where all can thrive and demonstrating commaitment to equality and sustainability. Nominees will be announced on April 2 (just after this magazine is off to the press), and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Semifinalists are recognized across 25 categories, and we’re proud to have eight among that list.
Oberlin:
Outstanding Restaurant, Providence
Persimmon:
Outstanding Hospitality, Providence
Robert Andreozzi:
Best Chef: Northeast - Pizza Marvin, Providence
Subat Dilmurat:
Best Chef: Northeast - Jahunger, Providence
Sky Haneul Kim:
Best Chef: Northeast - Gift Horse, Providence
Nikhil Naiker:
Emerging Chef - NIMKI (inside Courtland Club), Providence
Nick Rabar:
Best Chef: Northeast - Honeybird Kitchen & Cocktails, East Providence
Derek Wagner:
Best Chef: Northeast - Nicks on Broadway, Providence
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