Events, specials, and menu updates are always exciting for food enthusiasts and those looking to explore new culinary experiences. In the vibrant food scene of Rhode Island, there is no shortage of events, specials, and menu updates to keep everyone satisfied and intrigued. From summer shrimp and lobster specials at Red Stripe to wine tastings at The Capital Grille, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Red Stripe, located at 465 Angell Street in Providence, is offering a variety of summer shrimp and lobster specials that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From a lobster roll with a half-pound of lightly seasoned lobster to a half-pound shrimp salad served on a bed of mixed greens, there is a seafood delight for every palate. On Wednesdays, Red Stripe is also offering a Fisherman’s Platter featuring fried jumbo shrimp, whole belly clams, sea scallops, and haddock served with signature frites and house tartar sauce.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, you won’t want to miss The Generous Pour event at The Capital Grille. Running until September 1, this event offers guests a curated wine tasting experience inspired by the theme „Elevations – The Nature of Wine.“ Sample seven exceptional wines hand-selected to pair with a variety of dishes, from dry-aged steaks to fresh seafood. Prices for the wine tasting start at $45 with the purchase of a dinner entrée.
For those looking to explore the culinary scene in Newport, the Newport Foodies Stroll is a must-attend event. Led by tour guides Thomas and Susan Maxwell, this tour takes you through the historic streets of Newport while sampling cuisine from five locally owned restaurants. With tours available on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, this is a great opportunity to learn about the city’s history and enjoy delicious food and wine pairings.
Food Truck Fridays at the Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Carousel Village are back and better than ever. Every Friday from 5-8 p.m., food trucks gather to offer a variety of menu items, including beer and wine from Trinity Brewhouse. Enjoy live music and a picnic on the lawn while sampling dishes from over fifteen local food trucks.
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, Al Fresco on the Hill in Providence is the perfect choice. Taking place on Saturday evenings from May 25 to August 31, this event shuts down specific street sections on Federal Hill for al fresco dining. Enjoy live entertainment, artistic performances, and a vibrant atmosphere while dining at participating restaurants and retailers.
For those interested in a more active and relaxing experience, Sakonnet Vineyard is hosting a five-class yoga series in the vineyard. Enjoy an all-level Baptiste-inspired vinyasa yoga session followed by a glass of wine to unwind with fellow yogis. The cost is $20 per person, including the yoga class and a glass of wine.
The Ocean State Brewers Fest is returning for its eighth year on August 10. This celebration of Rhode Island breweries will feature limited tickets to provide an intimate experience for guests. Sample craft beers from local breweries and enjoy a friendly atmosphere with opportunities to speak with brewery staff. Tickets are $65 each and support the RI Brewers Guild’s mission to promote craft beer in Rhode Island.
For a more upscale dining experience, Farm Fresh RI’s Local Food Fest is a must-attend event. Taking place on August 13 at Castle Hill Inn, this evening features tastings from over twenty Rhode Island chefs, restaurants, and food producers. Enjoy an open bar with local wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as live music and a sunset view of Narragansett Bay. Tickets are $275 each and support Farm Fresh RI’s mission of growing a local food system.
As summer continues, there are plenty of new openings and transitions in the Rhode Island food scene. Gardiner House in Newport has opened its restaurant, Flora, offering Mediterranean seaside cuisine. Sakonnet Vineyard has reopened its tasting room and café under new management, with a focus on organic and sustainable farming practices. The Dean Hotel has opened a new cafe and debuted a new cocktail menu at the Dean Bar.
In the midst of new openings, there have also been closings and relocations in the Rhode Island food scene. Shish Kabob, La Arepa, Noodles 102, and Hooters in Warwick are among the establishments that have closed their doors. HanJu Kitchen in Federal Hill will cease serving Korean Cajun comfort food at the end of June. The Salted Slate in Providence closed its doors on May 31, while Minerva’s Pizza in Wayland Square also closed after decades of operation.
In the realm of notable news, Farouk Rajab has been named the new president and CEO of the RI Hospitality Association, bringing decades of hospitality experience to the role. Dave’s Coffee has launched three new flavored syrups crafted from all-natural botanical ingredients, perfect for enhancing coffee, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Additionally, 50 Top Pizza USA 2024 named Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana in South Kingstown as the fourteenth best pizzeria in the United States.
With a plethora of events, specials, menu updates, and new openings, the Rhode Island food scene is as vibrant and exciting as ever. Whether you’re looking to indulge in seafood specials, explore new wine tastings, or enjoy a unique dining experience, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the culinary world of Rhode Island.