Providence’s restaurants offer a culinary adventure that seems impossible for a city of just 200,000 residents. This food lover’s paradise has enough gastronomic talent to compete with much larger cities.
The Rhode Island capital’s stellar culinary reputation has solid foundations. Johnson & Wales University ranks second among U.S. culinary programs and has produced top chef talent since 1973. The city’s impressive food scene also benefits from its position as the 12th most ethnically diverse midsize city in America. This mixture of cultures shapes the flavors you’ll find in Providence’s best restaurants, from upscale downtown establishments to neighborhood spots that focus on quality ingredients and creative recipes.
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but its food scene stands tall. The state’s official appetizer – Rhode Island-style calamari – grabbed national attention during the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Many of Providence’s restaurants could soon rank among America’s finest dining destinations.
Let’s take a closer look at where locals really eat. This piece highlights 25 must-visit spots that serve exceptional food with great atmosphere and value throughout the city.
Nick’s on Broadway
Nick’s on Broadway sits at the top of many locals’ breakfast lists, a beloved staple in Providence’s West End neighborhood. This chef-owned gem celebrates Rhode Island’s culinary heritage and brings a fresh, modern twist to traditional dishes.
Nick’s on Broadway Cuisine & Concept
Chef/Owner Derek Wagner started Nick’s in 2001. He built a farm-to-table haven that shows off New England’s best produce. The kitchen teams up with local farmers, fishermen, and producers to get ingredients at their peak. The menu shifts with the seasons and reflects the week’s freshest offerings. This dedication has caught the eye of Bon Appétit and The New York Times, which named Nick’s one of Providence’s best restaurants.
Nick’s on Broadway Signature Dishes
Breakfast and brunch shine brightest here. The polenta with poached eggs, housemade sausage, and braised greens shows their philosophy – simple ingredients that sing with careful preparation. Their breakfast sandwich takes the classic to new heights with local eggs and house-cured bacon. The grass-fed burger with hand-cut fries packs the lunch crowd, while dinner features creative dishes like pan-roasted Rhode Island seafood and fresh pasta made in-house.
Nick’s on Broadway Ambiance & Vibe
The space strikes a perfect balance between modern and cozy. Clean lines, brick walls, and large windows create an open atmosphere, and the bustling open kitchen adds life to the room. Young professionals, families, and food lovers fill the tables, deep in conversation over steaming plates. Guests can pick between counter seats to watch the chefs work their magic or traditional table service.
Nick’s on Broadway Pricing
Breakfast and brunch entrées run $14-18, lunch items $16-22, and dinner mains $28-38. The prices might be higher than the Providence average, but the quality makes it worth every penny. The restaurant delivers great value through top-notch ingredients and expert preparation.
Nick’s on Broadway Location & Hours
You’ll find Nick’s at 500 Broadway in Providence’s West End. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and dinner Thursday through Saturday, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. Book ahead – weekend brunch wait times can stretch past an hour.
Los Andes
Los Andes brings amazing Peruvian and Bolivian flavors to Providence’s food scene. This lively eatery sits on Chalkstone Avenue and has become the life-blood of the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
Los Andes Cuisine & Concept
The restaurant takes its name from South America’s mountain range and showcases founder Cessin Curi’s culinary talents. Their menu blends Latin flavors with a special focus on Peruvian and Bolivian traditions. Diners can enjoy authentic dishes that are hard to find anywhere else in the city.
Los Andes Signature Dishes
The Ceviche Clasico ($31) stands out as their star dish – fresh barramundi, squid, clams, and mussels cured in lime juice. Their impressive Lobster Paella ($75) comes with a 1½ pound Maine lobster served over traditional rice. The Lomo Saltado ($29) combines tender filet mignon with French fries and white rice. The Causa Limena ($15) gives you a taste of authenticity with its chilled whipped potato, avocado puree and chicken salad.
Los Andes Ambiance & Vibe
The restaurant welcomes you with a festive atmosphere filled with plants, clear lights, and bamboo chandeliers. They’ve expanded their space to include beautiful water features, with a koi pond and waterfall that grace the outdoor patio. The restaurant can seat more than 240 guests and stays packed most nights, which shows just how popular it’s become.
Los Andes Pricing
You’ll find appetizers from $4-$17, main courses between $22-$44, and specialty paellas ranging from $33-$75. Sweet treats like Tres Leche ($10) and Flan ($12) round out the menu perfectly.
Los Andes Location & Hours
Los Andes is at 903 Chalkstone Ave. The restaurant opens Wednesday through Friday 5:00 PM-8:30 PM (9:15 PM Fridays), Saturdays 4:00 PM-9:15 PM, and Sundays 4:00 PM-8:00 PM. Make sure to book ahead – this place fills up fast.
Gift Horse
Chef Ben Sukle’s Gift Horse brought exceptional seafood to downtown Providence in 2023. Bon Appétit quickly named it one of 12 national restaurants to watch. The raw bar’s excellence earned spots on both The New York Times and USA Today’s best restaurants in America lists.
Gift Horse Cuisine & Concept
Gift Horse celebrates New England seafood with Korean culinary influences. Chef/Owner Ben Sukle and Chef Sky Haneul Kim work together to create dishes that showcase Rhode Island’s seafood bounty in unexpected ways. The restaurant’s name hints at their philosophy: “don’t question us” – a nod to their unique take on seafood. Rhode Island’s nine growing regions supply all their oysters, showing their dedication to local ingredients.
Gift Horse Signature Dishes
The menu splits into raw bar picks, chilled plates, and hot dishes. Star items include:
- RI oysters with unique flavors from different growing spots
- Doughboys with California caviar ($80) – a Rhode Island twist on caviar and blini
- Seafood ssam ($55-$85) with fried fish, lettuce wraps, and banchan
- Smoked fish dip paired with puffed seaweed chips – made from fish trimmings
- Shellfish casserole with creamed greens – a fancy take on spinach artichoke dip
Gift Horse Ambiance & Vibe
A stunning horseshoe-shaped bar anchors this 45-seat restaurant. Italian Orobico Rosso marble tops the bar, showing off dramatic maroon swirls. The space features stained glass with the Gift Horse logo, vintage pieces, Italian pottery, and local art by Jungil Hong and Brian Chippendale. White pine-paneled walls add a nostalgic touch to the modern design.
Gift Horse Pricing
The restaurant sits in the $$$ price range. Dishes cost between $14-$85, with the seafood ssam ($55-$85) serving as the largest portion. Desserts range from $6-$14. Happy hour runs daily from 4-5 PM with half-price oysters.
Gift Horse Location & Hours
You’ll find Gift Horse at 272 Westminster Street in downtown Providence. The restaurant welcomes guests Thursday through Monday and stays closed Tuesday and Wednesday. The raw bar opens at 4 PM, with full menu service from 5-11 PM. Groups of six or more can make reservations.
Frank & Laurie’s
Frank & Laurie’s brings homestyle cooking to Providence’s restaurant scene and offers a warm retreat from the city’s bustle. This family-run establishment has earned quite a reputation for comfort food with a creative twist.
Frank & Laurie’s Cuisine & Concept
The heart of Frank & Laurie’s celebrates New England comfort classics. Hearty, satisfying dishes made from scratch define their menu. Their philosophy embraces familiar flavors prepared with care – nothing pretentious, just good food that makes you feel right at home.
Frank & Laurie’s Signature Dishes
Their famous meatloaf wrapped in bacon and topped with mushroom gravy stands out as a customer favorite. The clam chowder, thick and creamy with plenty of clams, ranks among Providence’s finest. Brunch lovers should try the cornbread waffles with fried chicken and maple butter – a perfect sweet-savory combination.
Frank & Laurie’s Ambiance & Vibe
Rustic wooden tables, vintage photos, and soft lighting create an intimate atmosphere in the dining room. The space works perfectly for casual family dinners and date nights alike. The restaurant bustles with activity yet maintains a relaxed pace throughout service.
Frank & Laurie’s Pricing
The menu’s main dishes cost between $18-30, and the generous portions make these prices worthwhile. Brunch items range from $12-18.
Frank & Laurie’s Location & Hours
You’ll find Frank & Laurie’s at 134 Hope Street. The restaurant welcomes guests Wednesday through Sunday, 11am-9pm, with weekend brunch served until 2pm.
Hemenway’s
Hemenway’s stands as the life-blood of upscale seafood dining in Providence’s capital city. The waterfront establishment captivates diners with panoramic Providence River views that perfectly complement its fresh ocean fare.
Hemenway’s Cuisine & Concept
The restaurant’s singular focus remains seafood excellence. Direct partnerships with local fishermen ensure the freshest daily catches reach the tables. Morning-harvested oysters shine at the raw bar among traditional New England seafood preparations that feature contemporary touches.
Hemenway’s Signature Dishes
Regional specialties dominate the menu with Narragansett Bay littleneck clams, Rhode Island-style calamari, and lobster rolls. The pan-seared Atlantic salmon with maple dijon glaze remains their signature dish. Regular patrons often return specifically for the seafood stew – a rich tomato-based creation filled with the day’s fresh catch.
Hemenway’s Ambiance & Vibe
White tablecloths and polished wood create an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows showcase stunning waterfront views that become especially magical during sunset dinners.
Hemenway’s Pricing
Dinner entrées cost between $32-$48, while market-price items might run higher. Raw bar selections begin at $18. The bar’s weekday happy hour from 4-6pm features half-priced appetizers.
Hemenway’s Location & Hours
Hemenway’s welcomes guests at 121 South Main Street. The restaurant serves customers Monday through Thursday 11:30am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30am-10pm, and Sunday 11am-9pm. Weekend dinner reservations are strongly suggested.
New Rivers
New Rivers stands among Providence’s finest restaurants. This hidden gem occupies a historic building on Steeple Street and captivates diners with its rustic charm and exceptional food.
New Rivers Cuisine & Concept
The kitchen at New Rivers embraces simplicity. Chef Beau Vestal cooperates with local farmers and producers to highlight southern New England’s food traditions. Their philosophy centers on local ingredients and scratch-made dishes. The menu adapts to seasonal availability, which shows the restaurant’s steadfast dedication to regional flavors.
New Rivers Signature Dishes
The house rolls make the visit worthwhile. These warm, buttery creations come dusted with Parmesan. The restaurant’s charcuterie program showcases masterfully prepared smoked duck breast, rillettes, and ham served with house-made mustard. Seafood dishes stand out, especially when paired with creative sides like the sea bass with charred corn and pork belly salad. The ricotta tortellini with kale and pine nuts brings comfort food to new heights.
New Rivers Ambiance & Vibe
First-time visitors often marvel at the restaurant’s blend of casual comfort and refinement. The décor strikes a perfect balance between rustic elements and upscale dining touches. This intimate space welcomes guests warmly, making it perfect for celebrations or spontaneous meals.
New Rivers Pricing
Appetizers and smaller plates cost between $4-18, while main courses range from $25-38.
New Rivers Location & Hours
New Rivers welcomes guests at 7-9 Steeple Street. The restaurant serves dinner Wednesday through Saturday, 4:30-9:30 PM. Making reservations ahead helps secure your table.
Angelo’s
Angelo’s has served authentic Italian fare for over 90 years. This Federal Hill institution holds a special place in the hearts of Providence locals and visitors. The no-frills eatery captures the city’s rich Italian heritage through time-honored recipes.
Angelo’s Cuisine & Concept
This family-owned establishment specializes in Italian-American comfort food. Generations have passed down these cherished recipes. The restaurant focuses on homestyle cooking with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Old-world charm meets modern appetites here.
Angelo’s Signature Dishes
Pizza strips remain a Providence staple – thick, rectangular dough topped with tangy tomato sauce. Customers rave about the veal parmesan, hearty pasta fagioli, and stuffed peppers. The spinach pie comes wrapped in flaky dough and makes a perfect grab-and-go option.
Angelo’s Ambiance & Vibe
The restaurant runs on a casual, unfussy atmosphere unlike upscale dining spots. Vintage photographs adorn the walls alongside simple tables and cafeteria-style service. Construction workers and business executives stand in line together, showing its universal appeal.
Angelo’s Pricing
The restaurant’s value sets it apart – most items cost under $15. Pizza strips are just $1.75 each, making quality Italian food available to everyone.
Angelo’s Location & Hours
Angelo’s sits at 141 Atwells Avenue on Federal Hill. The restaurant welcomes guests Tuesday through Sunday from 7am to 7pm and stays closed on Mondays.
Pizza Marvin
Pizza Marvin sits at the cozy intersection of Wickenden and Governor streets. This 2023 James Beard Foundation Semifinalist has transformed the traditional neighborhood pizza parlor concept completely.
Pizza Marvin Cuisine & Concept
The creative minds behind this modern pizza spot with classic roots are Chef Robert Andreozzi and bartender Jesse Hedberg. Their clever name combines sea (mar) and drinks (vin), showcasing their dual passions. The menu features two distinctive pizza styles: New Haven-inspired thin crust whole pies and Sicilian square slices. Their dough develops incredible flavor through a 72-hour fermentation process with organic New England flour.
Pizza Marvin Signature Dishes
The House Cheese with added pesto ($24 + $3) shines with its sturdy crust and rich, garlicky pesto. The Roni Island showcases pepperoni that transforms into “little goblets of bright and glistening orange oil”. Rhode Island flavors come alive in the Chowdah Pie, which combines clams, potato, bacon and herbs perfectly.
Pizza Marvin Ambiance & Vibe
The restaurant buzzes with energy from neon lights and 2010s pop music, while red checkered paper adds classic charm. Modern touches blend seamlessly with retro elements, including their signature gumball machine filled with Pizza Marvin gumballs.
Pizza Marvin Pricing
The menu stays reasonably priced with appetizers and salads from $9-$15, slices $4-$7, and whole pizzas $19-$28.
Pizza Marvin Location & Hours
Pizza Marvin welcomes guests at 468 Wickenden St daily from 12-10PM.
Chilangos
Chilangos brings authentic Mexican flavors right to Providence’s doorstep. This warm family-owned spot serves traditional dishes that transport you straight to Mexico.
Chilangos Cuisine & Concept
Chef Jose creates a genuine Mexican dining experience with his carefully crafted menu. The kitchen team uses fresh seasonal produce and never frozen ingredients. Their recipes blend traditional Mexican cooking with modern touches, drawing inspiration from both home-style cooking and coastal Mexican flavors.
Chilangos Signature Dishes
The street-style tacos come loaded with fresh onions and cilantro – you won’t want to miss them. Their burritos stand out with generous scoops of avocado and perfectly seasoned rice. Regulars love the handmade quesadillas, crispy flautas, and rich tortilla soup.
Chilangos Ambiance & Vibe
The restaurant’s family-style atmosphere captures Mexico’s welcoming spirit. Simple yet cozy, this neighborhood spot feels like home.
Chilangos Pricing
Quality food doesn’t break the bank at Chilangos. Local diners keep coming back thanks to these reasonable prices.
Chilangos Location & Hours
Chilangos welcomes guests at 447 Manton Ave in Providence. The kitchen serves dinner Monday through Saturday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and stays closed on Sundays.
Persimmon
Chef Champe Speidel, a James Beard Award nominee, brings his culinary expertise to Providence’s East Side at Persimmon. His skill and precision have changed the city’s dining scene dramatically.
Persimmon Cuisine & Concept
Persimmon moved from Bristol after 11 years and now serves contemporary American cuisine that celebrates seasonal ingredients with expert technique. Chef Speidel, a six-time James Beard semifinalist, designed a flexible menu that lets guests sample multiple dishes or enjoy a quick bite. The restaurant’s approach focuses on layered flavors and elegant presentation.
Persimmon Signature Dishes
Small plates rule the menu, with prices ranging from $10-15, while meat options cost $15-24. Guests rave about the venison tartare ($15), cavatelli with lamb shoulder rillette ($12), and pan-seared scallops ($15). The house-made pasta stands out, but the cornbread with foie gras butter often becomes the meal’s highlight.
Persimmon Ambiance & Vibe
Diners can watch the kitchen action from an open layout that includes a five-seat chef’s bar and a welcoming bar area with 12 stools. The restaurant buzzes with energy and stays consistently full. Tasteful decor mirrors Speidel’s precise cooking style without being showy.
Persimmon Pricing
Quality meets value with most dishes priced between $10-24.
Persimmon Location & Hours
Persimmon welcomes guests at 99 Hope Street and serves dinner Wednesday through Saturday from 5PM.
Dolores
Dolores, a small gem in Fox Point on the East Side, showcases Chef Maria Meza’s authentic Mexican cuisine from the Mixteca region of Puebla and Oaxaca. This 72-year-old culinary expert became a James Beard Foundation finalist for Best Chef: Northeast a short while ago.
Dolores Cuisine & Concept
Chef Meza arrived in Providence from Mexico in 1992 and cooks everything by memory without measuring tools or cookbooks. Her restaurant celebrates regional Mexican cuisine and specializes in moles, sauces, and stews. Mexico’s artisanal agave distillates and craft cocktails complement the food perfectly.
Dolores Signature Dishes
Meza’s Mole Poblano with cacao has created a loyal following. “Sometimes people come and if there’s no mole, they don’t even stay,” Meza points out. The menu delights guests with queso fundido and house-made chorizo, huarache with chile-arbol braised pork belly, and fresh cactus salad.
Dolores Ambiance & Vibe
A blue tiled bar and banquettes define this minimalist space. Central American touches appear through embroidered lamp shades and colorful prints.
Dolores Pricing
Guests can enjoy dishes priced between $4-$25.
Dolores Location & Hours
Dolores welcomes guests at 100 Hope Street. The restaurant serves Sunday brunch from 11AM-3PM, dinner Monday and Wednesday through Saturday from 4PM-10PM, with late-night options until 11:30PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurant stays closed on Tuesdays.
Gracie’s
Gracie’s stands among Providence’s crown jewels of fine dining and lifts special occasions with its thoughtful cuisine and exceptional service. This award-winning restaurant has delighted both locals and visitors with its refined approach.
Gracie’s Cuisine & Concept
The restaurant celebrates seasonal New England ingredients through classic techniques. The kitchen team creates dishes that blend state-of-the-art methods with comfort food elements. Diners can explore multiple flavor profiles in one sitting through their tasting menu format.
Gracie’s Signature Dishes
Seasonal availability drives menu changes. The kitchen excels at handmade pasta, perfectly cooked seafood, and artistic desserts. Most guests choose the full tasting experience with wine pairings to enjoy the kitchen’s complete range.
Gracie’s Ambiance & Vibe
The restaurant’s romantic yet welcoming atmosphere comes from soft lighting, white tablecloths, and elegant décor. The staff knows how to strike a perfect balance – attentive without hovering. The dining room maintains an intimate feel despite the lively conversation.
Gracie’s Pricing
The restaurant maintains fine dining prices. Tasting menus range from $85-$145 per person, based on course selection. Wine pairings cost an additional $65-$85.
Gracie’s Location & Hours
Gracie’s welcomes guests at 194 Washington Street downtown. The restaurant operates Tuesday through Saturday from 5-10pm. Book your table well in advance, especially for weekend dining.
Aleppo Sweets
Youssef Akhtarini’s refugee story became one of Providence’s sweetest success stories at Aleppo Sweets. His baking journey started at age 15 in his hometown of Aleppo before fleeing Syria in 2014.
Aleppo Sweets Cuisine & Concept
The authentic Syrian bakery showcases Akhtarini’s expertise learned at the renowned Diab bakery in Aleppo. Syrian pastries stand out from other Middle Eastern treats with their balanced sweetness. Akhtarini blends sugar with citrus notes perfectly. The menu features Halal-certified savory Syrian dishes that include plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices.
Aleppo Sweets Signature Dishes
Baklava remains the crown jewel – these buttery, flaky treats that “crackle like a potato chip”. Customers love the classic pistachio baklava, lady fingers, bride’s bracelet, and chocolate varieties. The savory menu shines with red lentil soup, falafel wraps, mixed vegetable plates, and baba ganoush. Vegan baklava delights customers on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Aleppo Sweets Ambiance & Vibe
The space captures a Syrian home’s essence with intricate window patterns, a small fountain, lush plants, copper teapots, and handmade Syrian backgammon boards. Desert plants, golden Arabic kettles, and calligraphy create beautiful wall decorations.
Aleppo Sweets Pricing
Baklava boxes cost between $12 (4 pieces) and $50 (2lb specialty varieties).
Aleppo Sweets Location & Hours
The bakery welcomes guests at 107 Ives Street. Hours run Wednesday-Thursday and Sunday 11am-8:30pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-9:30pm. The bakery stays closed Monday-Tuesday.
Aguardente
A new tapas-style restaurant Aguardente lights up Fox Point’s corner with its celebration of Portuguese, Guatemalan, and Azorean heritage. The Portuguese word “Aguardente,” which means “fire water,” sets the tone for an exciting dining experience.
Aguardente Cuisine & Concept
Victor Pereira wanted to share his cultural roots with Providence diners through Aguardente. He teamed up with Magda León and Natalia Neves to create a space where food tells stories and brings people together. The menu blends Portuguese traditions with Latin American influences that reflect the owners’ immigrant background.
Aguardente Signature Dishes
The menu shines with its seafood selections. The Seafood Paella ($20) puts a Portuguese spin on the classic dish with littlenecks, shrimp, mussels, and chouriço. Guests love the Aguacate Relleno ($14.50), which combines avocado stuffed with chorizo and Oaxaca cheese. New visitors should definitely try their Portuguese cornbread paired with fresh farmer’s cheese.
Aguardente Ambiance & Vibe
Soft lighting mixes with splashes of color and greenery inside the restaurant. The yellow patio makes guests feel right at home. León’s five murals on the walls tell powerful immigrant stories.
Aguardente Pricing
You’ll find tapas ranging from $4-$20, and desserts cost between $6-$9.
Aguardente Location & Hours
The restaurant sits at 12 Governor Street. They serve guests Wednesday and Thursday from 4-10:30PM, Friday 4-11:30PM, Saturday noon-11:30PM, and Sunday noon-8:30PM.
Dune Brothers Seafood
Dune Brothers attracts seafood enthusiasts with their “pier to plate” philosophy that lifts daily catches from local waters. Nicholas and Monica Gillespie bring their restaurant experience from Boston, Nantucket, and Portland to create one of Providence’s most authentic seafood spots.
Dune Brothers Cuisine & Concept
The restaurant specializes in “traceable local seafood” that keeps New England’s bounty in New England. People recognize them as “one of the state’s leading culinary voices in educating the public about local species”. Their menu balances casual beach-style fare with seasonal, refined cuisine.
Dune Brothers Signature Dishes
Their chowder stands out because it uses whole in-shell littleneck clams rather than chopped pieces. The Cape Shark fish sandwich comes with a potato chip crust, tangy slaw, and irresistible tartar sauce. You’ll find the lobster roll ($39) swimming in butter alongside beef fat fries dusted with Old Bay.
Dune Brothers Ambiance & Vibe
The place captures a classic New England clam shack feel. Red umbrellas shade picnic tables that line paths of white crushed shells. Lobster pots and buoys create a coastal atmosphere right in the heart of the city.
Dune Brothers Pricing
Fish sandwiches start at $15 while lobster rolls reach $39. Sides range from $6-11, but the value shows in the portions – sandwiches arrive “cartoonishly large”.
Dune Brothers Location & Hours
The restaurant sits at 170 Ives Street in Fox Point. They welcome guests Wednesday through Sunday, 11am-9pm. They run a second location in Riverside during seasonal months.
Jahunger
Jahunger brings the rich Uyghur culinary traditions to Rhode Island, earning a prestigious James Beard recognition for Chef Subat Dilmurat’s authentic Central Asian cuisine. This hidden gem in Fox Point lets diners explore a food culture that rarely gets the spotlight it deserves.
Jahunger Cuisine & Concept
The flavors of Xinjiang, a predominantly Muslim region in northwest China, shine at Jahunger. The menu beautifully captures this cultural intersection where Central Asian and Chinese influences come together. Uyghur traditions remain at the heart of each dish where “each meal offers an immersive experience of Uyghur warmth and generosity”.
Jahunger Signature Dishes
Hand-pulled noodles stand as Jahunger’s crowning achievement. The Jahunger Noodles showcase marinated beef stir-fried with chives and onions. Meefen blends rice noodles with minced chicken in a rich gravy-like sauce. The Chicken Stew comes in wide-mouth bowls, featuring tender chicken pieces nestled atop potatoes and delicate rice noodles.
Jahunger Ambiance & Vibe
The space maintains a “clean and spare” esthetic with “Uyghur cultural accents”. Traditional hospitality flows through the experience where “every guest is considered a gift”.
Jahunger Pricing
Diners can expect main dishes between $16-$31. The signature Jahunger Noodles cost $17.
Jahunger Location & Hours
Jahunger welcomes guests at 333 Wickenden Street. The restaurant serves dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00-9:30 PM and stays closed on Mondays. Weekend lunch service starts at noon.
Troop
Troop PVD stands out in Olneyville’s dining scene by blending hip-hop culture with international street food. This unique spot creates an atmosphere that celebrates music, art, and community spirit.
Troop Cuisine & Concept
Chef Chad Hart leads the kitchen team that crafts globally inspired street food from scratch. The menu evolves with seasonal ingredients and draws inspiration from worldwide cultural flavors. The restaurant brings people together through food and shared moments.
Troop Signature Dishes
Blue cheese sauce tops the delicious fig and grape jam toast on the fall menu. Guests love the butter chicken served over rice with pickled red onions. The roasted stuffed acorn squash with marinated tofu makes a perfect vegetarian option. Street noodles come with choices of pork belly, shrimp, or chicken nuggets.
Troop Ambiance & Vibe
Vibrant murals and art installations fill the space while music sets the mood. The restaurant transforms into a dance party after dinner service. Local DJs create an electric atmosphere with hip-hop, techno, and R&B beats.
Troop Pricing
Guests can enjoy main dishes between $13-$17.
Troop Location & Hours
Troop welcomes guests at 60 Valley Street. Dinner service starts at 5pm, Wednesday through Sunday. The bar operates late and hosts special events regularly.
Al Forno
Al Forno changed everything about Providence’s dining scene after chef-owners Johanne Killeen and George Germon opened its doors in January 1980. This innovative restaurant continues to influence Providence RI’s culinary landscape four decades later.
Al Forno Cuisine & Concept
The kitchen stays authentic to Italian roots with a distinctive American twist. New England’s farms and waters provide ingredients that come alive in blazing hot ovens and over hardwood charcoal fires. The restaurant celebrates regional Italian cooking techniques and enhances them with local ingredients.
Al Forno Signature Dishes
Grilled pizza ($21.95) stands as the restaurant’s greatest achievement – a cracker-thin crust with carefully chosen toppings. The famous five-cheese baked pasta ($21.95) brings together Italy’s comfort and creativity in each sizzling bite. Meat enthusiasts love the renowned dirty rib-eye steak ($45.95) paired with hot fanny sauce. Fresh apple tart ($20.95) features a rich butter crust and tart fruit made right as you order.
Al Forno Ambiance & Vibe
The South Water Street industrial building creates a space where style meets soul, and dinner nourishes both body and spirit.
Al Forno Pricing
Appetizers cost between $10-$22, and entrees range from $22-$46.
Al Forno Location & Hours
Al Forno welcomes guests at 577 South Water Street. The restaurant serves dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm-10pm, opening earlier at 4pm on Saturdays.
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine Type | Price Range (Mains) | Signature Dish | Location | Notable Feature | Hours |
| Aguardente | Portuguese-Latin Fusion | $4-$20 | Seafood Paella | 12 Governor St | Five immigrant story murals | Wed-Thu 4-10:30PM, Fri 4-11:30PM, Sat 12-11:30PM, Sun 12-8:30PM |
| Al Forno | Italian-American | $22-$46 | Grilled Pizza | 577 South Water St | Wood-fired cooking | Tue-Sat 5-10PM (Sat from 4PM) |
| Aleppo Sweets | Syrian | $12-$50 | Pistachio Baklava | 107 Ives St | Authentic Syrian decor | Wed-Thu & Sun 11AM-8:30PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-9:30PM |
| Angelo’s | Italian-American | Under $15 | Pizza Strips | 141 Atwells Ave | 90+ years of history | Tue-Sun 7AM-7PM |
| Chilangos | Mexican | Not mentioned | Street-style Tacos | 447 Manton Ave | Family recipes | Mon-Sat 4-9PM |
| Dolores | Mexican (Mixteca) | $4-$25 | Mole Poblano | 100 Hope St | James Beard finalist chef | Sun 11AM-3PM, Mon & Wed-Sat 4-10PM |
| Dune Brothers | Seafood | $15-$39 | Cape Shark Sandwich | 170 Ives St | Traceable local seafood | Wed-Sun 11AM-9PM |
| Frank & Laurie’s | New England Comfort | $18-$30 | Bacon-wrapped Meatloaf | 134 Hope St | Homestyle cooking | Wed-Sun 11AM-9PM |
| Gift Horse | Seafood-Korean | $14-$85 | Seafood Ssam | 272 Westminster St | Horseshoe-shaped bar | Thu-Mon 4-11PM |
| Gracie’s | Fine Dining | $85-$145 (tasting) | Seasonal Tasting Menu | 194 Washington St | White tablecloth service | Tue-Sat 5-10PM |
| Hemenway’s | Seafood | $32-$48 | Pan-seared Salmon | 121 South Main St | Waterfront views | Mon-Thu 11:30AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 11:30AM-10PM, Sun 11AM-9PM |
| Jahunger | Uyghur | $16-$31 | Hand-pulled Noodles | 333 Wickenden St | James Beard recognition | Tue-Sun 5-9:30PM |
| Los Andes | Peruvian-Bolivian | $22-$44 | Ceviche Clasico | 903 Chalkstone Ave | Koi pond & waterfall | Wed-Fri 5-8:30PM, Sat 4-9:15PM, Sun 4-8PM |
| New Rivers | New England | $25-$38 | House Rolls | 7-9 Steeple St | Historic building | Wed-Sat 4:30-9:30PM |
| Nick’s on Broadway | New American | $28-$38 | Polenta & Poached Eggs | 500 Broadway | Open kitchen | Wed-Sun 8AM-2PM, Thu-Sat 5:30-10PM |
| Persimmon | Contemporary American | $10-$24 | Venison Tartare | 99 Hope St | Chef’s bar seating | Wed-Sat evenings from 5PM |
| Pizza Marvin | Pizza | $19-$28 | House Cheese with Pesto | 468 Wickenden St | 72-hour fermented dough | Daily 12-10PM |
| Troop | Global Street Food | $13-$17 | Butter Chicken | 60 Valley St | Hip-hop culture & DJs | Wed-Sun from 5PM |
Explore Providence’s Food Scene With Metropolitan Shuttle
Discover the culinary gems of Providence with ease by booking group transportation through Metropolitan Shuttle. Whether you’re craving Italian classics on Federal Hill, fresh seafood by the waterfront, or trendy eats in the East Side, our shuttles make it simple to explore the city’s must-try restaurants without worrying about parking or coordinating rides. Perfect for food tours, birthday dinners, or corporate outings, Metropolitan Shuttle keeps your group together while you focus on enjoying Providence’s vibrant dining scene.
Conclusion
Providence’s food scene packs more punch than you’d expect from a city its size. This small city stands tall among America’s top food destinations, and the restaurants here show you exactly why. Nick’s on Broadway serves up farm-fresh breakfasts while Los Andes brings vibrant Peruvian-Bolivian flavors to your plate.
The city’s magic comes from its perfect blend of old and new. Al Forno, a 40-year old establishment that created grilled pizza, shares the stage with newcomers like Gift Horse, which adds Korean twists to New England seafood. This mix creates a food scene that few cities can match, whatever their size.
You’ll find food at every price point here. A pizza strip at Angelo’s costs just $1.75, while Gracie’s tasting menus can run up to $145 per person. This means everyone can enjoy great food without emptying their wallet. The value for money stays impressive at most places.
The food variety here amazes me. You can taste authentic Uyghur hand-pulled noodles at Jahunger, traditional Syrian baklava at Aleppo Sweets, and Portuguese-Latin fusion at Aguardente all in one weekend. Each restaurant tells its own cultural story through food.
Local sourcing and seasonal ingredients take center stage at many restaurants. New Rivers and Persimmon change their menus based on the week’s freshest ingredients. This connection to local farmers makes both the economy and your food better.
Johnson & Wales University’s culinary program deserves a special mention. The school brings in and develops talent that often stays in Providence, creating new ideas in kitchens across the city.
Food adventurers will love this city. Next time you’re here, look beyond the usual downtown spots. Fox Point and Olneyville neighborhoods hide gems like Dune Brothers and Troop that locals love. Great meals often show up where you least expect them.
These 25 restaurants show Providence at its best right now, but the scene never stops growing. New places open while old favorites reinvent themselves. This constant change makes Providence worth visiting again and again for anyone who loves good food.
Key Takeaways
Providence’s compact size belies its culinary prowess, offering world-class dining experiences that rival much larger cities through diverse cultural influences and exceptional chef talent.
• Diversity drives excellence: Providence’s ethnic diversity creates authentic cuisines from Syrian baklava to Uyghur noodles, all within a 200,000-person city.
• Johnson & Wales University fuels talent: The nation’s second-ranked culinary program continuously supplies skilled chefs who stay local, elevating the entire food scene.
• Price points accommodate everyone: From $1.75 pizza strips at Angelo’s to $145 tasting menus at Gracie’s, quality dining exists across all budgets.
• Farm-to-table philosophy prevails: Many restaurants like Nick’s on Broadway and New Rivers prioritize local sourcing and seasonal ingredients for peak freshness.
• Neighborhood gems outshine downtown: Fox Point and Olneyville hide exceptional spots like Dune Brothers and Troop that locals treasure most.
The city’s food scene continues evolving with new openings and established restaurants reinventing themselves, making Providence a destination worth revisiting for any serious food lover seeking authentic flavors and innovative cuisine.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Providence’s food scene unique?
Providence’s culinary landscape stands out due to its diverse influences, from Johnson & Wales University’s culinary program to the city’s ethnic diversity. Despite its small size, Providence offers world-class dining experiences rivaling much larger cities.
Q2. Are there affordable dining options in Providence?
Yes, Providence caters to all budgets. While some restaurants offer high-end experiences, many provide excellent value. For instance, Angelo’s serves pizza strips for just $1.75, while other establishments offer quality meals at moderate prices.
Q3. What types of cuisine can I find in Providence?
Providence boasts a wide array of cuisines. You can enjoy everything from authentic Syrian baklava at Aleppo Sweets to Uyghur hand-pulled noodles at Jahunger, Portuguese-Latin fusion at Aguardente, and classic New England seafood at Hemenway’s.
Q4. Which neighborhoods should I explore for the best food in Providence?
While downtown Providence has many great options, don’t miss exploring neighborhoods like Fox Point and Olneyville. These areas hide gems like Dune Brothers Seafood and Troop, offering unique dining experiences loved by locals.
Q5. How often does Providence’s restaurant scene change?
Providence’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving. New restaurants regularly open, while established places often reinvent themselves. This dynamic nature makes Providence a destination worth revisiting for food enthusiasts seeking fresh experiences and flavors.
