Thank you Go Providence for hosting our recent visit. All opinions we provide are our unique views and reflect our experiences. We pledge to provide our audience with truthful and honest reviews.
Updated January 2025
We love it when we when arrive at a destination and it immediately feels like home. That was certainly the case with Providence, Rhode Island. It’s just a quick direct flight not only from Chicago but also from New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Denver, Orlando, Atlanta, Detroit and many others. The PVD Green Airport is perfectly sized to get in and out easily. You can quickly get to downtown Providence in just minutes.
The people in Providence welcome you with open arms. Everyone is welcome. We can easily call this a judgment-free town. And we just love that. Every person we met was friendly and happy to answer our endless questions about the best food around town. And they all had some great ideas. There is certainly no lack of good eats in this town!
We talked to the locals, the experts, and everyone in between, and here, in our opinion, are the top 12 best places you have to try on your visit to Providence.
Bacaro Restaurant, Wine Bar & Salumeria
One thing you’ll learn about Providence as soon as you start asking around is this town has a lot of Italian influence. They love their Italian food and there’s plenty to choose from. A spot that has us still dreaming about our visit and all the wonderful dishes we tried is Bacaro. Each dish was better than the last. One of the unique things we loved most about Bacaro is that you can eat in whatever style you feel like at the time. Do you want just appetizers? Great. Feel like a board with selections of their cheeses and meats? How about pizza? Hungry for a full meal with satisfying main entrees? All are available for you. You decide. And whatever you decide, it will be delicious.
We loved the Pasta Con i Funghi, a fresh egg tagliatelle made with butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, white truffle-scented egg, mushroom duxelles, and crushed red pepper. I could eat this dish every day. We also tried the steak frites and it was perfect. High-quality wood-grilled steak with the thinnest, crunchiest potatoes was a great combination. If you like grilled pizza give theirs a try. Thin crispy crust with the finest ingredients makes it a real winner. Chef Brian Kingsford learned how to make it at the legendary Italian restaurant Al Forna, less than a mile away. He’s perfected his own recipes and I can’t wait to visit again and try them all. Leave room for their homemade ice cream churned fresh daily. The Grappa-scented custard-filled Bombolini also provides a tasty little treat. The service is friendly and impeccable and the ambiance is, like the food, whatever you’re in the mood for. People were wearing everything from plaid lumberjack shirts to jackets and ties. Come as you like, eat what you like, and enjoy yourself immensely, just like we did. You will certainly have a delicious meal and a great time.
Hemenway’s
Another Providence stable is seafood – fresh seafood. Being so close to the ocean definitely has its perks. Located right in the center of town this popular spot is a convenient and enjoyable place to eat after visiting the RISD Museum, after Waterfire (another Providence must-do) or just out strolling around the town.
Chef Max Peterson brings in only the freshest and best seafood Rhode Island has to offer. One of the many delicious offerings that you absolutely must try is their Rhode Island-style calamari. It’s made at Hemenway’s with Port Judith squid, hot peppers, garlic, and butter with a light and crispy coating. It’s so addictive that we just couldn’t stop eating it!
But that’s just the beginning. Whether you sidle up to the raw bar or make a whole evening out of sampling from their menu, you really can’t go wrong. They have many classic dishes like a fantastic wedge salad, Rhode Island style clam chowder, garlicky escargot, and more. If you just can’t decide, go all out and order the Shellfish Platter with cold baby lobster, jumbo shrimp cocktail, oysters, and littleneck clams. There should be something there for everyone to enjoy. We also couldn’t resist trying one of their most popular options, the Surf and Turf. The fun thing about it is that you can create your own combination of a meat and seafood option, so we went all out choosing the Angus Filet Mignon and Lobster (you can order 1.25 lbs. up to 5 lbs!) If you’re adventurous you can pick apart the whole lobster yourself. Or, if you prefer, they’ll do all the hard work for you in the kitchen and bring you the lobster’s best without the mess.
Again, the service was ridiculously great. We learned a lot of history, some of the local lore, ideas of where to go and what to do, and much, much more. So sit back, relax, and enjoy. Locals and visitors have been coming to Hemenway’s for years, another reason it’s a must-visit while in Providence.
Los Andes
This is one place that kept coming up with many of the locals we chatted with – especially one particular UBER driver. He told us to go and ask for the manager and tell him the UBER driver sent you. It was funny and he was insistent, so we did! Even funnier, it didn’t matter. Everyone we saw at the restaurant got the same delicious food, huge quantities and attentive service. This authentic Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine restaurant will really knock your socks off.
We can’t emphasize this enough – be sure to arrive hungry. The meals they serve are substantial. Even if you share an entree you will most likely have food to take home. Ceviches, empanadas, salads and soups will get you started. You’ll love the Asian influence of the Chaufa de Pollo or Chaufa De Res. Chifa influenced wok fried rice, infused with kion, sautéed with strips of chicken or sirloin steak, kiko soy, eggs and finished with scallions. Try the Churrasco al Gaucho with 16 oz. Angus grilled ribeye served with ensalada rusa, fried yucca and rice. There are also many wonderful seafood dishes like tasty paella and jalea, a Peruvian fisherman seafood medley. They also make all their desserts from family recipes so you must save room for just a bite. Our server was from Peru and proudly explained all the subtleties of the offerings with a smile and a story. It was a wonderful experience.
Ellie’s Bakery
No list from Food Travelist is complete without at least one bakery and in Providence, it’s Ellie’s. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’re sure to find it at Ellie’s. Their hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and signature breakfast sandwiches will make you and your tummy happy.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss Ellie’s French macarons. Each month they do a seasonal selection of three different flavors inspired by a theme. some unique flavors have included grape hazelnut, spiced pear and lemon lavender. Each tasty bite is a special treat.
We had a chance to taste some of their delicious offerings, including a flavorful bruschetta and a decadent chocolate financier as part of the Rhode Island Red Food Tour we took during our visit. Both were incredibly delicious. It was a perfect first stop on our half-day tour. What an impressive start! If you’re looking for a way to taste and drink your way around Providence we highly recommend one of their tours. Just be sure you don’t eat before you go because you’ll need all the room your stomach can hold – and your biggest stretchy pants – on this robust tour. You’ll also get a large dose of fun history, local lore, and insights, art, and culture during your fun exploration of downtown Providence.
Tallulah’s Taqueria
Whether you’re just looking for a small snack or a full-filling meal Tallulah’s Taqueria is a fantastic place to try. We love that this eatery is tucked into a fabulous neighborhood on the East Side of Providence. One of the things about Providence that is great for travelers (and for locals) is that the city is walkable. We loved wandering around and discovering little shops, bars, and restaurants in this fun part of town.
Tallulah’s came highly recommended and it didn’t disappoint. Customize your tacos any way you’d like with fresh seasonal ingredients. They call it “Chicano Cuisine on the go” and plenty of locals stopped in and left with their take-home bag of joy, but there’s also space to eat inside and a cute outdoor area for enjoying your nibbles. Tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, bowls – they have it all. If you want to get your authentic Mex on, this is the place to do it deliciously.
Eddy
Sometimes all you need is a great cocktail and Providence has you covered with the Eddy. We met our friends Brittany and Derek for a drink and ended up staying for hours. They had me as soon as I walked in and heard 70s Motown playing. Hopefully, the Britt’s didn’t mind me interrupting our conversation from time to time with some of my favorite lyrics from Marvin Gay to The Temptations.
They’ve got “snacks” that we’d call upscale bar food, including meat and cheese boards, sliders, oysters, and desserts. I can’t believe I missed the onion dip. I guess we need another visit. Where the Eddy really shines though is in its unique and tasty cocktails. You know you’re in for something special just reading the cocktail names on the menu. Orange Julius Caesar, The Honey Badger, Orange You Glad I Didn’t Say Carrot (which was excellent, by the way), and the Hills Are Alive are just a few of the ever-changing array of options. They have so many unique and memorable drinks. Go out on a limb and try something you normally wouldn’t. You’ll be glad you did.
They also have an extensive list of local craft beer. Who can say no to a Miller High Life pony? Perfect if you want just a little chaser. And, of course, their wine list is worldly and comprehensive as is their list of global spirits. Whether you want to chill before moving on or wind down the night with a drink and a bite, the Eddy will put a smile on your face with its irresistible good nature, friendly ambiance, and fun fare.
Olneyville New York System Wiener
If you’re gonna be out late drinking or not you must stop by the Providence classic Olneyville New York System Wiener. Every food writer and TV personality from here to Kingdom Come has been there. It could practically be its own Food Network Channel.
First off, you need to know that these are no ordinary hot dogs. They don’t even call them hot dogs and neither should you. The correct term is Hot Wieners. And these are claimed to be Rhode Island’s best! Their unique dog starts with a natural-cased wiener, a steamed hot dog bun, yellow bran deli-style mustard, chopped Spanish onions, celery salt, soybean oil, and all topped with their famous ground beef sauce.
You’ll see them made right in front of you and it’s a lot of fun to watch. You need big hands if you’d want to work there. They prep those puppies three at a time! Operating in Rhode Island since the late 1930s the original Greek family, the Stevens, still operate two of restaurants. This is a great place to sit at the counter and chat with locals. On our visit, we met a guy who had his very first date with his wife there in the 50s and remembers using the phone booth in the back. Great stories, great people, great food, great fun. Don’t miss it even though it’s a little off the beaten path. We love that anyway, don’t you?
Sydney Providence
Another great place for breakfast or lunch is Sydney Providence. Yes, that’s Sydney as in Australia, the destination that inspired this comfy little cafe and coffee shop. We loved the vibe of this place. Low-key, casual, open space perfect for a relaxing munch or meeting.
They have a great avocado toast for sure, but go rogue and try the ricotta toast. The fresh fruit and light ricotta offer a delicious twist for a great morning starter. The bread is chewy, crunchy, rustic, and simply perfect. There are plenty of great beverages, lunch items, and bakery specialties too. We can see how this would be a perfect place to do your crossword and relax with your treats or grab something wholesome and tasty for the road.
Nick’s On Broadway
When everyone you meet tells you to have brunch at Nick’s On Broadway, well, you go. And you should. You may have to wait a bit but don’t stress. Have a seat at the bar and order a bloody Mary, breathe in and out, relax, and enjoy. Think about the amazing food you’re going to be eating in a short while and smile. You might want to study the menu while you’re waiting. Frankly, there are just too many good choices and you’ll want to look through them all before you decide on just a few.
You gotta love a place that says, “Nicks specializes in seasonally inspired, locally-focused food, put forth humbly with thoughtfulness, passion, and honesty.” We sure did!
Every dish bursts with fresh local and seasonal flavors. Although we loved the veggie omelet, pancakes and more you simply cannot skip having a breakfast dessert here. The Chocolate Chiffon cake with Schartner Farm blackberries, coffee ice cream, caramel, and whipped cream was delectable. Also be sure not to miss their English Muffins, which are thick and yummy. And if you’re a tea lover like me they’re serving local loose teas from Farmacy Herbs. Give them a try because their tea is excellent and worth seeking out. Just as is Nick’s On Broadway. Just like everyone told us, we’re going to tell you. Go. Have brunch at Nick’s On Broadway. Go.
Knead Doughnuts
Their slogan “Good doughnuts made well” pretty much says it all. I’m not gonna lie. When you walk in Knead Donuts and see all the doughnuts in front of you the chance that you’ll get a little light-headed is very high. Where to start?
They have old-fashioned, cake, and brioche style, filled and fritter style goodies. They also offer vegan Sunday through Tuesday and flourless options on Saturday and Sunday.
The flavors and fillings change seasonally so you’ll want to stop in and pick up some of your favorites, old and new. While we were there we noticed that they pack up donuts in pretty little boxes for special occasions and delivery. What a treat that would be! Also if you’re hankering for ice cream they make a doughnut ice cream sandwich that looks decadent and yummy. We watched a young lady at a nearby table in their cute little sit-down area devour it with delight. We loved watching the selfies she took of the experience, so you know we were deliriously happy at the time.
This list is by no means where your food discovery will end in Providence. It’s just the beginning. Stroll up and down the streets, explore the various neighborhoods, and let yourself be the free spirit that Providence encourages to be sure you don’t miss anything. If you like what you see so far, stay tuned. We’ll also be sharing our favorite places to visit and stay while in Providence.
To learn more about Providence and to plan your visit check out GoProvidence.com.
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32 Comments
You had me at Ellie’s Bakery! But seriously though, great job highlighting the food scene. Really opened my eyes to what Providence is all about.
You got me with those delicious seafood dishes especially the calamari. I have never been to Providence yet but hopefully someday we could visit.
Wow, look at all that amazing food. I have always wanted to travel and try new places to eat. Those donuts, yum!
You will love it Lisa!
All of the food looks amazing! I always find myself wondering when to eat when I visit a new city. This is such a great list. I
I love finding great restaurants and cafes to try when traveling. Food is such a big part for us. The NE US is on our list to travel to.
My boyfriend loves Providence, but I’ve never been! All the food looks so delicious too. He said next time we visit his family we’ll head there as well so I can finally see it!
Oh these are some awesome finds. It seems like a romantic weekend getaway could be possible in Providence!
Looks divine! Now I know exactly where to dine, thank you!
These all look like amazing places to dine. I would love to go spend some time in Providence. We are hoping to be in Rhode Island next year.
The Ceviche Martini looks so delicious! It all does. Providence is such a fun city. Haven’t been there in years!
All these dishes look great! I’m sure you had fun writing this article! I’ll have to check these out if I’m ever in Providence.
Yum, all these places sound delicious. I’ve never been to Providence before. I feel like I need one of the donuts.
I have such a sweet tooth! The donuts look amazing, and I’d love to try Ellie’s French macarons!
You have me drooling over here on this post! The steak and egg, pancakes, I want all of it. Guess I need to roadtrip up that way!
I have never been out that way and I have always wanted to explore it. We have actually been talking a lot about Providence cost because my kiddo is studying about it right now. It would be fun to take them there to really apply the knowledge he has learned. The food looks outstanding.
We will just have to enjoy looking at all the great food photos. Don’t live anywhere near close to Providence.
LOL! Funny you ask Irene but yes we do stop for snacks and sometimes just appetizers at some spots. In Providence, we actually had appetizers at one restaurant we didn’t want to miss and then had dinner at another restaurant that came highly recommended. Let’s just say stretchy pants were required!
I’ve not been to this part of the world yet — but I would love to! For sure, I’ll be keeping these places in mind when I do get there. Just reading through it all makes my mouth water!
I’ve recently gotten into traveling a lot more, and trying food from different places is always fun! I’d love to explore the places you’ve shared.
Twelve!!! How did you every accomplish so much mouth-watering research. Did you do more than three meals a day? Just curious:-)
I have not been to Rhode Island yet, but it’s on my list of places to visit (because I want to go to all 50 states). Ellie’s Bakery is a place that I would visit…I love dessert and pastry shops. I love unique flavors too… spiced pear and lemon lavender sounds delicious.
This is the part of US I’ve never been through yet shame on me. I heard a lot of good sights in Rhode Islands. This coming Dec we are driving to New York City I will ask my husband if we can short stop to providence. Thanks for this great list of restaurant in this area. Great vacation is not complete without good food involve.
Wow all of that food looks amazing! I wish there were more options here in Iowa but we have terrible food here it seems. I would love to travel there and try some of those options, I know my family would enjoy it. It has come to that, we need to travel to eat. Seriously we take 4 hour trips for burritos and pizza. lol
Oh me oh my, everything looks so YUMMY! I’ve never been to Providence, but the eats look delightful. Knead Doughnuts look soo tasty and moist. Seriously, food shouldn’t look this good. Just kidding, I’m just hating cuss I’m gluten-free and no donuts for me. Thanks for sharing!
I have never visited here but if it is anything like the food you have shared this looks like a wonderful place. If I visit, which I hope I do soon, I would have a hard time deciding on a place to eat because all of these look amazing. I guess that is the fun part about vacation and traveling…trying al the food
Providence sounds like our kind of town. If my husband and I are ever lucky enough to go, you can bet we’ll be having avocado (or ricotta) toast at Sydney Providence (for her) and Greek Saganaki for him. Yum! x
This is funny;) I just came back from this huge party and I’ve eaten soooo much, but after reading your post and looking at those gorgeous pictures, I’m starting to think I could actually EAT something!
Incredible places to dine and have a dessert or drink for sure! You listed everything for almost any palette or desire! Right now I am eyeballing Kleo’s but I know I would love any of these places.
That ceviche martini looks incredible – on my must-try list for my next trip to Providence!
You would love Providence. We haven’t even touched on the art and design scene…yet.
I’ve heard such great things about Providence and I’m amazed at the diversity of their dining scene. I’m thinking Nick’s on Broadway for brunch and Los Andes for dinner.