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Forager's Gin with San Francisco World Spirits Competition medal
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Rhode Island Spirits Wins Gold / Blackstone Valley Culinary News / Polaris MEP Seeks Advisory Board Members

by David Dadekian April 20, 2022
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.


Rhodium Forager’s Gin Wins Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Forager's Gin with San Francisco World Spirits Competition medal

Rhodium Forager’s Gin by Rhode Island Spirits has won a San Francisco World Spirits Gold Medal! Announced today, the award is our first gold (Forager’s won silver from American Distilling Institute and silver from American Craft Distilling Institute last year).

A unique botanical gin, Forager’s features a range of ingredients wild foraged from the coasts and valleys of Rhode Island. Its herbaceous and floral notes stem from local fresh juniper from family farms, wild foraged elderberry from the Blackstone Valley, red clover and rose hips from the Rhode Island coasts and other fresh RI grown botanicals.

“We really wanted to capture the character of Rhode Island’s extraordinary farms and wild spaces to flavor a distinctive spirit. We get frequent praise from customers in the Tasting Room, and it’s exciting to see Forager’s gaining national recognition,” said co-owner Kara Larson.

Rhodium brand gins, vodkas & liqueurs feature fresh, farmed and foraged ingredients in every bottle. Organic, gluten free, and packed with real ingredients and flavors, the spirits are uniquely the spirits of Rhode Island.

Rhode Island Spirits is the home of Rhodium brand premium gins, vodkas, and liqueurs. The company is the brainchild and full time occupation of Cathy Plourde & Kara Larson, who are the founders, owners, and distillers. 

Rhode Island Spirits makes:

  • Rhodium Classic Gin
  • Rhodium Forager’s Gin
  • Rhodium Classic Vodka
  • Rhode Island Red Vodka
  • Rhodium Coffee & Black Walnut Vodka
  • Rhodium Limoncello
  • Rhodium Grapefruitcello

… all of which are available statewide in RI and MA.

“We believe in offering unique flavors and distinctive spirits. Our commitment to gluten free, organic, and kosher products is rooted in a belief that everyone should be able to enjoy premium spirits that work with their needs. We forage botanical ingredients and partner with local small farms because we value the uniqueness of Rhode Island and the Blackstone Valley. We seek to make spirits here that could be made nowhere else.” Kara & Cathy RI Spirits owners

RI Spirits owners Cathy Plourde & Kara Larson, photo by Trevor Holden
RI Spirits owners Cathy Plourde & Kara Larson, photo by Trevor Holden

Blackstone Culinary News – April 14-20, 2022

Early Birds
29 Winter Street, Lincoln, RI  02838
401-356-4344
www.facebook.com/Early-Birds-109549390655510/

Head to Early Birds for some great Friday Lenten Specials:  Fish & Chips, Baked Haddock, Fried Bay Scallops, Salmon Pie, Stuffies, and Clam Chowder.  They’ll be open Easter Sunday (for breakfast only).  

Adeline’s, A Speakeasy Kitchen Bar
2352 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI  02864
401-405-0073
Adelinesspeakeasy.com

Congratulations to Adeline’s, A Speakeasy Kitchen and Bar, winner (again) of the Annual Poutine Indulgence!  Stop in at Adeline’s, order the poutine and taste why they won!

German-American Cultural Society of Rhode Island
78 Carter Avenue, Pawtucket  02861
401-726-9873
gacsri.org

The April Trachtenabend dinner is coming up this Friday, April 15 from 7 to 11 pm.  The menu this month will feature roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots for $15.00.  There is still time to get your tickets.  For more information and tickets, click HERE

Val’s English Tea & Pie Shop
466 Putnam Pike
Greenville  02828
401-618-5537
Valsenglishteashop.com

New Restaurant Alert!  Val’s English Tea and Pie Shop has opened!  Check out their fantastic website for anything you’ve ever wanted to know about an English tea service.  In addition to a variety of teas, there are treats – sweet and savory – you can choose to go with your tea.  Can’t wait to try this place – it sounds unique and wonderful!  Click HERE to make reservations.  They are also doing a fundraising tea to help the Ukrainian refugees on May 1.  Click HERE for more information and reservations for that fundraiser.  

Notes Coffee Co.
508 Armistice Blvd., Pawtucket 02861
401-335-5181
notescoffeeco.com

Notes Coffee Co. has announced their first Makers Market event!  The event will take place on Friday, April 22nd, from 6pm to 9pm. The Makers Market is a part of a series of community events hosted by the Notes.  Owner Yesenia Rubio says this event will celebrate “Earth Day and Diversity Month by increasing awareness of diverse Markers’ crafts, cultures, skills and environmental sustainability practices”.  Vendors that will be at the event include:  The Healing Room, Heybaglady/Chico Honey, GMR Prints, Cedez Tarot, Raw Thingz, Plntbaby Jewelry, Bad Influence, Crafts by Liz, Inspire Me by RG and Rocky’s Root Care.  

Smug Brewing
100 Carver Street, Pawtucket  02860
401-642-5701
Smugbrewing.com

Here’s what’s happening at Smug this week:  

4/14 – Open 3 to 9 pm with Trivia and Nanu the Burmese Fusion

4/15 – Open 3 to 9 pm with The Perfect Empanada

4/16 – Open 1 to 10 pm with Pierogitory

4/17 – Closed on Easter

As of April 13, there is a new beer available at Smug!  They’ve planned ahead for Cinco de Mayo and are introducing Pollo Picante (in cans).  They describe it as a “beautifully made mango sour brewed with fresh lime zest, fresh jalapeño and Mediterranean sea salt.”

Coffee & Cream Breakfast Restaurant
900 Victory Highway, North Smithfield, RI  02896
401-488-4448
coffeeandcreamrestaurant.com

One of our favorite breakfast (and lunch and drinks) places is Coffee & Cream.  It should be one of your favorites too.  Let’s let everyone know how great the staff, food and drinks are at Coffee and Cream by voting for them in the RI Monthly Best of RI 2022.  Click HERE to vote.  Scroll down and enter your vote for Coffee & Cream under “Breakfast”.   And while you’re there, fill in other Blackstone Valley venues for the other categories too!.  

Yovanis Pizzeria 
40 Macondray Street, Cumberland  02864
401-400-5555
Yovanispizzeria.com

Yovanis serves pizza, of course, as well as sandwiches, soups, quesadillas, pasta and desserts, but have you seen their Fried Seafood Platter?  It looks so good!   Check out their MENU – they deliver up to 14 miles.

Johnny’s Victory Diner
2731 Victory Highway, Burrillville, RI  02830
401-765-2661
johnnysvictorydiner.com

Vote for Johnny’s in the RI Monthly “Best of RI” in the breakfast category!  Click on Best of RI – VOTE.   Scroll down the page to the Breakfast category (make sure you are in the Blackstone Valley section) and vote for Johnny’s Victory Diner!  Voting ends April 30.  

And….Johnny’s BBQ Season (that’s award-winner BBQ) starts on May 6 and runs to October 28 – every Friday until 9 pm (BBQ starts at 2 pm).  There will be specialty drinks and live music on the deck, complete with lights and a tiki bar!  For more information, the music lineup, and other events where you’ll find the fine folks from Johnny’s click HERE

Harvest Kitchen
2 Bayley Street, Pawtucket, RI  02860
401-335-3766
farmfreshri.org/programs/harvest-kitchen/

Harvest Kitchen’s April Take-Home Dinner for Two is an Italian Picnic!   Order by 4/22 for pickup at Harvest Kitchen on 4/29 (10 am to 6 pm).  Italian Picnic Menu

Riviera Restaurant
580 N. Broadway, East Providence  02914
401-431-9231
rivierarestaurantri.com

Secrets in the Kitchen is back at the Riviera Restaurant and the topic is “The Art of Charcuterie”.  On May 10, 2022 at 6:30 pm, you’ll design your own charcuterie plate, enjoy your creation and taste some wines from Portugal and a cheese flight.  If you guess what they have already paired together, you’ll win a bottle of wine!  Call the number above to reserve your place.  Payment of $40 per person will be taken over the phone.  Click on their Facebook page link and scroll down for more information and great pictures:  Riviera Facebook

Smug Brewing
100 Carver Street, Pawtucket  02860
401-642-5701
Smugbrewing.com

Mark your calendars for these great events coming up at Smug Brewing:   

Bonsai and Brews! April 23rd – TICKETS AVAILABLE!

Every attendee will be able to select their own tropical bonsai tree and pot and be provided with the tools to prune, pot, and design the tree under the instruction of a bonsai expert. 

Paint and Sip! April 30th

Up next is a Nordic Bottle Lantern! This beachy design will *brighten* any mantle, shelf or table once complete. Tickets include a Smug brew!

RIDEA Craft Beer Festival – May 14th

Sample beer, wine, cocktails and food from local producers who are committed to making the beverage scene a safer and more diverse space to work and play.

Pasta Demo – May 22nd

Join Alex from Newport Pasta Company for a somewhat hands-on experience making different pasta shapes with different machines, tools or by hand. 

St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
84 Cumberland Street, Woonsocket, RI  02895
401-356-0713
stannartsandculturalcenter.org/

The 10th Annual Breakfast with the Saints to benefit St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center is back!  Enjoy an elegant breakfast buffet under the largest collection of fresco paintings in North America.  You’ll be treated to a piano performance during the breakfast by Rev. Ernest Batten.  Tours will also be available of this fascinating site!  Tickets for the breakfast are $20 in advance, $25 at the door ($10 for ages 6-12 at the door only and ages 5 and under are free at the door only).  For more information, to order tickets online or to find out where tickets are available in the community for purchase for this and other upcoming events at St. Ann’s:  Breakfast With The Saints

Rhode Island Spirits
59 Blackstone Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-856-4111
Rhodeislandspirits.com

Congratulations to RI Spirits!  Their Rhodium Forager’s Gin has taken a gold medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022!  Stop in and taste for yourself why their Forager’s gin won gold – and participate in their upcoming events:   

Friday, April 29, 2022 from 6 to 8 pm – Cheese and Cocktail Pairing.  You’ll learn from Edgewood Cheese staff about their cheese as well as learn about the cocktails paired with the cheese from the distillers.  Tickets

Sunday, May 8, 2022 – 1 pm – Mother’s Day donuts from Allie’s and Boozy Coffees, Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas.  No reservations required but donuts available while they last.  

Friday, May 20, 2022 – 6:30 to 8 pm – Distillery Trivia.  Bring your friend for Team Trivia to compete for the top prize of either a $25 gift card or a bottle of your favorite spirit to take home.  Come early to get a table.  

Click HERE for even more upcoming events at Rhode Island Spirits!

Murphy’s Law 
2 George Street, Pawtucket, RI  02860
401-724-5522
Murphyslawri.com

Starting May 1, 2022 it’s patio season at Murphy’s Law with live music on the patio every Sunday from 2 to 5 pm.  Stop in to enjoy some of their great food and music too!  Try some traditional Irish pub food – fish and chips, bangers and mash or Shepherd’s Pie and more – check out their MENU


Polaris MEP Seeks Advisory Board Members to Move RI Manufacturing Forward

Polaris MEP

Non-profit consulting group Polaris MEP, the state’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center, is growing, and seeks to grow its Advisory Board to support its mission to strengthen and empower RI’s small and medium-sized manufacturers. 

“Challenges like COVID, the global supply chain squeeze and local labor shortages are driving an exciting period of innovation and change,” said Kathie Mahoney, Polaris MEP Center Director. “Polaris MEP is uniquely positioned to support this evolution, and we’re looking for forward-thinking industry leaders to help us move Rhode Island manufacturing forward.”

The MEP is in the process of finalizing the first-ever “State of RI Manufacturing” report which identifies trends, challenges and opportunities for the sector. Mahoney notes that early analysis indicates RI manufacturers will increasingly adopt automation, industry 4.0 technologies, diversity initiatives and other “next generation” initiatives.

“Polaris MEP is diversifying to meet the needs of our manufacturing community. We’ve been adding to our team of experienced consultants and forming new strategic partnerships. And, now, we’re expanding our Advisory Board,” said Mahoney.

Those interested in applying should visit www.PolarisMEP.org/AdvisoryBoard to learn more.

Polaris MEP is an affiliate of the national NIST Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership and a non-profit business unit of the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation. 

April 20, 2022 0 comment
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World Championship Cheese Contest Gold Medalist 2022
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Narragansett Creamery Wins at World Championship Cheese Contest / RI Breweries Easter 2022 Schedule / Blackstone Valley Culinary News

by David Dadekian April 11, 2022
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.


Narragansett Creamery wins Gold and Bronze Medals at the World Championship Cheese Contest

Narragansett Creamery was awarded a First Place Gold Medal for its Low-Fat Coffee Yogurt at the World Championship Cheese Contest on March 3–5 in Wisconsin. Our low-fat coffee yogurt contains milk and probiotic cultures, contains no stabilizers or preservatives, and is lactose free.

Narragansett Creamery was also awarded a 3rd  Place Bronze Medal for its Burrata Cheese. Each Narragansett Creamery Burrata is made by hand. Mozzarella is stretched to form a pocket where it is then hand-filled with Stracciatella, a mixture of “torn” mozzarella (Stracciare – to tear apart) cream, and a trace of salt.

This year’s World Competition was highly competitive with 2,978 entries from 29 countries. The contest initiated in 1957, is organized by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association.

“We are honored to win these awards in the Yogurt and Burrata categories and to be included with such an outstanding group of dedicated and creative cheesemakers,” said Mark Federico, owner and co-founder of Narragansett Creamery.

Narragansett Creamery is a family-owned creamery based in Providence, RI that uses milk from nearby New England farms to make its artisanal cheeses and yogurts.

“We thank our local farmers who supply us with excellent quality milk which enables us to create award-willing cheeses,” Federico said. 


RI Breweries Easter 2022 Schedule

Rhode Island Brewers Guild

Wondering if your favorite RI Brewers Guild facility will be open on Easter? Here’s a list of open and closed breweries for Sunday, April 17th.  See you there!

Fool Proof Brewing                          Normal hours, 12 noon – 6
Linesider                                            Normal hours, 12 noon – 6
Long Live Beerworks                       Normal hours 12 noon – 5
Lops Brewing                                    10 am to 6 pm
Moniker Brewery                              Normal hours
Narragansett Beer                           Normal hours
Newport Craft Brewing                    Normal hours
Pivotal Brewing                                Normal hours 12 noon to 5
Proclamation Ale                              12 noon to 6
Providence Brewing Co                  Normal hours
Ravenous Brewing                          Normal hours 
Rejects Beer Co                               Normal hours
Shaidzon Beer Co                           12 noon to 5 
Six Pack Brewing                             12 noon to 5
Taproots Brewing Co                      11 am to 4 pm (bar service only, no food)
The General’s Crossing                  Normal hours
Twelve Guns Brewing                     Normal hours
Union Station Brewery                    11:30 am to 1:00 am
West Passage Brewpub                 Normal hours

Apponaug Brewing Co                    Closed                        Revival (LVP&B)                              Closed            
Beer on Earth                                   Closed                        Smug Brewing                                  Closed
Bravo Brewing                                  Closed                        The Guild Pawtucket                       Closed
Buttonwoods                                     Closed                        The Guild Warren                            Closed
Chair 2                                               Closed                        Tilted Barn Brewery                         Closed
Coddington Brewpub                       Closed                        Trinity Brewhouse                            Closed
Crooked Current                              Closed                        Whalers Brewing                              Closed
Grey Sail Brewing of RI                  Closed                        Ragged Island Farm Brewery
Hive Beer                                          Closed                                    (Closed temporarily under construction)


Blackstone Valley Culinary News – April 6, 2022

Davenport’s Family Restaurant
1070 Mendon Road, Cumberland  02864
401-334-1017
Davenport’s Bar and Grille
1925 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence  02914
401-438-3381
davenportsri.com

Davenport’s has new spring specials.  And they are also now offering gluten-free pizza which has been very popular.  

Kountry Kitchen/Kountry Clam Shack
10 Smith Avenue, Greenville 0282
401-949-0840
Kountryfoodgroup.com

Sadly, our friends at Kountry Kitchen will be closing the restaurant on April 10.  The Kountry Clam Shack did a Culinaria Live episode with us which was great!  We’re happy that the Delos family will be retiring and relaxing.  The restaurant has been purchased and will be undergoing renovations for about six months before it reopens under new ownership.  So stop by before April 10 to enjoy Kountry Kitchen one more time and to wish the Delos family well!   Here is more information in a Valley Breeze article

Angelos Palace Pizza
133 Mendon Road, Cumberland  02864
401-728-3340
Angelospalacepizza.com

Angelo’s is having an Easter brunch on Sunday, April 17.  Seatings are at 10:30 am and 1 pm – reservations are required.  Adults are $30; Children are $20; and children under 5 are $15.  Check out the buffet menu HERE

Spumoni’s
1537 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket  02861
401-726-4449
spumonisrestaurant.com/

Spumoni’s is offering their famous Easter brunch again and I hear it’s spectacular!  It will be on Sunday, April 17 between 10 am and 3 pm and the cost is $28.99.  Reservations are accepted for parties of 5 or more, but don’t wait to call for reservations (at the above number).  Check out the Easter Brunch Menu

Ye Olde English Fish & Chips
25 South Main Street, Woonsocket  02895
401-762-3637
Yeoldeenglishfishandchips.com

Congratulations to the Robinson Family at Ye Olde English Fish and Chips on their 100th Anniversary!  There was a great story by WPRI about the Robinson Family and the history of the iconic Woonsocket restaurant.  Read it HERE

Rhode Island Spirits
59 Blackstone Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-856-4111
Rhodeislandspirits.com

Rhode Island Spirits has a very busy event schedule.  Hope you can join them for some of these events:  

·  Friday April 8 Distillery Bingo 6-8, free, no reservation required; Cookie Chow will also be onsite with sweet treats! 

·  Saturday April 9, Uncorked! (to benefit RI PBS). We’ll be at the Pawtucket Armory for this event with samples of Rhodium products. 

·  Sunday April 10 Gin School (sold out, but there are tickets available for June/July/August) 

·  Friday April 15 Distillery Trivia with Jordan 6-8, free, no reservation required, PRIZES 

·  CLOSED Easter Sunday April 17 

·  Sunday May 8 Mothers Day We’ll be featuring Donuts, Spiked Coffee, Bloody Marys and Mimosas

Mimi & Pop’s Ice Cream Shop
1306 Broad Street, Central Falls, RI  02863
401-474-8185

Mimi & Pop’s opened on April 1.  Stop by for some sweet treats – soft serve and hard serve ice cream, banana splits, milkshakes and more!

Poke Brothers
622 George Washington Highway, Lincoln  02865
401-642-8708
Facebook.com/pokebroslincoln

New restaurant alert!   This new restaurant, specializing in Hawaiian-style Poke bowls, has opened a Lincoln Commons location – the first franchise to open in New England!  Read all about them in this Valley Breeze article.  Here’s a picture of their MENU or you can design your own bowl.

Notes Coffee Co.
508 Armistice Blvd., Pawtucket 02861
401-335-5181
notescoffeeco.com

Save the Date!  Notes Coffee Co. will be holding their first Maker’s Market event on Friday, April 22 from 6 to 9 pm.  More info to follow regarding the artisans who will be there.  

Smug Brewing
100 Carver Street, Pawtucket  02860
401-642-5701
Smugbrewing.com

 PICK UP and TAPROOM HOURS FOR THIS WEEK:

April 6th, Wednesday 1pm – 6pm (Pick-up only) 

April 7th, Thursday 3pm-9pm (Taproom and Pick-up)  Trivia with Reb begins at 6:30 and 7:30; Nanu Burmese Fusion onsite

April 8th, Friday 3pm-9pm (Taproom / Pick-up) 

April 9th, Saturday 1pm-10pm (Taproom / Pick-up)  

Bonsai Bar event and Sarcastic Sweets

April 10th, Sunday 12pm – 5pm (Taproom / Pick-up) 

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Miller's Famous Sandwiches interior
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Blackstone Valley Culinary News / Miller’s Famous Sandwiches Expansion / Providence Open Air Saturdays 2022

by David Dadekian March 29, 2022
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.


Blackstone Valley Culinary News – March 29, 2022

Harvest Kitchen
2 Bayley Street, Pawtucket, RI  02860
401-335-3766
farmfreshri.org/programs/harvest-kitchen/

Harvest Kitchen is welcoming spring with their new and expanded Spring Menu.  Check out the fresh, local ingredients they use to create healthy options for you!

Brewology
9 Cedar Swamp Road, Smithfield  02917
401-642-7111
facebook.com/brewologyri

New restaurant alert!  Brewology is open – serving coffee (iced and hot coffees, lattes, cappuccinos, mochaccinos, chai teas, as well as smoothies, protein shakes and more) and breakfast from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (bagels, sandwiches, acai bowls and pastries made fresh on site).  On Thursday, Friday and Saturday they’ll remain open until 1 a.m. serving specialty martinis, cocktails, wine and beer, as well as light bites and desserts.  There will be occasional entertainment too.  Check out the relaxing lounge space HERE.  

Davenport’s Bar and Grille
1925 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence  02914
401-438-3381
davenportsri.com

Did you know????   Davenport’s has partnered with Providence Performing Arts Center for a Show Shuttle Dinner/Show Package program.  When you sign up for a Show Shuttle package, you receive your choice of Orchestra or 1st Dress Balcony seating for each show in the package, dinner(salad, entrée, non-alcoholic beverages, dessert, tax and tip) and round-trip transportation from the restaurant to the theatre and back.  After the show, Davenport’s will also offer coffee, tea and pastries at PPAC!  Click HERE for more information.  

Boundary Kitchen & Bar
67 Garrity Street, Pawtucket  02861
401-725-4260
boundarykitchenbar.com

Boundary has some great SPECIALS planned for Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week.  And check out this picture of their Stone Pie – stone oven pizza, hand-tossed with a custom crust.  It looks delicious!  And it’s available gluten-free too!

Here are some upcoming events to mark on your calendar: 

Mapleville Farm
544 Victory Highway, Mapleville, RI  02839
401-568-0544
MaplevilleFarm.com

Tuesday, April 12 –  Last day to order and pay for your Easter order from Mapleville Farm.  They have the most delicious homemade breads, pastries and desserts that you’ll want for the holiday.  Check out their MENU.  Orders need to be placed and paid for by April 12 and order pick up is Saturday, April 16 from 9 am to 6 pm.  

Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille
970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI  02917
401-349-4979
tavolowinebar.com/Smithfield

Sunday, April 17 – Tavolo invites you for a stress-free Easter Sunday dinner at their Smithfield and Warwick locations.  They’ll be serving their full dinner menu as well as some specials – open 12 noon to 8 pm.  You can book your reservations online or call 401-349-4979.  

Parma Ristorante
266 Putnam Pike, Smithfield  02917
401-349-0079]
Parmaristorante.com

Sunday, April 17 – Parma will be open for Easter Sunday for a Brunch Buffet from 11 am to 2 pm and dinner service with Easter Specials from 3 pm to 8 pm.  Reserve your table by calling the number above.  

A & W Root Beer
460 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, RI  02828
401-949-9892
awrestaurants.com/aw-smithfield-ri

Tuesday, April 19 – A & W Drive-In will start their Cruise Nights – every Tuesday – staring April 19.  Great food, root beer made on-site and classic cars – a great combination for a fun evening!

Johnny’s Victory Diner
2731 Victory Highway, Burrillville, RI  02830
401-765-2661
johnnysvictorydiner.com

Friday, May 6 – Johnny’s begins their BBQ Season with outdoor seating and live music.  Plan to visit and try the #1 BBQ in Rhode Island according to Food and Wine magazine in September 2020.   

Mapleville Farm
544 Victory Highway, Mapleville, RI  02839
401-568-0544
MaplevilleFarm.com

Sunday, May 8 – Mother’s Day Garden Tea and Luncheon.  Enjoy soup, salad, sandwiches, pastries, candies, and tea in their perennial garden.  Seatings are at 11 am and 1:30 pm.  This is a very popular event, so don’t wait to get your tickets.  Click HERE for tickets and more information. 


East Providence’s Miller’s Famous Sandwiches Seeking Franchise Partners

Miller's Famous Sandwiches interior

For 50 years, Miller’s Famous Sandwiches has remained a dining institution in and around East Providence, Rhode Island. Today, with the third generation of family owners at the helm, Miller’s has officially launched its franchise opportunity and is ready to introduce its signature Roast Beef and variety of other mouthwatering sandwich options to throngs of new customers.

With two flagship stores already satisfying customers of all demographics in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Miller’s intends to expand its footprint across the East Coast. President Gwendolyn Graham hopes to see approximately 5-7 restaurants open up over the next few years in an area that extends from the Northeast down to Florida.

“People love Miller’s and we’re excited to begin providing our unique product and services to customers in other communities across the country,” says Graham. “Franchise expansion doesn’t mean that we’ll cease to be family-owned, however. It just means that each new franchise owner and all of their customers become family, too. This is why our guiding philosophy has always been and always will be ‘Family Serving Family.’”

The first Miller’s restaurant was opened in East Providence, Rhode Island in 1972. Since that time, the brand has become a local icon on the foodservice scene, offering one of the best tasting, authentic roast beef sandwiches on the market. The roast beef is slow roasted every night, overnight – resulting in the most tender and tasty sandwiches. Other mouthwatering sandwich options include: Pastrami, French Dip, Reubens, Thanksgiving (Turkey), Chicken, Lobster, BBQ Pulled Pork, Ham, Corned Beef, and New England style Lobster Roll.

Remarkably, Miller’s cooks 12,000 pounds (that’s 6 TONS!) of its signature slow roasted roast beef each month and sells over 8,000 sandwiches each week.

Freshly-made sides include: crinkle cut fries, onion rings, baked beans, homemade slaw, clam strips, and more.

As for the restaurant design? Every Miller’s location is based off of the look and feel of the original restaurant that was opened nearly a half-century ago. Details such as community tables, swivel stools, and warm wood tones are just a few of the ways that Miller’s recreates this atmosphere. An open-kitchen concept allows customers the ability to watch their food being made, while giving them a better understanding of the craft, quality, freshness, and love that goes into Miller’s products.

“At Miller’s, we understand that in the quick-moving world that we are currently living in, today, sometimes it’s nice to just take a step back and get back to basics,” says Graham. “Our home-cooked menu options, our freshly prepared meals, and our comfortable dining atmosphere constantly bring customers coming back to feel that nostalgic feeling that comes with being ‘home.’”

She adds, “It’s a bit of the past continuing to the present – when quality meant something special.”

Today, armed with a refreshed brand identity, Miller’s is seeking franchise partners who understand family, understand quality, and understand what it takes to be successful no matter what the economic climate looks like.

Including a franchise fee of $40,000, the initial investment range for a Miller’s restaurant is between $396,000 and $818,000.

A typical franchise location sits approximately 1,500 to 2,200 square feet and is located in a strip center, is free standing, or is found on a pad site in a shopping center. Most Miller’s employ 20-25 full- and part-time employees.


Open Air Saturdays Returns Bigger and Better to Providence in 2022

InDowncity partners with local businesses for downtown-wide six event summer series with live music, outdoor dining and drinks, marketplaces, and family-friendly activities

Beginning May 7, InDowncity is bringing back the popular event series “Open Air Saturdays” to downtown Providence. From May through October, guests can enjoy programming across the city on the first Saturday of each month. The family-friendly event will run from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on May 7, June 4, July 2, Aug. 6, Sept. 3, and Oct. 1.

Each Open Air Saturdays event will feature live music performances, a rotating line-up of food trucks, two beer gardens, two marketplaces, outdoor games and activities, ample outdoor dining at local restaurants and more. Attendees are encouraged to make a day of it, visiting multiple locations throughout downtown: Grant’s Block, Aborn Street, Union Street, Biltmore Park, and the BankNewport City Center.

During Open Air Saturdays, the Grant’s Block location (on the corner of Union Street and Westminster Street) will feature live traditional music from around the world programmed by Providence World Music, as well as the return of Long Live Beerworks’ beer garden and a variety of visiting food vendors.

On Aborn Street (between Washington Street and Westminster Street) Rosalina will offer outdoor drinks, Italian street foods, and outdoor bocce. On the same block, Durk’s Bar-B-Q will program live rock and roll performances while serving drinks at an outdoor bar and offering a selection of smoked meats and barbeque.

Kin Southern Table + Bar will curate the “Kin Marketplace,” a market on Union Street—between Washington Street and Worcester Street—that highlights various BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and women-owned businesses. Attendees can enjoy outdoor seating with food and drink by Kin, and a mix of R&B, Hip Hop, Reggae, and Afro Beats by local DJs.

At Biltmore Park, Trinity Beer Garden will serve local craft beer and select cocktails. Attendees can enjoy live music, a maker marketplace, outdoor games, and the exclusive opportunity to order food delivery from Reiners. Trinity Beer Garden is both family-friendly and dog-friendly. Next door, the BankNewport Skating Center will be open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. for roller skating.

“InDowncity is thrilled to expand our footprint this season as we welcome so many new partners to the Open Air Saturday program,” said Joanna Levitt, Director of Commercial Leasing and Marketing for Cornish Associates and InDowncity. “This season, guests can plan an entire day of strolling the various event locations, taking in unique programming at each.”

Further announcements–including lists of food vendors, musical artists, and retail vendors–will be released as the event dates near. For regular updates, visit www.indowncity.com/news/open-air-saturdays-2022 and follow @indowncitypvd on Instagram.

March 29, 2022 0 comment
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Sandy's Fine Food Emporium Celebrating 50 Years
chefs & restaurantsnews

News Bites: Sandy’s Fine Foods 50th / Castle Hill Inn’s Gilded Age Experience / Blackstone Valley Culinary News

by David Dadekian March 29, 2022
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.


Sandy’s Fine Foods Celebrating 50 Year Anniversary

Sandy’s Fine Food Emporium, a Westerly staple, is celebrating 50 years of incorporation this year. In 1952, brothers Sam & Mickey Cofone founded Sandy’s Fruit Company in Pawcatuck, CT as a small fruit and vegetable stand. 1972 proved to be a pivotal year for the business, transforming it into what it is known as today. The store was moved to its current location and became incorporated as Sandy’s Fine Food Emporium under the new ownership of Bob Hoffman. Over the years, Sandy’s thrived and transformed with the times. Keeping high quality produce was always a top priority, but they also became known for their fine grocery items, and most notably, their deli. Made in house, Sandy’s prides itself on the entrees, soups & prepared foods their talented chefs create.

After managing the store for years, husband and wife Jim & Emma Lee Goddiess took ownership in 2006. The small, local business has managed to blossom and grow throughout the past 50 years. Starting as a small fruit stand, the store has shown value to its community and loyal customer base. As consumers eating habits have fluctuated through the years, they have continued to stay relevant and always provide the best quality food to their patrons. Stop & Shop opened directly across the street in the 1980s, which could have meant the end for the small store. Despite a big box supermarket becoming a direct competitor, economic highs and lows, ever changing eating trends, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Sandy’s has consistently found the ability to highlight its uniqueness while flourishing and remaining a Westerly institution that will never be replicated. What will the next 50 years hold for this local gem and others like it? Who will be the next generation to grab the baton from the current owners and continue the traditions and values of integral small-town businesses like Sandy’s? What innovations, cultural movements, and seismic events will shift the next 50 years of the hometown American grocery store?

Follow along on social media at @sandyswesterly to stay up to date on daily specials & more!


Castle Hill Inn’s “Gilded Age Experience”

Castle Hill Inn

Rich in history and old-world charm, Castle Hill Inn has captured the imagination of guests for over a century. Built in 1874 as one of Newport’s summer “cottages,” Castle Hill Inn is introducing a brand new “Gilded Age Experience” package this spring, inspired by the popular HBO series (season finale airs tonight!).  

Certain to have guests feeling like a member of Mrs. Astor’s Four Hundred, those who book this package will delight in a two-night stay at Castle Hill Inn, a Tasting Menu Experience for Two at the Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn, and two tickets to one of the Newport Preservation Society mansions that directly inspired the décor of the Russells’ New York City palace. Several scenes from this lavish costume drama were also filmed within them. Julian Fellowes would surely approve! 

The “Gilded Age Experience” travel package at Castle Hill Inn also includes gourmet daily breakfast, guest-only afternoon tea, and a welcome amenity upon arrival. Pricing starts from $1,185 for the two-night package, which can be booked here: https://www.castlehillinn.com/specials/gilded-age-package

Its enchanting coastal setting, relaxed elegance and authentic Newport spirit make Castle Hill Inn an ideal year-round destination for guests seeking the magic and quiet luxury of a 19th-century seacoast life nestled on a 40-acre peninsula overlooking Narragansett Bay – and is perfect for a spring or summer getaway for fans of the HBO series.


Blackstone Valley Culinary News – March 23, 2022

Johnny’s Victory Diner
2731 Victory Highway, Burrillville, RI  02830
401-765-2661
johnnysvictorydiner.com

Johnny’s still has their Irish on!  You can still get their homemade corned beef hash and Irish coffee.  And don’t forget to contact them for your spring and summer BBQ/party needs.    

Boundary Kitchen & Bar
67 Garrity Street, Pawtucket  02861
401-725-4260
boundarykitchenbar.com

Boundary Kitchen and Bar has some DE-LISH specials for Thursday, March 24, Friday, March 25 and Saturday, March 26.  They’ll be open 4 pm to 10 pm.  Check out the specials HERE

Rhode Island Spirits
59 Blackstone Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-856-4111
Rhodeislandspirits.com

The Spring Menu is available at Rhode Island Spirits!  Stop in to sample some spring flavors and participate in some of their upcoming events:   

Saturday, March 26 – Magic With Aces Wild, 6-8 pm

Friday, April 8 – Distillery Bingo and Cookie Chow Pop-Up 6-8 pm

Don’t forget about their Gin School – Click HERE for more information and dates. 

Krakow Deli Bakery Smokehouse
855 Social Street, Woonsocket  02895
401-765-4600
https://www.facebook.com/KrakowDeliBakerySmokehouse/

Let’s help Krakow Deli help those in Ukraine and the refugees!  Stop into Krakow Deli for the best authentic Polish food, including pierogi, kielbasa, sauerkraut, fresh deli sandwiches, groceries and more.  They are also collecting donations for the refugees from Ukraine.  Items they are collecting include personal hygiene products, women’s and children’s underwear, diapers, inexpensive flip-flops, cloth towels, over-the-counter medicine, and first-aid kits. You can bring it in at any time during regular business hours. Items will need to be packaged into cardboard boxes and labeled! Business hours are Tuesday – Friday 9 am – 6 pm and Saturday 8 am – 5 pm.  The owners are also looking for donations of art and gift certificates for an auctionthey’re doing to raise funds for the refugees.  

Lincoln Creamery
276 Front Street, Lincoln  02865
401-724-1050
lincolncreamery.com/

I heard a rumor that Lincoln Creamy will open for the season on April 1!  Can’t wait to see what sweet treats they have this year.   

Miller’s Famous Sandwiches
628 Warren Ave, East Providence, RI 02914
401-434-6678
millersfamous.com/

Summer must be coming – it’s Lobster Time at Millers!  In addition to their famous (and HUGE) Lobster Roll, they’ve got Lobster BLTs and Lobster Bowls.  

Smug Brewing
100 Carver Street, Pawtucket  02860
401-642-5701
Smugbrewing.com

Happening this week at Smug Brewing – A new release!  Chubby Unicorn, a double India Pale Ale, is available on draft and in cans and gives off pineapple, orange and citrus aroma and flavor.  Stop in to try it and enjoy the events they’ve got planned this week:  

Thursday, March 24 – Trivia Night with Nanu Burmese Fusion!   Ruth is pulling out all the stops with her menu this week! 5 kinds of dumplings (chicken, pork, beef, veggie and octopus), salads (Burmese Tofu salad with chickpeas and tea-leaf salad) and Shan noodles!! Settle in with some awesome food and Smug brews!

Friday, March 25 – Biggest Little Easy Catering at Smug!  Put some NOLA in your chowdah! We start with a traditional New England clam chowder: creamy base, with clams, red potatoes, bacon, dill, and quahogs. Then we “jazz” it up with a little andouille, a few tomatoes, some white wine… This new twist on a Rhode Island classic may just be the best you’ve ever had!

Saturday, March 26 – Sarcastic Sweets at Smug! Nina brings flights of amazing cupcakes to Smug – stop in on a Saturday and give them a try! 

Sunday, March 27 – Bonsai and Brews!  Every attendee will be able to select their own tropical bonsai tree and pot and be provided with the tools to prune, pot, and design the tree under the instruction of a bonsai expert. We promise you’ll be amazed at what you can create! Join Bonsai Bar at Smug Brewing and grab some locally hand-crafted beer while you create your masterpiece!  THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT – but Smug is offering more Bonsai and Brews classes in the future.  So don’t wait – click on your desired date to get tickets:   Saturday, April 9 or Saturday, April 23

March 29, 2022 0 comment
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