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Rhodium Citron Vodka from Rhode Island Spirits
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: RI Spirits’ New Rhodium Citron Vodka / RI Land Trust Council Hosts Land Trust Days / RI DEM Mini-Grants for Food Producers / Kristin Allain Named CPO of Newport Restaurant Group

by David Dadekian August 24, 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 Citron Vodka; RI Spirits’ New Product Launches

Rhodium Citron Vodka from Rhode Island Spirits

Rhode Island Spirits announces the launch of Rhodium Citron Vodka, a corn-based vodka flavored with real lemon zest. Like RI Spirits’ other vodkas, gins, and liqueurs Rhodium Citron Vodka is all natural, gluten-free, and made in small batches in downtown Pawtucket. 

“I infused a few bottles of vodka with lemon early in our tasting room days,” said co-owner Kara Larson. “It was popular with our customers, and opened up a lot of options for new cocktails. Immediately, our tasting room customers wanted to buy it.” Initially planned for a 2020 release, the pandemic delayed the process until now. 

Co-owner and distiller Cathy Plourde said, ”We take pride in using fresh and real botanicals for each flavor profile. Citron was an obvious addition to our vodka lineup, and we’re happy to give bar managers, stores, and home bartenders a local option for a staple spirit.” 

Rhodium Citron Vodka offers a crisp, full flavored, and refreshing vodka option for cocktails or a flavorful vodka and soda. Its light yellow color comes from natural lemon oil, and the yellow and white gingham label continues Rhode Island Spirits’ nod to the textile history of its home, the Blackstone Valley. RI Spirits Tasting Room Manager Amy Gravel said, “it looks and tastes like summer in a bottle.”

Analise Stettner, Beverage Director of The Boom Box at the Dean Hotel has created a new cocktail featuring the product, Downcity Summer, and says Rhodium Citron Vodka “is wonderfully bright and has a well balanced flavor, great for mixing in a cocktail.”

Bottled at 80 proof, Rhodium Citron Vodka is a great addition to any spirits collection. It is available statewide in Rhode Island through Horizon Beverage Company. 

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

“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


Land Trust Days Celebrates Special Places in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Land Trust Council is gearing up to host Land Trust Days- the 11th annual series of outdoor events designed to celebrate the trails, landscapes and open spaces across Rhode Island, and the hard work of the individual land trusts that are protecting them. 

Land Trust Days takes place over eight weeks, from August 26 – October 23, 2022, at land trust properties across Rhode Island. This celebration includes guided hikes, birding events, fitness activities, music, art workshops and other unique outdoor festivities. With over 30 events planned statewide, there is something for everyone. Events are hosted by individual local land trusts who look forward to introducing visitors to spectacular protected places across the state. 

“Land Trust Days is an opportunity to get to know Rhode Island’s land trusts and the important work that they do- protecting and stewarding open spaces for the benefit of all Rhode Islanders. Land Trusts do the hard work of protecting drinking water supplies, stewarding lands to improve wildlife habitat, conserving farmland and strengthening our local food systems, and more.  Get out on the trail and meet new friends, or even explore a corner of Rhode Island that you’ve never been- the Land Trust Days season has it all.”

The kick-off event is at Haile Farm Preserve in Warren, a property conserved by Warren Land Conservation Trust. This guided walk on August 26 at 9am, will focus on the resident and early migrating birds, wildflowers, butterflies and more. This property is adjacent to the pristine salt marsh habitat along the Palmer River. Registration is required.

Learn more about Land Trust Days and the schedule of events at landtrustdays.org


DEM Begins “Mini-Grants” To Boost Specialty Food Producers

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is announcing that it has established a program to award grants ranging in size from $2,500 to $10,000 to support Rhode Island farmers and food businesses that produce and distribute specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops including floriculture. These “mini-grants,” administered by DEM’s Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment, will be eligible to applicants whose operations have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID continues to affect our country in so many ways, including challenging small businesspeople who produce specialty crops and have needed to quickly and completely pivot their operations as demand shifted away from traditional markets like restaurants and food service,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “DEM hopes that these mini-grants will help Rhode Island’s small-scale producers mitigate costs and bring home a greater share of the food dollar.” 

In response to COVID-19, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Management and Budget has provided flexibilities to grant applicants and grant recipients through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). Funds awarded through DEM’s new mini-grant program must still meet the requirements of SCBGP, but there is an emphasis on projects that COVID-19 assistance and relief.

Mini-grants must fit within one of the three funding areas:

o        COVID-related expense relief: A part of this funding will be used to assist businesses, organizations, and individuals with eligible expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

o        Produce safety: This grant can help defray the costs of implementing on-farm food safety practices to help growers transition to compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule and/or meet market demands for on-farm food safety. This can include improvements to irrigation systems that mitigate risk associated with agricultural water use in lieu of current drought conditions.

o        Digital media: This grant can provide funding for modernization and access to digital media for eligible entities. It is meant to increase/improve a producer’s market access.

All applications must be submitted on our website. Applications will be accepted from Aug. 9-Dec. 31, 2022 at 11:59 PM. For more information about the grant process, please visit the grant website.

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates.


Newport Restaurant Group Names Kristin Allain Chief People Officer

NRG veteran has been a driving force in the company’s human resources and recent recruiting efforts

Kristin Allain
Kristin Allain

Newport Restaurant Group (NRG), an award-winning collection of unique restaurants and hospitality venues located throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, is pleased to announce the promotion of Kristin Allain to Chief People Officer.  In her new position, Kristin will continue to provide leadership within NRG’s employee-ownership culture, helping operational leadership build teams of hospitality professionals by exposing staff to the technical and life skills necessary to build successful careers in the hospitality industry. 

Allain, a native Rhode Islander, began her hospitality career as a teenager, bussing tables at a favorite restaurant on Aquidneck Island. She worked for several different Newport-based restaurants before joining Newport Restaurant Group in 1997 as a bookkeeper for Castle Hill Inn. Kristin worked in the accounting department for five years before starting the company’s Human Resources Department in 2002.

As the company expanded and grew its portfolio, Allain grew with it.  She was named Director of Human Resources in 2011, her most recent position, overseeing all HR functions including compliance administration, employee relations, employment law, recruiting, training and payroll. She also provided leadership for compensation planning and design, benefit program analysis, succession planning and performance management strategy.

“I am so proud to announce Kristin’s promotion to Chief People Officer,” said Paul O’Reilly, CEO, Newport Restaurant Group.  “Kristin has been the driving force behind all major human resources initiatives in our company and has been instrumental in building the thriving culture we now have, even in increasingly challenging times. Above all, Kristin is a prime example of the type of career potential and path that is possible in an employee-owned company, and we are so thankful for her passion and dedication.”

Allain is a graduate of Salve Regina University and earned her HR Certification from Bryant College.  She has served on multiple HR panels and currently serves on the RI Hospitality Association’s HR Council.  Allain currently resides in Bristol, with her husband John.

August 24, 2022 0 comment
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Rory’s Market and Kitchen Prepared Foods Assortment
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Castle Hill Inn New Prix-Fixe Menu / Rory’s Market and Kitchen Coming to Providence / Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll Available in Providence / Coppa Cocktails Arrive in the USA

by David Dadekian July 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.


The Dining Room At Castle Hill Inn Launches New Pre-Fixe Tasting Menu Experience

New menu offers a curated culinary adventure designed around coastal New England flavors

The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn, the iconic Relais & Châteaux property in Newport, Rhode Island, today announced the release of its new Tasting Menu; a curated tasting experience inspired by both the flavors of coastal New England and influences around the globe.

Located inside the historic Agassiz Mansion, The Dining Room has long been the backdrop to memorial occasions and praised as one of the best restaurants in Newport. Led by Executive Chef Lou Rossi and Chef de Cuisine Dylan Cadrette, the new Tasting Menu focuses on dishes that utilize and showcase the bounty of Newport’s local produce, seafood, and artisanal producers to present a unique, memorable experience that is tailored to guest’s preferences.

“In creating this specialized, tailored menu we hope The Dining Room continues to surprise our guests and encourage them to rethink what New England cuisine is all about,” said Executive Chef Lou Rossi. “The menu takes all the bounty of Rhode Island and the surrounding region to highlight seasonal ingredients we plan to change on a regular basis to ensure each dining experience is different than the last.”

With the new Tasting Menu, avid foodies and gourmet-minded diners are treated to an incredible farm-to-table dining adventure. The prix fixe menu offers six courses, each of which features two to three dishes for guests to choose from. Each dish is tied to a key ingredient as its focus and offers guests an ever-changing and seasonally inspired array of both local and globally inspired flavors.

The six-course selection includes everything from local, Rhode Island Oysters and Foie Gras Terrine, to Lobster with squash and radish, Truffle Pasta, and Strawberry featuring cucumber and yuzu. The two desserts are focused on Melon, featuring biscotti and almond, and Chocolate tied together with fig and coffee.

To tie it all together, the restaurant’s exceptional and award-wining wine list features more than 800 selections to offer the perfect pairing with each curated meal. Specialty wine flights are designed to complement the flavors of the menus being served.

The new six-course Tasting Menu in The Dining Room is available for $135 per person. Wine Flights start from $50 per person. To view sample menus or to make a reservation for The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn, guests can visit www.castlehillinn.com/dine/the-dining-room/.


Rory’s Market And Kitchen Opens September 2022 In Downtown Providence

Rory’s Market and Kitchen Prepared Foods Assortment
Rory’s Market and Kitchen Prepared Foods Assortment

Rory’s Market and Kitchen is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of their newest store located at 113 Washington Street in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Rory’s is an independent, second generation owned, local, natural grocery store and kitchen. The store will open with over 6,000 square feet on the ground floor of the Nightingale Building in September 2022.

Rory’s first location was opened in Dennisport, MA in 1978 by Darby Ziruk with the mission to bring organic produce to Cape Cod residents. A second location was opened in Mashpee, MA in 2014, followed by Darby’s daughter Rory Eames stepping into ownership in 2019. Rory’s Providence location will carry on the mission to support communities by offering access to natural products and organic produce from local businesses. The Providence location will serve as the company’s third store and the first outside of Massachusetts. 

“This is our first urban location, which gives us the opportunity to grow together in such a special city like Providence,” says Rory Eames, owner and namesake of Rory’s. “We are so excited to serve and be part of the community.”

The Rory’s team is dedicated to sourcing a variety of natural and specialty grocery staples, including local and organic produce, meats, cheeses, beverages, vitamins, and body and home care items. As a brand, Rory’s is always on the lookout for the latest and upcoming foods and products. 

In addition to grocery offerings, Rory’s Kitchen provides customers with both made-to-order and grab-and-go breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The Providence menu will include organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, grain bowls, avocado toasts, salads, sandwiches and more. Customers can also look forward to gluten conscious-menu items. 

The store and kitchen will be open seven days a week, for in-person shopping, online-shopping, pick-up, and delivery service. Shoppers will enjoy the convenience of delivery for all grocery items, prepared foods, coffee and juice bar menu items.


Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll Available in Providence

Beatnic's "Rock Lobstah Roll," Lobstah bib and Beatnic beach towels
Beatnic’s “Rock Lobstah Roll,” Lobstah bib and Beatnic beach towels

Vegans unite! Until now, lobster rolls were just a seaside treat reserved for meat-eaters and proclaimed pescatarians, but not anymore. 

Following the successful launch of Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll at the Montauk Beach House in the Hamptons, Beatnic is happy to bring the beach to the city, extending their “Rock Lobstah Roll” to all store locations in NYC, Boston, and Providence. The product will be available August 1 – August 26 (4 weeks) at $10.95.

What’s a Vegan Lobster Roll you ask? 

Simple, it’s a vegan take on the East Coast favorite, subbing out lobster for hearts of palm and seasoning it with lemon juice, celery, red onion, a vegan remoulade, dill and Old Bay seasoning. To top it off, this delicious delight will be served on a vegan pretzel bun, serving up all the flavor with none of the fish!  

But wait, there’s more! Beatnic will be giving away FREE Beatnic beach towels and FREE Lobstah bib with any purchase.

Disclaimer: In store only, limited stock available, one per person. 


Coppa Cocktails® & M.S. Walker Brands Launch “World’s Best Cocktails” in the U.S.

Consumers Are Encouraged to “Just Add Ice!”  for a World Class Cocktail Experience

Coppa Cocktails® Pina Colada
Coppa Cocktails® Pina Colada

M.S. Walker Brands has partnered with Coppa Cocktails® to bring its robust line of award-winning classic to contemporary premium pre-mixed cocktails to U.S. shores. Developed by Toorank International Spirits, a Dutch distilling and bottling company founded in 1978, Coppa Cocktails are currently available in more than 30 countries. With natural flavors and premium spirits, 15% ABV, a SRP of $17.99/750mL, and disruptive packaging, Coppa Cocktails appeal to the modern consumer who seeks high quality, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. The brand is currently distributed in more than 27 states with an aggressive nationwide rollout underway. 

The core flavors are:

  • Margarita, made with tequila, orange liqueur, lime, and natural flavors, its distinct yet smooth agave aroma is followed by a tart, refreshing palate
  • Mojito, made with premium Caribbean white rum, lime, and mint, with prominent initial aromas of fresh and sweet mint leaves, followed by a palate led by refreshing sour lime
  • Strawberry Daquiri, again made with premium Caribbean white rum and lime juice, this time with the addition of fresh strawberries; the sweet and sour flavors of freshly muddled strawberries are very evident on the palate
  • Piña Colada, made with premium Caribbean white rum, vodka, rich cream, coconut, and the sweet flavor of pineapple juice, this Gold Medal winner from the Denver International Spirits Competition speaks for itself: no blender, no problem; just add ice!

Coppa Cocktails’ Cosmopolitan, Long Island Iced Tea, Mai Tai, Rum & Ginger, Sex on the Beach, and Tequila Sunrise are also currently for sale in the U.S. All Coppa Cocktails are non-GMO. 

José B. Chao, President of Coppa Cocktails USA, says, “We pride ourselves on offering the world’s best cocktails. Whether making life easy at home, or increasing speed and consistency on-premise, every Coppa Cocktail delivers a delicious, premium, and effortless cocktail experience.”

“As the ready-to-drink category continues to grow, we see a tremendous opportunity for a brand of Coppa Cocktails’ quality and visual appeal,” says Gary Shaw, Executive VP of Sales for M.S. Walker Brands. “Our strategy includes a vigorous in-store tasting and retail activation program, and we are confident consumers will experience the outstanding quality of these cocktails.” 

Please enjoy responsibly.

For more information, please visit www.coppacocktails.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Coppa Cocktails® Mojito
Coppa Cocktails® Mojito
July 29, 2022 0 comment
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Chair 2 Light Beers
farmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Chair 2 Launches Two New Flavors / New CCRI Environmental Degree Program / Granny Squibb’s Newest Flavor / Hope’s Harvest Joins Farm Fresh RI / Foolproof Brewing Company Joins Mission Beverage

by David Dadekian July 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.


Chair 2 Light Beer Launches 2 New Light Flavors

Chair 2 Light Wheat and Light IPA – New 99 Calorie Offerings from Sons of Liberty

Chair 2 Light Beers
Chair 2 Light Beers

Chair 2 Light Beer, a brand by Rhode Island’s Sons of Liberty Beer & Spirits Co., is making waves with its two latest offerings – Chair 2 Light IPA and Chair 2 Light Wheat. The entire Chair 2 Light Beer line, including the light lager, is 4.3% abv, 99 calories per can, and available throughout Rhode Island.

The light IPA (55 IBUS) offers a bouquet of hop aromas followed by a bright and balanced flavor profile that gives IPA lovers what they’re looking for without weighing them down. The light wheat is brewed with orange peel to deliver a refreshing hit of citrus, but is careful not to be a fruit bomb, relying more on the beer itself to do the heavy lifting. 

“We’re very excited to see these two new flavors in everyone’s coolers,” said Bryan Ricard, Chair 2’s Brand Manager. “They definitely fall in line with our simple vision of ‘light beer that tastes like beer’.”

Chair 2 Light Lager, the flagship beer, was named USA’s Best Light Lager at the World Beer Awards in 2021, shortly after its launch. “We’ve taken the same approach with the new flavors as we did with the lager. That’s to make clean, crushable, high-quality beers that aren’t over the top, just easy-drinking,” explained Wil Santiago, Chair 2’s Beerologist. Rhode Islanders are catching on production of Chair 2 has increased to meet demand.

All 3 beers are brewed and packaged at Isle Brewers Guild (IBG) in Pawtucket, RI. “It was important for us to keep this in Rhode Island,” President and Founder, Mike Reppucci, explained, “and Isle has been an excellent partner.” IBG works with many well-established brands such as Narragansett and Night Shift. To follow the latest on and find retailers for Chair 2 Light Beer, visit chair2.com. Or follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/chair2beer and Instagram at @chair2beer.


New Associate degree program at CCRI in “Environment, Sustainability, and Management”

Innovative collaboration with Rhode Island Nursery & Landscape Association and Rhode Island Food Policy Council provides a clear path toward careers in RI’s growing land and sea industries

Environment, Sustainability and Management Associate Degree at CCRI, photo credit: RINLA
Environment, Sustainability and Management Associate Degree at CCRI, photo credit: RINLA

Rhode Island needs a workforce that can meet the current and future needs of the state’s flourishing land and sea businesses, which compose a sector that is quickly rising to the top of the state’s strongest economic drivers. 

A new associate degree in Environment, Sustainability, and Management created by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is a first-of-its-kind program that will prepare students for careers in these industries – including the landscape, farm and food sectors – and arm them with the perspective they need to meet social, economic, and ecological challenges of the world and of business today.

The development of this associate degree program was supported by a grant from the Agriculture Workforce Development Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

“This new degree program is a perfect example of industry and policy leaders collaborating with higher education to design and implement an academic and career pathway that responds to labor market demands,” said Meghan Hughes, president of CCRI. “The green economy continues to show tremendous growth in Rhode Island, and CCRI, along with our partners at URI, RINLA, and RIFPC, is committed to providing high-quality, rigorous academic and experiential learning opportunities that will prepare Rhode Islanders for great careers right here in the Ocean State.”

This interdisciplinary program blends science and business; provides work-based learning opportunities for credit; includes courses in Business, Biology, Entrepreneurship, Oceanography, Geology, Economics, Chemistry, and Communications; and positions graduates to chart successful career paths and have important impacts on the social and environmental profiles of the companies for which they work. Graduates will have immediate career opportunities, and can also transfer seamlessly as juniors to the University of Rhode Island’s bachelor’s degree programs in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Plant Sciences, and other programs in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences (CELS). 

“The new Environment, Sustainability, and Management degree will educate the next generation of professionals charged with stewarding, protecting, and responding to a changing environment and for producing food for our community,” said Rosemary A. Costigan, vice president for academic affairs at CCRI.  “In response to industry need, a number of our college’s faculty created new curricula based in science and business such as Biology of Trees and Shrubs, Food from the Sea, and the Human Environmental Impacts and Ethical Business Practices capstone course.”

The Rhode Island Nursery & Landscape Association (RINLA) and the Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) collaborated closely with CCRI and advisors from URI to inform the development of this exciting program of study at the intersection of environmental, social, and economic sustainability; agriculture, food, and ecological systems; business ethics; entrepreneurial thinking and processes; land and resource management methods; and impacts of climate change on ecologies, businesses, and industries. 

Shannon Brawley, Executive Director of RINLA and Nessa Richman, Network Director of the RIFPC jointly stated, “This exciting new, interdisciplinary degree program will support the public, private, and nonprofit employers we serve by preparing people to enter these industries by ensuring they have relevant classroom experiences and work-based learning opportunities.” 

Fall classes start August 31, 2022. Enrollment is now open. All Rhode Islanders who want the knowledge, skills, perspective and experiences to impact the social, economic, and ecological challenges of today’s world are encouraged to register. Additional information can be found on CCRI’s website: ccri.edu/pathways/paths/environment


Granny Squibb’s Announces New Organic Iced Tea Flavor, Partnership, and Expansion in Massachusetts Just in Time for National Iced Tea Month

Granny Squibb’s is releasing Porter’s Peach with a portion of the proceeds going Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund

Granny Squibb's Organic Iced Tea

Today, Granny Squibb’s Organic Iced Tea announced the release of its newest flavor, Porter’s Peach. Further solidifying their commitment to growth in New England with a portion of sales going to their newest philanthropic partner the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund, and expansion into Roche Bros. 

“Porter’s Peach is the first new flavor we’ve brought to market since before the pandemic. It was created from a beautiful story, which continues our passion for storytelling and philanthropy,” said Kelley McShane, Partner and Owner of Granny Squibb’s. 

Porter’s Peach was the brainchild of a family friend, a twelve-year-old, named Porter from Aquidneck Island, R.I. In Spring 2020, in an effort to boost morale Porter sent a drawing of his idea for the “best Granny Squibb’s flavor, Porter’s Peach.” During the same year, Porter and his family faced multiple losses to cancer triggering Porter to raise $10,000 for cancer research and paving the way for Granny Squibb’s to work with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund to help continue Porter’s mission. 

“The story of Porter’s Peach and the generosity of Granny Squibb’s company touches us as an organization,” said Alexa Woodward, VP of Corporate Partnerships at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. “We know that we impact the lives of so many people right here in New England and beyond. It’s through the work of our supporters that we’re able to continue our mission of treating cancer and continuing to research and develop the latest in new treatments.”

Granny Squibb deeply believes in being part of the community, supporting the people around them. Having supported the Jimmy Fund for more than three years, the addition of Porter’s Peach provides the financial avenue to grow their philanthropy in Massachusetts and deepen partnerships as they grow into greater New England. 

The announcement of Porter’s Peach and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute couldn’t be timelier as Granny Squibb’s expands into all twenty Roche Bros stores in Massachusetts. Now consumers can easily purchase Granny Squibb’s products and know they are supporting local causes.

“At Roche Bros we are committed to providing our shoppers with an array of local and organic products to choose from making the addition of Granny Squibb’s a perfect fit. We are happy to be expanding our partnership with a company that also focuses on providing the best customer experience,” said Tristen Kendall-Barros, Vice President of Marketing for Roche Bros. 


Hope’s Harvest Joins Farm Fresh RI to Provide Hunger Relief Programming

Farm Fresh Rhode Island and Hope’s Harvest are proud to announce that as of June 2022, Hope’s Harvest is officially the home for all hunger relief programming at Farm Fresh RI. 

Hunger in Rhode Island is a significant problem that has only increased in severity and scope in recent years. At the same time, local food producers in the state have seen increased demand, but also volatility in markets and challenges due to erratic weather patterns, shifts in purchasing at a national scale, and other national and global forces. 

Farm Fresh RI, a nonprofit that’s been working to strengthen the local food system since 2004,  has been a champion for local farmers/producers and an infrastructural driver of a re-localizing food system over the past 18 years. Hope’s Harvest, a relative newcomer, has filled an important niche in the RI food system by connecting farmers to hunger relief agencies, promoting food security and non-traditional market access to the emergency food system. 

Hope’s Harvest has been an independent but fiscally sponsored program of Farm Fresh RI since 2018. This sponsorship enabled Hope’s Harvest to accept donations and grants under the Farm Fresh 501c3 nonprofit status. Farm Fresh mentored growth at Hope’s Harvest and provided infrastructure support, like trucks and cold storage, as well as a place to call home when the Hope’s Harvest team parked their trucks and came in from the field. 

“As our program grew, it became apparent that combining Hope’s Harvest and Farm Fresh models and infrastructure would best leverage our assets and public/private partnerships,” explains Hope’s Harvest Founder and Director Eva Agudelo. “Together we can create targeted solutions for both food insecurity and increasingly volatile markets for farmers. We’re excited about all of the collaborations to come — delivering the highest quality of locally grown food to hunger relief agencies and alleviating food insecurity in Rhode Island.”

What does this change mean for Hope’s Harvest? 
By joining Farm Fresh RI’s infrastructure, Hope’s Harvest is building capacity to deliver local gleaned produce to an additional 20 hunger relief agencies via Farm Fresh’s existing Market Mobile local food ordering service. The Hope’s Harvest team will also be administering the Senior Farmer Market Nutrition program and the Local Food Purchasing Assistance program in partnership with the RI Department of Environmental Management.

What does it mean for Hope’s Harvest gleaning volunteers? 
Out in the fields, the Hope’s Harvest team still aims to glean as much food this year as ever! They plan to harvest with even more local farms, and encourage the community to join them out in the fields this season. Learn more about opportunities to volunteer with Hope’s Harvest: www.farmfreshri.org/hopesharvest.

At a Glance: Hope’s Harvest for Hunger Relief at Farm Fresh RI
The Hope’s Harvest program at Farm Fresh RI will include: 

GLEANING 
— Recruiting and mobilizing volunteers to recover surplus food from farms for donation to hunger relief agencies.

DIRECT PURCHASING FOR HUNGER RELIEF
— Surplus Purchasing: Direct purchasing of surplus farm produce for distribution to hunger relief agencies and community partners.

— Contracts for Hunger Relief: Negotiating and administering contracts with growers to ensure a steady supply of fresh, nutritious produce for the emergency food system at competitive wholesale rates.

— Farm to Pantry via Market Mobile: A streamlined system and subsidized purchasing for community partners to order locally grown products for their guests. 

SENIOR FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM 
— Source and pack locally grown produce to meet the needs of older adults throughout RI in partnership with the RI Department of Environmental Management.

ADVOCACY AND PARTNERSHIPS 
— Working with strategic partners in the nonprofit and government sectors to ensure ongoing support for these initiatives as a commitment to supporting public infrastructure for healthy food access.


Foolproof Brewing Company is Now Distributed by Mission Beverage

As of June 2022 Foolproof Brewing Company is now being distributed in Rhode Island by new distributors in the business, Mission Beverage. Mission beverage was started by Kyle Michaud and Nate Costa. After meeting during a fire department fundraising event, Kyle and Nate bonded over their passion for craft beer and began brainstorming ways to collaborate together in the beer industry. Thus began their mission toward starting a distribution company. Mission Beverage officially moved their first case of beer in February 2022. Mission looks to bring the same tenacity to the brands they wish to distribute as they did when starting their business. “We take pride in our partnerships to help grow the brands to get from one level to the next level up,” says Nate Costa.

Foolproof Brewing Company signed with Mission Beverage as their new distributors in Rhode Island in June 2022. Along with this agreement, Mission will also be distributing Foolproof’s sister brands under the Brewery Collective. This includes Shebeen Brewing Company, originally started in Connecticut and moved production to Rhode Island in February. Soon to follow will be the Brewery Collective’s newest Connecticut brand, Velvet Libations, which just opened on St. Patrick’s Day of this year. “We’re focused on distributing in Rhode Island right now and bringing in brands that aren’t in Rhode Island yet.”, says Kyle Michaud, and Velvet Libations will be no exception.

Want to see Foolproof or Shebeen Brewing Company products near you? Contact Mission Beverage and support Rhode Island locally. Email: info@missionbev.co To learn more about the Brewery Collective, visit www.brewerycollective.com. To learn more about Mission Beverage visit www.missionbev.co.

July 29, 2022 0 comment
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CHI Kitchen Fermented Sesame Slaw Sofi Award
chefs & restaurantscookingnewswine & drinks

News Bites: CHI Kitchen Wins Gold / ISCO Expands into Massachusetts / Blackstone Valley Culinary News

by David Dadekian May 12, 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.



CHI Kitchen Wins Gold Award in 2022 sofi™ Awards

Nearly 2,000 Products Competed for the Top Specialty Food Association Award

CHI Kitchen Fermented Sesame Slaw Sofi Award

Fermented Sesame Slaw has won a GOLD Award in the Pickles & Olives category  as part of the Specialty Food Association (SFA) 2022 sofi™ Awards, a top honor in the $170.4 billion specialty food industry. 

Chi Kitchen’s Fermented Sesame Slaw selected by a panel of specialty food experts from nearly 2,000 entries across 53 product categories. Products are judged on taste, including flavor, appearance, texture and aroma, ingredient quality, and innovation. All tastings are anonymous and are held at the Rutgers Food Innovation Center.

“We are honored that our Fermented Sesame Slaw has won a Gold Award,” says Minnie Luong, Founder and CHI-EO of CHI Kitchen. “To know that our product stands out from the crowd in a blind tasting gives us the confidence to continue innovating and growing in our category with our naturally probiotic-packed, gut healthy fermented vegetables. This is one of the ultimate stamps of approval and we’re very grateful and excited for all the winners.” Fermented Sesame Slaw can be found at Whole Foods North Atlantic, independent retail stores and food service establishments all throughout New England and online at www.chikitchen.com.

The Sofi Awards are open to members of the SFA, and have been given each year since 1972. Winners will be showcased at the 2022 Summer Fancy Food Show, running June 12-14, at the Javits Center in New York City. Open only to the trade, it is the largest East Coast B2B-only specialty food and beverage show. For more information, visit specialtyfood.com.


The World’s First Vodka Distilled with Oysters Is Now Available in Massachusetts

The Industrious Spirit Company Announces Expansion into MA Market with their Vodkas, Gins and Bourbons

The Industrious Spirit Company's Ostreida

Today, The Industrious Spirit Company (ISCO) announced their expansion into Massachusetts. Their recent launch of Ostreida, the first vodka distilled with oysters in the United States and possibly the world, went viral online and has created a pent-up demand for the product that the company is excited to fulfill just in time for summer in New England. To celebrate the new state launch, ISCO has distilled a special batch of the product using Powder Point Oysters from Duxbury, MA. Ostreida is a flagship product for ISCO as it encapsulates their creative approach to spirits, creating new and original products from classic ingredients and techniques. 

“Ostreida is a unique expression of the fundamental elements of earth and ocean, perfectly captured in a bottle, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to share this quintessentially New England product with our neighbors in Massachusetts,” said Manya K. Rubinstein, CEO of ISCO. “Ostreida brings a savory and briny seacoast minerality with a subtle hint of bivalve bouquet on the nose that mixes sublimely with our spirits’ signature buttery texture and creamy finish—it makes a killer martini and an amazing Bloody Mary, and is just perfect for summer sipping!”

Since each small batch of Ostreida is produced with oysters from a specific farm, each bottle now comes with a neck tag highlighting the farm’s location and date of harvest. ISCO cares deeply about sustainability, working with a regional regenerative farm to grow the organic corn they use for the base of their spirits and donating a portion of all bottle sales of Ostreida to GreenWave, an organization that works to scale sustainable ocean farming.

In addition to Ostreida, ISCO is making its creamy, smooth sipping Structural Vodka, lovingly hand-distilled from organic corn, as well as its modern-style botanically-focused Ornamental Gin available to the Massachusetts market immediately, with bourbon barrel aged gin and bourbons, such as Blue Velvet, made from two different types of sustainably farmed blue corn from the US and Mexico, to come in the future. 

“I am excited to have the opportunity to add Ostreida and ISCO’s vodkas and gins to our portfolio of independent beverage brands,” said Caitlin McGarrahan, the director of Origin, a division of Horizon Beverage that is dedicated to handcrafted products. “In such a saturated industry, it is rare that we get an opportunity to bring true “firsts” to market—we believe this product is going to become an instant summer in New England classic, especially out on the islands and at restaurants with a seafood focus” 

In celebration of the expansion into Massachusetts, there are five unique and fun events planned.   

May 25, 2022: The Little Donkey http://www.littledonkeybos.com/ in Cambridge is hosting a fun filled night of Ostreida shooters and specialty cocktails. The restaurant features tapas by James Beard Award-Winning Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette in the heart of Central Square. 

June 2, 2022: A special evening at Forage https://foragecambridge.com/ in Cambridge for a four-course dinner with Ostreida cocktail pairings. With two seating times, 6:30 and 8:00 p.m. costing $95 per person this event is sure to be special. Aligning with ISCO’s sustainable and local ideology, Forage is a neighborhood bistro just off Harvard Square that showcases local farmers, fishermen, and foragers with their seasonally-driven menu. Featuring such cocktails as “Overboard” made with Ostreida, dry vermouth, dulse, meyer lemon saline, and garnished with a pickled oyster! 

June 5, 2022: Little Moss https://www.littlemoss.com/, in South Dartmouth will host an afternoon deck soiree featuring Ostreida cocktails paired with small plates and hor d’ourves.  Little Moss, a beautiful spot sited in the adorable village of Padanaram that features rotating menus of seasonal plates, handmade pastas, natural wines, and craft cocktails. 

June 10, 2022: Summer Shack https://www.summershackrestaurant.com, Cambridge, is hosting a TGIF Cocktail Hour and Meet the Distiller event featuring Ostreida cocktail specials and a special gift basket giveaway. This fun, casual restaurant specializes in fresh New England style seafood and boasts the largest oyster bar in Cambridge!

June 30, 2022: Caviar Pairing at UNI https://uni-boston.com/ in Boston. A special evening featuring an Ostreida caviar pairing at this lively, contemporary izakaya located in The Eliot Hotel on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, helmed by Chef Ken Oringer. UNI’s menu highlights global street food-inspired small plates, as well as innovative makimono, nigiri, and sashimi—all delicious when paired with vodka distilled with oysters!


Blackstone Valley Culinary News – May 9 – 12, 2022

Fully Rooted, Inc.
(401) 753-4930
fullyrooted.com/
at
Wildflour Vegan Bakery and Juice Bar
727 East Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-475-4718
Wildflourbakerycafe.com

You can save money and help the planet when you buy juices from Fully Rooted and return the empty glass bottles to participating juice locations.  For every empty Fully Rooted glass jar you bring back to participating kiosk locations, you’ll receive 50 cents off your purchase at check out.  And you’ll be helping keep the Blackstone Valley and Mother Earth beautiful!   Your Blackstone Valley location for a Fully Rooted kiosk is at Wildflour Vegan Bakery and Juice Bar.  Other locations are listed HERE.  

Atrium on Main 
285 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI  02860
401-335-5500
Aomrestaurant.com

Atrium on Main has joined the Plates with Purpose family, a program that helps to eradicate homelessness and hunger, among other programs.  They are currently focused on securing nourishing and delicious meals to our most vulnerable neighbors in Pawtucket.  The program works through independently-owned restaurants such as Atrium on Main.  For every $1 you donate by Friday, May 13 will be used to prepare and distribute meals through the team at Atrium on Main.  A donation of $10 equals 1 prepared meal.   To donate, click HERE.  Remember to donate before Friday, May 13!

RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival
The Guild
461 Main Street, Pawtucket
May 14 at 6 pm

This non-profit festival plans to highlight women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ breweries, wineries, and spirits producers from RI and beyond. The funds raised by this festival will be donated to the JWU scholarship that helps people from diverse backgrounds pursue a career in the beverage industry.  The mission of the RIDEA (Rhode Island Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Action) Committee is to promote a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the RI beverage community.  Blackstone Valley companies who will be involved, in addition to The Guild, are:  Rhode Island Spirits, Ravenous Brewing Co., Foolproof Brewing Co., and Smug Brewing Co.  

TICKETS

The Orchard Grill
132 Pleasant Street, Smithfield
401-234-9980
orchardgrill.com

The Orchard Grill, formerly Laura’s Pleasant View Diner, in Smithfield, has a great staff who take pride in providing the best down-home friendly service possible.  They serve traditional American classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  

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

In addition to participating in the RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival (see above) on May 14, here’s what’s happening in May at RI Spirits:  

Distillery Trivia – Friday, May 20 – 6:00 to 7:30 pm (free event – prizes!)

Game Day – Sunday, May 22 – 1:00 to 5:00 pm (free event)

Drink In The History – Thursday, May 26 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm  – TICKETS

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

In addition to participating in the RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival (see above) on May 14, here’s what’s happening in May at Smug Brewing:  

Trivia on Thursdays – one game at 6:30 pm and one game at 7:30 pm – bring your team to compete for prizes!  Burmese Fusion will be on site. 

Music Bingo on Fridays – six games will be played – instead of calling numbers and letters, songs are played.  Fun!  The Perfect Empanada will be on site. 

Saturday, May 14 – 1 pm -10 pm – Cookie Chow on site.  Smug pouring at the RIDEA Festival.  

Sunday, May 15 – 12 pm to 5 pm – Music with JT Horne…and Pierogitory will be on site for food.  

Saturday, May 21 – Bonsai and Brews – Learn, create, drink and eat – Biggest Little Easy Catering will be on site.  

Sunday, May 22 – Pasta Demo – Alex from Newport Pasta Company will be leading this hands-on experience.  You’ll be able to have some Saugy’s Franks with your pasta!

Tavern on Main – Quahog Week
1157 Main Street, Chepachet
401-710-9788
tavernonmainri.com

Quahog Week 2022 runs from May 15-21.  Make sure you try Rhode Island’s favorite clam at participating restaurants – but be sure to head to Tavern on Main in Chepachet, the only Blackstone Valley restaurant participating, for Tavern Seafood Stuffies (2) made with shrimp, scallops, crab and clams for only $8!  

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

BBQ Season is here!  Enjoy Johnny’s award-winning BBQ staring at 2 pm every Friday.  Try the pulled pork sando and their famous chicken egg rolls (order early – they sell out!   This Friday, May 13, enjoy the music of Tim Hart & George from the Illusions Band from 6 pm to 9 pm on the deck.  And stop by and see the fine folks from Johnny’s on Saturday, May 14 at Seven Cedars Farm in Smithfield for the Spring Festival.  They’ll be serving their famous BBQ from 11:30/noon to whenever they sell out.  

Red, White and Brew Coffeehouse 
601 Great Road, North Smithfield
401-488-4822
redwhitebrewri.com

Let me introduce you to “Delicious”, the newest summer drink at Red, White and Brew – it’s a cold brew with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, topped with chocolate syrup and sprinkles.  It’s available for summer now!  

And speaking of Red, White and Brew and their great gift shop, where I was first introduced to “We Be Jammin’” products…and now they have their own shop!….

We Be Jammin’
Hope Artiste Village
1005 Main Street, #8233, Pawtucket
Webejammin.net

We Be Jammin’ is owned by Jason Wood, an autistic man, whose mission is to give back to the community.  His company makes specialty jams, salsas, BBQ sauces, marinades, glazes, pickles, relish, beets, salad dressings and more.  Read all about Jason and the company in this recent Valley Breeze article.  Let’s support this great business!   

May 12, 2022 0 comment
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