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ISCO's Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip, photo by Rachel Hulin
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News Bites: ISCO Announces First-ever Pizza Strip Spirit / Ocean State Job Lot Program to Combat Food Insecurity / Over $1M in Grants to Support Local Food System / New March Menus at Avvio + Celeste

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

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

ISCO Spirits Launches First-ever Pizza Strip Spirit
Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip—Because Life’s Too Short to Keep Your Cheese On

ISCO's Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip, photo by Rachel Hulin
ISCO’s Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip, photo by Rachel Hulin

ISCO Spirits announced the upcoming release of what is believed to be the first-ever pizza strip spirit, Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip. Paying homage to a beloved Rhode Island food, this specialty spirit is joyfully crafted from 100% organic wheat, real pizza strips from local spot Pizza J and spices from The Ocean State Pepper Company. 

This new spirit continues to tell the story of ISCO’s out-of-the-box approach to product development and authenticity. Almost five years after opening their doors, the distillery continues to be more innovative than ever. Lil Rhody Pizza Strip vodka joins their mainstay spirit line up of Ostreida Oyster Vodka, Seaflow Ocean Gin, Structural Vodka, Ornamental Gin, Blue Velvet Bourbon, Standard Bourbon, Patina Barrel Aged Gin and Gemma Crystal Vodka. They are also working on a pizza vodka that includes cheese for release later this year, for those that prefer a beverage based on a more widely-known style of pizza. 

“This project has been an absolute blast to work on,” said Manya Rubinstein, CEO of ISCO. “ISCO has two main interests: sustainable sourcing and making something that speaks creatively about where we come from. Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip does both: it uses organic wheat as its base and is a loving homage to the quirkiness and vivaciousness of our home state.” 

“The spirit opens with an herbaceous bouquet of oregano and marjoram, followed by flavors of bright garlic, rich tomato, fresh bread and savory Italian herbs that coax your palate towards a comforting and lightly herbal finish—basically, perfection!” said Co-Head Distiller Dan Neff. Co-Head Distiller Eric Olson agreed, adding that “it’s delicious in a martini, Bloody Mary or simply mixed with Coca Cola and a squeeze of lemon.” Early fans of the spirit have also created the “Italian Stallion” shot, which involves licking shredded cheese off your wrist, taking a shot of Li’l Rhody Pizza Strip, then quickly eating a pickled pepperoncini pepper.

Ocean State Job Lot Launches ‘Feed for Free’ Program to Combat Food Insecurity in Rhode Island

New initiative enables customers to donate food to area pantries at no cost

Ocean State Job Lot (OSJL), the region’s premier discount retail chain with 159 stores across the Northeast, is proud to announce the launch of its Feed for Free program, an innovative food donation initiative designed to provide critical resources to area food pantries while rewarding customers for their generosity. Piloting in all Rhode Island stores beginning Monday, February 17, this new program builds on OSJL’s long-standing commitment to fighting food insecurity.

How It Works:

  • Customers can purchase $10.00 or more of food from specially marked Feed for Free displays at any OSJL store in Rhode Island.
  • They will receive a Crazy Deal® Gift Card equal to the value of their purchase.
  • Customers can then choose to donate the food to OSJL for distribution to area food pantries or keep the food for themselves.

“This program provides a simple way for customers to help their neighbors while getting rewarded for their generosity,” said Marc Perlman, Principal Owner and CEO, Ocean State Job Lot. “We donate millions of meals each year, and now, with the Feed for Freeprogram, our customers can take an active role in supporting their communities while enjoying the savings OSJL is known for.”

The Feed for Free program expands on OSJL’s successful Eat for Free initiative and reflects the company’s deep commitment to philanthropy and community engagement. OSJL has a long history of addressing food insecurity through its Three-Square Meals program, ongoing food pantry partnerships, and large-scale meal donations.

The Rhode Island pilot program will serve as a model for potential expansion to OSJL locations across the Northeast later this year.

Over $1M in Grants Awarded to Support RI’s Local Food System

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is announcing over $1M in Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) grant awards to four local food businesses and organizations. These projects support the development of RI Grown products and will support expanded capacity for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distribution of locally produced food products, including specialty crops, dairy, grains for consumption, aquaculture, and other food products, excluding meat and poultry. DEM’s RFSI Grant Program is funded through American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide grants that directly support middle of the supply chain activities in RI’s local food system.

“I’m glad the state is distributing these federal RFSI funds that were made available under the Biden Administration to local projects that will strengthen the resilience in Rhode Island’s food system and create new revenue streams for small and mid-sized farmers and producers,” said Senator Jack Reed.“This federal investment will benefit food producers statewide and help get more fresh, Rhode Island-grown food and products to tables, grocery stores, and restaurants across the region and beyond.”

“Families in every corner of the state should have access to affordable, healthy food,” said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.  “This federal funding will support our small businesses as they connect more Rhode Islanders with fresh products from local farmers and fishermen.”  

“This funding for Rhode Island’s food infrastructure is a win for local farmers and consumers. By strengthening our state’s food supply chain, we’re not only supporting small businesses but also ensuring that more locally grown food reaches Rhode Islanders,” said Representative Seth Magaziner. “I’m glad to see these federal dollars at work, and I’ll always fight to bring more of our tax dollars home to strengthen Rhode Island’s food supply and lower food costs.”

“At a time of rising prices — from eggs to produce and other grocery staples — it’s important that we bolster Rhode Island’s food supply chains and infrastructure,” said Representative Gabe Amo. “This funding will help support farmers in our state who rely on local markets to sell their products while also delivering fair wages for laborers and fair prices for consumers. I look forward to continuing to work as a delegation to bring these federal resources home to help bring down prices and put healthy on the table for families.”

“By helping local businesses and food producers gain access to improved infrastructure, the RFSI grants make Rhode Island’s local food system more resilient and inclusive,” said Governor Dan McKee. “The supply chain is at the heart of our local food system, and providing funding assistance for food infrastructure improvements allows Rhode Island’s vibrant food economy, food security, and supply chain resiliency to grow stronger.”

“Providing grants to local food businesses and producers is essential to DEM’s mission of fostering a more resilient, locally driven food system,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “These grants are a step forward in strengthening Rhode Island’s food security and supply chain resilience, supporting local food infrastructure, and promoting growth across the food economy, while enhancing access to fresh, locally sourced products for consumers.”  

The grant awardees are as follows:

  • Farm Fresh Rhode Island (FFRI), Providence.
    • Award amount: $193,463.
    • Project description: Through this project, the FFRI Food Hub will upgrade equipment, expand processing capabilities, and modernize IT systems to build resilience in the center of the supply chain and increase new market opportunities for RI and regional farmers with wholesale and institutional customers. In this scope of work, FFRI will pilot Rhody Red Sauce, a product that will incorporate locally grown food into a sauce for K-12 cafeterias. FFRI will also improve the Market Mobile Food Hub Technology system that updates and improves our overall systems for the sales, and aggregation and distribution of local food to institutions and wholesale customers.  
  • Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT), Cranston.
    • Award amount: $519,939.
    • Project description: SCLT will develop the Cranston Food Hub, a new facility at Urban Edge Farm that will streamline and expand SCLT’s capacity to aggregate, process, store, and distribute locally sourced and culturally familiar produce grown by the small-scale farms operated by historically underserved producers based in SCLT’s land access network in the Providence Metro Area.
  • Brandon Family Farm, West Kingston. 
    • Award amount: $101,670.
    • Project description: Real Food RI LLC D.B.A. Brandon Family Farm will make several upgrades and additions to a farm building that will allow it to aggregate and distribute over 75 tons of RI Grown produce every year to grocery stores across RI through a collective purchasing agreement between at least eight different farms.
  • The Hard-Pressed Cider Company, West Greenwich.
    • Award amount: $282,844.
    • Project description: The Hard-Pressed Cider Company will use RFSI grant funds to construct a new apple cider production facility on their farm. The production facility will focus on the aggregation of local RI apples to increase the ability to store, sort, wash, and process apples into apple cider, hard apple cider, and other apple food products while improving food and worker safety.

Future RFSI equipment only awards are currently under review by USDA. DEM will continue supply chain coordination initiatives that focus on business support and market development to support the impact of these RFSI awards on RI’s food system. DEM works across many fronts to benefit and strengthen RI’s green economy and to assist local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses. DEM also continues to make investments in critical infrastructure as well as provide farm incubation space to new farmers through its Urban Edge Farm and Snake Den Farm properties.

Rhode Island is home to a thriving young farmer network, with more than 1,000 farms. According to the recently published 2022 Census of Agriculture, Rhode Island has the highest percentage of beginning farmers in the country. Both the number of farms and total land in farms in RI grew from 2017 to 2022 according to the census data, demonstrating the increased support for local agriculture and food throughout the state. Supporting local agriculture benefits all Rhode Islanders, ensures our future food security, enhances our environment, and celebrates the state’s unique food cultures and landscape.

Avvio Ristorante Celebrates Italy with ‘A Taste of Sicily’ Prix Fixe Menu

Three-course, Limited-time Prix Fixe Menu Available for the Month of March

Avvio "Taste of Sicily" Menu
Avvio “Taste of Sicily” Menu

Avvio Ristorante, located at Garden City Center, 90 Hillside Road in Cranston, will celebrate the cuisine of Sicily with a special prix fixe menu for the month of March.

The three-course menu is available daily during dinner hours only. The cost is $42.00 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity, and is not available for take-out. For more information or to make reservations, visit www.avvioristorante.com. 

The menu begins with a choice of antipasti: Crudo, with fluke, orange, pistachio, fennel, Castelvetrano olive, and extra virgin olive oil or a Stuffed Sweet Pepper with focaccia stuffing, scamorza, hot Italian sausage, and bread crumb.

Entrée choices include a whole roasted Sea Bass with citrus, herb, and chicory salad; Pollo Agrodolce: tomato-olive braised chicken thighs, white wine, cannellini beans, oregano, parsley, and cous cous; and Gnocchi alla Norma with charred eggplant, tomato, basil, garlic, and ricotta salata.

Dessert choices are Pistachio Cannoli with sweet cream and chocolate chips or Blood Orange Sorbetto with candied mint.

Celeste in Narraganset Offers a Taste of Italy with Two-Course Prix Fixe Menu 

Celeste "Taste of Italy" Menu
Celeste “Taste of Italy” Menu

Celeste, located at 15 Kingstown Road in Narragansett, Rhode Island is pleased to announce its latest monthly prix fixe menu, a two-course meal that highlights the cuisine of Italy. The specialty menus are available Sunday through Thursday and are $30.00 per person, tax and gratuity excluded. To make reservations, please call 401-792-4333 or visit www.celesteri.com. 

Each month during the off-season, Celeste has highlighted the culinary delicacies of a new coastal European region, including France and Portugal.  Celeste’s menu this month will take guests on a tour of Italy with dishes inspired by Venice, Veneto, Rome, Tuscany, and Puglia. 

First-course choices include Beet Carpaccio (Venice) with whipped goat cheese, winter citrus, shaved chicories & fennel and hazelnut; Gnocchi (Veneto) with pancetta, brussel sprouts, Pecorino Romano and browned butter; or Bruschetta (Rome) with caramelized winter squash, Stracciatella, bitter greens, crumbled walnut and balsamic. 

Entrée selections include Chicken Cacciatore (Tuscany) with roasted local mushrooms and creamy polenta and Orecchiette con Salsiccia (Puglia) with shaved onion, braised rabe and Pecorino Romano.

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Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee at LASA Award Ceremony
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News Bites: 2024 Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grantees / The East End’s New General Manager / New Brunch at XACO TACO

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

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

Governor McKee, DEM, RI General Assembly Announce 2024 Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grantees, Helping Grow Agricultural, Seafood Businesses

Governor Dan McKee, members of the Rhode Island General Assembly, and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced the 2024 Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) grantees at Newport Vineyards. More than 40 local farmers, fishers, specialty food producers obtained LASA grant awards, splitting more than $650,000 in funding on projects that will support the growth, development, and marketing of local farms, seafood harvesters, and food businesses. LASA grants support small businesses and increase Rhode Island’s food security.

“LASA grants continue to be a game-changer for Rhode Island’s farmers, fishers, and aquaculturists,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I congratulate this year’s recipients and look forward to working with them to foster community resilience, promote sustainable practices and increase food security across our state.”

Authored by Senator V. Susan Sosnowski in 2012 and run by DEM, the LASA program helps new and existing small food businesses grow and flourish. Since the COVID pandemic, DEM has steered the program to prioritize building capacity for markets connecting local farms and fishers with food-insecure communities and supporting agriculture producers and fishers who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color – along with developing small food businesses. The LASA program provides grants that directly benefit and strengthen the local food system in Rhode Island by providing funding for projects that help support the growth, development, and marketing of RI Grown produce and RI Seafood. Since its enactment 12 years ago, LASA has provided more than $2 million through individual program grants up to $20,000 with no direct match required.

Last year the Governor and the General Assembly pledged their support to continue funding LASA, which is an important catalyst in strengthening the local food system, at historically high levels in fiscal year 2024. During this grant round, 43 grant awards totaling $662,000 were broadly distributed across many categories including agriculture, aquaculture, seafood or fishery based, and farmers markets that support these sectors. Eligible entities included Rhode Island-based, for-profit small or beginning farmers including aquaculture operators, fishers, producer groups, and non-profit organizations. Given the depth of the application pool, the evaluation of applications is a concerted effort by the LASA committee, which includes DEM staff and the RI Food Policy Council, with the goal of funding recommendations being as equitably and diversely as possible by taking score into consideration among other factors such as Environmental Justice. The final grantees awarded during this grant round reflect the purpose and value of the LASA program by fulfilling its purpose of seeking to broaden the scope and diversity of awardees.

“Since the food shortages and price spikes of the COVID pandemic, Rhode Islanders have been looking for food producers closer to home, so these Local Agriculture and Seafood Act grants are well timed and the awardees well positioned to meet growing consumer demand,” said Representative Terri Cortvriend (Portsmouth, Middletown). “I’m lucky to have an organic farm in my district, Garman Farm, that is receiving LASA funding. Jim and Michelle Garman believe that farming is as much about community as it is about plants. This funding will allow them to continue cultivating local food that is fresh, delicious, and safe. I am very proud to support this program.”

“Agriculture and seafood are extremely important economic sectors in all four of the communities I represent in the State Senate,” said Senator Louis P. DiPalma (Little Compton, Middletown, Newport, Tiverton). “The Local Agriculture and Seafood Act helps incubate new and growing small businesses, some of which will one day become cornerstones of our communities. Supporting the production of local food also means fewer trucks on the road, which means less air pollution and better health for Rhode Islanders and our environment.”

“Food security means that all people, always, have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food,” said Representative Teresa Tanzi (Narragansett, South Kingstown). “The Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode Island, which is in Wakefield in my district and obtaining a Local Agriculture and Seafood Act grant today, is addressing food security by supplying local seafood to Rhode Island public schools, especially in low-income districts. Another LASA grantee in my district, Moonstone Flower Company, is trying to solve a much different problem: deer pressure. By installing deer fencing with LASA funding, Taylor Olson soon hopes to put her company on a path toward supplying local restaurants with fresh flowers. I salute the vision and tenacity of all LASA grantees in growing their businesses and making Rhode Island a more beautiful, fair, and food-secure state.”

“As the chairwoman of the Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee, I am always on the lookout for legislation and programs that benefit both the environment and agriculture,” said Senator Alana M. DiMario (North Kingstown, Narragansett, New Shoreham). “The Local Agriculture and Seafood Act program is one of a very few that does. I have seen the power of LASA grants at work in my district where farmers, food businesses, shellfishers, and aquaculturists have gotten just the boost they needed from a LASA award. I look forward to today’s awardees using their grants to gain traction and flourish in their marketplaces.”

“DEM is always working to get more RI Grown food and RI Seafood on the table by supporting local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses, and the support of Governor McKee and the General Assembly for a well-funded LASA program helps achieve this,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “Today’s LASA awards will help build Rhode Island’s food security while bolstering the traction of a diverse range of local food businesses in the marketplace by harvesting and marketing fresh home-grown food to meet consumer demand.”

LASA 2024 grantees:

NAMECITY/TOWNGRANT AWARD
401 Oyster CompanyCharlestown$20,000
Allen Harbor Oyster Co.Saunderstown$10,600
Aquidneck Community TableNewport$20,000
Ashawaug FarmAshaway$18,572
Bee Happy HomesteadCharlestown$5,337
Block Island Shellfish FarmNew Shoreham$14,955
Breakwater Oyster CompanyBristol$20,000
Center for Mediation and Collaboration RI – Land & Sea TogetherWarwick$20,000
Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode IslandWakefield$20,000
East Coast Oysters LLCSaunderstown$7,500
Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District (ERICD)Tiverton$12,000
Foggy Notion FarmJohnston$4,202
Frontier FarmWesterly$9,008
Fue KhangCranston$20,000
Garman FarmNewport$17,903
Gather FarmJohnston$10,752
Hard-Pressed Cider Company, LLCWest Greenwich$14,165
High Tide Mushroom FarmCoventry$19,532
Hmong Rhode Island Association, Inc.Providence$20,000
Josephine’s FarmProvidence$20,000
Long Lane FarmWarren$16,077
Luckyfoot Ranch PartnershipSaunderstown$20,000
Marie’s FarmCoventry$20,000
Moonstone Flower CompanyWakefield$12,695.3
Moorefield Oyster FarmNarragansett$20,000
Mount Hope FarmBristol$19,080
Narragansett Indian TribeCharlestown$15,426.2
Night GardenPortsmouth$19,963
Open fArms RetreatCumberland$8,486
Pea Shoot Farm LLCFoster$14,900
Quononchontaug Fish CompanyWesterly$20,000
Rocky Rhode Oyster Co. LLCNarragansett$3,380
Saunderstown Garlic FarmSaunderstown$12,650
Seraphina’s FarmProvidence$20,000
Silk Tree FarmExeter$19,280
Southern Rhode Island Conservation DistrictWesterly$12,534.5
Sowams Cider WorksWarren$9,600
Stephen DuyenProvidence$20,000
SunRise Forever, Inc.Providence$20,000
Tiverton Farmers MarketTiverton$17,651
Transfarmative ProjectFoster$20,000
Westbay Community ActionWarwick$10,000
WinterHawk VineyardsWest Kingston$5,751

The 2024 grant funding priorities included:

  • Supporting the development of new marketing, promotion, sales, and/or distribution channels, including connecting local farms and fishers with Rhode Island’s food insecure communities.
  • Supporting the development of new products, including value added processing capacity.
  • Fostering new cooperatives, partnerships, and/or collaborations among Rhode Island agriculture and aquaculture producers, and fishers and supporting organizations.
  • Protecting the future availability of agricultural land for producers, including farm transition planning and implementation.
  • Assisting with on farm food safety improvements including Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control (HACCP) Compliance.

DEM continues to work across many fronts to benefit and strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to assist local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses. The state’s food scene is often cited as an area of economic strength ripe for innovation and growth. Already, the local food industry supports 60,000 jobs, and the state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy annually. DEM continues to make investments in critical infrastructure as well as provide farm incubation space to new farmers through its Urban Edge Farm and Snake Den Farm properties. There are more than 1,000 farms sprinkled across the state and Rhode Island is home to a thriving young farmer network. According to the recently published 2022 Census of Agriculture, which is conducted once every five years by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rhode Island has the highest percentage of beginning farmers in the country. Both the number of farms and the percentage of farmland in RI grew from 2017 to 2022 according to the census data, demonstrating the increased support for local agriculture and food throughout the state. Supporting local agriculture benefits all Rhode Islanders, ensures our future food security, enhances our environment, and celebrates the state’s unique food cultures and landscape.

The East End Welcomes Hannah Weaver as New General Manager

The East End's General Manager Hannah Weaver
The East End’s General Manager Hannah Weaver

The East End, Providence’s premier Whiskey Bar & Bistro, renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, unparalleled service, and a robust cocktail program complemented by hundreds of rare and special whiskeys behind the bar, is excited to announce the appointment of Hannah Weaver as its new General Manager. This strategic move is part of The East End’s ongoing commitment to elevating its dining experience and operational excellence.

With a rich background in the hospitality industry, Hannah Weaver brings a wealth of experience to The East End. Her journey in hospitality has led her through several renowned establishments across the United States, from Seattle to New York and Detroit, before settling in Providence in 2015. Hannah has been instrumental in building and managing outstanding restaurant and bar programs, with a particular focus on whiskey and innovative cocktails.

Beyond her expertise behind the bar, Hannah has also showcased her culinary talents as a contestant on Season 13 of MasterChef on Fox. Her leadership and dedication are driven by a profound passion for the culinary arts, innovative operational strategies, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

In her new role as General Manager at The East End, Hannah will be responsible for overseeing all operational aspects, from enhancing service delivery to guiding the team toward realizing the restaurant’s ambitious vision. Her appointment marks a significant step in The East End’s journey to continue leading the culinary scene in Providence.

The East End extends a heartfelt invitation to our esteemed guests and the entire Providence community to join us in welcoming Hannah Weaver. With her leading the charge, we’re on the brink of unveiling thrilling new ventures and continuing our tradition of crafting dining experiences that linger in your memories.

For more insights, media inquiries, or to chat with Hannah Weaver about what’s on the horizon for The East End, feel free to reach out at:

Hannah Weaver
General Manager, The East End
hannah@theeastendpvd.com

Spice Up the Weekend with New Brunch at XACO TACO

Authentic Mexican Street Food Eatery Debuts Weekend Brunch on May 11th just in time for Mother’s Day

XACO TACO's Brunch Bar, photo courtesy of Chow Fun Food Group
XACO TACO’s Brunch Bar, photo courtesy of Chow Fun Food Group

XACO TACO, located at 370 Richmond Street in Providence, Rhode Island, is pleased to launch a festive brunch menu, sure to spice up the weekend. Debuting on Saturday, May 11th, just in time for Mother’s Day, Executive Chef Andy Pyle’s menu is infused with traditional techniques and authentic flavors, which along with creative cocktails, puts the rise and shine in every palate. Brunch will be served Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., indoors and on Xaco’s streetside patio now open for the season. For more information, visit www.xacotacori.com.

Guests may start with a selection of fresh, fruit-forward Mimosas including freshly-squeezed orange, freshly-squeezed grapefruit, and guava juice; XACO’s Bloody Maria featuring Cazadores Blanco, bloody mix, spicy, pickled vegetables and a tajin rim; Tijuana Sunrise with El Jiamador Silver, mango and pomegranate grenadine; Coffee Margarita with Cazadores Café, cold brew coffee, Kahlua, cold foam and lime; and Smoked Horchata with Illegal Mezcal, house-made horchata and cinnamon; in addition to the restaurant’s full list of specialty cocktails, beer and wine. Zero-proof cocktails include Spicy Pineapple Mint with house-made pineapple mint agua fresca, lime, serrano simple syrup, and fresh mint; and Cold Brew Coffee with house-made cold brew over ice; and Corona N/A served with a lime wedge. 

Brunch at XACO features dishes inspired by traditional, authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist such as the Grande Mexican Breakfast with two tacos (choice of carne asada, beef barbacoa or house-made chorizo), scrambled eggs, jack cheese, crispy home fries, avocado and pico de gallo; Chilaquiles Verdes with totopos and sunny-side eggs, spicy salsa verde, refried black beans, Mexican crema, and queso fresco; and Horchata French Toast featuring Seven Stars Bakery challah bread, “Rumchata” custard, Vermont maple syrup, ancho-chili bacon, and whipped strawberry butter.

A XACO Kids Breakfast will feature scrambled eggs, crispy home fries, and house-made tortillas. Sides include crispy home fries, ancho-chili bacon, French toast, avocado, guacamole, refried beans, and pico de gallo. 

“We are excited to share our delicious brunch offerings with the downtown community,” said Harrison Elkhay, President, Chow Fun Food Group. “Guests will love the authentic, fresh, and bright flavors in our brunch dishes and cocktails, all served in a relaxed and fun environment. We’re the perfect, laid-back spot for delicious food and great drinks.”

XACO TACO is open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and serves its all-day menu daily from 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

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The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault
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News Bites: Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grants Now Open / The Good Trade Makers Market Returns / Branchfood Launches RI Operations / BEATNIC Offering BOGO for Beginning of World Vegan Month

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

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

Gov. McKee, Legislative Leaders, Dem Announce $700,000 Program Funding To Support Food And Seafood Businesses

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Governor Dan McKee, leaders of the Rhode Island General Assembly, and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announce that $700,000 in Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) programming funding is available to help new and existing food businesses grow and flourish. Enacted in 2012 to “support and develop more robust and self-sustaining agricultural and seafood sectors,” LASA is an important catalyst in strengthening the local food system. Since its enactment 10 years ago, LASA has provided more than $1.4 million through individual program grants up to $20,000.

“The 2022 Local Agriculture and Seafood Act grants support projects that help with the entry, growth, and sustainability of small or starting green sector businesses, with a particular focus on supporting a diversity of foods and food producers,” said Governor McKee. “LASA is a pillar of our food strategy through which Rhode Island is investing to provide consistent access to safe, healthy, affordable food.”

“The Local Agriculture and Seafood Act has always been about being firmly committed to our constituents and sending the message that we are 100 percent behind local businesses,” said Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski, the Senate sponsor of LASA. “Local food gets from farm to table in fresher condition and means fewer trucks on the road, which means less air pollution. LASA encourages more people to eat more local food. This means better health for Rhode Islanders and our environment.”

“In the 10 years since LASA’s inception, a broad and diverse array of businesses and organizations have benefitted from grants including farmers’ markets, family farms, urban agricultural initiatives, oyster growers, cider makers, and dozens of others,” said Rep. Deborah Ruggiero, LASA’s House sponsor. “I am thrilled to see the level of support going into the next round of program grant funding and look forward to seeing how recipients use it to make Rhode Island’s food system more resilient and sustainable.”

“The fiscal 2023 budget was a product of true collaboration between the House, the Senate, and the Administration, and the House is particularly proud to have helped expand the program funding of the LASA grants to an historically high level,” said House Finance Committee Chairman Marvin Abney. “From Newport to North Smithfield, seafood and agriculture are staples of Rhode Island and investing in them by investing in small producers will boost our whole food economy.”

“Small businesses are the cornerstone of the Rhode Island economy, and agriculture and seafood businesses are the backbone of our food system. This significant investment in the LASA program championed by Senator Sosnowski will enhance the great work it does to support Ocean State food producers, strengthen our local food system, and help address food insecurity in our state,” said Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ryan W. Pearson.

“DEM is always working to get more home-grown food on the table and by supporting local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses, the LASA grants help achieve this,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “Growing local and eating local, fresh, sustainable food minimizes transportation costs, reduces carbon emissions, and boosts the local economy while providing the freshest product possible to the consumer.”

The 2022 programming funding priorities include:

  • Supporting the entry, growth, and sustainability of small or beginning agriculture producers and fishers.
  • Supporting agriculture producers and fishers that are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
  • Supporting the development of new marketing, promotion, sales, and/or distribution channels.
  • Supporting the development of new products, including value-added processing capacity.
  • Fostering new cooperatives, partnerships, and/or collaborations among Rhode Island agriculture producers and fishers and supporting organizations.
  • Fostering and building capacity for markets connecting local farms and fishers with Rhode Island’s food insecure communities.
  • Protecting the future availability of agricultural land for producers, including farm transition planning and implementation, and assisting with on farm food safety improvements, including the developing of Food Safety Modernization Act and hazard analysis critical control point standards.

During the 2021 grant program, DEM awarded $250,000 of programming funding in LASA grants to 12 recipients. Eligible entities include for-profit farmers, fishers, producer groups, and non-profit organizations. Applicants must be based in Rhode Island and only small and/or beginning farmers, or producer groups of small or beginning farmers, are eligible to apply for capital grants. Aquaculture operators are considered farmers in the LASA program. 

For more information on the LASA Grant program, please visit DEM’s website. Applications should be completed online via the State of Rhode Island Grant’s Management System by Nov. 30, 2022 at 11:59 PM. Grant-related questions should be directed to Ananda Fraser, Chief Program Development in DEM’s Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment at 401-222-2781 or via email to DEM.LASA@dem.ri.gov.

DEM continues to work across many fronts to benefit and strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to assist local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses. There are more than 1,000 farms sprinkled across the state and Rhode Island is home to a thriving young farmer network. DEM continues to make investments in critical infrastructure as well as provide farm incubation space to new farmers through its Urban Edge Farm and Snake Den Farm properties. The state’s food scene is often cited as an area of economic strength ripe for innovation and growth. Already, the local food industry supports 60,000 jobs, and the state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy annually.

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.

The Good Trade Makers Market Returns to WaterFire Arts Center

The large-scale community shopping experience brings nearly 100 independent makers under one roof in Providence for a two-day celebration of creatives and tradespeople.

The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault
The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault

The Good Trade Makers Market will return to Providence, RI on November 19-20, 2022. This annual event gathers nearly 100 independent makers and small manufacturers of home decor, art, apothecary products, apparel, accessories, and more from all over the country for a weekend-long community shopping experience at WaterFire Arts Center (475 Valley Street, Providence, RI).

“What’s unique about The Good Trade is that we’re not only showcasing the amazing artisans, makers, and manufacturers who are based here in Rhode Island, but we are also welcoming businesses from 11 other states and introducing them to our little city during the weekend,” said event organizer BJ Mansuetti. “Rhode Islanders have long been committed to shopping small, and we believe that creating an inclusive space for creatives to come together before the holidays and sell their handcrafted goods provides an important boost to the local economy.”

Last year’s event brought in 5,000 shoppers from across New England and generated an estimated $300,000 in revenue for participating small businesses over the course of the weekend. “The community response to the event has been overwhelmingly positive, both from the vendor and shopper perspective. In 2021, vendors shared moving personal stories with our team about the life-changing support they received from shoppers, which was especially meaningful after an extremely difficult couple of years for small businesses,” added Mansuetti.

“With a return to live in person events in 2021, The Good Trade Market was such a great success for the art and maker community in New England, driving a much-needed revenue boost for so many small businesses around the holiday season,” said Peter A. Mello, managing director and co-CEO of WaterFire Providence. “We can’t wait to welcome them back to the WaterFire Arts Center again this year. It’s an event that we’re always excited about and look forward to hosting for many years to come.”

The Good Trade will also be bringing back the popular “Plinko for a Cause” this year. A large, interactive fundraising game where shoppers can donate $5 to play to win prizes provided by The Good Trade and their vendors. This year, 100% of the funds donated will benefit The Steel Yard’s Workforce Training Program, a job-readiness initiative that teaches industry safety standards and a wide range of metalworking skills to prepare community members for a career in metalworking.

Advance tickets for The Good Trade are available now for $7 in advance (advance sales end at midnight on November 18th ) and $10 at the door at goodtrademakersmarket.com. Ticket price include a beverage from our sponsors, including a small beer from Proclamation Ale or Trinity Brewhouse, a small cocktail from The Industrious Spirit Company, a small hot coffee from New Harvest Coffee Roasters, an iced tea from Grany Squibb’s Iced Tea, or a small ice cream from Gather Farm.  Other sponsors include Trinity Beer Garden, Gather Glass, Yelp, and Swamp Yankee Art.

Visit @goodtrademakersmarket on Instagram for daily giveaways from now through November 18th.

The Good Trade Makers Market
November 19 & 20, 2022
Noon to 6pm
WaterFire Arts Center
475 Valley St.
Providence, RI 02908
More info and tickets: goodtrademakersmarket.com/tickets

Branchfood Launches Rhode Island Operations

Global Food Innovation Platform Celebrates Expansion into the Ocean State

More than 80 food and industry leaders today celebrated the expansion of Branchfood, a global food innovation launchpad, into Rhode Island. First established in Massachusetts in 2015, Branchfood will support stage-two food and beverage startups, foodtech, and agtech companies in the state through a comprehensive set of services including curated events, connections to investors, shared workspaces, and advisory support.

“At Branchfood, we bring food founders and leaders together with corporate partners, investors, and experts to create a platform for collaboration and provide strategic advice to help the sector grow and thrive,” said Branchfood Founder and CEO Lauren Abda. “We are thrilled to expand this work into Rhode Island, where we hope to bolster the state’s already rich food ecosystem to help solve the food industry’s most pressing challenges while also positioning Rhode Island to become an internationally-recognized food innovation leader.”

Earlier this year, Branchfood received funding from a Rhode Island Commerce Network Match Grant to assist Rhode Island’s food-related businesses to grow, scale, and lead the future of the food industry.

“Rhode Island is committed to building a strong local food economy and we see enormous potential for homegrown food entrepreneurs and established innovative food companies to find success in our state,” said Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “Partners such as Branchfood are critical in helping us achieve this vision by supporting and connecting high-growth potential companies to strategic resources as they land and expand in Rhode Island.”

As part of this effort, Branchfood is partnering with the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) Providence, which will provide workspace, event venues, and marketing, as well as connections to a robust network of industry professionals and entrepreneurs.

“Innovation is our era’s answer to solving the world’s problems, and CIC supports innovation with every partnership we forge and every business we support,” said Tim Rowe, founder and CEO of CIC. “We’re proud and excited to work with Branchfood to not only grow and strengthen the economy, but also to increase opportunities for entrepreneurs and ultimately tackle complex challenges like food security and food waste.”

Branchfood has successfully supported more than 800 food founders across the region and globally and works with both start-ups and established global food corporations in the consumer products, agricultural, and tech spaces, as well as leading academic institutions and governments. To date, Branchfood’s sister company, Branch Venture Group, has invested more than $3.3M in 15 early-stage food startups.

The celebration kicked off with a panel discussion with some of the state’s most renowned food pioneers, including Lisa Raiola, president and founder of Hope and Main; Todd Blount, president of Blount Fine Foods; and Nicolas Warren, Branch Venture Group Angel Investor. Following the panel, attendees sampled food and drinks and engaged with entrepreneurs at a startup showcase that highlighted 10 local companies, such as Westerly’s Granny Squibb, Barrington’s Big Picture Foods, and Providence’s goTeff.

“We are thrilled to have Branchfood join the food ecosystem in Rhode Island,” said Lisa Raiola, founder and president of food incubator Hope & Main. “Branchfood’s services will advance and accelerate the work that we’ve been doing since 2014 to cultivate a thriving and resilient local food economy. The hundreds of food founders that incubate their start-ups at Hope & Main will find vital support to help them scale to the next level in Rhode Island and the region as Branchfood brings their marketing and manufacturing expertise along with food-focused sources of capital.”

Branchfood’s work in the Ocean State continues on October 6, with a session called the “Ins and Outs” of Scaling a Food Business in Rhode Island, followed by programs including Branchfood’s signature event, Community Table, and financing and investment opportunities for startups and investors in Rhode Island. Additionally, Branchfood and the Cambridge Innovation Center will begin welcoming entrepreneurs and food teams to the 225 Dyer Street location to work and collaborate later this fall. Learn more about Branchfood at branchfood.com and branchventuregroup.com.

World Vegan Month is More Fun with a Friend . . . That’s why BEATNIC is offering a buy one, get one, offer to kick off World Vegan Month!

Did you know that you don’t need to be vegan to enjoy vegan food? Well, of course you did :) but did you know that 90% of plant-based food consumers are not vegan or vegetarian? 

Come and join the trend this November with Beatnic’s BOGO offering – you and a friend can enjoy a BUY 1 GET 1 FREE meal from November 1st to November 8th at all Beatnic locations in NYC, Providence, and Boston

Formerly By Chloe, Beatnic provides high quality, fast casual, vegan food, with a little something for everyone including their Guac Burger, Chicky Dippers, and seasonal menu items like their Loaded Shroom Chili or Truffle Melt.

The best part? You won’t have to feel guilty going back for seconds. Even swapping just one meal a week can positively impact the environment and your health (see below). 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Diets of meat eaters create 7x the greenhouse gas emissions and use 10x the amount of water compared to the diets of vegans
  • A plant-based diet requires only one third of the land needed to support a meat and dairy diet. 
  • The vast amount of grain feed required for meat production is a significant contributor to deforestation, habitat loss and species extinction

HEALTH BENEFITS 

  • More input of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, etc, provide more fiber and antioxidants to the body
  • Eating a low fat, high fiber vegan diet could lead to greater weight loss
  • Eating vegan can lower one’s risk of diabetes and certain cancers

ETHICAL CONSCIOUSNESS

  • Animals required for a meat diet are kept in overcrowded unethical conditions and are eventually slaughtered

Instructions:

  • Sign up using the link: https://signup.thanx.com/bychloe/worldveganmonth
  • Download the app and sign in
  • See the reward “free entree for a friend when you buy one!” 
  • Visit any Beatnic store, and redeem the reward at the register
  • To redeem, you must order one entree (salad, burger, sandwich) with both parties physically present to then redeem another entree for free

Terms and conditions:

  • Must redeem in store. Beatnic team member to swipe reward in app at the register to redeem.
  • Both parties must be physically present at the register.
  • Must purchase one entree to get the second of lower cost free.
  • Limit one per customer.
  • Must be an active Beatnic account holder or download the Beatnic app using the following link (https://signup.thanx.com/bychloe/worldveganmonth) to join our loyalty program to redeem.
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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
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.

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