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News Bites: Easy Entertaining Fundraising for National Breast Cancer Month & New Harvest Menu, Hope & Main Turns One, Foolproof Brewing with Nuts ‘N More

by David Dadekian October 2, 2015
written by David Dadekian

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

Easy Entertaining Inc. Fundraising for National Breast Cancer Month

Donuts, photo via Easy Entertaining Inc.

Donuts, photo via Easy Entertaining Inc.

Feed the cure at the Café at Easy Entertaining during the month of October. This farm-to-fork catering collaborative fundraises for the National Breast Cancer Foundation out of their retail location each year and this year is more mouth watering than ever.

Easy Entertaining plans to donate five percent of their regular breakfast and lunch sales, 100 percent of their Donut Friday donut sales, and all proceeds from their breast cancer t-shirt sales directly to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

“Breast cancer awareness is something very personal to me and to some of my co-workers so we’re elated to participate in fundraising each year. We’re hopeful that we’ll beat last year’s donation of over $2,000.00. Stop by and enjoy a donut, its for charity. The calories don’t count when it’s for charity!” exclaims Kaitlyn Roberts, Proprietor and Executive Chef at Easy Entertaining.

The Café at Easy Entertaining is located at 166 Valley Street, Building 10, in Providence. Head over to enjoy a locally sourced breakfast or lunch and treat yourself to their homemade donuts, sold only on Fridays, all to raise awareness and support the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

For more information on Easy Entertaining please e-mail Nik Delfino at nik@EasyEntertainingRI.com or call him at (401) 437-6090.

Easy Entertaining Inc. Releases All New Harvest Menu!

Pastrami and Apple - shaved pastrami - Chef Ashley's apple mustard chutney - cheddar - house mustard - Danielle's whole wheat pumpkin seed bread, photo via Easy Entertaining Inc.

Pastrami and Apple – shaved pastrami – Chef Ashley’s apple mustard chutney – cheddar – house mustard – Danielle’s whole wheat pumpkin seed bread, photo via Easy Entertaining Inc.

Easy Entertaining Inc. has released their entirely new Fall menu for their retail location, the Café at Easy Entertaining, where they serve local comforts for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday from 8a-2p. The Café’s new menu features signature sandwiches, soups, and salads along with homespun sides and fresh baked sweet treats and breads.

If you’re looking for a quick stop on your way to the office then Easy Entertaining’s Café is your answer. Located in a restored loft space in Providence’s Rising Sun Mills, the Café at Easy Entertaining is the perfect stop on your commute. Breakfast here consists of hot off the stovetop eggs sandwiched between freshly baked English muffins with cheddar, homemade pastries baked fresh daily, and more. Let’s not forget the fresh brewed New Harvest Coffee Roasters coffee to fill your cup.

Your search for a new lunch spot has come to an end as well. The Café at Easy Entertaining’s Fall lunch menu can appeal to any locavore. Nothing suggests Autumn like their Turkey and Fig sandwich showcasing shaved turkey breast, a house made fig spread, NH Country Smokehouse bacon, aioli made with Narragansett Creamery’s Atwells Gold, and baby kale all stuffed on freshly baked ciabatta.

In addition to their Harvest staples, the Café offers classic sandwiches with signature twists such as their Pastrami and Apple sandwich filled with shaved pastrami, cheddar, their apple mustard chutney, and house made mustard. If you’re in the mood for something more basic give their Sun-dried Chicken Caesar Wrap a try. The wrap is stuffed with smoked chicken breast, mixed greens, Narragansett Creamery’s Atwells Gold cheese, homemade croutons, and Easy Entertaining’s sun-dried tomato Caesar dressing. Alongside their mouthwatering sandwiches, Easy Entertaining offers a multitude of vegetarian fare, salads, and seasonal soups.

Enjoy a meal made by a team who takes extreme pride in their food, a team that doesn’t cut corners, and a team that serves a true taste of what Rhode Island has to offer. The Café at Easy Entertaining’s full breakfast and lunch menu can be found on their website, EasyEntertainingRI.com. If you’re looking for a cozy and comfortable lunch spot, look no further and give this quaint little eatery a try. The Café at Easy Entertaining can be located at 166 Valley St, BLD 10 in Providence RI, right in front of the Rising Sun Mill Lofts.

For more information about Easy Entertaining please call Nik Delfino at (401) 437-6090 or e-mail him at nik@EasyEntertainingRI.com.

 


Once Shuttered Main Street School in Warren, RI Celebrates Historic Centennial

Birthday Bash hosted by new tenant, Hope & Main, as the State’s first culinary incubator marks its own one year anniversary
Calling on all alumni to celebrate the spirit of reinvention!

Pie-Eating contest featuring Humble Pie, photo by Alex Braunstein

Pie-Eating contest featuring Humble Pie, photo by Alex Braunstein

As Hope & Main celebrates its first birthday, the historic schoolhouse that it calls home turns 100. Built in 1915, the 18,000 square foot elementary school was faithfully rehabilitated by its new owner, Hope & Main. With the help of a $2.9 million USDA loan, classrooms were preserved, blackboards were restored, and even the maple floors were polished to reveal the places where wooden desks were bolted to the foor. The entire first floor remains a community space devoted to public education about cooking, nutrition and the need to recapture and sustain the local food system.

Hope & Main is calling all alumni who attended the Main Street School to return to their “alma mater” as special guests on Sunday, October 11 from 2-6 p.m. at 691 Main Street in Warren, RI. This historic gathering is so significant, that the Warren Preservation Society will be on hand to video the stories and memories of Main Street School alumni as part of the town’s oral history project.

The Centennial Celebration also coincide with the last Schoolyard Market of the season (Schoolyard is Hope & Main’s makers market), and will be a turn-of-the century themed, fall festival open to everyone free of charge. In addition to the fare that market-goers have discovered at the Schoolyard Market all season long, the Centennial Celebration will feature:

  • 2:30 p.m. Pie-Eating contest featuring Humble Pie
  • 3 p.m. Square dancing with the Town Howlers
  • 4 p.m. Class Reunion for everyone who attended school at 691 Main Street
  • 5:30 p.m. $100 Raffle Prize Winner Announced
  • Plus, Old-timey photo booth and games, Historical artifacts from 1915, Carnival-style food and treats, Photo submission contest, and Live music
  • Festivities are being sponsored by Navigant Credit Union– also celebrating their 100th year of serving Rhode Islanders; and Dave’s Marketplace

There is much to celebrate as Hope & Main boasts a solid report card in its first year of business. The nonprofit food business incubator has jump started more than 50 food businesses, poured more than $1.14 million in into the local economy, and created 124 new jobs. President and Founder, Lisa Raiola says, “When I first saw the building it took real imagination to see the potential for what Hope & Main has now become. It is a vibrant place of reinvention. At the same time we created state-of-the -art production kitchens for food entrepreneurs, we also preserved the school as a community resource where people of all ages can learn about the benefits of healthy eating and local food. Now that we’ve been open for a year, I cannot believe the voracious appetite people have for this novel concept.”

While capturing the stories of Main Street School alumni, Hope & Main will also tell the story of some of its “star pupils” and break-out businesses:

  • Both D​eelish No Scare Skin Care and Ocean State Smoked Fish w​ere among only five finalists in the recent “Get Started Rhode Island” business competition
  • Hola Baked Goods i​s in production full-time to satisfy demand.
  • Fox Point Pickling Co. i​s marinating in 70 stores across five states, plus 6-10 restaurants and corporate cafeterias. Fox Point won a RI Monthly Best of RI award, and is a finalist in the Martha Stewart Living American Made competition.
  • Tito’s Cantina q​uadrupled production and launched four new products, thanks to Hope & Main’s technical support, equipment, and resources.
  • Delsie Catering & Events c​lients include Alex and Ani, RISD, Brown University, The Office of Governor Gina Raimondo, The Dean Hotel, The Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, Lark Hotels, and the Junior League of Rhode Island.
  • Essentially Coconut h​as seen impressive online sales, and their products can be purchased at Whole Foods and eight other stores across RI and MA.
  • Backyard Food Co. ​is selling 51 stores, including every Dave’s Marketplace in Rhode Island.

Hope & Main invites alumni to submit your school picture or a​ photo of the Main Street School b​y October 9, 2015 for $20 worth of free raffle tickets. For more information about this ticketed event, and for photo contest details, please go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/740013216125621/

 


Foolproof Brewing Launches Peanut Butter Beer Collaboration with Nuts ‘N More

Foolproof Brewing Company has partnered with fellow Pawtucket small business Nuts ‘N More to brew a peanut butter version of Foolproof’s popular Raincloud porter.

The beer, which will be brewed, canned, and kegged by Foolproof, features a new dehydrated peanut butter produced by Nuts ‘N More. Peanut Butter Raincloud will be released in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire before the end of September. The beer will be available in draft and four-packs of 12 oz. cans with a suggested retail price of $9.99.

“I can’t tell you how excited we are to be partnering with another local food artisan, particularly one that shares our hometown,” said Nick Garrison, president and founder of Foolproof. “If you like peanut butter and dark beer, this one is going to be right up your alley.”

“When Foolproof approached us with the notion of producing Peanut Butter Raincloud, we instantly knew this was going to be a terrific collaboration,” said Neil Cameron, co-founder of Nuts ‘N More. “Nothing makes us happier than two local companies joining forces.”

October 2, 2015 0 comment
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Eat Drink RI Festival 2015 – April 30 through May 3

by David Dadekian March 12, 2015
written by David Dadekian

Eat Drink RI Festival logo

Eat Drink RI Festival — April 30 through May 3
Fourth Annual All-Local Food and Drink Celebration Returns To Providence

Showcasing the best of the ever-expanding Rhode Island culinary scene, the fourth annual, all-local Eat Drink RI Festival returns Thursday, April 30th through Sunday, May 3rd. The Festival, sponsored by Daniele, Inc., will be held throughout Providence, a city which has received numerous accolades for it’s food, including being named among the best small cities for restaurants and dining in the world in Saveur magazine’s 2013 and 2014 Culinary Travel Awards, as well as being named the 2012 #1 Food City in the United States and the 2014 America’s Favorite City by Travel + Leisure readers.

“Over past few years, Rhode Island has seen our small farms and food and beverage manufacturers grow. Our local food and beverage entrepreneurial ventures have a big ripple effect on our economy, helping to attract and sustain jobs across our state,” said Governor Gina Raimondo. “I am proud to support the Eat Drink RI Festival, which highlights our amazing restaurants, breweries, vineyards, and thriving food industry.”

Daniele, Inc.The Eat Drink RI Festival will feature a star-studded line-up of over 80 chefs, farmers, bartenders and producers including: StarChefs.com Rising Star Sustainability award winner Chef Derek Wagner of Nick’s on Broadway, Gold Medal Cheese Competition award-winning Narragansett Creamery, World Whiskies Award winner for Best Flavored Whiskey Sons of Liberty Spirits, multiple Good Food Award winner Daniele Inc., Blackbird Farm, Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, Granny Squibb’s Iced Tea, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Revival Brewing Company and Rhody Fresh, among many others.

Festival highlights include:

Dinner by Dames photo by David Dadekian

Dinner by Dames photo by David Dadekian

THURSDAY, APRIL 30
Dinner by Dames to benefit AIDS Project RI – Casino at Roger Williams Park
This unique dining experience brings together five of Rhode Island’s most talented chefs for a multi-course dining event. Chefs Melissa Denmark of Gracie’s & Ellie’s Bakery, Jordan Goldsmith formerly of the Garden Grille, Maria Meza of El Rancho Grande, Kaitlyn Roberts of Easy Entertaining Inc., and Jessica Wood of Fire and Water Restaurant Group partner with local female farmers and food artisans to prepare signature dishes for dinner guests. Jen Ferreira, the East Coast Brand Ambassador for Lucas Bols, will lead a group of RI’s top female bartenders in creating cocktail pairings for each course.

Eat Drink RI Festival Truck Stop 2014 photo by Stacey Doyle Photography

Eat Drink RI Festival Truck Stop 2014 photo by Stacey Doyle Photography

FRIDAY, MAY 1
Truck Stop to Benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank – Alex and Ani City Center
The largest food truck event in Rhode Island returns in 2015! The Truck Stop showcases the excellence and variety of Rhode Island’s mobile restaurants while also benefitting an organization dedicated to ending hunger. Last Festival’s Truck Stop raised over $106,000 for the RI Food Bank. Live music will be performed by the Superchief Trio, featuring Keith Munslow and friends, who perform a repertoire of swing, New Orleans R&B, jump blues and boogie woogie. Some of this year’s participants include Acacia Café, Like No Udder, Mijos Tacos, Noble Knots, Rocket Fine Street Food and Tallulah, among many others.

“We are so excited for the Food Bank and Eat Drink RI to partner once again for this year’s Festival,” said Hugh Minor, Director of Communications for the RI Community Food Bank. “Our relationship continues to strengthen and grow as David Dadekian repeatedly seeks out new and exciting ways to work with us to address the issue of hunger in Rhode Island.”

Eat Drink RI Festival Grand Tasting 2014 photo by Stacey Doyle Photography

Eat Drink RI Festival Grand Tasting 2014 photo by Stacey Doyle Photography

SATURDAY, MAY 2
Grand Tasting presented by Providence Monthly – Providence Biltmore Grand Ballroom
The Grand Tasting is a showcase of over forty local food, wine, beer and spirit exhibitors, as well as an abundance of local food artisans. During the Tasting there will be three Culinary Demonstrations featuring local chefs with farmers and producers at 12:30 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m. Some of this year’s participants include American Mussel Harvesters, Bully Boy Distillers, a group of over 10 new culinary businesses via Hope & Main, Jonathan Edwards Winery, Narragansett Brewing Company, Olneyville NY System, RI Mushroom Company, Yacht Club Soda and many, many more.

Eat Drink RI Festival Grand Brunch 2014 photo by Brad Smith Photography

Eat Drink RI Festival Grand Brunch 2014 photo by Brad Smith Photography

SUNDAY, MAY 3
Grand Brunch to benefit the RI Philharmonic Music School – Providence Biltmore Grand Ballroom
The Festival will come to a close with the Grand Brunch, prepared by some of the state’s best chefs and pastry chefs including: Chef Christopher Champagne of 84 Tavern on Canal, Martha Stewart Weddings baker Kelly Dull of north bakery, Mexican icon Maria Meza of El Rancho Grande, PBS’s The Chefs of Cucina Amore’s Joe Simone of Simone’s, baking maven Chef Jennifer Luxmoore of Sin, and more. In addition to the food, the Brunch features entertainment by jazz students from the Music School, a coffee bar by New Harvest Coffee Roasters, and a cocktail bar by Little Bitte Artisanal Cocktails.

Betty Ann Kearney, Director of Development for the RI Philharmonic said, “We were so pleased to partner with the Eat Drink RI Festival last year. The funds we received from the Festival are used to support our efforts to bring music education to every elementary school child (50,000 in all) in our region over the next 4 years.  Through efforts like Eat Drink RI we were able to bring 11,000 children to the Vets Auditorium to play and sing with the RI Philharmonic Orchestra in 2014 and expect over 12,000 this year.”

For more information about the Eat Drink RI Festival or to purchase tickets, please visit eatdrinkri.com/festival, on Facebook at facebook.com/eatdrinkri.

March 12, 2015 0 comment
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News Bites: Hope & Main Announces First Group of Local Culinary Entrepreneurs, RI Food Policy Council Call for Nominations

by David Dadekian September 4, 2014
written by David Dadekian

Hope & MainCurrent news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items, though I will add I’m a huge fan of Hope & Main and was proud to have several of these first incubuses sample their product at the Eat Drink RI Festival in April, and I’m a member of the Rhode Island Food Policy Council—please follow any links for more information.

Hope & Main Food Business Incubator Announces Inaugural Cohort

More than 30 food entrepreneurs will launch culinary businesses this month as members of the state’s first food business incubator program

Hope & Main, a forward-thinking, non-profit food business incubator designed to support the local food system and to strengthen the region’s economy, today introduced its inaugural group of members, a cohort of more than 30 culinary entrepreneurs who will be growing early-stage food startups and other food-related businesses from the organization’s headquarters in Warren, Rhode Island. The companies will begin full production at Hope & Main’s newly renovated facility in September 2014.

The many resources offered by Hope & Main’s incubator program, coupled with the fact that the organization does not receive equity in its members’ companies, prompted a flood of applications from entrepreneurs seeking to jump-start food ventures. Members hail from across Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and include specialty food product makers, catering companies, food trucks, farmers, personal chefs and nutritionists.

Hope & Main will hold a Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting event on October 3 to celebrate the opening of the newly-renovated facility, largely financed through a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Loan, and to introduce the public to the inaugural cohort of member companies.

As the state’s first food business incubator, Hope & Main’s nonprofit incubator program gives food startups the chance to grow in their first two to three years without the cost of equipping their own commercial facilities. Members benefit from extensive mentoring, access to fully equipped and affordable workspace, and immersion in an entrepreneurial environment where they can collaborate with industry experts and peers. Hope & Main’s aim is to create a community of support for food entrepreneurs and to serve as a springboard for the launch and growth of new culinary enterprises.

Hope & Main is great example the new ‘sharing economy’ where small producers can access an extensive platform of resources that not only reduce expense and exposure to risk but also increase the chance for success,” says Lisa Raiola, founder and president of Hope & Main. “It has given these fledgling entrepreneurs the opportunity to think big even as they start small. It is their promise and enthusiasm that has brought us to this milestone.”

The inaugural cohort of entrepreneurs and their food-related startups are:

Acacia Food Truck & Kitchen
Member: Dawn Brooks-Rapp
www.acaciacafe.com
twitter.com/AcaciaFoodTruck

Agraria Edibles
Member: Barbara Link
www.agrariafarm.com
facebook.com/AgrariaFarm

Allie’s Genuine Goodness
Member: Elizabeth Alvarez
www.alliesgenuinegoodness.com

Anavila Bakehouse
Member: Margie Aitkenhead

The Backyard Food Company – CURRENTLY RUNNING A KICKSTARTER CAMPAIGN
Members: Matthew McClelland and Loubnen Sukkar
www.thebackyardfoodcompany.com
twitter.com/BackyardFoodCo

Bella Piccolina
Member: Daniela Mansella
www.bellapiccolina.com
twitter.com/dmansella
facebook.com/daniela.mansella

Biggest Little Popcorn Company
Member: Roselette W. DeWitt
www.biggestlittlepopcorncompany.com
twitter.com/biggestlilpopc
facebook.com/biggestlittlepopcorncompany

The CupCake Contessas
Members: Marylee Dixon and Karianne Polak
twitter.com/TheCupcakeConte
facebook.com/TheCupCAKEContessas

Dough
Member: Helena Sheusi
www.doughtreats.com
facebook.com/doughtreats

Essentially Coconut
Member: Sophia Gartland
www.essentiallycoconut.com
twitter.com/essentiallycoco
facebook.com/essentiallycoconut

Fox Point Pickling Company
Member: Ziggy Goldfarb
www.foxpointpickles.com
twitter.com/FoxPointPickles
facebook.com/FoxPointPicklingCo

Great Gaines Foods
Member: Judy Venter-Gaines
www.greatgainesfoods.com
twitter.com/greatgainesfood
facebook.com/GreatGainesFoods

Griffith Gardens
Member: Bryan Sirois
facebook.com/GriffithGardens

Halsey & Bowen Peanut Sauce
Member: Morgan Hollenbeck

HOLLISTER Tamales
Members: Charles and Kaari Groscup
www.HOLLISTERTamales.com
facebook.com/HollisterTamales

Laughing Gull Chocolates
Lindsay Tarnoff
www.laughinggullri.com
twitter.com/laughinggullri
facebook.com/LaughingGullRI

Lori’s Primo Granola
Member: Lori Vartanian
www.primogranola.com

Matt’s Magic Brownies
Member: Matt D’Alessio
www.mattsmagicbrownies.com
twitter.com/MattsMagicBrwne
facebook.com/MattsMagicBrownies

Mima’s Gluten-Free & Nut-Free
Members: Lois Mahoney and Betsy Shealy
www.mimasglutenfree.com
twitter.com/mimasgf
facebook.com/mimasgf

My Lil’ Chefs
Members: Jack Achenbach and Casey Paige
www.mylilchefswebsite.com
twitter.com/MyLilChefs

New England Syrup & Tonic
Members: Candace and Chris Clavin

New Urban Farmers
Members: Bleu Grijalva and Emily Jodka
www.newurbanfarmers.org

Nutritionally Sound
Member: Meg O’Rourke RD-LDN
www.harmonywithfood.com

Ocean State Smoked Fish Company
Member: Jeffrey Powell
facebook.com/OceanStateSmokedFishCompany

Pies by Moira
Member: Moira Walker
facebook.com/piesbymoira1

Spicy Penguin
Member: David Peligian
www.thespicypenguin.com
twitter.com/SpicyPenguinPVD
facebook.com/thespicypenguin

Tito’s Cantina
Member: Richard Reavis
www.titos.com
facebook.com/titoscantina

Uncle Truscott’s Classic American Confections
Member: Peter Kelly

 


Members of the RI Food Policy Council tour Hope & Main

Members of the RI Food Policy Council tour Hope & Main

The Rhode Island Food Policy Council is seeking new Council Members for the 2015 term.

New members will be elected at the December 2014 Annual Meeting.

Nomination Forms due on September 30th.

Who Should Be Nominated?

The Council seeks qualified candidates, from diverse sectors of the Rhode Island food system, who are committed to and interested in food systems change.

The membership selection process strives to achieve racial, socioeconomic, ethnic and geographic diversity.

What’s Involved?

Responsibilities of Council members include:

  • Create new and innovative ideas and plans for the Rhode Island food system
  • Monitor and promote the Rhode Island food system across multiple sectors
  • Help to maintain direction, purposes & goals, functions and responsibilities of the RIFPC

Detailed info on Council duties can be found on our website.

How Do I Find Out More?

If you have specific questions about Council roles and responsibilities, please contact RIFPC Vice-Chair Krystal Noiseux.

If you are a part of (or know of!) a community organization that might benefit from hearing more about RIFPC in general -who we are, what we do, and how community members can get involved with us – please let Krystal know and she’d be happy to reach out to them as Chair of our Governance Committee.

September 4, 2014 0 comment
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News Bites: Hope & Main Readying to Open, Farm Fresh RI Farmers Markets, New Attractions in Newport & Bristol Counties

by David Dadekian June 26, 2014
written by David Dadekian

Hope & Main, LLC

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

Hope & Main Hires Executive Director of Operations Ahead of August Opening

Julie Nahas will head Rhode Island’s first culinary business incubator, set to open its doors in August 2014

Hope & Main, a nonprofit culinary business incubator, has hired Julie Nahas as its Executive Director of Operations. Nahas will lead day-to-day operations of the facility as well as oversee recruitment, coaching and mentoring for the organization’s incubator program.

Nahas brings to Hope & Main a diverse and established career in the Rhode Island food and culinary industry. Owner and operator of the landmark 3 Steeple Street Restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island, from 2002 to 2009, she also managed the Pot Au Feu and former Federal Reserve restaurants.

“Julie has experience in food business management and production, and she’s passionately devoted to local, sustainable food and production practices,” says Lisa Raiola, MPH, founder of Hope & Main. “We are incredibly impressed with her vision for Hope & Main and her enthusiasm for mentoring our members. I am thrilled that she is taking the helm as we move toward our August opening.”

Hope & Main will launch with some 30 new food startups in its newly-renovated headquarters in Warren, Rhode Island, later this summer. As the state’s first food business incubator, Hope & Main will give food entrepreneurs and early-stage culinary businesses the chance to grow in their first two to three years without the cost of equipping their own commercial facilities. Food businesses accepted into the incubator program will receive extensive mentoring, access to fully-equipped and affordable work space, and immersion in an entrepreneurial environment where they can collaborate with peers and industry experts.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the Hope & Main project and to work with so many inspiring entrepreneurs in the culinary industry,” Nahas says. “I’m looking forward to helping to make this a place where food startups can grow and thrive.”

For more information on Hope & Main visit www.makefoodyourbusiness.org


Six Farm Fresh RI Farmers Markets Open in July

Farm Fresh Rhode Island is excited to announce the opening of five farmers markets across the state in the month of July. Find a market in your neighborhood and shop for fresh local fruits and vegetables this summer. In July shoppers can expect to find tomatoes, corn, peppers, blueberries, melons, grapes, greens, herbs, cheese, radishes, mushrooms, carrots, bitter melons, fresh bread and more!

The following markets, managed by Farm Fresh Rhode Island, open in July. For a full list of farmers markets in Rhode Island, visit www.farmfreshri.org.

WOONSOCKET FARMERS MARKET: Tuesdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 1st – Oct. 28th

Thundermist Health Center, 450 Clinton St., Woonsocket (NOTE: NEW HOURS!)

  • One of 4 national sites running the innovative Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program.
  • Woonsocket Thundermist Health Fair will be held Tuesday, July 15th.

DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET: Tuesdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 1st – Oct. 28th

Near Burnside Park, Downtown Kennedy Plaza, Providence

  • Located in the heart of Providence adjacent to Burnside Park
  • Many new vendors this season, come check them out!

WEST WARWICK FARMERS MARKET: Thursdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 3rd– Oct. 30th

Thundermist Health Center, 186 Providence St., West Warwick

  • Two new additional vendors this year, bringing more variety to this market!
  • West Warwick Health Fair will be held July 17th.

BROAD STREET FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays 8:30am – 12pm, Jul. 5th – Oct. 25th

Algonquin House, 807 Broad St., Providence

  • Come enjoy the greenery at Algonquin House and purchase fresh produce.
  • Broad Street Health Fair will be held July 19th

SLATER PARK FARMERS MARKET: Sundays 12pm – 3pm, Jul. 6th  – Oct. 26th

Armistice Boulevard Entrance of Slater Park, Pawtucket

  • This market is near the tennis courts in Slater Park.
  • Enjoy Sunday afternoons in the park with your family, and grab your veggies to go!

NEUTACONKANUT HILL FARMERS MARKET: Mondays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 7th – Oct. 27th

Neutaconkanut Park, Plainfield St., Providence

  • Stop by the Neutaconkanut Recreation Center and pool on your way to the market.
  • Health Fair Week at Farm Fresh markets begins Monday, July 14th at Neutaconkanut.

Farm Fresh Rhode Island markets accept cash, credit cards, EBT/Food Stamps, Senior Coupons, WIC Farmers Market Coupons, and WIC Fruit and Vegetable checks. Customers with credit, debit or EBT cards can purchase Fresh Bucks – farmers market tokens – at the Farm Fresh RI welcome table.

FARMERS MARKET INCENTIVES AND NUTRITION EDUCATION DETAILS:

Healthy Foods, Healthy Families – A program that provides low-income Rhode Island families with the tools to shop for and cook affordable fresh foods, through a series of hands-on activities at the farmers markets. Families receive incentives to return to the market, such as free bags, recipe books, and fresh bucks to use to purchase fresh produce. The curriculum is available in both English and Spanish.

All of the markets listed above, as well as the Armory Park Farmers Market, host this program, except the Downtown Farmers Market. To learn more, email mikayla@farmfreshri.org.

Fruit & Veggie RX – For 2014, the Fruit & Vegetable Prescription program will run at Thundermist Health Center at the Woonsocket and West Warwick Farmers Markets. The goal of the program is to improve the health of community members by giving them the resources to afford to eat more fresh, locally grown produce. This season, 70 enrolled families will receive healthcare provider-generated “prescriptions” redeemable at the farmers market for local fresh fruit and vegetables. The Fruit & Vegetable Prescription Program is a public health initiative of the Wholesome Wave Foundation. For more information visit: http://www.farmfresh.org/markets/fruitveggierx.php.

Bonus Bucks – Bring your SNAP card to the Farm Fresh welcome table at participating markets and receive extra money for fresh food. Farm Fresh Rhode Island will give you $2 extra for every $5 in EBT spent (that’s an unlimited 40% bonus) thanks to Citizens Bank, Wholesome Wave, June Rockwell Levy Foundation, The Rhode Island Foundation, Bank RI, City of Providence, Frederick C. Tanner Memorial Fund, and generous individuals.

Fresh Bucks, as well as the 40% bonus for EBT customers, are also available at the independently managed Hope Street Farmers Market in Providence on Saturdays.


New Attractions and Businesses Enhance the 2014 Visitor Experience

This past weekend officially ushered in the summer season, and just in time, Newport and Bristol Counties welcomes new accommodations, events, experiences, restaurants, tours and more.

ACCOMODATIONS

The Urban Beach House at The Attwater: With four suites and one guest room, The Urban Beach House at The Attwater brings the vibe of the beach to the heart of Newport. “Outdoor style” showers in the rooms, a sand lounge gathering spot for watching Newport roll by and kick-up-my-heels informality create the sizzle of summer every day. In the main hotel, the new Lark Suite has been unveiled. All have been designed by award-winning Rachel Reider Interiors. The total combined number of suites and rooms available at The Attwater is now 17. 22 Liberty Street, Newport.

EVENTS, TOURS & ATTRACTIONS

Bristol Independence Tour: Enjoy the many sights over Bristol, home of America’s oldest Fourth of July Parade, with Bird’s Eye View Helicopters. This 15-18 minute aerial patriotic tour includes views of Prudence Island, Roger Williams University, the Mount Hope Bridge, Bristol lighthouses and mansions, and historic Colt State Park. You’ll also experience a perfect panoramic view of the upper Narragansett Bay made complete with distant views of Providence (approximately 25 statute miles). 

Cliff Walk: Newport’s most visited attraction has unveiled newly restored section that was previously damaged and closed due to Hurricane Sandy. Work on a small section between Marine Avenue and Ledge Road, which will complete the restoration project, should be finished by mid-summer.

Paradise Farmhouse: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the newly-renovated Paradise Farmhouse in Middletown is the oldest structure on the 325-acre Norman Bird Sanctuary property dating back to the early 1700s when it was a mere shack for tenant farmers. The character of the house has been carefully preserved while bringing all systems up to date. The interior architectural details were carefully removed at the outset of the project and have been painstakingly restored and put back over the past few months. With overnight accommodations for up to 16 people with 6/7 bedrooms, Paradise Farmhouse offers multi-day programs for visiting ornithologists, naturalists, health & wellness groups, eco-conscious travelers, environmentalists and artists on this breathtaking and historical property. In addition, there are plans for an Artists Residency program, the first and only of its kind in RI, where artists will live and work in the farmhouse, carrying on the significant history of artists finding inspiration on this beautiful property. Opened January 2014.

Doris Duke’s Rough Point Mansion: Twice named to best dressed lists, Miss Duke was an individual whose sense of style reflected her confidence, personality and creativity. The 2014 exhibit, No Rules: The Personal Style of Doris Duke, examines a portion of Miss Duke’s clothing collection ranging from exquisite evening gowns to the simple black dress. The exhibit is included in the guided house tour and will be on display in the galleries at Rough Point through the season, which ends November 9th. Also, for the first time since it opened to the public, Rough Point is open Sundays for guided tours.

Newport Concert Series: Gregg Allman, Yes, Bare Naked Ladies, 3 Doors Down, The Beach Boys, Josh Turner, Alanis Morissette, KC & The Sunshine Band, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, John Hiatt, The Robert Cray Band and Chris Young are just some of the talented musicians headed to downtown Newport with many more to be announced. newportwaterfrontevents.com/music/newport-concert-series

The Newport Comedy Series: The most sought-after talent performs in the City by the Sea including Bill Cosby, Amy Schumer, Artie Lange, Jim Jefferies and Nick Swardson with many more acts to be announced. newportcomedy.com

The Newport Jazz Festival: Marking its 60th anniversary, a third day of music featuring emerging artists has been added. More than 40 artists will perform over the weekend including the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Bobby McFerrin spirityouall, Trombone Shorty, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Robert Glasper, Dr. John, Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Gary Burton, Gregory Porter, Jon Batiste, Dave Holland, John Zorn, Miguel Zenón, The Cookers, Snarky Puppy and more.  In addition, the Newport Jazz Festival will present a symposium at Fort Adams State Park. Curated by New York Times critic Nate Chinen, the symposium will discuss how jazz relates to popular culture in today’s society, compared to when the festival began in 1954. It will feature internationally-known jazz aficionados and historians, including Henry Louis Gates.

Newport Mansions:

  • New this summer will be a revised audio tour at Marble House which will shed new light on the “self-made myth” of Alva Vanderbilt and share more personal stories about the Vanderbilt family.
  • Mandarin translations of the audio tours at The Breakers and The Elms will debut. Chinese-speaking visitors are the fastest growing segment of foreign visitors to the Newport Mansions.
  • The 2014 costume exhibition at Rosecliff, Dressing Down: Private Life and the Dressing Gown, includes a series of vignettes depicting “life at home” from 1890 to 1950 featuring a variety of dressing gowns and other personal apparel that gave women and men a reprieve from the elaborate and often constricting formal clothing of the period.
  • Point to Point: Hunter House and the Constellations of Communities will present Hunter House and its collections through a wide range of perspectives, from wealthy merchants, to enslaved Africans, French troops, and others whose daily lives shaped the world in Newport’s Point neighborhood.
  • At the Isaac Bell House, an exhibition presented in partnership with the Newport Historical Society will examine an early photographic portfolio commissioned by architect Charles McKim. Reinventing the Colonial: The Charles Follen McKim Photographs will showcase a series of 29 black and white photographs of buildings, architectural details, furniture and landscapes taken in and around Newport in 1874, which helped to shape McKim’s later work, including the Bell House.

Newport Rocks the Fort: This new concert series at historic Fort Adams will include food, beverages and fun. There will be two major concerts (Sun. June 29 and Fri. Aug. 29) and a series of Thursday evening concerts featuring regional musicians. June 29 performers include: John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, Another Tequila Sunrise (Eagles Tribute band), Hey Nineteen (Tribute to Steely Dan), and more. The Aug. 29 concert features Rick Derringer and more.  “Newport Rocks the Fort Sundown Thursdays” are free concerts set on the Fort’s North lawn starting at 6:00 pm and ending shortly after sunset.

In conjunction with the 375th anniversary of Newport, The Preservation Society of Newport County and designer Angela Moore will host a Champagne Brunch Fashion Show this summer at Rosecliff on Thursday, July 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  All proceeds from this debut event will benefit the Preservation Society’s mission to protect, preserve and present its exceptional collection of house museums and landscapes. The theme of the show will be “Newport Forever,” celebrating Newport’s 375th anniversary.

RESTAURANTS

Ború Noodle Bar: A small, casual, ramen-inspired eatery with six seats at small tables and 12 bar-style seats. Noodle bowls are made with savory broths, fresh vegetables and a variety of proteins. 36 Broadway, Newport.

Café Bellavista: This small, Italian-inspired café in the former location of la Masion de Coco serves Italian gelato, coffee and pastry and offers lunch selections including Paninis, salads and daily specials. 28 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Caleb & Broad: A casually hip restaurant and bar on Broadway’s growing “restaurant row” serving dinner selections including starters, salads and entrees ranging from dry rub ribs to duck flatbread. 162 Broadway, Newport.

Despina’s Café: A small Greek-inspired café serving fine pastries, deli-sandwiches, soups, salads and home-style meals in a relaxing setting. 258 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Eli’s Kitchen: From the former chef of Bristol’s beloved Beehive Café, Eli Dunn, this Warren eatery offering locally sourced and lovingly prepared comfort food in a warm, casual and inclusive atmosphere. 40 Market Street, Warren.

Empire Tea + Coffee: This third location of Newport’s own coffee den faces Bellevue Avenue and features teas, coffee, pastry and more. 112 William Street, Newport.

Ida’s Restaurant: Serving lunch and dinner including a wide variety of salads, seafood, homemade pastas and much more. 21 Valley Road, Middletown.

Inpopnito: “Popcorn in disguise,” Inpopnito serves flavored popcorn in unusual flavors like Summer Strawberry, Orange Soda and Lemonade. 435 Thames Street, Newport.

Meg’s Aussie Milk Bar: Formerly Café Bellevue, this cozy café serves breakfast and lunch plus a few select Australian and Australian-inspired favorites including meat pies, Anzac biscuits, a Vegemite & cheese sandwich and Cherry Ripe Slice. 111 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Metacom Kitchen:  A casual dining American Bistro which will be opening in Warren, Rhode Island later this summer by Chef Richard Allaire, formerly of Newport’s beloved Tucker’s Bistro and current chef/partner at Providence Coal Fired Pizza.

The Parlor: Formerly Café 200, the newly renovated space features multiple bars, pool tables and a new menu. 200 Broadway, Newport.

Provencal Bakery: This popular bakery and lunch locale in Middletown has opened a new Newport location. 469 1/2 Thames Street, Newport.

The Revolving Door: This addition to the critically-acclaimed French restaurant Bouchard features local, regional and national chefs cooking for two weeks to a month serving a prix fixe menu. 505 Thames Street, Newport.

Rhino Bar is now called Perry Mill Tavern, also home to the Perry Mill Music Hall. The outdoor patio is now called Perry Mill Clam Shack. 337 Thames Street, Newport.

The Shop on Thames Street: This cozy, centrally-located spot serves creative soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps. 397 Thames Street, Newport.

Simone’s: Spearheaded by Joe Simone, formerly of the Sunnyside, to open in Warren by mid-summer.

Regina Rotisserie Chicken: Wood-fired and fried chicken plus wraps, sandwiches and more for take-out. 266 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Willy’s Burger Bar & Rotisserie: This 75-seat restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients and dishes including burgers, rotisserie chicken, simply roasted food and cocktails with shakes in the summer. The restaurant is open seven days a week for dinner with lunch service. 599 Thames Street, Newport.

Hope: Opening late summer or early fall. 180 Broadway, Newport.

SHOPPING

Bellevue Kids: children’s store with clothing and accessories for boys and girls. 206 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Bellevue Rug & Home: Rugs, furnishings, home décor. 268 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Digs Design Company: chic home furnishings, accessories and interior design services. 99 Spring Street, Newport.

Egg + Dart: a gallery and home boutique. 57 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport.

Newport Jerky Company: offers a variety of exotic jerky snacks including kangaroo, alligator, rainbow trout, Ahi tuna, venison and more. 424 Thames Street, Newport.

IE Cycle: electric bike store.  400 Thames Street, Newport.

La V Curiosité: a collection of thoughtfully curious yet functional finds: gifts, home decor, kitchen wares & lifestyle accessories. 146 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Lemon & Line: nautical bracelets and accessories. 421 Thames Street, Newport.

Lolo: the originators of vinyl on vinyl accessories with pop color silhouettes. 468 Thames Street, Newport.

Nando’s Gallery on Thames: Original pieces by artist Nando Pellegrino. 491 Thames Street, Newport.

P.S. Gear 2: Fun and unique gifts and gear for men and women (part of the shops by Pleasant Surprise). 359 Thames Street, Newport.

SummerTies: specializing in men’s bowties as well as pocket squares, pajama bottoms, boxers, decorative pillows, and women’s accessories including earrings and scarves. 424 Thames Street, Newport.

Soap and Water: featuring Molton Brown and other fine bath and body products for men and women as well as luxury home fragrances. 16 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport.

Thomas Rudd: ties, bow ties and assorted accessories not limited to cufflinks, suspenders, belts, and pocket squares. 36 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport.

Tervis: tumblers, water bottles, mugs, goblets & more made in America since 1946. 192 Thames Street, Newport.

June 26, 2014 0 comment
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