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Lasagna from Giusto
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News Bites: Giusto’s Lasagna Program Returns / Weekapaug Inn Sunday Suppers / Holidays with Sakonnet Vineyard / Holidays at Track 15

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.

Giusto’s BOGO Lasagna is Back with Some Extras

Giusto’s annual Buy One, Give One Lasagna program is back for its 5th year. For guests who purchase a lasagna, Giusto will donate one to the MLK Center in Newport and new this year, Giusto also will donate five items from their food pantry wish list as well.

Lasagnas are $75 and feed 6-8 people. They can be with meat or vegetarian with mushroom bolognese.

They’re also encouraging guests to donate directly to MLK Center as well. If a guest purchases a lasagna and makes a donation directly to the MLK Center, Giusto will thank that guest with a $20 gift card they can use on their next visit to Giusto (limit one per guest).

Orders can be placed via phone between 1pm-6pm by calling 401-324-7400. Lasagna pick-ups start on November 24th and go through December 23rd.

Weekapaug Inn Announces Sunday Supper Series

A Seasonal Family Dining Experience

This November, Weekapaug Inn, a timeless Relais & Chateaux and Forbes Five Star Hotel, New England-style inn set in the peaceful Weekapaug community perched on the idyllic Quonochontaug Pond with sweeping views of the Atlantic beyond, announces its Sunday Suppers, a weekly tradition celebrating the flavors of the fall and winter season.

Taking place every Sunday evening 5:30-9 pm throughout the months of November and December (Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, and 28) at The Restaurant, these gatherings feature a family-style menu crafted by the culinary team and served in an inviting coastal-New England setting.

The rotating menu highlights seasonal ingredients from Rhode Island’s local farms and fisheries, blending New England flavors with a refined coastal presentation. The evening begins with freshly baked artisan bread and Vermont-cultured butter, followed by a rotating selection of salad or appetizer, entree, and dessert each week, plus a complimentary glass of house red or white wine for each adult.

Capturing the spirit of traditional Sunday gatherings where conversation and connection take center stage, the price is $65 for adults, $25 for children ages 9-12 and children under eight years old dine complimentary. Guests are encouraged to reserve in advance by visiting OpenTable. Visit weekapauginn.com for more details. Follow Weekapaug Inn at @WeekapaugInn on Instagram, Facebook.

Complement Your Holiday Feast with Wines from Sakonnet Vineyard

From Turkey to Trifle, New England’s Oldest Vineyard offers the Perfect Pairings

As the holidays approach, Sakonnet Vineyard, New England’s oldest vineyard celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, is pleased to offer a variety of wines to pair with any holiday dish, from longtime family recipes to twists on the traditional.  Bottles and cans can be purchased in the Little Compton tasting room, at local retailers, and can be ordered online at www.sakonnetwine.com/shop and shipped to 40 states.

“This time of year is all about the food; from the Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings, to holiday cookies, to the dishes that promise good luck as we enter a new year,” said Marissa Stashenko, Director of Operations, Sakonnet Vineyard. “A perennial challenge for many is choosing the wines that will best complement all the wonderful flavors on the table and please the palates of their guests. Our wines are approachable enough for everyday enjoyment, yet complex enough to be worthy of a celebration.”

Stashenko and her husband, Sakonnet winemaker James Davids, recommend the following pairings this holiday season. 

Vidal Blanc / 2023 Sauvignon Blanc: Both are dry, bright, and crisp white wines with citrus flavors and floral aromatics that pair well with:  

  • Roasted seafood and poultry 
  • Green salads 
  • Roasted vegetables 
  • Oysters 
  • Goat cheese, Brie, Gruyere, Gouda 

Belcourt White: This delightful estate-grown blend combines the crisp, refreshing notes of Chardonnay with the aromatic, floral characteristics of Vidal Blanc, resulting in a well-balanced wine with a hint of citrus and a smooth lingering finish. Pairs well with: 

  • Roasted fish (flaky white fish or salmon)  
  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Potatoes, cream sauces 
  • Semi-soft, triple cream cheeses 

Eye of the Storm Rosé: This ripe, medium-bodied, fruit-forward, and aromatic Rosé pairs well with: 

  • Charcuterie 
  • Fried chicken 
  • Grilled meats and seafood 
  • Fruit desserts 

Pinot Noir: This elegant wine showcases vibrant red fruit flavors, subtle earthy undertones and delicate tannins. Pairs well with:  

  • Glazed ham, duck, lamb, salmon 
  • Mushrooms, truffle, cinnamon, orange 
  • Creamy sauces or lighter red sauces 
  • Chocolate dishes 

Belcourt Red / Cabernet Franc & Merlot: These classic red blends boast deep, intense flavors of blackberry and dried cherry, with subtle hints of clove and tobacco. Belcourt Red is riper, and the Cabernet Franc & Merlot is earthier, but they both pair well with: 

  • Roasted turkey, beef roast, pork shoulder, venison 
  • Braised dishes 
  • Potatoes, red sauces 
  • Chocolate desserts 

Sakonnet Vineyard is open year-round, Thursdays through Sundays, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  An array of guest experiences is available, including a café with a seasonal menu; wines by the glass or bottle; event packages for private groups; and seasonal activities, including yoga classes, harvest events, live music, holiday celebrations and more.

Festive Happenings at Sakonnet Vineyard for the Holiday Season Start on November 30th  

Visits with Santa, holiday market and more mark the season of celebrations

Holidays at Sakonnet Vineyard
Holidays at Sakonnet Vineyard

Sakonnet Vineyard,  New England’s oldest vineyard celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, is celebrating the holiday season with a series of festive events beginning November 30th. 

  • On Sunday, November 30th, kick off the holiday season with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus! From 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can visit Santa and take complimentary photos, decorate cookies, and enjoy mulled wine and hot chocolate. The event will conclude with a special tree lighting. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the Tiverton Police Department’s “Operation Blue Santa” program to help provide holiday gifts to local children in need.
  • On Saturday, December 6th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., a Christmas market will feature more than a dozen local artisans offering their work for sale in the barn.  
  • On Saturday, December 13th, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of classic Christmas cookies crafted by the pastry team at the Coast Guard House and paired with Sakonnet wines. Available while supplies last.

Throughout the season, guests can enjoy mulled wine and hot chocolate by the fire in the tasting room and outdoors by the firepits and heaters, in addition to wine tastings and a selection of seasonal foods. Each Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can enjoy live music in the tasting room. The lineup includes pop singer and songwriter Ruby Mac on November 29th and December 20th, one-man band Frank Foot on December 6th, the modern acoustic stylings of Stefan Couture on December 13th, and the versatile singer and songwriter Dave Alves on December 27th.  

“Between the warmth of the tasting room fire and the glow of the outdoor fire pits, the vineyard takes on a quiet magic this time of year,” said Marissa Stashenko, Director of Operations, Sakonnet Vineyard.  “It’s a cozy escape from the pace of the season – the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.”

In addition to the special events, Sakonnet Vineyard’s tasting room is open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday & Saturday 12:00 – 7:00 p.m. The indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits and heaters will be lit while guests enjoy wine tastings, wines by the glass or bottle, and selection of seasonal menu items. Sakonnet Vineyard has a variety of gifts available for purchase in the tasting room and online, including gift cards, merchandise, and wine (available to be shipped to 40 states), as well as membership to the Wine Club. Wine Club members receive 20% off quarterly wine allocations, each including three bottles selected by the winemaker; discounted bottles, tastings, retail, and food at the vineyard; and invitations to Wine Club release parties. Allocations can be shipped to 40 states or picked up at the winery. Membership is free and can be canceled at any time. To sign up, visit www.sakonnetwine.com/wine-club.

All Aboard the Holiday Cheer Train at Track 15!

Festive décor, giving trees for Children’s Friend, and visits from Santa start November 24th  

Track 15 Holiday Cocktails
Track 15 Holiday Cocktails

Track 15 food hall, located at 1 Union Station in downtown Providence, is celebrating the holiday season with a variety of events and activities for all ages.

“We are excited to celebrate our first holiday season at the food hall,” said Chris Marsella, owner, Track 15.  “From holiday markets to visits with Santa, and support for the local community through a partnership with Children’s Friend, we look forward to sharing the holiday spirit with our guests.”

Track 15’s halls will be decked on Tuesday, November 25th as they kick-off a gift drive for Children’s Friend, which serves Rhode Island’s most vulnerable young children.  Through December 17, guests are encouraged to choose a tag from the giving trees located throughout the food hall, purchase a new gift for that child, and return it unwrapped.  Children’s Friend will distribute the gifts to local families in time for their holiday celebrations. 

On Saturday, November 29th, Track 15 will mark Small Business Saturday with a holiday market showcasing local artisans from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by the official lighting of the food hall’s 20-foot Christmas tree on the outdoor plaza at 4:30 p.m.  Carolers from the VoX (Voices of Christmas) will be on hand to sing holiday favorites and Track 15 vendors will offer festive treats.

A second holiday market co-hosted by RI Night Market will also be held on Friday, December 5th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to coincide with that evening’s WaterFire, featuring more than 20 local artisans.

Santa will visit Track 15 on Thursday, December 11th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 20th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Visits with Santa are complimentary and guests may take their own photos. Local arts and craft vendors from Local401Artists will also be on-hand for mini-holiday markets.During these special events, guests can look for festive treats from Track 15 culinary vendors, such as Crispy Borek:flaky, fried handheld pastry roll filled with vegetables or meat from Tolia;  Tiramisu with Vermont Creamery mascarpone and cocoa nib crumble from Giusto; and from Little Chaska, a Potato Fritter seasoned with carom seeds and spices and Warm Carrot Pudding with pistachios.  Bar Romolo will offer Hot Apple Cider, Hot Chocolate (boozy or non-alcoholic), Winter Sangria, and a Blood Orange Spritz.

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Eat Drink RI's David Dadekian talking about the 2025 SNAP shutdown
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SNAP Shutdown Info for Rhode Island and Around the USA – Update Added

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

If you’re unable to see the above video, it’s available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/RjbZqPQ2-4Q.

Resource links mentioned:

Update posted a day after the original video:

Transcript (minus Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee’s press conference clips:

I wanted to take a few moments to try and get as much info about the SNAP shutdown that will begin on November 1st. I’ve got some clips from Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee’s conference in this video and I hope you take some time to watch and share this, and spread the facts as much as possible.

First off the data, because the numbers are important and aren’t always reported correctly. There are almost 143,000 people in Rhode Island that use SNAP, what used to be called food stamps, to purchase groceries, averaging about $7 a day usage which is almost one million dollars a day, for a rough total of $29 million dollars a month. That’s in Rhode Island alone, and we’re far from the largest usage in the states. So if you’re watching this outside RI, the situation could be a lot more dire.

The governor of Rhode Island, and several other states, has declared a state of emergency which allows them to use state funds to cover this gap. Unfortunately, the money the state has to use is WAY less than $29 million. Rhode Island is drawing $6 million from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to put onto SNAP EBT cards, it’s like a debit card for your SNAP benefit. Since this is a fund for families it means you have to have children to receive the money and according to the budget office that will cover about 65,000 people, clearly leaving almost 80,000 people in Rhode Island without any funds on their EBT card to buy groceries with on November 1. Yes, if you have an EBT card with money left over from October you keep that on your card, but I can’t imagine that will be much for most people.

The Rhode Island Foundation and other organizations are going to also give to this temporary assistance, but let’s be honest, it’s not going to cover the $23 million dollar gap. Which means those 80,000 people are going to have to find another way to get food, more than likely at their local food pantry or kitchen where they don’t have any choices on what they can eat, but have to accept what’s there or starve.

So what can you do? First off I want to be very clear, food drives are great. It is so heartwarming to see all the people on my feeds organizing food collections and pantries and giving away prepared food and non-perishables. I would never discourage that, but I want to share what I’ve learned over the years participating in fundraisers for the RI Community Food Bank and similar organizations like Feed RI.

They’ll take your packaged food, any donation is a valuable donation, but the most important thing you can donate is money. Any money you donate to a food bank can practically be doubled, or more. Food banks have purchasing power because they buy things in large quantities. So that $1 box of pasta you donate is one box, but give that $1 to the food bank and they can buy 2 or 3 or maybe 4 boxes because they purchase in bulk. So if you go to the store and think, I’m going to buy $50 in canned goods and take it to the food bank, again, that is great and always appreciated, but if you gave that $50 in cash to a food bank they can probably buy $100 or more in food.

Again food drives are wonderful, don’t stop, but if you have the means to donate cash, that’s the best solution. Let’s not forget that the RI Community Food Bank provides data that 38% of Rhode Islanders are food insecure. That’s atrociously terrible to hear on a so-called normal day. So donate if you’re able.

Lastly, a note on how we got here. It’s almost impossible to discuss most programs these days without bringing up politics and unfortunately this is true here too. Contrary to some comments, the government shutdown by Congress is not to blame for this SNAP shutdown situation. Yes, it’s a factor, but it’s not the reason 143,000 people in Rhode Island and millions more around the country are going to suffer.

When the government is shut down, the US Dept. of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP, has a reserve that can be used to keep the program going. All that needs to be done to allow these reserves to be used is for the chief executive, in this case President Trump, to authorize it. Simple executive order, yes I authorize these funds being used. The Trump administration has decided they will not authorize the money. That’s it, plain and simple.

Yes, Congress is responsible for triggering this, but it’s the President that decided not to let states have SNAP benefit money. Money, by the way, that we all put into the funds to begin with by paying federal taxes. This is US taxpayer money that the USDA holds to cover SNAP for the states and the money is not being allowed into the states. I’m trying not to offer an opinion on that, but I think you know my opinion.

Thank you for watching and listening. I hope this was helpful and please share if you see fit. Please be kind to one another. Take care.

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Farm Fresh RI Farmers Market
chefs & restaurantscookingfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Food Bank Launches Summer Food Drive / Summer at Newport Vineyards / Six Farmers Markets Opening in July

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.

RI Community Food Bank Launches Summer Food Drive

Rhode Island Community Food BankDuring the summer, the need for food assistance among families spikes as children lose access to the healthy, nutritious meals they normally receive at school. To help fill the gap throughout the summer months, the Food Bank is asking the community to support the Summer Food Drive.

Here’s how you can help:

First Gentleman of Rhode Island and Chair of the Summer Food Drive Andy Moffit launched the campaign along with Food Bank CEO Andrew Schiff by encouraging Rhode Islanders to join the effort and help their neighbors in need.

Get more details and a list of most-needed items»

Watch the Summer Food Drive kick-off with Andrew Schiff and Andy Moffit:

Newport Vineyards Brings the Napa Experience to Newport with Summer Events, Tours & Tastings, Live Music & Seasonally Inspired Dining

Newport Vineyards

Newport Vineyards

Newport Vineyards, an award winning winery located in beautiful Middletown, RI, has a big summer planned with tours, tastings, special events, live music and much more. Founded by brothers John & Paul Nunes in 1995, the vineyard is the largest grower of grapes in New England. The winery produces nearly 30,000 cases of estate-grown wine each year through sustainable farming methods on 75 acres of historically preserved farmland. Following a multi-million dollar renovation completed in 2015, the winery has become a culinary and wine destination offering multiple experiences including daily tours and tastings, 100% from scratch culinary programs at Brix Restaurant and The Vineyard Café, The Marketplace, seasonal live music, private events and public activities.

Each Wednesday evening through the summer, enjoy an extended evening wine tasting from 5-8pm! Hear live music from a variety of artists while you sip and savor around the welcoming fire pits. In addition to wine, beer and sangria, snacks from the kitchen are available. The vineyard also hosts a weekend music series from 1- 4pm on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. Savor the season, glass in hand! No tickets are needed and all are welcome. For more details, including the artist lineup, please visit www.newportvineyards.com/calendar-of-events.

Dine at Brix Restaurant following an afternoon at the winery or just because! Cozy up around the fire with a glass of wine. Enjoy expansive views of the vineyard and the entire winemaking operation through two walls of windows that drape the room. The culinary approach, artfully prepared by Executive Chef Andy Teixeira, starts with the basic belief that it is their responsibility to provide truth in their food. “We love the food from the minute in comes in the door, to the minute it goes into the guest’s mouth,” said Chef Teixeira. The seasonally inspired menu highlights local farms and offers something for everyone’s palate. Wednesdays are Flight Night – just $10 for a tasting of four wines or beers.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon sipping wine and local beer with friends amid the vines, grabbing a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, enjoying a gourmet dinner, or hosting a private event, Newport Vineyards truly has it all. Located just 45 minutes from downtown Providence, experience summer at its finest on Aquidneck Island.

Follow Newport Vineyards on Facebook @NewportVineyards, Twitter @NewportVines, and Instagram @NewportVines. For more details, please visit www.newportvineyards.com.

Tasting RoomWinery ToursVineyard CaféBrix Restaurant
Mon – Sat
10am – 6pm
Sunday
12 – 6pm		Sun – Fri
1pm & 3pm
Saturday
hourly, 11am – 4pm		Sunday
12 – 5pm (seasonally)
Monday
closed
Tues – Thurs
11am – 4pm
Friday
11am – 5pm
Saturday
9am – 12pm
breakfast sandwiches only
11am – 5pm
full menu		Tues – Thurs
5 – 9pm
Fri & Sat
4 – 10pmClosed Sundays & Mondays, but always available for private events, day or night

Six Farmers Markets Increasing Food Access To Open In July

Farm Fresh RI Farmers Market

Farm Fresh RI Farmers Market

Farm Fresh Rhode Island is excited to announce six of their farmers markets opening in July. Located in neighborhoods at risk for health disparities, Farm Fresh RI markets focus on increasing access to fresh, local food and nutrition education.

In July, shoppers can expect to find tomatoes, corn, peppers, blueberries, melons, grapes, greens, herbs, cheese, radishes, mushrooms, carrots, bitter melons, fresh bread and so much more! It’s easy to find a farmers market in your neighborhood and shop for fresh, local fruits and vegetables all summer and well into fall. Many markets also feature live music, prepared foods & food trucks and family-friendly activities.

According to a recent study by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), “When comparing product prices between farmers markets and retail stores, local products are competitively priced – within a 10 percent price range – at farmers markets a majority of the time, even less expensive for some foods.  Local, certified organic products at farmers markets are almost always competitively priced when compared to prices at retail stores.” (May, 2016; source with graphic: http://blogs.usda.gov/2016/05/19/local-and-organic-food-shopping-finding-the-best-price)

Farm Fresh RI markets accept cash, credit, debit, SNAP, WIC Fruit & Vegetable checks, and Senior vouchers. And in partnership with Wholesome Wave (wholesomewave.org), Farm Fresh RI provides Bonus Bucks—an additional 40% bonus for customers using EBT—to increase access to fresh fruits and veggies for low-income individuals receiving federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

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.

BROAD STREET — 807 Broad St, Providence
July 1 to October 28
Saturdays, 8:00am – 11:30pm

DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCE — Kennedy Plaza
July 11 to October 31
Tuesdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

CENTRAL FALLS — Garfield St Playground
July 5 to October 25
Wednesdays, 2:00 – 5:30pm

WEST WARWICK —Thundermist Health Center, 186 Providence St
July 6 to October 26
Thursdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

SLATER PARK — 825 Armistice Blvd, Pawtucket
July 9 to October 29
Sundays 12:00 – 3:00pm

NEUTACONKANUT PARK — 675 Plainfield St, Providence
July 3 to October 30
Mondays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

And two other Farm Fresh RI markets are already underway!
ARMORY — Parade St at Hudson St, Providence
May 25 to October 26
Thursdays 3:30 – 7:00pm or dusk

WOONSOCKET — Thundermist Health Center, 450 Clinton St
Year-round (Moves outside July 5)
Tuesdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

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Rhode Island Community Food Bank
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Rhode Island Community Food Bank Releases 2015 Status Report on Hunger in RI

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian
Rhode Island Community Food Bank
Rhode Island Community Food Bank

The Rhode Island Community Food Bank has released their latest Status Report on Hunger in RI today. It shows that 54,000 Rhode Island households—that’s 1 in 8 households in the state—still do not have the resources to purchase adequate food. The number of Rhode Islanders served by the Food Bank and it’s member agencies has nearly doubled since 2007, and there are 174,000 Rhode Islanders enrolled in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) which is double the number from before the recession.

“Hunger has severe consequences for children and seniors. Poor nutrition leads to poor health and undermines the investment that Rhode Island has made in improving healthcare. Fortunately, we know how to solve the problem of hunger. We can begin by making better use of programs that protect children and seniors from hunger,” said Andrew Schiff, CEO of the RI Community Food Bank.

While the number of food insecure in our state is down from the previous 3-year period of 2009-2011, it is still painfully clear that 12.7% of Rhode Islanders are unable to meet their basic food needs. This includes children and the elderly for which hunger can be life-threatening. As the Food Bank’s 2015 Status Report shows:

Hunger is a problem that we can solve. By fully implementing effective nutrition programs and reaching those most in need, we can ensure that no one in Rhode Island goes hungry. To accomplish this goal, we need Rhode Islanders to join us in calling for the following policy changes:

  • Advocate for Congress to reauthorize the child nutrition programs that provide healthy, nutritious food to low-income children and families.
  • Increase SNAP benefit levels to keep up with the rising cost of food.
  • Allocate additional state funding for the Food Bank to meet the continued high demand for food assistance.
  • Raise the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit to boost the incomes of working families.
  • Offer free school breakfast and lunch to all students in high-poverty communities.

You can download and read the entire 2015 Status Report on Hunger in Rhode Island. For more information on the needs and resources in Rhode Island and in each of it’s 39 cities and towns, the Rhode Island Food Policy Council has assembled Rhode Island Food System 2015 Snapshots which includes information on SNAP and WIC participants, food pantries and more.

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