After ten years as a staple of Bristol’s dining scene, consistently turning out some of the best cuisine in New England and racking up enough awards and accolades to cover the walls of a restroom, Persimmon has expanded and re-opened on the East Side of Providence. After a quick, less than 2 month turnaround, owners Champe and Lisa Speidel have rebuilt and renovated 99 Hope St. (for Rhode Islanders that’s the old Rue de L’espoir) and are opening a new restaurant that’s named Persimmon.

Fresh pasta being made at Persimmon (click to make larger)

While I have no doubt the quality and service that Persimmon in Bristol became well-known and well-loved for over the past decade will remain, the Speidels tell me the Providence version of their restaurant will have more dishes, an expanded bar and a Sunday brunch where they hope guests will come to “graze, snack, drink and enjoy the Sunday.” As for those dishes, Champe is planning on making some pastas, and looking at more uses for pork, beef and the ever growing array of local vegetables.

The Speidels are very excited to make some changes to what they’ve been doing to keep Persimmon exciting. Having purchased the building they’re in has given them the opportunity to open up the kitchen, add counter space, allow more interacting with guests and they’re planning on creating a series of fun cooking classes. They also plan to take advantage of there being more things happening in Providence, such as local block parties and food festivals.

Persimmon will be open for dinner Tuesday-Saturday beginning at 5 p.m. and for brunch on Sunday.