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LASA

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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Anna's Kitchen Shrubs International SIP Awards Competition
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Anna’s Kitchen Shrubs Wins Awards / RI DEM and RI Food Policy Council Grants / Graze Burgers Patio and New Menu Items

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.

Anna’s Kitchen Shrubs Win More Awards

Anna's Kitchen Shrubs International SIP Awards Competition

The results are in from the International SIP Awards Competition. There were almost 1000 entrants and Anna’s Kitchen Shrubs cleaned house. We won a total of SEVEN awards!

Each flavor won in the Taste Category

  • Strawberry Lemon Thyme – Platinum Taste
  • Apple Cider Ginger – Platinum Taste
  • Cranberry Mint – Double Gold Taste
  • Banana Turmeric – Gold Taste
  • Peach Jalapeno – Bronze Taste

Series Bottle Design – Silver

The SIP Bottle and Packaging Design Awards are conducted separately from tasting and recognizes successfully crafted designs that complement the spirit and appeal to the consumers’ aesthetic sense. Criteria for the design awards include creativity, originality, theme consistency and overall design.

Innovation Award

Last but not least Anna’s Kitchen Strawberry Lemon Thyme Shrub was awarded the Innovation Award! The Innovation Award applauds spirits with an interesting and unique taste profile or design. Consumer judges deem these spirits as innovative and groundbreaking by highlighting them with this exclusive recognition.

DEM and RI Food Policy Council Announce Nearly $100,000 In Grants To Strengthen Local Food Businesses

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

To accelerate growth of Rhode Island’s green economy, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), in partnership with the RI Food Policy Council, has awarded $95,949 in grants to 12 local agriculture and food businesses. The awards, funded under the Local Agriculture & Seafood Act (LASA) grant program, help new and existing small businesses and food initiatives take root and prosper in Rhode Island.

“We’re excited to award these grants to help farmers, fishers, and food businesses start or expand their operations in Rhode Island,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “LASA continues to be an important catalyst in growing a wide range of food and agricultural businesses across our state, and we look forward to celebrating the success of these outstanding initiatives.”

“Each 2019 LASA grant directly benefits and strengthens the local food system in Rhode Island,” said Nessa Richman, Network Director of the RI Food Policy Council. “This unique program helps us reach the ambitious but achievable goals set out in Relish Rhody, the state’s 5-year food strategy.”

Now in its sixth year, LASA has provided over $1.2 million – through grants up to $20,000 – to support the growth of Rhode Island’s local food economy. 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.

The 2019 LASA grant awards include:

BreenBain LLC, Foster, $5,250:
To purchase materials that will be used to construct a mobile produce cooler that can be towed by a pickup truck, keeping vegetables cool and extending their shelf life.

Endless Farm, Johnston, $6,676:
To build 10 energy-efficient, unheated caterpillar tunnels that will be used to produce a consistent, year-round supply of greens and herbs in a low-cost manner.

Chessawanock Island Oysters, Cranston, $16,647:
To implement an innovative oyster farming project that will reduce mortality and increase product desirability using a dual grow-out system and flip-bag technology.

Sweet and Salty Farm, Little Compton, $15,000:
To significantly increase production and sales of cheese and yogurt through the purchase and installation of an ice accumulator that can cool milk rapidly after pasteurization.

The Local Patch, Middletown, $3,087:
To build a walk-in cooler on a small, diversified market garden that will hold harvested produce in half of a 20-foot shipping container until sale.

Warren Cider Works Company, Warren, $15,640:
To increase production of unique, local hard ciders through purchase and installation of improved juice processing equipment.

Roots Farm, Tiverton, $4,725:
To increase productivity though the purchase and implementation of scale-appropriate tools for seeding, transplanting, and cultivation on a small-scale, intensively planted, non-mechanized farm that will help increase productivity, and to share this work with other RI growers through on-farm workshops.

Territorium Farms, North Smithfield, $3,379:
To increase production of local beer, wine, and beer-wine hybrids by installing additional trellises for additional hop and grape production for on-farm beverage production and raw product sales to local homebrewers, breweries, and vineyards.

Seaside Botanicals LLC, Foster, $600:
To create locally-grown herbal products through the purchase and installation of a steam distiller for making essential oils and hydrosols from Rhode Island-grown herbs.

Stony Lane Apiary, Exeter, $3,445:
To build a dedicated, free-standing honey house to process and sell honey and honeybee-related products, and to collaborate with and mentor other beekeepers.

Moonstone Mushrooms, Wakefield, $15,000:
To assist a small-scale mushroom grower to increase production of gourmet culinary and medicinal mushrooms through a move to a larger facility and purchase and installation of upgraded equipment.

Quaintly Farm, Providence, $6,500:
To increase the capacity and volume of produce grown by an urban farm through the purchase and installation of a walk-in cooler and storage shed, and to support the establishment of more farms owned and operated by African-American farmers in Rhode Island.

LASA is funded by the State. In 2019 State funds were supplemented with a $30,000 Senate Legislative Grant sponsored by Senator Susan Sosnowski.

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. In addition to the above grant awards, $20,000 is directed to DEM to support the state’s local seafood campaign, RI Seafood, and the promotion of local dairy products.

Graze Burgers Opens Patio for the Season

Celebrate Summer with New Menu Items and Sunday Hours in Downtown Westerly

Graze Burgers Mushroom Swiss Burger
Graze Burgers Mushroom Swiss Burger

Graze Burgers, located at 127 Granite Street in Westerly, is welcoming the warmer weather with the opening of its outdoor patio. Guests can enjoy Graze’s famous 100% grass-fed beef burgers, hand-cut fries, frozen custard shakes, beer, wine, and more in the sunshine or under the shade of an umbrella, right in downtown Westerly.  Graze will also be open on Sundays for the season, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  For more information, please visit www.grazeri.com. 

In addition, Graze has added three specialty burgers to its menu.  The new burgers are the Mushroom Swiss Burger topped with melted Swiss cheese and sautéed Crimini mushrooms; the Avocado Burger with fresh avocado, ripe tomato and leafy mixed greens; and the Breakfast Burger topped with crispy bacon, an over-easy fried egg, and American cheese.  All start with a quarter pound of 100% grass-fed beef and are served on a brioche bun or in a lettuce pocket. 

For a sweet ending, guests can try the new Cinna-Bomb, a toasted cinnamon cereal-infused soft serve ice cream sundae topped with toasted cinnamon cereal crunchies.

“There’s a lot going on at Graze Burgers, and we are absolutely thrilled to share our delicious, new menu items with our loyal and new customers,” said Kevin Bowdler, Co-Owner, Graze Burgers. “With the opening of our patio and our expanded summer hours, we’re looking forward to making connections with even more members of the community and sharing the benefits of eating locally-sourced, 100% grass-fed beef.”

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Photo courtesy of by CHLOE.
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: 2018 LASA Grant Applications Open / George’s of Galilee 70th Anniversary / by CHLOE. Opens in Providence

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.

The Application is Open for the LASA Grants Program 2018

Rhode Island Department of Environmental ManagementThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Agriculture is accepting grant applications for the Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grants Program. The goal of the program, which was established by the Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) of 2012, is to support the growth, development, and marketing of local food and seafood in Rhode Island. It is made possible by $100,000 in funding from the State of Rhode Island, and an additional $130,000 in matching funds from the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, and the Rhode Island Foundation. This unique and unprecedented public-private partnership will provide grants intended to directly benefit and strengthen the local food system in Rhode Island.

More details and links to the application guidelines and instructions can be found on the Rhode Island Food Policy Council site.

George’s of Galilee turns back pricing to 1948!

While celebrating our 70th year in business!

George’s of Galilee has been owned and operated by the Durfee family for 70 continuous years, more than any other restaurant in the area!. In honor of this milestone, we will be offering 1948 prices on all the original menu items from 1948 for the ENTIRE month of January! A cup of chowder for $.25? YES! Its TRUE!

Norman Durfee, after graduating from URI in the 1940’s and working as a Cushman Bakery salesperson, was convinced by his wife Edna that he should buy a local shack called “George’s Lunch” because he used to spend so much time there when he stopped in to deliver baked goods. Over the years, sons E Richard and Wayne Durfee had grown the business significantly. And now grandson Kevin operates George’s with the same recipes and philosophy.

George’s has weathered the ups and downs of the economy as well as countless hurricanes and Nor’easters to emerge as one of the largest waterfront seafood restaurants in Rhode Island.

OVER THE 70 YEARS, we are proud to have helped put Rhode Island on the map for its culinary quirkiness with our signature items such as our clam cakes, our clear broth clam chowder which is now a category of its own, Rhode Island Clam Chowder, fried clams, fish n chips, lobster rolls, and more.

GEORGE’S is open all year long, daily at 11 am. In addition to the historical signature items, TODAY, GEORGE’S offer dishes like our popular seafood pot pie, fish tacos, grilled bourbon glazed salmon, pan-seared sea scallops, slow-roasted prime rib and daily boat to plate specials.

We have become the place to go for local fish straight off the docks. We strive to work with our local fishing fleet, bringing in local fish that are hard to find on plates at most other seafood restaurants such as scup, tautog, dogfish, monkfish, sea robin, and mahi which they have been catching right off Block Island.

GEORGE’S recently won Best Calamari at the RI Calamari Festival in September 2017 for the second year in a row with our signature Hurricane Calamari dish.

Come visit us this winter, as we celebrate our 70th year, sit by our fireplace, enjoy a hot spike beverage and 1948 prices!!. George’s of Galilee,— Eat Fish! Love Life!

Fast Casual, Plant-Based Dining Sensation By Chloe. Opens Its First Location In Rhode Island, At 223 Thayer Street In Providence, Thursday, January 18, 2018

Photo courtesy of by CHLOE.

Photo courtesy of by CHLOE.

by CHLOE., a trendsetting plant-based, fast casual restaurant that has achieved a cult following in New York City, Los Angeles, and most recently, Boston, opens its first location in Rhode Island at 223 Thayer Street in Providence on Thursday, January 18, 2018. With creative, delicious recipes made fresh and in-house daily from whole ingredients, by CHLOE.’s menu will change any misconceptions of vegan fare, and in perfect harmony with New Year’s health resolutions, offers guilt free dining. www.eatbychloe.com

“With its New England charm, growing food scene, and thriving student and artist population, Providence was really a perfect match for by CHLOE. To open our doors on iconic Thayer Street, a quick trip from every major school and university in the area, was a dream. We cannot wait to meet our new customers,” says Samantha Wasser, the brand’s Founder.

by CHLOE. sought out a choice Providence location – a charming white brick building on the corner of Thayer Street, surrounded by idyllic Providence architecture and shops. The 2,500 square foot space seats 50. Founder Samantha Wasser’s creative vision for by CHLOE. was brought to life with a bright and airy style, colorful textiles, and a neutral palette boasting pops of color.  Its uber famous (check instagram) hanging swing chairs are enhanced by a vibrant tie-dye fabric unique to the Providence location. Diners will take note of funky, eye-fetching wallpapers – one gives a nod to Providence’s bustling collegiate culture with a book pattern; the other, a colorful 90s-inspired squiggle pattern. Other notable décor details include reclaimed wood and hand-painted tiles, banquette seating, a zinc and wood slatted communal table, and blue and white Moroccan tabletops.

The expansive menu offers health-inspired items across categories of Beverages, Grab + Go, Salads, Burgers + Sandwiches, Fries + Sides, Pasta, freshly-baked Sweets, and Chill by CHLOE., the brand’s line of ice cream. Each and every menu item is entirely free of meat, dairy, and egg products, as well as of saturated animal fat, added preservatives, and artificial flavors.

Diners will also gravitate towards such popular by CHLOE. signature dishes as:

  • The Guac Burger, made from black beans, quinoa, and sweet potato, and topped with crisp tortilla sticks, corn salsa, chipotle aioli, and a generous scoop of guacamole
  • Quinoa Taco salad with spicy seitan chorizo, black beans, sweet corn, avocado, tomato, tortilla strips, crema, and agave lime vinaigrette
  • Pesto Meatball with Portobello mushroom and veggie based Italian meatballs, marinara, sweet peppers, basil pesto, cashew mozzarella, and almond parmesan
  • Mac N’ Cheese with sweet potato cashew cheese sauce, shitake bacon, and almond parmesan
  • Whiskey BBQ with smoky Portobello mushrooms and seitan, sautéed kale, onion marmalade, grilled pineapple, and bourbon BBQ served on a potato bun

For customers on the run, by CHLOE.’s full Grab + Go selection will be available with items like Matcha Kelp Noodles with PANATEA Matcha, kelp noodles, cashew cream sauce, almond parmesan, and scallion, Raw Vanilla Bean Chia Pudding with chia seeds, Madagascar vanilla bean, raw almond, cashew milk, and raw agave nectar, and Nicoise Salad with chopped romaine, chickpea tuna, grape tomatoes, green beans, red potatoes, Kalmata olives, and red vinaigrette.

The freshly-baked Sweets are not to be missed, with offerings ranging from Chlostess Cupcakesand Old Fashioned Chocolate Chip Cookies to Matcha Blueberry Muffins and Banana Bread. The full line of Chill by CHLOE.’s dairy-free ice cream will be offered with flavors like Raspberry + Cream, Salted Peanut Butter, Kale Cookies + Cream, Ube Smores, Chocolate Chocolate, andCoffee by CHLOE.

Alongside fresh pressed juices and smoothies, by CHLOE. will serve beer and wine. Speaking to canine customers, there are vegan Pupcakes and Dog Bones available for purchase in store.

Brunch will be offered on weekends, from 10am to 4pm, offering crave-able renditions of favorites like Mom’s Cinnamon Roll, Quinoa Hash Browns, and The Early Bird with scrambled organic tofu and vegan maple sausage.

by CHLOE Providence is located at 223 Thayer Street Providence, Rhode Island 02906. It will be open seven days a week; 11am to 10pm Monday through Friday and 10am – 10pm on Saturday and Sunday. Visit by CHLOE. online at www.eatbychloe.com, and on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Pinterest/Snapchat at @eatbychloe.

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farmsnews

News Bites: Blackbird Farm Farmers Market 2017 / Local Agriculture & Seafood Act Grants 2017 Awarded

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.

Brand New Farmers Market at Blackbird Farm in Smithfield, RI beginning Friday, May 26th

Blackbird Farm

Blackbird Farm, one of the most-acclaimed beef and pork farms in New England, will host a brand new local farmers market at their farm stand on Friday evenings from 4-7pm, beginning on May 26th at 660 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917. The farmers market will take place every Friday evening (weather permitting) through October 27th.

Farmers markets are for people from all walks of life and all ages who share a common belief that farmers and local producers are a vital part of our community. This market will support the local food economy, showcase a wide variety of products and tap into a region of the state that currently doesn’t offer an extensive outdoor market. The Blackbird Farm Farmers Market will support local farmers and producers, improve access to fresh fruits, vegetables and other farm products, encourage sustainability, and educate the community on the importance of local foods.

Vendors will include Blackbird Farm, Aquidneck Honey, Harris Farm, Hickory Hill Farm, Open Season, Providence Kettle Corn, Rachyl’s Goat Milk Soap, The Farm in Rhode Island and We Be Jammin’ & Blooming Buddies. A variety of products will be offered, such as: beef and pork, seasonal produce, bouquets, charcuterie, eggs, jams, jellies, edible flowers, herbs, plants, prepared foods, packaged seasonings, natural body products, beverages, and more.

DEM Partners Announce Over $200,000 in Grants to Local Food Businesses

Rhode Island Food Policy CouncilThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), along with its partners, today awarded over $200,000 to 21 local food businesses as part of its annual Agriculture “Ag” Day celebration at the State House. The awards, funded under the Local Agriculture & Seafood Act (LASA) grant program, help new and existing small businesses and food initiatives prosper in Rhode Island.

“LASA continues to be an important catalyst in growing our food and agricultural businesses in Rhode Island,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “It’s fitting to celebrate these awards and the initiatives they help fund during the annual Ag Day celebration, which shines a bright light on our state’s vibrant food scene and rich agricultural and fishing heritage. Kudos to all grant recipients! I look forward to celebrating the success of these initiatives.”

Now in its fourth year, LASA has provided over $900,000 – through grants up to $20,000 – to support growth of Rhode Island’s local food economy. 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.

“I’m always very excited to see the new crop of LASA grantees each year,” said David Dadekian, chair of the Rhode Island Food Policy Council. “The progress and success of these businesses, with the help of a program like LASA, is proof positive of the economic growth in the food and drink cluster here in Rhode Island and the Council is always proud to support that growth.”

The 2017 LASA grant awards include:

Backyard Food Company, $6,890: Expand greenhouse production space
Brandon Family Farm, $5,229: Support creation of pawpaw fruit orchard
Charlie’s Sugarhouse, $3,000: Expand parking area for education programs
Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation, $18,255: Develop an educational series for restaurateurs on local seafood products
Hocus Pocus Farm, $6,578: Improve soil conservation by transitioning to a no-till method of farming
Hurricane Hill Farm Collaborative, $19,836: Provide incubator farm space & to support infrastructure
Jerusalem Shellfish Co., LLC, $10,000: Restore a walk-in cooler & ice maker
Little River Farm, $3,500: Support expansion of caterpillar hoop house tunnels to help extend the farming season
Little State Flower Company, $8,949: Help develop historic farm site & expand flower growing business
Moonrose Farm, $6,362: Purchase a mobile walk-in cooler
Mooresfield Oyster Farm, $15,072: Enhance food safety measures
Northern RI Conservation District, $19,613: Help expand farming opportunities at Snake Den Farm
Ocean State Oyster Hatchery, $9,000: Purchase & install a commercial generator
Pat’s Pastured, $12,500: Improve chicken coops for greater efficiency & humane raising of birds
Point Judith Kelp Company, $6,000: Support wild seaweed harvest & development of new products
Rhode Island Shellfisherman’s Association, $1,931: Repair & upgrade upweller
Sanctuary Teas & Herbs, $12,160: Help launch this new business venture with refugee farmers
Walrus and Carpenter Oysters LLC, $12,000: Support expansion of sugar kelp hatchery
Westbay Community Action, $4,510: Develop cold storage & a new farm stand
West Elmwood Housing Development Corporation/Sankofa Initiative, $17,015: Support purchase of cold storage for produce grown at Sankofa community farm
Wild Harmony Farm, $11,600: Purchase an egg-washing machine & expand capacity

In partnership with the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, LASA is funded by the state with generous support from the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, and the Rhode Island Foundation. In addition to the above grant awards, $20,000 is directed to DEM and the Rhode Island Seafood Marketing Collaborative to support the state’s local seafood campaign, RI Seafood. Local seafood is poised to spur the next wave of food-based economic growth. Last year, more than 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port, with an export value over $1 billion.

As part of Ag Day festivities, local farmers, food businesses, and community groups are set up around the State House Rotunda from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today and offer free food samples and information about their work. For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

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