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StarChefs 2023 Coastal New England Rising Stars
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: StarChefs Announces the 2023 Coastal New England Rising Stars / Hope & Main Hosts RI Pitch Room Competition

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.

StarChefs Announces the 2023 Coastal New England Rising Stars and Rising Stars Restaurant Week

View photos of all the Rhode Island StarChefs 2023 Winners, and some of their work, in a slideshow following the story.

StarChefs, the restaurant industry magazine, announces its 2023 Coastal New England Rising Stars. To celebrate the new class, StarChefs will host a Rising Stars Restaurant Week from September 20 through October 4. The two-week campaign highlights the Rising Stars and gives guests the opportunity to experience the honorees’ signature dishes and drinks. The 2023 class includes 21 food and beverage professionals, recognized by StarChefs not only for their exceptional food and drinks, but also their ability to lead, inspire, and support their local communities.


The Rising Stars Award winners are designated by the StarChefs editorial team based on in-person tastings and interviews. In each market, the editorial team tastes and interviews with more than 100 chefs, pastry chefs, bartenders, sommeliers, restaurateurs, and artisans, ultimately selecting a group of 17 to 25 professionals who best represent the future of American hospitality. Although Rising Stars Awards are given out locally, award winners are evaluated according to a set of national standards. Creativity, ambition, presentation, philosophy, and, of course, delicious food and drink win an individual the designation of a StarChefs Rising Star. The 2023 Coastal New England Rising Stars will be the 83rd class of Rising Stars Award winners and the 2nd class from Coastal New England.


2023 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Stars Award Winners

CHEFS
Jeremy Broucek of Bread & Friends | Portland, ME
Eric Brown of Thick Neck | Providence, RI
Valerie Goldman of The Honey Paw | Portland, ME
Luke Mersfelder of Bywater | Warren, RI
Nikhil Naiker of Nimki | Providence, RI
Manny Rojas of or, The Whale | Nantucket, MA
Basil Yu of Yagi Noodles | Newport, RI
Neil Zabriskie of REGARDS | Portland, ME

GAME CHANGER
Presented by S.Pellegrino
Celebrates a chef whose leadership is boldly advancing the restaurant industry, whether it’s through boundary-pushing cuisine, an innovative dining format, or a revolutionary business idea.
Scott LaChapelle of Pickerel | Providence, RI

RESTAURATEURS
Presented by Jade Range
Marisa Lewiecki and Jordan Rubin of Bar Futo and Mr. Tuna | Portland, ME
Taylor Oliver and Andrea Solimeo of Pizzeria Gemelle, Ventuno, and Via Mare | Nantucket, MA

COMMUNITY
Presented by Resy
Recognizes professionals who are deeply connected to the local culinary community, dedicate their time to community outreach, and are ultimately catalysts for involving members of the culinary community in important initiatives.
Robert Andreozzi of Pizza Marvin | Providence, RI
Cyle Reynolds of Crispy Gai | Portland, ME

CONCEPT
Nicholas Gillespie of Dune Brothers Seafood | Providence, RI

PASTRY CHEF
Presented by TCHO Chocolate
Georgia Macon of Twelve | Portland, ME

BARTENDERS
Presented by Beam Suntory
Arvid Brown of Room for Improvement | Portland, ME
Britt Simons of The Eddy | Providence, RI

SOMMELIERS
Bethany Caliaro of Gift Horse and Oberlin | Providence, RI
Kelsey Shaw of Bayberry Garden | Providence, RI

MENTOR
Presented by Vitamix Commercial
The 2023 class of Coastal New England Rising Stars anonymously voted on a Mentor Award winner. The award goes
to a chef who supports and inspires young restaurant professionals in their community, while nurturing talent with
generosity, skill, and vision.
Ben Sukle of Gift Horse and Oberlin | Providence, RI

STARCHEFS SUPPORTS
StarChefs is excited to partner with Singer M.Tucker and Chef Jake Rojas of Tallulah’s Taqueria to support
Amos House during Coastal New England Rising Stars Restaurant Week. Since 1976, Amos House has
been a staple of the Rhode Island nonprofit community, serving the homeless, unemployed, and those who
are living in poverty. For every Niman Ranch pork belly carnitas taco sold at Tallulah’s Taqueria during
Rising Stars Restaurant Week, StarChefs will donate $5 to Amos House.

ART OF PRESENTATION
In partnership with Steelite International, the award winners will have the opportunity to win the Rising Stars
Art of Presentation Award. This online content showcases the creativity and art of plating. The winner will
receive $5,000 toward Steelite International products of their choice. Voting will remain open to the public
through Monday, September 18th at 10 A.M. EST.

Rising Stars Supporters
Symrise, Steelite International, Vitamix Commercial, S.Pellegrino, Niman Ranch, Jade Range, TCHO
Chocolate, DemKota Ranch Beef, Singer M.Tucker, Corto Olive Co., Lumina Farms, Beam Suntory, Resy,
Vulcan, GoProvidence, Trentadue Winery, Amos House, Narragansett Brewery

  • Chef Eric Brown of Thick Neck
    Chef Eric Brown of Thick Neck
  • Thick Neck's Roasted Spaghetti Squash Salad, Burnt Pumpkin Seed Vinaigrette, Fermented Squash, Parsley Powder
    Thick Neck’s Roasted Spaghetti Squash Salad, Burnt Pumpkin Seed Vinaigrette, Fermented Squash, Parsley Powder
  • Chef Luke Mersfelder of Bywater
    Chef Luke Mersfelder of Bywater
  • Bywater's Crudo
    Bywater’s Crudo
  • Chef Nikhil Naiker of Nimki
    Chef Nikhil Naiker of Nimki
  • Nimki's Saina: Fried Spring Green-Lentil Roll, Spring Onion-Carrot Top Powder, Tamarind-Mint Chutney
    Nimki’s Saina: Fried Spring Green-Lentil Roll, Spring Onion-Carrot Top Powder, Tamarind-Mint Chutney
  • Chef Basil Yu of Yagi Noodles
    Chef Basil Yu of Yagi Noodles
  • Yagi Noodles's Tantanman: Sesame Soup, Beef Soboro, Peanuts, Red Cabbage, Edamame, Chile Crisp
    Yagi Noodles’s Tantanman: Sesame Soup, Beef Soboro, Peanuts, Red Cabbage, Edamame, Chile Crisp
  • Chef Scott LaChapelle of Pickerel
    Chef Scott LaChapelle of Pickerel
  • Pickerel's Littleneck Clam Shio Ramen, Hosaki Menma, Chashu Pork Shoulder and Belly
    Pickerel’s Littleneck Clam Shio Ramen, Hosaki Menma, Chashu Pork Shoulder and Belly
  • Chef Robert Andreozzi of Pizza Marvin
    Chef Robert Andreozzi of Pizza Marvin
  • Pizza Marvin's Chowdah Pie: Clams, Potato, Bacon, Herbs
    Pizza Marvin’s Chowdah Pie: Clams, Potato, Bacon, Herbs
  • Chef Nicholas Gillespie of Dune Brothers Seafood
    Chef Nicholas Gillespie of Dune Brothers Seafood
  • Dune Brothers Seafood's Whole Roasted Scup, Black Eyed Peas, Linguiça, Turnip, Peri Peri Mayonnaise, Molho Cru
    Dune Brothers Seafood’s Whole Roasted Scup, Black Eyed Peas, Linguiça, Turnip, Peri Peri Mayonnaise, Molho Cru
  • Bartender Britt Simons of The Eddy
    Bartender Britt Simons of The Eddy
  • The Eddy's Crushed Velvet: Orchard Fruit-Infused Gin, Dry Vermouth, Fino Sherry, Tonic Syrup, Lemon Peel
    The Eddy’s Crushed Velvet: Orchard Fruit-Infused Gin, Dry Vermouth, Fino Sherry, Tonic Syrup, Lemon Peel
  • Sommelier Bethany Caliaro of Gift Horse and Oberlin
    Sommelier Bethany Caliaro of Gift Horse and Oberlin
  • Oberlin's Pasta with Yoigokochi Sake
    Oberlin’s Pasta with Yoigokochi Sake
  • Sommelier Kelsey Shaw of Bayberry Garden
    Sommelier Kelsey Shaw of Bayberry Garden
  • Chef Ben Sukle of Gift Horse and Oberlin
    Chef Ben Sukle of Gift Horse and Oberlin

Photos courtesy of StarChefs

About StarChefs:
StarChefs has supported the restaurant industry since 1995 and serves as an essential resource for
restaurant professionals, as well as a backstage pass for food-savvy consumers. StarChefs’ original content
is driven by in-person tastings and interviews across the country, and its mission is to catalyze culinary
professionals’ success and give them the tools to overcome challenges. Through its Rising Stars Awards
and Rising Stars magazine, StarChefs has recognized up-and-coming industry professionals nationally
each year since 2003. Connect with StarChefs on Instagram and Facebook.

Hope & Main Teams up with Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream to Host RI Pitch Room Competition for Third Year in a Row

Come to the Schoolyard Market and Cheer On Your Favorite Local Food Businesses

2023 Munch Madness

During Wednesday’s Schoolyard Market, on September 13 from 5 to 8:00PM, Hope & Main will host the third annual Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream Pitch Room Competition where six local food companies will compete for $10,000 in prize winnings and the honor of being Rhode Island’s champion. 

It is all part of a six week-long Munch Madness Competition where Hope & Main members compete for the coveted prize from Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream.

Says Hope & Main Founder, Lisa Raiola, “We are proud to host the Pitch Room Competition. It is a little bit like Shark Tank meets Chopped in Rhode Island. It is such a great opportunity for exposure for our food-preneurs.  The event brings high visibility to Rhode Island’s vibrant, growing, and diverse food economy powered by small businesses.”

Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream supports local food and beverage entrepreneurs across the U.S. with access to capital, networks, and business coaching. 

The Pitch Room Competition will take place in front of a live panel of all-star judges including Jamie Coelho, the editor in chief of Rhode Island Monthly: Chef Sanjiv Dhar,  the Owner of Spice Kraft Inc, and RI Hospitality Association’s Restaurateur of the Year 2023; Jarvis Green, retired New England Patriots player, two-time Super Bowl Champion, and food-preneur; and Jennifer Glanville, Master Brewer for Sam Adams Boston Brewery.  Rhody food fans will hear six pitches from Hope & Main founders who were selected by popular vote in the first round of Munch Madness. 

2022 Munch Madness Winner Katie Potter of Newport Chowder Company, with her mother Muriel. Photo courtesy of Hope & Main.
2022 Munch Madness Winner Katie Potter of Newport Chowder Company, with her mother Muriel. Photo courtesy of Hope & Main.

The finalists competing for the coveted honor of being the inaugural RI Pitch Room Champion include:

  • Guetty Antiste, Empanada Assassin
  • Savannah Campbell, Caribe & Co
  • Ramon Hinds, Orisirisi Spice of Life
  • Amber Jackson, Black Leaf Tea Co.
  • Pin Minyvong, Pin’s Kytchen
  • Mariana Silva-Buck, Little Maven Lemonade

The Live Pitch Room Competition will take place during Hope & Main’s weekly Schoolyard Market. There will be many Hope & Main vendors offering local food and beverages, including craft cocktails and Sam Adams beer, all evening.

The two finalists from the Pitch Room Competition will go on to compete for the $10,000 cash prize at the Hope & Main Twilight Party on Saturday, September 23rd.  Party-goers will vote for their favorite business and the winner will be crowned that evening!

This year’s generous presenting sponsor for Hope & Main’s Munch Madness competition is BankNewport. 

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Lions Clubs and Hope's Harvestå
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Lions Clubs of RI Auction to Benefit Hope’s Harvest / Little City Thrifty Market Returns / Clementine Bar Opening in Providence / Neon Marketplace’s Fall Menu

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.

‘LIL RHODY-BIG YUM! — Lions Clubs of Rhode Island host an Online Auction for Hope’s Harvest

Introducing ‘LIL RHODY—BIG YUM, a Food-Centric online auction to raise funds toward the purchase of a refrigerated delivery van for Hope’s Harvest (a program of Farm Fresh Rhode Island).

Lil RHODY—BIG YUM runs through September 24. 

Auction items can be found at: www.biddingowl.com/LionsofRhodeIsland

A bit more about Hope’s Harvest:

Hope’s Harvest is the only state-wide gleaning organization linking farmers who have surplus food, an army of volunteer pickers and hunger relief agencies for distribution. See more at www.FarmFreshRI.org. They need a refrigerated van to transport fresh produce. Hope’s Harvest connects fresh, local food with local hungry people, tackles on-farm food waste, and works to strengthen our local food system.

The Lions Clubs are proud to partner with Hope’s Harvest and assist them in fundraising to buy a refrigerated van to deliver the best quality produce possible.

HHRI by the numbers (since 2018):

  • 48 Local Farms
  • 48 Pantries & meal providers
  • 350 Volunteers
  • 400 TONS of fresh produce recovered and
  • Redirected to agencies serving 35,000 people monthly

Little City Thrifty Vintage Market Returns to WaterFire Arts Center

October 1st & 2nd, 2022
Noon to 6pm with 11am Early Buying Hour
WaterFire Arts Center
475 Valley St.
Providence, RI

Little City Thrifty Vintage Market is returning to Providence’s WaterFire Arts Center for another curated weekend of indoor vintage and antiques shopping on October 1st and 2nd, 2022! Recently named “Rhode Island’s Best Flea Market” by national publication Domino Magazine, Little City Thrifty is excited to kick off fall with a second festival, after a successful and sold-out inaugural event in March 2022.

Little City Thrifty’s October event will bring together vintage lovers and dealers from far and wide, and will feature over 85 well-curated booths of vintage and pre-loved clothing, books, barware, records, art, ephemera, furniture, home decor, and much more. The lineup includes local favorites, as well as well-known vendors from ten other states. 

Tickets include a complimentary small beverage of your choice, provided by participating beverage sponsor, including a small cocktail from Bully Boy Distillers, a small beer from either Rejects Beer Co. or Trinity Brewhouse, a small hot coffee from New Harvest Coffee Roasters, or a glass bottle of Coca-Cola from Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast!

General Admission tickets are $8 in advance and may be available for $10 at the door, if the event does not sell out. “Early Buying Hour” tickets are also available but are very limited. For $15, these tickets allow for entry a full hour before the event starts, and they’re perfect for those who want some extra elbow-room while shopping and to get a first look at the vendors’ collections and rare items.

For a full list of vendors and to purchase advance tickets, visit www.littlecitythrifty.com.

Clementine, a New Cocktail and Tapas Bar, to Open in Downtown Providence in October 2022

Downtown developer Cornish Associates is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of Clementine at 200 Washington Street in Providence. The cocktail bar is the creation of Congressman and former Mayor of Providence David N. Cicilline. The grand opening will take place in mid-October 2022. 

Clementine–named after Cicilline’s great-grandmother–brings a fresh, modern, and innovative take on classic cocktails to downtown Providence. The cocktail menu offers an artful presentation of a dozen seasonally inspired rotating signature drinks, including non-alcoholic options. The food menu includes a range of small plates, including the ham croquette with aioli, the chickpea fries with harissa mayonnaise, and the crab rangoon with sweet chili sauce. The bar program will feature a rotation of guest bartenders and pop-up chefs. There will be opportunities for guests to enjoy cocktail classes and to use the space for private events, as well. 

Alongside his experience in Congress and at City Hall, Cicilline is a Providence native, author of a new book House on Fire, a graduate of Brown University and Georgetown University Law Center, and previously served as a defense attorney in Rhode Island. Prior to his political career, he enjoyed various roles within the hospitality industry in Rhode Island and worked in restaurants throughout college and law school. Cicilline is joined by Cristian Cantaragiu, who serves as general manager of Clementine. Cantaragiu has extensive experience in bartending that spans the globe, from the Royal Garden Hotel in London, to the Sweet & Chilly global drink agency, to lead bartender at the MTV Movie Awards in 2017. He most recently worked at 41 North in Newport, RI, and has studied bartending and mixology under international icons such as Simone Caporale and Simone Calabrese. Together, Cicilline and Cantaragiu look forward to sharing something new with Providence.

“I’ve always loved the downtown neighborhood in the heart of the city and this location in particular,” says Cicilline. “While I served as Mayor of Providence, much of my time was spent right down the street at City Hall. Now, at Clementine, I want to create a space where people feel welcome, whether they’re connecting and socializing with friends, taking a break after a busy work day, or enjoying a cocktail before heading across the street to watch a show at Trinity Rep.”

Clementine’s interior will benefit from the work of the award-winning, internationally acclaimed interior designer Michael Booth. Booth is founder of BAMO–which has offices in both Providence and San Francisco–and has earned architecture and BFA degrees from RISD. Booth’s clients include Four Seasons, Peninsula, Mandarin Oriental, and many others. He is a member of the Hospitality Design’s Platinum Circle and his work has been featured in Architectural Digest, New York Times Sunday Magazine, House and Garden, and many other national publications.  

Clementine can be found at 200 Washington Street on the ground floor of the Harkness Building (most recently occupied by Birch restaurant), directly across from Trinity Repertory Theater. The hours of operation are 4-11 p.m. from Monday through Thursday, and 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Friday through Saturday; Clementine is closed on Sundays. For updates and more information follow on Instagram at @clementinecocktailbar, or contact Cristian Cantaragiu at (401) 633-5402.

Fall is in the Air at Neon Marketplace

More than just lattes and muffins, Neon’s menu features seasonal pizza, salad, milkshakes and more

Neon Marketplace, the newest, most innovative, and elevated brand in the convenience store industry, with locations in Warwick, Rhode Island and Seekonk, Massachusetts and express locations in Middletown and Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is pleased to announce its line-up of fall flavors, available through November 25.  

Guests can enjoy a taste of the season with the Fall Harvest Pizza:  hand stretched pizza dough topped with an aromatic sage herb cream sauce, whole milk mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, grilled chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and house roasted butternut squash. This pizza is cooked in Neon’s brick oven and finished with dressed arugula and a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds. 

The New England Autumn Cranberry Chicken Salad, made fresh in-house, features grilled chicken, house roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, roasted pumpkin seeds, and onion over a bed of spinach and arugula with apple cider vinaigrette. 

For a seasonal pick-me-up, guests can enjoy a customizable and crafted to order hot or iced Pumpkin Spice Latte, featuring Neon’s smooth and rich espresso sweetened with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. 

Neon’s sweet treats include an Apple Pie Milkshake: ice cream blended with sweet cinnamon apple pie filling topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, graham cracker crumble and a dash of cinnamon; a Pumpkin Pie Milkshake:ice cream blended with pumpkin pie filling, topped with whipped cream, graham cracker crumble, and a dash of cinnamon; Maple Pecan Plait Danishes, baked fresh daily, filled with pecan pie custard and topped with chopped roasted pecans and a sweet maple glaze;  Pumpkin Swirl Pound Cake: classic pound cake swirled with craveable pumpkin spice cake and finished with rich vanilla icing.   

Neon Marketplace also offers a full array of breakfast options, including pastries, freshly made-to-order egg sandwiches, artisan coffee and lattes; hand-made grinders and sandwiches; a variety of salads; snacks; all-natural lemonade and fresh-brewed iced tea, fountain, and cooler drinks. 

Neon Marketplace caters to today’s modern traveler by delivering a uniquely refreshing and stylish experience designed to create loyal customers. Neon locations are targeted to areas where the convenience store customer is currently underserved and in areas where growing populations and/or business growth has resulted in increased vehicle traffic and consumer demand.Follow Neon Marketplace on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn more about the growing brand.

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CHI Kitchen Fermented Sesame Slaw Sofi Award
chefs & restaurantscookingnewswine & drinks

News Bites: CHI Kitchen Wins Gold / ISCO Expands into Massachusetts / Blackstone Valley Culinary News

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.

CHI Kitchen Wins Gold Award in 2022 sofi™ Awards

Nearly 2,000 Products Competed for the Top Specialty Food Association Award

CHI Kitchen Fermented Sesame Slaw Sofi Award

Fermented Sesame Slaw has won a GOLD Award in the Pickles & Olives category  as part of the Specialty Food Association (SFA) 2022 sofi™ Awards, a top honor in the $170.4 billion specialty food industry. 

Chi Kitchen’s Fermented Sesame Slaw selected by a panel of specialty food experts from nearly 2,000 entries across 53 product categories. Products are judged on taste, including flavor, appearance, texture and aroma, ingredient quality, and innovation. All tastings are anonymous and are held at the Rutgers Food Innovation Center.

“We are honored that our Fermented Sesame Slaw has won a Gold Award,” says Minnie Luong, Founder and CHI-EO of CHI Kitchen. “To know that our product stands out from the crowd in a blind tasting gives us the confidence to continue innovating and growing in our category with our naturally probiotic-packed, gut healthy fermented vegetables. This is one of the ultimate stamps of approval and we’re very grateful and excited for all the winners.” Fermented Sesame Slaw can be found at Whole Foods North Atlantic, independent retail stores and food service establishments all throughout New England and online at www.chikitchen.com.

The Sofi Awards are open to members of the SFA, and have been given each year since 1972. Winners will be showcased at the 2022 Summer Fancy Food Show, running June 12-14, at the Javits Center in New York City. Open only to the trade, it is the largest East Coast B2B-only specialty food and beverage show. For more information, visit specialtyfood.com.

The World’s First Vodka Distilled with Oysters Is Now Available in Massachusetts

The Industrious Spirit Company Announces Expansion into MA Market with their Vodkas, Gins and Bourbons

The Industrious Spirit Company's Ostreida

Today, The Industrious Spirit Company (ISCO) announced their expansion into Massachusetts. Their recent launch of Ostreida, the first vodka distilled with oysters in the United States and possibly the world, went viral online and has created a pent-up demand for the product that the company is excited to fulfill just in time for summer in New England. To celebrate the new state launch, ISCO has distilled a special batch of the product using Powder Point Oysters from Duxbury, MA. Ostreida is a flagship product for ISCO as it encapsulates their creative approach to spirits, creating new and original products from classic ingredients and techniques. 

“Ostreida is a unique expression of the fundamental elements of earth and ocean, perfectly captured in a bottle, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to share this quintessentially New England product with our neighbors in Massachusetts,” said Manya K. Rubinstein, CEO of ISCO. “Ostreida brings a savory and briny seacoast minerality with a subtle hint of bivalve bouquet on the nose that mixes sublimely with our spirits’ signature buttery texture and creamy finish—it makes a killer martini and an amazing Bloody Mary, and is just perfect for summer sipping!”

Since each small batch of Ostreida is produced with oysters from a specific farm, each bottle now comes with a neck tag highlighting the farm’s location and date of harvest. ISCO cares deeply about sustainability, working with a regional regenerative farm to grow the organic corn they use for the base of their spirits and donating a portion of all bottle sales of Ostreida to GreenWave, an organization that works to scale sustainable ocean farming.

In addition to Ostreida, ISCO is making its creamy, smooth sipping Structural Vodka, lovingly hand-distilled from organic corn, as well as its modern-style botanically-focused Ornamental Gin available to the Massachusetts market immediately, with bourbon barrel aged gin and bourbons, such as Blue Velvet, made from two different types of sustainably farmed blue corn from the US and Mexico, to come in the future. 

“I am excited to have the opportunity to add Ostreida and ISCO’s vodkas and gins to our portfolio of independent beverage brands,” said Caitlin McGarrahan, the director of Origin, a division of Horizon Beverage that is dedicated to handcrafted products. “In such a saturated industry, it is rare that we get an opportunity to bring true “firsts” to market—we believe this product is going to become an instant summer in New England classic, especially out on the islands and at restaurants with a seafood focus” 

In celebration of the expansion into Massachusetts, there are five unique and fun events planned.   

May 25, 2022: The Little Donkey http://www.littledonkeybos.com/ in Cambridge is hosting a fun filled night of Ostreida shooters and specialty cocktails. The restaurant features tapas by James Beard Award-Winning Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette in the heart of Central Square. 

June 2, 2022: A special evening at Forage https://foragecambridge.com/ in Cambridge for a four-course dinner with Ostreida cocktail pairings. With two seating times, 6:30 and 8:00 p.m. costing $95 per person this event is sure to be special. Aligning with ISCO’s sustainable and local ideology, Forage is a neighborhood bistro just off Harvard Square that showcases local farmers, fishermen, and foragers with their seasonally-driven menu. Featuring such cocktails as “Overboard” made with Ostreida, dry vermouth, dulse, meyer lemon saline, and garnished with a pickled oyster! 

June 5, 2022: Little Moss https://www.littlemoss.com/, in South Dartmouth will host an afternoon deck soiree featuring Ostreida cocktails paired with small plates and hor d’ourves.  Little Moss, a beautiful spot sited in the adorable village of Padanaram that features rotating menus of seasonal plates, handmade pastas, natural wines, and craft cocktails. 

June 10, 2022: Summer Shack https://www.summershackrestaurant.com, Cambridge, is hosting a TGIF Cocktail Hour and Meet the Distiller event featuring Ostreida cocktail specials and a special gift basket giveaway. This fun, casual restaurant specializes in fresh New England style seafood and boasts the largest oyster bar in Cambridge!

June 30, 2022: Caviar Pairing at UNI https://uni-boston.com/ in Boston. A special evening featuring an Ostreida caviar pairing at this lively, contemporary izakaya located in The Eliot Hotel on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, helmed by Chef Ken Oringer. UNI’s menu highlights global street food-inspired small plates, as well as innovative makimono, nigiri, and sashimi—all delicious when paired with vodka distilled with oysters!

Blackstone Valley Culinary News – May 9 – 12, 2022

Fully Rooted, Inc.
(401) 753-4930
fullyrooted.com/
at
Wildflour Vegan Bakery and Juice Bar
727 East Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-475-4718
Wildflourbakerycafe.com

You can save money and help the planet when you buy juices from Fully Rooted and return the empty glass bottles to participating juice locations.  For every empty Fully Rooted glass jar you bring back to participating kiosk locations, you’ll receive 50 cents off your purchase at check out.  And you’ll be helping keep the Blackstone Valley and Mother Earth beautiful!   Your Blackstone Valley location for a Fully Rooted kiosk is at Wildflour Vegan Bakery and Juice Bar.  Other locations are listed HERE.  

Atrium on Main 
285 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI  02860
401-335-5500
Aomrestaurant.com

Atrium on Main has joined the Plates with Purpose family, a program that helps to eradicate homelessness and hunger, among other programs.  They are currently focused on securing nourishing and delicious meals to our most vulnerable neighbors in Pawtucket.  The program works through independently-owned restaurants such as Atrium on Main.  For every $1 you donate by Friday, May 13 will be used to prepare and distribute meals through the team at Atrium on Main.  A donation of $10 equals 1 prepared meal.   To donate, click HERE.  Remember to donate before Friday, May 13!

RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival
The Guild
461 Main Street, Pawtucket
May 14 at 6 pm

This non-profit festival plans to highlight women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ breweries, wineries, and spirits producers from RI and beyond. The funds raised by this festival will be donated to the JWU scholarship that helps people from diverse backgrounds pursue a career in the beverage industry.  The mission of the RIDEA (Rhode Island Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Action) Committee is to promote a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the RI beverage community.  Blackstone Valley companies who will be involved, in addition to The Guild, are:  Rhode Island Spirits, Ravenous Brewing Co., Foolproof Brewing Co., and Smug Brewing Co.  

TICKETS

The Orchard Grill
132 Pleasant Street, Smithfield
401-234-9980
orchardgrill.com

The Orchard Grill, formerly Laura’s Pleasant View Diner, in Smithfield, has a great staff who take pride in providing the best down-home friendly service possible.  They serve traditional American classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  

Rhode Island Spirits
59 Blackstone Avenue, Pawtucket  02860
401-856-4111
Rhodeislandspirits.com

In addition to participating in the RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival (see above) on May 14, here’s what’s happening in May at RI Spirits:  

Distillery Trivia – Friday, May 20 – 6:00 to 7:30 pm (free event – prizes!)

Game Day – Sunday, May 22 – 1:00 to 5:00 pm (free event)

Drink In The History – Thursday, May 26 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm  – TICKETS

Smug Brewing
100 Carver Street, Pawtucket  02860
401-642-5701
Smugbrewing.com

In addition to participating in the RIDEA Craft Beverage Festival (see above) on May 14, here’s what’s happening in May at Smug Brewing:  

Trivia on Thursdays – one game at 6:30 pm and one game at 7:30 pm – bring your team to compete for prizes!  Burmese Fusion will be on site. 

Music Bingo on Fridays – six games will be played – instead of calling numbers and letters, songs are played.  Fun!  The Perfect Empanada will be on site. 

Saturday, May 14 – 1 pm -10 pm – Cookie Chow on site.  Smug pouring at the RIDEA Festival.  

Sunday, May 15 – 12 pm to 5 pm – Music with JT Horne…and Pierogitory will be on site for food.  

Saturday, May 21 – Bonsai and Brews – Learn, create, drink and eat – Biggest Little Easy Catering will be on site.  

Sunday, May 22 – Pasta Demo – Alex from Newport Pasta Company will be leading this hands-on experience.  You’ll be able to have some Saugy’s Franks with your pasta!

Tavern on Main – Quahog Week
1157 Main Street, Chepachet
401-710-9788
tavernonmainri.com

Quahog Week 2022 runs from May 15-21.  Make sure you try Rhode Island’s favorite clam at participating restaurants – but be sure to head to Tavern on Main in Chepachet, the only Blackstone Valley restaurant participating, for Tavern Seafood Stuffies (2) made with shrimp, scallops, crab and clams for only $8!  

Johnny’s Victory Diner
2731 Victory Highway, Burrillville, RI  02830
401-765-2661
johnnysvictorydiner.com

BBQ Season is here!  Enjoy Johnny’s award-winning BBQ staring at 2 pm every Friday.  Try the pulled pork sando and their famous chicken egg rolls (order early – they sell out!   This Friday, May 13, enjoy the music of Tim Hart & George from the Illusions Band from 6 pm to 9 pm on the deck.  And stop by and see the fine folks from Johnny’s on Saturday, May 14 at Seven Cedars Farm in Smithfield for the Spring Festival.  They’ll be serving their famous BBQ from 11:30/noon to whenever they sell out.  

Red, White and Brew Coffeehouse 
601 Great Road, North Smithfield
401-488-4822
redwhitebrewri.com

Let me introduce you to “Delicious”, the newest summer drink at Red, White and Brew – it’s a cold brew with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, topped with chocolate syrup and sprinkles.  It’s available for summer now!  

And speaking of Red, White and Brew and their great gift shop, where I was first introduced to “We Be Jammin’” products…and now they have their own shop!….

We Be Jammin’
Hope Artiste Village
1005 Main Street, #8233, Pawtucket
Webejammin.net

We Be Jammin’ is owned by Jason Wood, an autistic man, whose mission is to give back to the community.  His company makes specialty jams, salsas, BBQ sauces, marinades, glazes, pickles, relish, beets, salad dressings and more.  Read all about Jason and the company in this recent Valley Breeze article.  Let’s support this great business!   

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chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

Black-Owned Food and Drink Businesses in Rhode Island

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

Editor’s note: This has been updated as of February 2023. Sadly the list of names I could add to what was the first paragraph on this page when it was set up three years ago has only grown. Black Lives Matter.

Eat Drink RI supports the non-violent protests in response to the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, David McAtee, Ahmaud Arbery and countless others. This list is an attempt to highlight any Black-owned food and drink businesses in Rhode Island for your support. The Eat Drink RI platform is 13-years-old with a wide reach, so I hope this will help to amplify these business.

This isn’t a comprehensive list by any means and additions are welcome. If you know of a food or drink business that should be added to this page, please send a message through our contact form. I’ll try to add by tracking social media too, but please send through the form so I don’t lose track of anyone.

Thanks to the following lists for additions & inspiration, and please follow these too for updates: List of Black-owned business to support? on Reddit and @bunsandbites and @anthony_perrotta on Instagram. Black Lives Biz is a RI-based nationwide search engine of businesses, including those that aren’t food & drink.

The entire list is in a sortable by name or city/town and searchable spreadsheet.

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