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Providence

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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 September 14, 2022

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.

September 14, 2022 0 comment

ISCO Blue Velvet Bourbon with Glass and Palm, photo by Rachel Hulin

chefs & restaurants farms news wine & drinks

News Bites: The Return of ISCO’s Blue Velvet Bourbon / Basil & Bunny Opens in Bristol / General Stanton Inn Reopens / Introducing Land & Sea Together / Neon Marketplace Launches “Pizza Twos-day”

by David Dadekian August 31, 2022

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 Industrious Spirit Company Announces the Return of Blue Velvet Bourbon

Today, The Industrious Spirit Company (ISCO) announced that their Blue Velvet Bourbon will rejoin their spirits line up of Ostreida Oyster Vodka, Structural Vodka, Ornamental Gin and Patina Bourbon Barrel Aged Gin. The company’s initial experimental run of Blue Velvet was released in January 2021 and sold out in mere hours, now the wait for more is finally over.

“We are proud to bring back Blue Velvet Bourbon,” said Dan Neff and Eric Olson, Head Distillers at ISCO. “This continues to be a very special project for us. While good things take time, and bourbon generally ages for at least two years (as will most of ours), the unique nature of the corns that we used for this special project has allowed us to create something youthful yet fully expressive, showing off our passion for flavor. Our favorite way to enjoy Blue Velvet is sipped neat or on the rocks.”

This unique bourbon is created from 100% blue corn using a blend of two very special and distinct varieties—an organic strain of indigo developed in Kentucky and a landrace blue variety from Oaxaca, Mexico (“landrace” indicates a plant grown in its original region with a nearly identical genetic makeup to its wild ancestor). After being cooked and fermented (fun fact: blue corn turns pink when you ferment it due to a pH change!), ISCO carefully distills this bourbon in small batches before resting it in charred new oak barrels for six to twelve months “to taste”— their goal is to ensure the corns’ flavors remain the star of the show. A unique marriage of cultures and places, Blue Velvet boasts heaps of caramel, chocolate and vanilla flavors and a signature note of blue corn tortillas. Bottled at a whopping 100 proof to preserve the rich flavors and robust mouthfeel, it lingers for a lasting finish of toast and oak—a bourbon you won’t soon forget!

In celebration of Blue Velvet, ISCO will kick off a weekend of events beginning on Thursday, September 15 with a raucous-yet-refined VIP launch party from 5-10pm. Tickets can be pre-purchased for this beautiful evening that will include passed hors d’oeurves and luxurious bites highlighting local food producers from The East End, the opportunity to sample some as-of-yet unreleased spirits, access to tours and a raffle ticket to be entered to win a very special artist-made, one-of-a-kind Blue Velvet Bourbon bathrobe and two opulent handcrafted Blue Velvet tasseled pillows!

While ISCO created significantly more Blue Velvet than for its first release last year, this second release will certainly also sell out. First bottles will be available for purchase at the distillery that evening and over the following days.

The weekend continues with raffle sales ($3 each) throughout the weekend and culminates on Sunday, September 18 with a free, open-to-the public party from 12pm – 6pm, featuring live music by Da Huey X, food by Durks and a photobooth.

ISCO is deeply invested in creating beautiful, delicious products that tell stories about where they come from. In honor of Blue Velvet’s mash bill that blends organic blue corn from the US with a landrace blue corn from Mexico, proceeds from the raffle will be split between The American Farmland Trust https://farmland.org/about/, an organization that works to protect agricultural land, promote environmentally sound farming practices and to keep farmers on the land, and Fundación Tortilla, https://fundaciontortilla.org/nosotros, a Mexican nonprofit organization that promotes corn as a fundamental element of the culture, nutrition and economic development of Mexico via educational programs, policy reform and direct work to improve biodiversity of Mexican maize.

The Industrious Spirit Company distillery is located in the Valley neighborhood of Providence along the city’s former “Industrial Corridor.” Their production space and tasting room were once part of Providence Steel & Iron, a business that produced structural and ornamental steel for nearly 100 years. ISCO is proud to carry on this tradition of creation.

Basil & Bunny Now Open in Bristol

Basil & Bunny, comfort food inspired by multicultural flavors and 100% plant-based, is now open at their new location at Unity Park, 500 Wood Street in Bristol. Opening hours are currently Wednesdays through Fridays from 4 – 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 – 8 p.m., with plans to expand those hours moving forward. Their full menu is posted at basilandbunny.com and online ordering is available during open hours at basilandbunny.square.site. Watch for news of a grand opening celebration in September.

The General Stanton Inn has reopened its historic doors after a multimillion-dollar renovation

Following a 10-year hiatus, the historic General Stanton Inn is inviting diners back inside. New owners David and Jackie Moore are pleased to announce that the renovation and restoration of the inn’s tavern and dining rooms are complete. The General Stanton Inn reopened for dining on Wednesday, August 17.

“As a Narragansett native and University of Rhode Island graduate, I thought it was very important to protect the original colonial character and integrity of this historic Charlestown landmark, which first entertained guests in 1740,” said David Moore. “While we preserved the architecture, the building needed a major overhaul. The inn now features a state-of-the art kitchen to accommodate weddings and banquets, a refurbished fine dining restaurant and a remodeled, and very comfortable, tavern bar.”

Located at 4115 Old Post Road in Charlestown, the General Stanton Inn rests on an old 6.78-acre horse farm, which still has original stone walls. The inn was once a gathering place between Philadelphia and Boston during the Revolutionary War, and it’s believed to have hosted George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette and Alexander Hamilton. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Chester Arthur were also guests of the inn.

In the Roaring 1920s, a fine dining room was added as popularity of the General Stanton Inn as a Prohibition-era speakeasy and gambling house grew. Al Capone, Diamond Jim Brady and notorious actress Tallulah Bankhead were some of the more famous guests who partied in Gatsby-like fashion into the wee hours.

“As we renovated the formal dining room, I was drawn to the original coffered ceilings and art deco chandeliers of the period,” said Jackie Moore. “We’ve preserved that 1920s’ feel and enhanced the room with candlelight and a new sound system, which will feature soft jazz like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. We want our guests to have a memorable evening as they enjoy a white table setting, great food and fine wines.”

The tavern will be open from 5-10 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Beginning this September, the fine dining room will be open. Sunday brunch will be served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a traditional New England Sunday Supper, which will be served until 7 p.m.

Guests can make online reservations and preview the dining menu at thegeneralstantoninn.com or call 401-364-8888.
Contact Sarah at events@thegeneralstantoninn.com to book weddings, banquets and large parties. The inn guest rooms will reopen later this fall.

Introducing Land & Sea Together: A Network to Support Farmers, Fisheries, and Forestry Businesses and Workers in RI

The Center for Mediation and Collaboration RI, in partnership with RI-DEM,with the support of over 25 other industry organizations, aims to reducestressors facing our food and forest producersthrough the new program, Land & Sea Together.

Land & Sea Together is a collaborative network of services and opportunities, aimed at reducing stress and building personal and financial resilience in the fisheries, forestry, and farming communities in Rhode Island. These professionals tend our land and sea, and are the core of our natural resources sector here in the state. But workers in these fields often face challenging and unpredictable conditions with limited support. From labor shortages to injuries, from price fluctuations to severe weather conditions, these jobs can be devastatingly hard. And folks are feeling the stress across the nation.

Individuals in these three industries AND their families now have access to a local Employee Assistance Program, Coastline EAP, through their help line 1-800-445-1195.

By calling this help line, workers AND their families can receive:

Immediate, unlimited contact with Coastline EAP’s Masters’ level, professional staff via a toll-free helpline (1-800-445-1195)
Up to 12 FREE sessions with a mental health treatment provider
24 hours/day, 365 days/year crisis support. Assessment and crisis support for aAfull spectrum of work/life challenges offered the same or next business day
Unlimited follow-up and support services
Consultation for legal, financial, eldercare, childcare, nutrition, career, andAconvenience resources
Qualified referral to most effective helping resources in terms of expertise,Alocation, cost and availability
Over 100 pre-recorded webinars and 60 skills courses (with certifications) onAwww.coastlineeap.com and live monthly wellness sessions
Monthly newsletter in English and Spanish

Individuals in these industries can also apply for micro grant funding until October 15th, 2022 through a simple application to receive up to $500 of support towards the following services:

Childcare or Eldercare Assistance
Business Development Services (Succession, Tax, Financial, Legal)
Wellness Services & Trainings
Equipment or Vehicle Repair Services (labor only)
Veterinary Services

Always free through Land & Sea Together and CMCRI:

Mediation Services
Comprehensive Industry Resource Guides

For more information contact program director Laurel Witri
Land & Sea Together, a program of the Center for Mediation and Collaboration RI info@landandseatogether.org

Forget Taco Tuesday – Neon Marketplace Launches ‘Pizza Twos-day’

For a limited time, customers can pick up any two Roman-style pizzas for $15.00 every Tuesday

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 ‘Pizza Twos-day,’ when customers can pick-up any two of Neon’s Roman-style specialty pizzas topped with house-made sauce and Neon’s signature three-cheese blend for just $15.00 at the Warwick and Seekonk locations.

Each pizza feeds three-to-four people and makes for a perfect, hot and fresh dinner for busy families on-the-go, or a perfect lunch at the office. The offer is valid on cheese, pepperoni or any of the signature pies. Additional toppings may be added for an additional fee.

Developed in conjunction with James Beard award-winning chef and restaurateur Michael Schlow, Neon’s artisan hand-pressed pizza pies are baked light and fluffy onsite in Neon’s traditional brick ovens. Each hand-crafted pizza pie starts with dough that is proofed for several hours to give it a light and airy texture, and is then baked in Neon’s brick ovens. Customers can order a variety of set toppings or completely customize their pies for a fast, hot, delicious pizza experience to enjoy in Neon’s café or to take on the road.

In addition to cheese, pepperoni, meat lovers, supreme and margherita, Neon’s specialty pizzas are also available in BBQ chicken, buffalo chicken, Hawaiian, white-hot honey chicken, and pesto sausage. The build-your-own toppings include pepperoni, Italian sausage, grilled chicken, ham, bacon, tomatoes, onions, banana peppers, black olives, roasted red bell peppers, pineapple, jalapeños, hot honey, and oregano. Sauces include marinara, alfredo, pesto, buffalo, BBQ and ranch.

Follow Neon Marketplace on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn more about the growing brand.

August 31, 2022 0 comment

Rory’s Market and Kitchen Prepared Foods Assortment

chefs & restaurants news wine & drinks

News Bites: Castle Hill Inn New Prix-Fixe Menu / Rory’s Market and Kitchen Coming to Providence / Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll Available in Providence / Coppa Cocktails Arrive in the USA

by David Dadekian July 29, 2022

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 Dining Room At Castle Hill Inn Launches New Pre-Fixe Tasting Menu Experience

New menu offers a curated culinary adventure designed around coastal New England flavors

The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn, the iconic Relais & Châteaux property in Newport, Rhode Island, today announced the release of its new Tasting Menu; a curated tasting experience inspired by both the flavors of coastal New England and influences around the globe.

Located inside the historic Agassiz Mansion, The Dining Room has long been the backdrop to memorial occasions and praised as one of the best restaurants in Newport. Led by Executive Chef Lou Rossi and Chef de Cuisine Dylan Cadrette, the new Tasting Menu focuses on dishes that utilize and showcase the bounty of Newport’s local produce, seafood, and artisanal producers to present a unique, memorable experience that is tailored to guest’s preferences.

“In creating this specialized, tailored menu we hope The Dining Room continues to surprise our guests and encourage them to rethink what New England cuisine is all about,” said Executive Chef Lou Rossi. “The menu takes all the bounty of Rhode Island and the surrounding region to highlight seasonal ingredients we plan to change on a regular basis to ensure each dining experience is different than the last.”

With the new Tasting Menu, avid foodies and gourmet-minded diners are treated to an incredible farm-to-table dining adventure. The prix fixe menu offers six courses, each of which features two to three dishes for guests to choose from. Each dish is tied to a key ingredient as its focus and offers guests an ever-changing and seasonally inspired array of both local and globally inspired flavors.

The six-course selection includes everything from local, Rhode Island Oysters and Foie Gras Terrine, to Lobster with squash and radish, Truffle Pasta, and Strawberry featuring cucumber and yuzu. The two desserts are focused on Melon, featuring biscotti and almond, and Chocolate tied together with fig and coffee.

To tie it all together, the restaurant’s exceptional and award-wining wine list features more than 800 selections to offer the perfect pairing with each curated meal. Specialty wine flights are designed to complement the flavors of the menus being served.

The new six-course Tasting Menu in The Dining Room is available for $135 per person. Wine Flights start from $50 per person. To view sample menus or to make a reservation for The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn, guests can visit www.castlehillinn.com/dine/the-dining-room/.

Rory’s Market And Kitchen Opens September 2022 In Downtown Providence

Rory’s Market and Kitchen is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of their newest store located at 113 Washington Street in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Rory’s is an independent, second generation owned, local, natural grocery store and kitchen. The store will open with over 6,000 square feet on the ground floor of the Nightingale Building in September 2022.

Rory’s first location was opened in Dennisport, MA in 1978 by Darby Ziruk with the mission to bring organic produce to Cape Cod residents. A second location was opened in Mashpee, MA in 2014, followed by Darby’s daughter Rory Eames stepping into ownership in 2019. Rory’s Providence location will carry on the mission to support communities by offering access to natural products and organic produce from local businesses. The Providence location will serve as the company’s third store and the first outside of Massachusetts.

“This is our first urban location, which gives us the opportunity to grow together in such a special city like Providence,” says Rory Eames, owner and namesake of Rory’s. “We are so excited to serve and be part of the community.”

The Rory’s team is dedicated to sourcing a variety of natural and specialty grocery staples, including local and organic produce, meats, cheeses, beverages, vitamins, and body and home care items. As a brand, Rory’s is always on the lookout for the latest and upcoming foods and products.

In addition to grocery offerings, Rory’s Kitchen provides customers with both made-to-order and grab-and-go breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The Providence menu will include organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, grain bowls, avocado toasts, salads, sandwiches and more. Customers can also look forward to gluten conscious-menu items.

The store and kitchen will be open seven days a week, for in-person shopping, online-shopping, pick-up, and delivery service. Shoppers will enjoy the convenience of delivery for all grocery items, prepared foods, coffee and juice bar menu items.

Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll Available in Providence

Beatnic's "Rock Lobstah Roll," Lobstah bib and Beatnic beach towels — Beatnic’s “Rock Lobstah Roll,” Lobstah bib and Beatnic beach towels

Vegans unite! Until now, lobster rolls were just a seaside treat reserved for meat-eaters and proclaimed pescatarians, but not anymore.

Following the successful launch of Beatnic’s Vegan Lobster Roll at the Montauk Beach House in the Hamptons, Beatnic is happy to bring the beach to the city, extending their “Rock Lobstah Roll” to all store locations in NYC, Boston, and Providence. The product will be available August 1 – August 26 (4 weeks) at $10.95.

What’s a Vegan Lobster Roll you ask?

Simple, it’s a vegan take on the East Coast favorite, subbing out lobster for hearts of palm and seasoning it with lemon juice, celery, red onion, a vegan remoulade, dill and Old Bay seasoning. To top it off, this delicious delight will be served on a vegan pretzel bun, serving up all the flavor with none of the fish!

But wait, there’s more! Beatnic will be giving away FREE Beatnic beach towels and FREE Lobstah bib with any purchase.

Disclaimer: In store only, limited stock available, one per person.

Coppa Cocktails® & M.S. Walker Brands Launch “World’s Best Cocktails” in the U.S.

Consumers Are Encouraged to “Just Add Ice!” for a World Class Cocktail Experience

M.S. Walker Brands has partnered with Coppa Cocktails® to bring its robust line of award-winning classic to contemporary premium pre-mixed cocktails to U.S. shores. Developed by Toorank International Spirits, a Dutch distilling and bottling company founded in 1978, Coppa Cocktails are currently available in more than 30 countries. With natural flavors and premium spirits, 15% ABV, a SRP of $17.99/750mL, and disruptive packaging, Coppa Cocktails appeal to the modern consumer who seeks high quality, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. The brand is currently distributed in more than 27 states with an aggressive nationwide rollout underway.

The core flavors are:

Margarita, made with tequila, orange liqueur, lime, and natural flavors, its distinct yet smooth agave aroma is followed by a tart, refreshing palate
Mojito, made with premium Caribbean white rum, lime, and mint, with prominent initial aromas of fresh and sweet mint leaves, followed by a palate led by refreshing sour lime
Strawberry Daquiri, again made with premium Caribbean white rum and lime juice, this time with the addition of fresh strawberries; the sweet and sour flavors of freshly muddled strawberries are very evident on the palate
Piña Colada, made with premium Caribbean white rum, vodka, rich cream, coconut, and the sweet flavor of pineapple juice, this Gold Medal winner from the Denver International Spirits Competition speaks for itself: no blender, no problem; just add ice!

Coppa Cocktails’ Cosmopolitan, Long Island Iced Tea, Mai Tai, Rum & Ginger, Sex on the Beach, and Tequila Sunrise are also currently for sale in the U.S. All Coppa Cocktails are non-GMO.

José B. Chao, President of Coppa Cocktails USA, says, “We pride ourselves on offering the world’s best cocktails. Whether making life easy at home, or increasing speed and consistency on-premise, every Coppa Cocktail delivers a delicious, premium, and effortless cocktail experience.”

“As the ready-to-drink category continues to grow, we see a tremendous opportunity for a brand of Coppa Cocktails’ quality and visual appeal,” says Gary Shaw, Executive VP of Sales for M.S. Walker Brands. “Our strategy includes a vigorous in-store tasting and retail activation program, and we are confident consumers will experience the outstanding quality of these cocktails.”

Please enjoy responsibly.

For more information, please visit www.coppacocktails.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

July 29, 2022 0 comment

Wright's Farm Restaurant's 50th Anniversary

chefs & restaurants news

News Bites: Wright’s Farm Restaurant Celebrates 50 Years / Newport Restaurant Group Announces 18 Promotions and New Hires / Blackstone Valley Culinary News

by David Dadekian July 29, 2022

written by David Dadekian

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

Wright’s Farm to Host ‘Anniversary Fling’ Customer Appreciation Event

Wright’s Farm Restaurant’s traditional Spring Fling Shopping Event will be transformed into a celebratory customer event to mark the restaurant’s 50^th anniversary

Wright’s Farm Restaurant, located at 84 Inman Road in Burrillville, is celebrating its 50^th anniversary this year. As part of the celebration, the Gift Shop will host a customer appreciation event, instead of its signature Spring Fling, on Friday, June 3^rd from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Customers are encouraged to visit www.WrightsFarm.com for more information.

Shoppers will enjoy special treats, discounts, promotions, and opportunities to win raffle baskets, prizes, surprises from the Wheel of Wow Giveaways and additional fun.

“For five decades, we’ve proudly hosted families as they celebrated important milestones,” said Frank Galleshaw III, Owner. “From birthdays, graduations to anniversaries, we have enjoyed celebrating with our customers, many of whom have become like family. We deeply appreciate the community making Wright’s Farm a part of their lives throughout the years, and we look forward to celebrating them during our Anniversary Fling.”

Wright’s Farm, known as a gathering spot for generations of families to come together and enjoy a delicious homemade meal served family style, and shop for unique items in the Gift Shop, has been family-owned and operated for 50 years.

Wright’s Farm’s Gift Shop carries the latest fashion accessories and jewelry trends from Luca + Danni, Spartina 449, Vera Bradley, John Medeiros, Dune, and Cape Cod Jewelry to name a few; as well as a selection of unique gifts, toys and a delightful array of candies, gourmet truffles and Wright’s Farm fudge, made on the premises.

Newport Restaurant Group Announces 18 Promotions and New Hires for Senior-Level Positions

Newport Restaurant Group (NRG), an award-winning collection of unique restaurants and hospitality venues located throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, is pleased to announce the hiring and promotion of 18 employee-owners. NRG is the only employee-owned hospitality company in Rhode Island and offers full-coverage benefits, food and beverage discounts, generous time off and opportunities for career advancement.

“This is the most significant round of hiring we’ve done in our history, demonstrating the strength of our company, even after two years of setbacks due to the pandemic,” said Kristin Allain, Director of Human Resources. “It’s a true testament to our unique employee-ownership model and our strong leadership that we have been able to attract and retain talent, despite the labor shortage which reaches far beyond the hospitality industry.”

Promotions:

Alia Asher of Westport, MA has been promoted to executive sous chef at the Boat House in Tiverton. Prior to her new role, she was sous chef at 22 Bowen’s in Newport, and had also worked at a local slaughterhouse in Massachusetts, and in numerous positions at restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, FL, including line cook, kitchen supervisor, and sous chef at the Riverside Hotel, sous chef at the Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grill, and chef de cuisine at the Boathouse at The Riverside. Alia is a native of Kingston, Jamaica and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Paul Sousa of North Providence, RI has been promoted to general manager at Bar ‘Cino and La Vecina, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the neighboring restaurants in Newport’s Washington Square. Paul joined NRG in 2014 as a restaurant manager at Hemenway’s before taking the helm at Waterman Grille. Prior to joining NRG, he managed Cafe Paragon and Viva on Thayer Street in Providence. Paul holds a degree in Business Management from Rhode Island College.

Tobey Sanborn, an NRG veteran, has been named director of training, responsible for meeting strategic objectives related to training and development of all staff members with a focus on succession planning. Prior to joining NRG, Tobey held various roles at the Capital Grille and Back Bay Restaurant Group, and then served as general manager of Hemenway’s before it was purchased by NRG in 2009. He has since held various roles within NRG consisting of oversight of management training programs, the acquisition of the Papa Razzi locations in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Waterman Grille, and the Boat House. Tobey is a past member of the board of directors of the RI Hospitality Association and is committed to several fundraising initiatives with RI Community Food Bank, Save The Bay, and the Ronald McDonald House in Providence.

Celia Darragh of Johnston, RI has been named general manager of Trio in Narragansett, responsible for managing all operations of the restaurant. Celia joined NRG in 2017 as a dining room supervisor at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen and Bar and worked her way up to assistant general manager in February 2021 before being promoted to her new position. Prior to joining NRG, she worked as an assistant restaurant manager for the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Newport, overseeing the property’s five food and beverage outlets. Celia holds an associate degree in Baking and Pastry Arts and a bachelor’s in Restaurant Management from Southern New Hampshire University.

Gary Morrison of South Grafton, MA has been named regional manager and is responsible for directing and overseeing management activities of assigned Business Units (BU) by partnering with general managers (GM) to maximize profits through efficiencies, policy, and best practices. Prior to joining NRG in 2012, Gary was a general manager and then regional manager for Back Bay Restaurant Group.

Greg Coccio of East Greenwich, RI has been named corporate executive chef, responsible for training culinary teams on advanced cooking techniques, quality assurance, implementation and training with regards to new culinary objectives, and operational support for every restaurant. Chef Coccio has been with NRG since 2010, first as kitchen supervisor and most recently executive chef at Avvio in Cranston. Prior to joining NRG, he was an executive chef for Tavistock Restaurant Group and the executive sous chef at CBS Scene.

New Hires:

Jarrod Carter of Attleboro, MA has been named Inventory control manager. The Johnson & Wales University graduate previously worked as director of operations at High Limb Cider and as systems manager and beverage manager at G Hospitality.

Jason Messier of Pawtucket, RI has been named human resources manager, responsible for special projects within the human resources department. He attended Rhode Island College and has worked in various HR capacities for Peak Event Services, Russell Morin Catering & Events, and Blount Fine Foods.

Jay Nearhoof of Taunton, MA has been named Assistant general manager of the Mooring Restaurant. He attended the University of Rhode Island and was most recently assistant general manager at Splitsville and Howl at the Moon in Cincinnati, Ohio. Prior to that, he held a variety of positions over the course of five years at the Splitsville and Howl at the Moon locations at Patriot Place in Foxborough, Massachusetts, starting as a busser and working his way up to assistant general manager

Jeff Tenner of Narragansett, RI has been named director of concept development, responsible for idea generation and the development and business implementation of new concepts and production practices, with a focus on balancing current values with emerging trends and new opportunities. Prior to joining NRG, the 25-year hospitality industry veteran, served as the vice president of food and beverage and head of restaurant operations for Spyce, a Boston-area restaurant start-up powered by robotics & automation. He helped lead the organization to their recent acquisition by Sweetgreen.

Laura Schnaible of Marlborough, MA, has been named recruiting director. Prior to joining NRG, she was a teacher, and then human resources representative at The New England Center for Children where she served children and young adults with autism. A native of Indiana, she graduated from Valparaiso University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and holds a Master of Science in Education from Simmons University. She is also a Society of Human Resource Management certified professional.

Lisa Knowles of Middletown, RI has been named show director, overseeing sales, marketing, and operations for the Newport International Boat Show. Prior to joining NRG, Lisa worked in landscape design, responsible for logistics, graphics, drafting, and on-site operations. She holds a degree in Plant & Soil Sciences from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, is a certified crowd manager and is a past board member of the RI Marine Trades Association.

Robin Pearson of Newport has been named digital marketing manager, responsible for NRG’s digital strategy and presence, as well as its robust customer loyalty campaigns. Prior to joining NRG, Robin worked in marketing and strategy for Reebok and Samsonite. She is a graduate of George Washington University.

Steve DeLuca of Pembroke, MA has been named the general manager of Foodlove Market, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the chef-crafted marketplace and cafe, including strategic direction, financials, inventory management, and more. He holds a Master of Science in Organizational Development and a Master of Business Administration from Bridgewater State University.

Tony Ojih of North Providence, RI has been named staff accountant, responsible for maintaining, reviewing, and preparing financial records and assisting with auditing and reconciling accounts. Prior to joining NRG, he worked in various accounting positions at TD Bank, Finish Line, the Town of Lincoln (RI), and Dunkin’. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Rhode Island College.

Christine Coogan of Milford, MA has been named General Manager of Papa Razzi Wellesley, responsible for leading the store and management team, hiring and developing new staff members, and the guest experience. Prior to joining NRG, Christine worked as the assistant general manager for the Barking Crab in Boston’s Seaport district as well as Back Bay Restaurant Group.

Cindy Vigneau of Coventry, RI has been named benefits & compensation manager, responsible for the oversight of all benefit and compensation plan administration, the development of various employee benefit plans, and the maintenance and evolution of the company’s compensation plan. Cindy brings 30 years of finance and HR experience, across a variety of industries, to her new role. She holds a degree in Principles of Financial Management/Basic Accounting I/Basic Accounting II from the Community College of Rhode Island.

Cori Desmond of Bristol, RI has been named inventory & menu systems administrator, responsible for supporting the inventory & menu systems manager in creating and maintaining the inventory back-end systems for all business units within NRG. Cori holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Rhode Island.Additional positions are currently available at Castle Hill Inn, 22 Bowen’s, The Mooring, Smoke House, and Foodlove Market and include a variety of front and back-of-house positions including: managers, servers, hosts, bussers, bartenders, cooks, dishwashers, banquet staff, valets, baristas and cashiers. Candidates who are interested but cannot attend the summer job fair are welcome to apply online by visiting: https://www.newportrestaurantgroup.com/careers.

Blackstone Valley Culinary News – May 19, 2022

Shish Kebob
555 Smithfield Avenue, Pawtucket
401-725-9505
Facebook

Shish Kabob, the only Persian restaurant in Rhode Island, has opened in Pawtucket. (The space was previously inhabited by a restaurant call Shish Kebob but serving Lebanese food – two different places). Be transported to another part of the world while eating authentic shish kabob and other grilled meats, Chicken and/or Beef Koobideh (grilled meat served with basmati rice and grilled tomato), Kashk Bademjoon (Persian Eggplant Dip), Falafel (a vegetarian option), platters, wraps, salads and, of course, for dessert – baklava.

German-American Cultural Society of Rhode Island
78 Carter Avenue, Pawtucket 02861
401-726-9873
gacsri.org

The May Trachtenabend will be on Friday, May 20. This month’s special menu features Brandenburg-style pork with green beans and potatoes. Pre-purchased meal tickets are not necessary this month.

Here are a couple of great weekend brunch suggestions in Pawtucket:

Craft Burgers and Beer
342 East Avenue, Pawtucket 02860
401-723-5600
craftbandb.com

Craft Burgers and Beer offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. In addition to their brunch menu, their full menu is available.

Boundary Kitchen & Bar
67 Garrity Street, Pawtucket 02861
401-725-4260
boundarykitchenbar.com

Boundary has just started doing Sunday brunch. Stop by between 11 am and 2 pm or make a reservation for indoor or patio dining. Here’s the Brunch Menu for May 22. And the bar will be serving your favorite brunch beverages too – mimosas, bloody Marys and more! And their specials for Thursday, Friday and Saturday look delish! Boundary Special Menu

Crooked Current Brewery
560 Mineral Spring Avenue
Pawtucket 02860
401-473-8312
www.crookedcurrentbrewery.com

Yelp did a survey and announced the best brewery in each state. Check out the article:

Best Brewery in Each State. The Best in Rhode Island is Crooked Current Brewery, founded by two native Rhode Islanders. They are open on Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 pm and Saturday from 1-5 pm (closed Sunday). They are in a great location with other food and drink venues, such as White Dog Distilling, JA Patty, and Ming’s Asian Street Food. You can eat and drink your way around 560 Mineral Spring Avenue!

Spumoni’s
1537 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket 02861
401-726-4449
spumonisrestaurant.com/

Mark your calendar and get your reservations! Spumoni’s presents The Comedy Factory and an Italian buffet! For only $45 you’ll see a fabulous show with comedians from The Comedy Factory, the buffet, and tax and tip are included. It will be Sunday, June 5, 2022 at 12:30 pm (doors open), buffet at 1:00 pm and show at 2:00 pm. Call the number above to make your reservations before they sell out! Spumoni’s and The Comedy Factory

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

Here’s an idea for a nice afternoon in June – a great meal at Atrium on Main and then head to their Art Battle^® event. It’s a live painting tournament and you can be the judge! Watch as local artists compete in 3 rounds of just 20 minutes each, transforming blank canvases into beautiful piece of art. Then you can vote to help determine the winner of the event. All artwork will be available in a silent auction. Art Battle^®is an event that happens in cities around the world. How cool that the city of Pawtucket in a part of this!!!! It happens on Sunday, June 12. Doors open at 1 pm and the show starts at 2 pm. Tickets are $25 for general admission or a $40 ticket includes a buffet. Art Battle^® Tickets

And Atrium on Main has updated their hours (expanding their lunch hours) as follows: Tuesday – 11 am to 4 pm (take out and delivery only); Wednesday – 4 pm to 8 pm; Thursday – 12 noon to 8 pm; Friday and Saturday – 12 noon to 10 pm. Sunday and Monday – closed.

White Dog Distilling
560 Mineral Spring Avenue
Pawtucket 02860
401-475-3789
White-dog-distilling.square.site

Have you seen this post from the White Dog Distilling Facebook page? Very interesting……

Ever wonder about the difference between moonshine and vodka? Both are usually clear, neutral tasting spirits consumed in a variety of ABV’s and come with a lot of misconceptions. Despite their similarities there are also a lot of distinctions, so let’s take a look at some:

Vodka and moonshine are both classified by the government as “neutral spirits” and therefore defined as, “Spirits distilled from any material at or above 95% ABV and, if bottled, bottled at not less than 40% ABV. Vodka is specifically distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste or color. Moonshine on the other hand is a Neutral Grain Spirit (NGS) and is defined as being “distilled from a fermented mash of grain”; interestingly the government also stipulates that an NGS can be stored in oak containers (aka barrel aged), although often this is not the case with moonshine. As we often point out moonshine is a pretty broad term that can be used as a catchall for any spirit not easily defined, therefore NGS only makes up one section of the moonshine spectrum.

Check out their “Pack Experiences” and Menu HERE

Ye Olde English Fish & Chips
25 South Main Street, Woonsocket 02895
401-762-3637
Yeoldeenglishfishandchips.com

Happy 100^th Anniversary to Ye Olde English Fish & Chips! Celebrate with them from Wednesday, May 25 to Friday, May 27 and enjoy their specials:

Wednesday: 2 orders of Fish Cakes and Chips and 2 small sodas – $10

Thursday: 2 orders of Fish Burgers and Chips, plus 2 small sodas – $10

Friday: 2 orders of small Fish & Chips, 2 small clam chowders and 2 small sodas – all for $19.22!

July 29, 2022 0 comment

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