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Quahog Week

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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 May 12, 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.



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!   

May 12, 2022 0 comment
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Newport Vineyards Puerto Rico Fundraiser
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Newport Vineyards for Puerto Rico / Bon Me Opens / Hope & Main App / Rhode Island Quahog Week

by David Dadekian May 8, 2019
written by David Dadekian

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

Newport Vineyards Cultivate Committee Raises over $8,000 For Puerto Rico Recovery Efforts

Newport Vineyards Puerto Rico Fundraiser. Photo by Marianne Lee Photography.
Newport Vineyards Puerto Rico Fundraiser. Photo by Marianne Lee Photography.

Newport Vineyards, an award winning winery located in beautiful Middletown, RI, raised over $8,000 for Puerto Rico recovery efforts via their Una Noche Para Puerto Rico event put on by the Cultivate Committee. Born out of the passion of Newport Vineyards employees who have immediate family and friends in Puerto Rico that have been devastated by the storms in 2017, over 200 guests were welcomed to the event held on Friday, February 23, 2018.

The over $8,000 raised is being split between the Mark E. Curry Family Foundation – Cosa Nuestra’s Hurricane Relief Fund, who’s goal is to feed warm meals to those who are still in need and get small restaurants back on their feet. The organization will use 100% of funds raised to pay local restaurants and local chefs to produce meals that will be delivered to those in need. The funds will also go to help rebuild La Estación in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, the restaurant owned by Chef Kevin Roth, who is a long time friend of Newport Vineyards Executive Chef Andy Texeira.

Guest chef’s Chef Kevin Roth of La Estación in Puerto Rico, and Chef Giovanna Huyke of La Fabrica Central in Cambridge, MA joined Newport Vineyards Executive Chef Andy Texeira’s culinary team in creating truly authentic Puerto Rican fare including; Pork Pinchos, Matahambre and a Lechon Station. Maris Corujo, Newport Vineyards Event Manager, worked with Narciso Moreno, Sales Director of Puerto Rican Tourism Company, who helped procure jaw-dropping silent auction items including a grand prize trip to Puerto Rico that encompassed airfare, hotel and attraction vouchers. Silent auction, as well as food and beverage sponsors included; Don Q Rum, Goya, Foley Fish, Newport Storm/Thomas Tew Rum, Rail Explorers, ESJ Azul Hotel, TRYP by Wyndham, Courtyard Marriott Miramar, The Water Club Hotel, JetBlue. The night was a celebration of Puerto Rican culture, and included dancing to the music of Robertico Y su Alebreke of Providence.

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

The Newport Vineyards Cultivate Committee is a team of employees who strive to do good, give back and be green through volunteer, charitable and sustainable efforts.

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


Introducing the Hope & Main App

Hope & Main app screenshot
Hope & Main app screenshot

Rhode Island’s first food business incubator is bringing its small businesses online with a virtual “Makers Market.”

Hope & Main has partnered with Providence-based food technology company Crave Food Systems to create its custom online marketplace – the Hope & Main app. The app will allow shoppers to discover new favorite makers, pre-order their desired items and select convenient pickup locations, all in support of Rhode Island’s local food economy.

The app will complement the suite of resources Hope & Main offers the food entrepreneurs who grow their businesses in the former school house on Main Street in Warren. Hope & Main provides a broad suite of technical support and industry resources to give members a distinct advantage in a competitive marketplace. Frequent community events, farmers markets and trade shows foster a robust variety of connections with both retail and wholesale consumers year-round. The app will amplify this approach, significantly boosting makers’ access to a range of customers otherwise unreachable.

“We are witnessing major disruption in the food industry, and Crave Food Systems is at the leading edge of the an important trend: shortening the supply chain in food retailing,” Lisa Raiola, founder and president of Hope & Main said. “Amazon is certainly the best example of this, but has offered no path for local producers. That is why we are so excited to partner with Crave Food Systems. This app puts the power of purchasing local directly into the hands of the consumer. No distributor or grocery store shelf necessary. We love that it will connect Hope & Main makers to the consumers who are seeking their products at farmers markets across the state.”

While offering eaters new access to a wide variety Rhode Island made goods, the Hope & Main app is also a powerful eCommerce tool to strengthen entrepreneur’s growing businesses, at no cost to them. To make business more sustainable for makers, the app charges no signup, transaction or credit card processing fees. It has the potential to directly strengthen Rhode Island’s food economy by making it more convenient for Rhode Islanders to buy local.

“Hope & Main has been the foundation for so many amazing food businesses in our state – and Crave Food System’s unique technology will help their members reach new customers and markets,” Sue AnderBois, director of food strategy for the State of Rhode Island, said. “Partnerships between food businesses like these are part of what makes Rhode Island’s food economy so vibrant and innovative.”

To get a taste of some of the best Rhode Island-made goods from the convenience of a mobile device, anyone can now download the Hope & Main app for iOS or Android.

About Hope & Main: Hope & Main is a nonprofit food business incubator on a mission to help local entrepreneurs jump-start early-stage food companies and food related businesses by providing low-cost, low-risk access to shared-use commercial kitchens and other industry-specific technical resources. Hope & Main’s goal is to help grow the local food economy by creating a community of support for food entrepreneurs and cultivating an environment where emerging culinary startups can test, create, scale and thrive.

About Crave Food Systems: Crave Food Systems Corporation (CFS), established in 2014, is a food technology company that brings eCommerce and marketing tools to farmers, fishermen, artisans and the local communities they serve. CFS believes the right technology can open the door to healthier food for all.


Bon Me Opens Food Truck in Providence

Miso-Braised Pulled Pork Rice Noodle Salad
Miso-Braised Pulled Pork Rice Noodle Salad

Bon Me, an award-winning Boston-based food-truck-and-restaurant company will start serving its Asian-inspired eats in Providence on March 14th. They will be bringing their food truck to Brown University starting Wednesday and to Kennedy Plaza on March 27th.

Bon Me’s menu features dishes with bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and housemade dressings. From their customizable menu, you can order a sandwich, rice bowl, or noodle salad with tasty proteins like spice-rubbed chicken or miso-braised pulled pork. They also have a full lineup of housemade drinks, including a special new drink that’s exclusive to their Providence food truck. To honor their new locale, they created the Dirty Chai in collaboration with Rhode Island-based New Harvest Coffee Roasters.

To celebrate their grand opening at Brown, Bon Me invites you to come out on Wednesday, March 14th from 11:30 am-2:30 pm for a free taste of their signature sandwich. They will be handing out half-portions of their take on the classic banh mi with your choice of Chinese barbecue pork or roasted paprika tofu.

For their grand opening at Kennedy Plaza on March 27th 11 am-2 pm, the socially conscious food truck will partner with the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Customers will be encouraged to “pay what you want” and all proceeds will be donated to the non-profit, which works “to improve the quality of life for all Rhode Islanders by advancing solutions to the problem of hunger”.

Following the grand openings, you can find the bright yellow truck slinging sandwiches on Waterman Street by Brown University on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:30 am-2:30 pm and at Kennedy Plaza on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 am-2 pm.


Rhode Island Kicks Off Third Annual Quahog Week on March 26

Quahog Week 2018
Quahog Week 2018

Governor Raimondo – along with Senator Jack Reed, Congressman Jim Langevin, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and other partners – will kick off the 3rd Annual Rhode Island Quahog Week with a special launch event at Save The Bay in Providence on Monday. Quahog Week, which runs March 26 to April 1, highlights the importance of Rhode Island’s wild shellfish harvest to the state’s history, traditions, and economy.

WHERE:
Save The Bay
100 Save The Bay Drive
Providence, Rhode Island

WHEN:
Monday, March 26, 2018
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

At the launch event, local shellfishermen will be on hand to educate guests about their profession. Guests will also enjoy a raw bar courtesy of the Rhode Island Shellfisherman’s Association, and creative preparations of the quahog, courtesy of participating local restaurants including Easy Entertaining, Eli’s Kitchen, Matunuck Oyster Bar, and Nicks On Broadway. Beverages will be provided by Rhode Island’s own Yacht Club Soda.

Rhode Island is known for its food and diverse food cultures. Our booming local food sector supports more than 60,000 jobs and continues to attract and inspire the imagination of entrepreneurs and innovators. The local fishing industry has been, and continues to be, a vital part of the equation. The commercial industry, which includes both wild harvest and aquaculture operations, generates close to $200 million in annual sales, supports nearly 7,000 jobs, and generates about $150 million in annual income. Last year, more than 22 million quahogs (off-the-boat value of $5 million) were harvested from Narragansett Bay and local coastal waters. To support continued industry growth, the state, along with its partners, developed the RI Seafood brand to uniquely identify local seafood in the marketplace and to provide a brand under which local seafood events and activities can take place.

As part of the week, participating restaurants and markets will feature quahog-inspired menu items and deals. Among the special menu items are quahog carbonara at The Mooring in Newport; quahog bruchetta at Trio in Narragansett; littlenecks, clams casino, and littlenecks with chourico at Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown; quahogs over angel hair tossed in red or white sauce at Harmony Lodge in Harmony; New England clam chowder with quahog cakes at Federal Taphouse and Kitchen in Providence; and unique versions of stuffed quahogs at 22 Bowen’s in Newport, Gulf Stream Bar & Grille in Portsmouth, Hemenway’s in Providence, Providence Oyster Bar in Providence, 15 Point Road in Portsmouth, and Plouffe’s in Pawtucket.

Quahog Week partners include Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Brown University Dining Services, Dave’s Marketplace, Discover Newport, Eat Drink RI, Eating with the Ecosystem, Go Providence, Narragansett Bay Lobsters, RI Commerce, RI Department of Environmental Management, RI Shellfisherman’s Association, Save The Bay, and the University of Rhode Island.

For more information about Quahog Week and/or a list of participating restaurants and markets, visit www.seafoodri.com or @RISeafoodRocks on Facebook. Join the conversation in social media, using #QuahogWeek.

May 8, 2019 0 comment
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chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Sons of Liberty Wins American Craft Producer of the Year / RI Quahog Week Kicks Off March 20th / Jo’s American Bistro Wins Newport Burger Bender

by David Dadekian March 18, 2017
written by David Dadekian

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

Sons of Liberty Named American Craft Producer of the Year at Whisky Magazine’s 2017 Icons of Whisky Awards

Rhode Island Craft Distillery Garners Top National Honors from Global Whisky Industry’s Most Prestigious Insider Awards Program

Whisky Magazine's Icons of Whisky Award

Sons of Liberty Beer & Spirits Co. was named American Craft Producer of the Year, last night, February 28th, at Whisky Magazine’s 2017 Icons of Whisky awards, presented in New York City at the Brandy Library. Sons of Liberty also took home several individual product awards with America’s Best Flavored Whiskey for its Gala Apple Seasonal Release and two Gold Medals in the American Single Malt category for its UPRISING and Battle Cry whiskies.

Judged exclusively by an editorial panel of decorated industry insiders, Whisky Magazine’s annual Icons of Whisky celebrates the finest companies and individuals in the whisky industry, with regional winners advancing to the global round.

“To say we’re ecstatic is an understatement. With more than 1,200 distilleries currently operating in the U.S. it is an incredible honor to be named an Icon of Whisky for 2017,” said Sons of Liberty Founder, Mike Reppucci. “Since day one we have strived to redefine American Spirits and the support we have received from the local community over the years has been invaluable in putting Sons of Liberty in the conversation with the world’s finest distilleries.”

No stranger to individual product recognition from Whisky Magazine in years past, Sons of Liberty has taken home World’s Best Flavored Whiskey (2014) for its Pumpkin Spice Seasonal Release, North America’s Best Flavored Whiskey (2015) for its Hop Flavored Seasonal Release and a Gold Medal (2016) for its Battle Cry Single Malt Whiskey, and now looks to capture the Global Craft Producer of the Year title won by Seattle WA’s Westland Distillery in 2016.

“It all starts with beer,” says Reppucci. “We craft our spirits from distinct styles of beer brewed on-site and those unique flavors carried through the distillation process have established our identity in redefining American craft spirits. Whiskey, specifically, is a very traditional industry, but you won’t find very much traditional with us. Now that we hold our brewer’s license, the goal is to offer the beers in our tasting room and give everyone the opportunity to taste the originating beer alongside the resulting spirit. A truly unique experience that we are very proud to have underway.”.

New England’s most awarded distillery with 75+ awards in blind tasting competitions since 2012, Sons of Liberty’s first product release was its signature, UPRISING Whiskey, born from a stout beer brewed by the team themselves. Sons of Liberty pushed the envelope one step further by introducing the first-ever, seasonal line of craft whiskies and since then has transitioned its beer-into-spirit methodology to the gin category with its True Born Gin. Recently acquiring its brewer’s license and expanding the distillery to feature a full bar and tasting room, Sons of Liberty is now serving and bottling the flavorful craft beers responsible for the distillery’s award winning whiskies.


2nd Annual Rhode Island Quahog Week Kicks Off On Monday

Quahog Week March 20-25, 2017

Governor Raimondo—along with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and other partners—will kick off the 2nd Annual Rhode Island Quahog Week with a special launch event at Save The Bay in Providence on Monday. Quahog Week, running March 20 – 25, highlights the importance of Rhode Island’s wild shellfish harvest to the state’s history, traditions, and economy.

WHERE: Save The Bay
100 Save The Bay Drive
Providence, Rhode Island

WHEN: Monday, March 20, 2017
12 – 2 p.m.

WHO: Governor Gina Raimondo
Janet Coit, DEM Director
Loren Spears, Tomaquag Museum
Chef Chris Kleyla, Statesman Tavern
David Ghigliotty, RI Shellfishermen’s Association

At the launch event, local shellfishermen will compete in a quahog shucking contest and educate guests on their profession. Guests will also enjoy a raw bar and creative preparations of the quahog, courtesy of RI Shellfishermen’s Association, Nicks On Broadway, The Capital Grille, Statesman Tavern, and Matunuck Oyster Bar. Beverages will be provided by Rhode Island’s own Granny Squibb’s Ice Tea.

Rhode Island is known for its food and diverse food cultures. The state’s booming local food sector supports more than 60,000 jobs and continues to attract and inspire the imagination of entrepreneurs and innovators. The local fishing industry has been, and continues to be, a vital part of the equation. Last year, more than 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port – with an export value over $1 billion. And more than 28 million quahogs (off-the-boat value of $5.5 million) were harvested from Narragansett Bay and local coastal waters. Quahogging has a rich history locally, supporting the livelihoods of hundreds of fishermen as well as serving as a treasured pastime for Rhode Island families.

As part of the week, participating restaurants and markets will feature quahog-inspired menu items and deals, and Quahog Week partners will hold special events, including a quahog-themed Eating with the Ecosystem School of Fish Workshop on March 20 and the Official Beer of the Clam Wrap Party on Saturday, March 25 at the new headquarters of Narragansett Beer at The Guild in Pawtucket.

Quahog Week partners include Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Dave’s Marketplace, Discover Newport, Eat Drink RI, Eating with the Ecosystem, Go Providence, Granny Squibb’s Ice Tea, Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House, Isle Brewers Guild, Johnson & Wales University, Narragansett Bay Lobsters, Narragansett Beer, RI Commerce, RI Department of Environmental Management, RI Shellfishermen’s Association, Save The Bay, Tomaquag Museum, the University of Rhode Island, and Yacht Club Soda.

For more information on Quahog Week and participating venues, visit www.seafoodri.com. Follow us on Facebook @RISeafoodRocks and join the conversation using #QuahogWeek.


Jo’s American Bistro Wins Inaugural Newport Burger Bender

The restaurant’s all-beef patty wins the hearts and palates of casual diners and critics alike

Newport Burger Bender 2017

Limited to just 25 participants, the Newport Burger Bender proved to be a savory success over its 10-day tenure with Jo’s American Bistro in Newport taking top honors. The “best burger” contest took place February 17 through February 26, 2017, in tandem with the Newport Winter Festival. Local chefs and restaurateurs were challenged to “bring the heat” by offering their best hamburger to diners who were encouraged to vote for their favorite. Burgers ranged from traditional beef patties to creative culinary delights.

“The secret is out: We have great burgers!” said Joann Carlson, owner of Jo’s American Bistro in Newport. “I especially want to thank my brilliant Chef, Brian Ruffner, for creating such a tasty and messy burger.”

A Critic’s Choice category was also presented with Gail Ciampa from the Providence Journal and providencejournal.com naming three Critic’s Choice winners: Midtown Oyster Bar, Pour Judgement and Jo’s American Bistro.

“It was a tough choice,” admits Ciampa. “The fried oysters in the Oyster Bar Burger were amazing and Pour Judgement’s burger was a perfect bargain. But the bacon onion jam burger at Jo’s—so messy to eat, just like a good burger should be, was sweet and salty with bacon onion jam and spicy with siracha sauce, and then a wave of creamy cheese, too.” Ciampa paired Jo’s burger with Rhode Island’s own Foolproof beer. “What a delicious idea for a dining promotion. The Burger Bender put the spotlight on the All-American burger. But the choices were anything but ordinary as the chefs built their burgers with fabulous flavors and sauces. Long live the burger.”

The next big culinary extravaganza gourmands should mark on the calendar is Newport Restaurant Week, which will take place March 27 through April 7, 2017. For more information, visit www.DiscoverNewportRestaurantWeek.org.

March 18, 2017 0 comment
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News Bites: Bristol Oyster Bar Oyster Madness / Quahog Week 2017 / March Madness at Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers Market / Trio Reopened and Avvio Brunch

by David Dadekian February 21, 2017
written by David Dadekian

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

Bristol Oyster Bar Presents Oyster Madness

Bristol Oyster BarThe Bristol Oyster Bar, “The Home of Rhode Island’s Finest Oysters” in partnership with The Ocean State Shellfish Cooperative, and MS WALKER RI are proud to announce “Oyster Madness.” Bristol Oyster Bar has set up a tournament style bracket pitting oyster farms from across the Ocean State against one another. Oyster Madness will begin on Tuesday March 7th at 6pm at The Bristol Oyster Bar located at 448 Hope St Bristol, RI 02809 and continue each subsequent Tuesday at 6pm until the “Championshuck” conclusion on Tuesday April 4th at 6 pm.

The tournament is made up of 16 oyster farms and it’s played one-and-done style. The farms are seeded 1 through 8 and sorted into 2 regions. Each round the numbers shrink, going from the “Briny & Sweet 16” all the way to the “Championshuck”. The oysters will be served at the Bristol Oyster Bar in a blind tasting format. Participants that partake in the blind tasting will be required to fill out a scorecard selecting which oysters they prefer. All of the votes will be tallied each week until a final champion is selected.

There are two ways to participate. The first way is to fill out a bracket available February 1, 2017 at www.bristoloysterbar.com and email it to scott@bristoloysterbar.com or come and drop it off at the Bristol Oyster Bar. The second way is to fill out a bracket and to come and participate in the blind tastings. There will be weekly prizes for a best brackets and 2 grand prizes for top score. Complete prizes, rules and regulations will be available February 1, 2017 at www.bristoloysterbar.com.

Download an Oyster Madness Bracket


2nd Annual Quahog Week Kicks Off March 20

Quahog Week 2017

Quahog Week, which made its debut last year, returns March 20 – March 25, 2017. The week-long celebration highlights the importance of Rhode Island’s wild harvest shellfish to the state’s history, traditions, and economy. As part of the week, participating restaurants and markets will feature quahog-inspired menu items and deals, and Quahog Week partners will hold special events.

“Whenever I go out to eat, I look for Rhode Island shellfish,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “I know I’m not alone. Our flavorful clams and oysters are enjoyed all over the world. And going out on the water with our local fishermen has made me appreciate all the more the hard work and dedication at the heart of our fishing industry. Quahog Week is our opportunity to step back and celebrate our wild harvest shellfish – as well as our state’s amazing array of eateries. I look forward to sampling the many tasty dishes that will be featured by our partner restaurants as well as preparing some of my own at home. I hope everyone joins in the fun during Quahog Week – and beyond.”

Rhode Island is known for its food and diverse food cultures. The state’s booming local food sector supports more than 60,000 jobs and continues to attract and inspire the imagination of entrepreneurs and innovators. The local fishing industry has been, and continues to be, a vital part of the equation. Thousands of land- and water-based businesses are supported by the industry. And local favorites like the quahog “stuffie” are enjoyed by people near and far.

Last year, more than 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port – with an export value over $1 billion. And more than 28 million quahogs (off-the-boat value of $5.5 million) were harvested from Narragansett Bay and Rhode Island coastal waters. To support continued industry growth, the State, along with its partners, developed the RI Seafood brand to uniquely identify local seafood in the marketplace and to provide a brand under which local seafood events and activities can take place.

Quahogging has a rich history locally, supporting the livelihoods of hundreds of fishers year-round as well as serving as a treasured pastime for Rhode Island families. Quahog Week will highlight this history and value through several planned events, including a kick-off celebration at Save The Bay in Providence on Monday, March 20 and a wrap party on Saturday, March 25 at the new headquarters of Narragansett Beer in Pawtucket. For more information on planned programming or to sign up as a Quahog Week partner or participating venue, visit www.seafoodri.com.

Quahog Week partners include Dave’s Marketplace, Discover Newport, Eat Drink RI, Go Providence, Isle Brewers Guild, Johnson & Wales University, Narragansett Beer, RI Commerce, RI Department of Environmental Management, RI Shellfishermen’s Association, Save The Bay, and the University of Rhode Island.


March Madness at the Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers Market

March can be a challenging month for local farmers. It signals the start of a long thaw after winter and the beginning of planning for next season’s harvest. Shopping at farmers markets is a great way to support local farms year-round. But March is a time of year when local farmers need your business and support most of all.

To celebrate these local heroes, Farm Fresh Rhode Island is hosting a month of special events at the Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers Market, called March Madness. Shop at the market every Saturday in March to enjoy fun events like cooking demos, take advantage of seasonal sales, and participate in a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt for a chance to win prizes valued at over $300! Participating in March Madness is a great way to support local agriculture, empower small businesses and build vibrant community with local food at the center of every table.

March Madness: A Month of Free Events
Demos and Food Pairing to be held in the New Harvest Coffee Roasters Training Room, Hope Artiste Village Suite 110, during the farmers market.

  • Every Saturday in March, 9a-1p – Scavenger Hunt through the Market!
  • March 4, 10a – Cooking Demo by Harvest Kitchen
  • March 11, 10a – Cooking with Kimchi Demo & Tasting by Chi Kitchen
  • March 18, 9:30a – Beer and Food Pairing by Hope & Main and Bucket Brewery
  • March 25, 10a – Cooking Demo by the African Alliance of Rhode Island

What to Expect (Just like that other “Final Four”)

  • Baskets… of delicious produce to feature on your dinner table!
  • Dunks… of fresh baked-goods into steamy, locally roasted coffee!
  • Hoops… used to support greenhouses that make winter harvests possible!
  • Nets… that harvest fresh-caught seafood from our region’s waters!

The Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers Market is open every Saturday, 9a–1p, until April 29. Located in two spacious hallways of the Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket, RI, it is easily accessed via the R-Line bus and parking is provided. farmfreshri.org/winter


Trio Reopens with Enhanced Menu and Expanded Bar

After closing briefly for renovations, Trio restaurant, located at 15 Kingstown Road in Narragansett, RI, will welcome guests back to the seaside restaurant on February 9 (weather permitting) with an enhanced menu and an expanded bar space. For more information on Trio and to see the full menu, please visit the website at www.trio-ri.com

Located in the sandy shoreline community of Narragansett, Trio brings a relaxed, sociable vibe to its newly-expanded bar area, perfect for community get-togethers, raw bar and cocktails or a leisurely dinner on a stroll through town. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy this year-round, go-to spot for the familiar comfort, fresh flavors and trusted hospitality of Trio.

Trio’s cuisine, conceived by Executive Chef Walter Slater, is inspired by local and regional flavors. The menu contains a unique selection of shareable appetizers, fresh salads, distinctive pizzas, house-made pastas, New England seafood, and simple, wood-fire grilled entrees, and is complemented by an extensive, global wine list, a beer menu featuring regional drafts plus an assortment of bottles, and a creative, one-of-a-kind cocktail menu.

Diners will find an array of new appetizers including Littleneck Stuffies with chourico, bread crumbs, parsley and lemon zest; Parmesan Truffle Fries with garlic aioli; Raw vs. Roasted with roasted red and yellow beets with radish, feta, almonds, cucumber, carrots and citrus vinaigrette; Hummus Flatbread featuring garlic-white bean hummus, cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives and feta; Rosemary + Sea Salt Chips with roasted onion dip; Jonah Crab Dip with avocado, cucumber and house-made crostini; as well as traditional favorites including Antipasto, Fried Galilee Calamari, and an assortment of raw bar and soups. 

New pizza and sandwich selections feature BBQ Chicken pizza with grilled red onion, bbq sauce, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and chives; a Turkey Club with house-roasted turkey breast, bacon, Bibb lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted Pullman loaf bread and served with French fries; and a Grilled Chicken Sandwich on a ciabatta bun with fontina cheese, arugula, pesto, roasted red peppers and French fries. Guest favorites remain on the menu and feature the Lobster Roll, Sunset Farm Burger, and several pizza varieties. 

In addition to long-time favorite Linguini + Clams, Trio has added several new pasta dishes to its menu including Bolognese with house-made rigatoni, braised veal, beef and pork, tomato, red wine, cream, ricotta salata and basil; Grilled Shrimp Risotto with fresh peas, squash, parmesan, Arborio rice and lemon-butter sauce; Venda Lobster Tortelloni with lobster meat, arugula, fennel-tarragon cream sauce; and Chicken Alfredo with fettuccini, pulled chicken, broccoli, grape tomatoes, roasted garlic, parmesan cream sauce and arugula. 

The newly-created ‘Dishes’ section features Grilled Salmon with roasted root vegetables, kale, quinoa, and butternut squash puree; Steak Frites with marinated flat iron steak, mixed greens salad, and creamy horseradish-blue cheese sauce; Filet Mignon, featuring an 8 oz. filet, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, and black pepper-demi glace; Baffoni Farm Chicken featuring a roasted half-bird, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, mushrooms and thyme jus; and Chicken Parmesan with linguini. 

An assortment of salads and new side dishes are also on Trio’s menu.

Beverage choices include draft and bottled beer offerings from local breweries including Narragansett Lager, Whaler’s Brewing Hazelnut Stout and East Coast IPA, Maryann’s Ginger Spice Ale, Fool Proof’s Backyahd IPA, Grey Sail Brewing’s Flagship Cream Ale, Samuel Adams Hopscape, and Citizen Cider Unified Press.  A full wine list by the glass and bottle, and craft cocktail list is also available.

Food and drink selections are offered throughout Trio’s dining spaces including its traditional dining room, cobblestone patio with shaded tables, and around the newly renovated bar space, a welcoming spot to share a bite, a drink and a colorful story.


Avvio Ristorante Welcomes the Weekend with New Brunch Menu

Hearty Italian Dishes and Hand-Crafted Cocktails are the Perfect Weekend Recipe

Avvio's Steak Benedict

Avvio’s Steak Benedict

Avvio Ristorante, located at 90 Hillside Road in Garden City Center, is pleased to announce a new brunch menu, available Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  For more information or to make a reservation, please call 401-942-2900 or visit www.avvioristorante.com.

Brunch at Avvio begins with a selection of fresh squeezed juices, including lemonade, orange, and grapefruit ($3-$4); espresso, cappuccino, latte, and coffee ($3-$4); and hand-crafted brunch cocktails, including the Charred Grapefruit Mimosa with prosecco, charred-grapefruit syrup, and grapefruit juice; the Avvio Bloody Mary with vodka, house Bloody Mary mix, a seasoned rim, and pickled vegetables; the Melograno Peroni with Peroni and pomegranate liquor over ice; and the La Fioritura Spritzer: moscato, orange blossom water, and soda ($8-$10). 

Avvio’s brunch dishes ($10-$19), which will quell both savory and sweet cravings, include the Day Break Panini: stirred egg, fontina, double thick smoked bacon, black pepper aioli, toasted ciabatta, home fries; Belgian Waffle with warm local maple syrup, seasonal berries, and powdered sugar; Melon & Prosciutto Salad: cantaloupe and honey dew with crispy prosciutto, baby arugula, ricotta salata, and a white balsamic vinaigrette; pulled Baffoni Farms Chicken Hash with wood-roasted vegetables, butternut squash, Yukon gold potatoes, and two poached eggs topped with hollandaise sauce and grilled country loaf; a Veggie Frittata with tomato, asparagus, wood roasted mushrooms, home fries, and grilled bread; Green Eggs & Ham: stirred egg, arugula pesto, speck, fontina cheese, toasted ciabatta, home fries; Steak Benedict: poached eggs, tomato, and flat iron steak served with grilled focaccia, hollandaise, and home fries; and a Breakfast Pizza topped with mascarpone, mozzarella, grilled red onion, pancetta, marinated tomatoes, scrambled eggs, and basil.

February 21, 2017 0 comment
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