Tag:

restaurant

chefs & restaurants cooking news wine & drinks

News Bites: RI Craft Beer Week 2023 / Little City Thrifty Vintage Market Returns / RI Red Food Tours PVD Valley / Hope & Main Makers Marketplace / Newport Restaurant Group Donations

by David Dadekian February 17, 2023

written by David Dadekian

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

RI Craft Beer Week 2023 is March 3-12

Get thirsty for some local fun! The second annual RI Craft Beer Week will be from March 3rd to March 12th 2023. This celebration of RI’s beer manufacturers will feature happenings at Rhode Island breweries as well as events featuring Rhody beers at bars, restaurants, liquor stores and more. Get ready for a “Saugy Showdown” hot dog eating contest at Linesider Brewing. Dust off your thinking caps for “Name Your Beer” Trivia at Narragansett Brewing; the winning team will get to name a new beer! Musical Bingo, anyone? Smug Brewing will host that fun twice during the RI Craft Beer Week! And the “Rhode Map Challenge” contest will be happening all week long. Visiting all the breweries this week could win you beer festival tickets!

There are now 36 breweries in the RI Brewers Guild, compared to only five a decade ago! At least two more are set to open in 2023. Each of these small businesses employs Rhode Islanders, adds local culture, and boosts tourism in the Ocean State. And what they brew is delicious! Let’s celebrate them!

Kyle Toste, Assistant Brewer at Linesider Brewing in East Greenwich is enthusiastic about the week. “I got into the professional craft brewing industry here in Rhode Island about three years ago and have always loved the camaraderie among all the breweries. RI Craft Beer Week is a celebration of breweries in our state and an opportunity for us to celebrate with our patrons in fun and unique ways. I love RI Craft Beer Week because it gives us a chance to create events that show a different side of us than just being ‘brewers’ like our Saugy Eating Contest at Linesider or an Industry Karaoke Contest at Narragansett and SO MANY MORE!”

One of the more unique features of RI Craft Beer Week is the “Rhode Map Challenge”. Utilizing the RI Brewers Guild Passport App on your smartphone, craft beer enthusiasts can check into and post photos of their beer from as many RI Breweries as they can that week. The RI Brewers Guild wants to be clear that this should only be attempted with the help of a designated driver. Prizes will be awarded to the top five fans including two tickets to the Newport Beer Festival, two tickets to the Ocean State Beer Festival, two entries to the Craft Brew Races Newport, and more! Last year more than a thousand people checked in at RI Breweries during RI Craft Beer Week. Be part of this year’s fun!

“One of the many benefits of living in Rhode Island is that you can travel basically anywhere in the entire state in under an hour. With the help of a dedicated designated driver, fans can visit all or at least most of our members during RI Craft Beer Week! Last year two diehards made it to them all!” said Gary Richardson, Executive Director of the RI Brewers Guild.

RI Craft Beer Week stickers and coasters will be available at some locations during this week and all events will be listed on the RI Brewers Guild website by February 24th. For more information about RI Craft Beer Week and to find events near you visit: https://www.ribrewersguild.org/ri-craft-beer-week/

“RI Craft Beer Week is fun because it recognizes the hard work and creativity of small local businesses,” states Rob DaRosa, co-owner and brewer at Smug Brewing Company in Pawtucket. “That is something worth celebrating!”

Brooke Cure, Community Manager at Narragansett Brewery states, “It’s nice to have a week that supports all the brewers in RI and to get creative hosting some fun events for the people who support us!” Gregory Martell, co-owner of Rejects Beer Co. in Middletown commented, “March signifies the very beginning of being able to enjoy RI beers outside on the patio again. We are so ready for that! And Craft Beer Week is a great reason for us to travel to see our friends breweries…even if it means crossing bridges!”

Little City Thrifty Vintage Market Returns to WaterFire Arts Center

March 4 & 5, 2023
Noon to 6pm (11am Early Buying Hour)
WaterFire Arts Center
475 Valley Street, Providence, RI

Recently named “Rhode Island’s Best Flea Market” by national publication Domino Magazine, Little City Thrifty is a curated weekend of indoor vintage and antiques shopping, with items available for purchase at all price points. From high-end designer vintage clothing to out-of-print vinyl records to art and collectibles, you’ll find it all at WaterFire Arts Center on March 4th & 5th.

Little City Thrifty’s March event will bring vintage lovers and dealers from far and wide, and will feature over 90 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 8 other states, with businesses coming from as far as Indiana.

“Going into our third Little City Thrifty Vintage Market, it’s been incredible to see how passionately the vintage-loving community here in New England has supported our event and all of the small businesses that vend with us,” says co-founder of Little City Thrifty, BJ Mansuetti. His wife and business partner, Robin Dionne, adds, “As a lifelong vintage collector and seller, I love to see the vintage community breathe new life into pre-loved items. The venn diagram of fashion, sustainability, and community building at Little City Thrifty makes for a very special weekend.”

Entry includes a complimentary small beverage, provided by participating beverage sponsors. Attendees will have their choice of 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 Topo Chico sparkling mineral water.

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.

Rhode Island Red Food Tours Announces the PVD Valley Neighborhood Victuals Tour

Explore Providence’s repurposed industrial corridor on a winter tour that will introduce you to local foodpreneurs, brewers and distillers.

Rhode Island Red Food Tours is excited to announce the launch of the PVD Valley Neighborhood Victuals Tour, kicking off this Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023 at 11 a.m. The tour will commence each Saturday at 11 a.m. thereafter through April 1st.

Focusing on foodpreneurs, makers, brewers and distillers within the inclusive Valley neighborhood in northwestern Providence, tour guests will learn more about how this former industrial corridor was transformed into a sprouting food and arts hub and will be introduced to small batch craft food products made in Rhode Island, as well as the people who are committed to primarily utilizing sustainable local and regional ingredient sources.

With a fascinating history and strong sense of community, the Valley neighborhood continues to evolve while attracting Rhode Island businesses, artists and culinary artisans, farmers and chefs responsible for building this burgeoning food and drink production scene. PVD Valley Neighborhood Victuals Tour guests will also be introduced to two stalwarts of the neighborhood’s renaissance: The Steel Yard; a historic industrial complex turned non-profit industrial art center and shared studio, and the 60,000-square-foot Farm Fresh Food Hub.

“This is something we’ve been working on making a reality for some time now,” says Paula Silva, Rhode Island Red Food Tour’s founder and Chief Tasting Officer. “The Valley neighborhood is one of the Capital City’s true success stories and has been a magnet for so much talent in the food and drink space—and it keeps getting better. We’re also thrilled to be introducing our first winter tour. Our Newport Neighborhood Tour and Downcity Providence Tour, which take place from springtime through the end of the year, continue to be the top-ranked food tours in the state, but we wanted to offer something during these relatively quieter months that really showcases our exceptional RI makers in the food and drink scene which thrives year-round.”

Details:

Guided tour of the neighborhood and marketplace includes tastings from 8+ local food and drink purveyors.
Tickets cost $79 per person (includes alcohol tastings. Non-alcohol substitutions may be provided if specified when purchasing tickets).
The duration of the tour is 3-3.5 hours and guests can expect to walk approximately half a mile.
Tours operate rain or shine.
Rhode Island Red Food Tour gift certificates are available, can be applied toward any available public Rhode Island Red Food Tour, and do not expire.
Free shopping tote included.

Hope & Main Plants Roots in Downtown Providence Makers Marketplace

Invites Locals to Become Foodieconomists at New Urban Eatery Showcasing Local Foods and Global Flavors

Seeking to create more equitable access for emerging food-preneurs of all means and backgrounds, Hope & Main, Rhode Island’s first food business incubator, is opening the Makers Marketplace at 100 Westminster Street in the heart of downtown Providence. Hope & Main’s first entry into Rhode Island’s capital city marks the beginning of the next era for the organization which has helped more than 450 food businesses to launch since its inception in 2014.

The Makers Marketplace at 100 Westminster Street will feature dozens of locally made foods and drinks from a diverse member community, many of whom come from the state’s urban core. The space will allow for tasting, sipping and shopping while serving to expose thousands of people who work in the city’s Financial District to the culinary delights curated by Hope & Main’s food-preneurs.

Lisa Raiola, President and Founder of Hope & Main said, “For a new food business, the journey to a retail shelf is full of high hurdles. The opportunity, just a few months into launching your business at Hope & Main, to feature your product at the Downtown Makers Marketplace is a huge advantage for food start-ups. This will help to accelerate new brands into the local marketplace– I think much to the delight of Rhode Island eaters everywhere!”

Hope & Main Makers Market will be open weekdays for breakfast and lunch, offering hand-crafted locally sourced items, grab-and-go foods, a curated selection of Hope & Main members’ products and prepared foods, as well as a coffee, tea and craft beverage bar anchored by (Hope & Main member business) Schastea.

Breakfast and lunch menu items also include tastes of Hope & Main makers. Order up a breakfast bowl and find heaps of hash made with La Arepa Black Beans. Enjoy an H&M Melt and discover Chicamonina Barbacoa seasoning. Magic Bird salsa, Chi Kitchen Kimchi Slaw, Pickily quick pickles, Buns Bakery rolls are also featured in menu offerings.

Products and prepared foods in the Hope & Main Makers Marketplace range from traditional Argentinian baked empanadas from The Perfect Empanada, Orisirisi flavorful gourmet pepper sauce, Hibiscus fruit spreads and sparkling drinks from Kassumay, Basil & Bunny prepared vegan egg salad, Hunky Dory pimento cheese, to Naked Fig Mediterranean hummus, nostalgic chocolate chip cookies from Mariiannas Cookies and Treats, and dozens more locally crafted foods from member businesses.

This unique concept is made possible with support from Papitto Opportunity Connection and Paolino Properties. Both organizations embraced Hope & Main’s mission to create more and equitable access for emerging food-preneurs of all means and backgrounds. Hope & Main estimates 40 percent of its entrepreneurs are people of color.

“Hope & Main plays a vital role in the emerging food economy of Rhode Island,’ said Barbara Papitto, founder and trustee of the Papitto Opportunity Connection. “By bringing its Makers Market alive in downtown Providence, Hope & Main is giving power to food-preneurs of color located in our state’s urban core. This new market provides critical exposure to food businesses at the time when they need it most. The Papitto Opportunity Connection is pleased to support this important work.”

The food sector is one of Rhode Island’s largest sectors for economic output. Launching and supporting local food businesses, particularly in the Providence area has been a focus of Hope & Main as many makers come from the urban core.

“I’m proud to be a supporter of Hope & Main and of the many ‘food entrepreneurs’ that go through their incubator program by providing a place for them to bring their products to market,” said Joseph R. Paolino Jr., CEO and Managing Partner of Paolino Properties. “I was thrilled to partner with the good people at the Papitto Foundation to help make this vision a reality. The Hope & Main Downtown Makers Marketplace will not only be a wonderful asset to our campus at 100 Westminster Street and for the people who come downtown to work every day, but it will be an opportunity to showcase our growing food economy to visitors to our city, train the next generation of hospitality workers, and spark new business development right here in Providence.”

In the coming months, Hope & Main Makers Marketplace will continue to evolve to meet the needs of the Providence community. They plan to host events with guest chefs, maker tastings, pop-ups, and corporate catering.

Newport Restaurant Group Donates $60,750 to Local Nonprofits through 2022 Gift Card Donation Program

$2.00 from every gift card purchase in 2022 was donated to support the fight against food insecurity

Newport Restaurant Group (NRG), an award-winning collection of unique restaurants and hospitality venues located throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that it has donated $60,750 to local nonprofits that focus on food insecurity as a result of its annual, year-round gift card program. Through the program, $2.00 from every gift card purchase is donated to area non-profits with a mission toward fighting food insecurity. Since the program’s inception in 2019, more than $150,000 has been distributed to local agencies.

“Every year, all our employee owners and I are grateful to our guests for their continued support of our gift card program,” said Paul O’Reilly, President and Chief Executive Officer, Newport Restaurant Group. “Each gift card order throughout the year allows us to continue to support organizations that provide help and hope to those experiencing food insecurity in our region.”

2022 recipients include the RI Community Food Bank, Hope’s Harvest RI, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, and Aquidneck Community Table in Rhode Island and Brookline Food Pantry and The Food Project in Massachusetts.

In addition to the financial support, NRG employee owners volunteer with these organizations throughout the year in a variety of ways, from collecting non-perishable food items for the RI Community Food Bank to preparing and serving dinners at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, to harvesting surplus fruits and vegetables at local farms that are distributed to hunger relief agencies through a partnership with Hope’s Harvest.

The 2023 gift card program is ongoing and gift cards can be purchased at any NRG property or online at www.newportrestaurantgroup.com.

February 17, 2023 0 comment

chefs & restaurants news wine & drinks

News Bites: RI Breweries Christmas & New Year’s Hours / Boat House Operation Blue Santa Toy Drive

by David Dadekian February 17, 2023

written by David Dadekian

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

Rhode Island’s Breweries are open for business this holiday season. We were able to gather some of their holiday hours so you’ll know when to sip and shop!

More information about Rhode Island’s Breweries can be found at RIBrewersGuild.org

wdt_ID	Brewery Name	Christmas Weekend	New Year's Weekend
1	Apponaug Brewing Company	Fri 12/23: 4pm-11pm Sat 12/24: 12pm-6pm Sun 12/25: Closed Mon 12/26: Closed	Fri 12/30:4pm-11pm Sat 12/31: 12pm-6pm Sun 1/1/23: Closed Mon 1/2/23: Closed
2	Coddington Brewing Co.	Fri 12/23: 11-10 Sat 12/24: kitchen 11-3 / bar open till 5 Sun 12/25: closed Mon 12/26: 11 - 9	Fri 12/30: 11-10 Sat 12/31: 11-10 Sun 1/1/23: 11 - 9 Mon 1/2/23 11-9
3	General's Crossing Brewhouse	Fri 12/23: 4p-8p Sat 12/24: 12p-6p Sun 12/25: Closed Mon 12/26: 4p-8p	Fri 12/30: 4-8p Sat 12/31: 12-8p Sun 1/1/23: closed Mon 1/2/23: 4-8p
4	Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island	Fri 12/23: 3-8 Sat 12/24: 12-4 Sun 12/25: Closed Mon 12/26: Closed	Fri 12/30: 3-8 Sat 12/31: 12-4 Sun 1/1/23: Closed Mon 1/2/23: Closed
5	Long Live Beerworks	Fri 12/23: 1–10pm Sat 12/24: 12–10pm Sun 12/25: CLOSED Mon 12/26: 3–10pm	Fri 12/30: 1–10pm Sat 12/31: 12–10pm Sun 1/1/23: CLOSED Mon 1/2/23: 3–10pm
6	Proclamation Ale Company	Fri 12/23: 12pm- 10pm Sat 12/24: 11am- 4pm Sun 12/25: 12pm- 6pm Mon 12/26: Closed	Fri 12/30: 12pm- 10pm Sat 12/31: 12pm- 10pm Sun 1/1/23: 2-6pm Mon 1/2/23: Closed
7	Providence Brewing	Fri 12/23: 4-10 PM Sat 12/24: 11-10 PM Sun 12/25: Closed Mon 12/26: NA	Fri 12/30: 4-10 PM Sat 12/31: 11-6 PM Sun 1/1/23: 11-6 PM Mon 1/2/23 NA
8	Ragged Island Brewing Co.	Fri 12/23: 12-9 Sat 12/24: 12-6 Sun 12/25: closed Mon 12/26: 2-8	Fri 12/30: 12-9 Sat 12/31: 12-6 Sun 1/1/23: 12-7 Mon 1/2/23: 2-8
9	Shaidzon Beer Co.	Fri 12/23: Private Event; Closed to the Public Sat 12/24: 12-5pm Sun 12/25: Closed Mon 12/26:Closed	Fri 12/30: 3-9pm Sat 12/31: 12-8pm Sun 1/1/23: 12-6pm Mon 1/2/23: Closed
10	Six Pack Brewing	Fri 12/23: 4pm - 9pm Sat 12/24: 12pm -5pm Sun 12/25: closed Mon 12/26: closed	Fri 12/30: 4pm - 9pm Sat 12/31: 1pm - 9pm Sun 1/1/23: 12pm - 5pm Mon 1/2/23 closed
11	Taproot Brewing Co.	Fri 12/23: 11am - 8pm Sat 12/24: Retail only 10am - 2pm Sun 12/25: closed Mon 12/26: 11am - 5pm	Fri 12/30: 11am - 8pm Sat 12/31: 11am - 8pm Sun 1/1/23: 11am - 6pm Closed for our Annual Winter Break Jan 2 – 12. Re-open Jan. 13
12	The Guild	Pawtucket: 12/24 - from 12-5pm 12/25 - closed Warren: 12/24 - from 12-6pm 12/25 - closed	Pawtucket: 12/31 - 12 to 10pm 1/1 - 12 to 6pm Warren: 12/31 - 12 to 10pm 1/1 - 12 to 6pm
13	Tilted Barn Brewery	Fri 12/23: 12-8pm Sat 12/24: 1130-330pm Sun 12/25: closed Mon 12/26: closed	Fri 12/30: 12-8pm Sat 12/31: 12-8pm Sun 1/1/23: 12-5pm Mon 1/2/23: closed
14	Twelve Guns Brewing	Fri 12/23: 2-10pm Sat 12/24: 12-4pm Sun 12/25: CLOSED Mon 12/26: CLOSED	Fri 12/30: 2-10pm Sat 12/31: 12-10pm Sun 1/1/23: 12-8pm Mon 1/2/23: CLOSED
	Brewery Name	Christmas Weekend	New Year's Weekend

Boat House Restaurant and Tiverton Police Department Collect Hundreds of Toys for Local Children through Operation Blue Santa Toy Drive

A sampling of the toys collected at the Boat House restaurant during the Tiverton Police Department’s annual Operation Blue Santa toy drive.

The Boat House, located at 227 Schooner Drive in Tiverton, RI, partnered with the Tiverton Police Department on its annual toy drive: Operation Blue Santa. On Tuesday, December 13^th, the Boat House hosted a special event for guests who brought in a new, unwrapped toy or gift to the Newport Restaurant Group property to enjoy complimentary appetizers and a cash bar with a portion of the proceeds going to the toy drive.

“During the holidays, Newport Restaurant Group understands that the needs within our community grow exponentially,” said Louis Capodilupo, General Manager, Boat House. “We are so pleased to partner with the Tiverton Police Department on this initiative once again, and hope that the gifts collected will make a joyful impact on the kids in our community.”

Nearly 75 guests attended the event, and hundreds of toys were collected, including $200 worth of toys donated by Boat House. This is the second year that Boat House participated in Operation Blue Santa.

The Boat House’s parent company, Newport Restaurant Group, is currently running its annual gift card fundraiser, donating $2.00 from every gift card order this holiday season to local food banks and area non-profits committed to building a sustainable and local food supply for those in need.

February 17, 2023 0 comment

chefs & restaurants farms news

News Bites: Oberlin’s Chef Sukle Opening New Spot and Announces Move / Rhody Feeding Rhody Awarded USDA Grant / Rory’s Market Launces Fresh Produce Program

by David Dadekian November 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.

Chef/Owner Benjamin Sukle Announces New Restaurant, Gift Horse, to Open this Spring; Additionally, Oberlin will move to new location, directly across the street this Summer

Chef/Owner Benjamin Sukle of Oberlin (which opened in 2016) in Providence, Rhode Island, will be opening a new restaurant this Spring 2023, Gift Horse (address: 272 Westminster Street). The tongue and cheek saying which the restaurant borrows its name should offer a preview to the eccentric, playful tone the team hopes to achieve. With a strong focus on local shellfish, seafood, and catches from New England waters via raw bar dining in a style distinctive of Chef Sukle’s approach to seasonality, as well as the cultivated relationships he has with farmers and fishermen alike. One unique distinction is the oysters featured on the menu will predominantly be harvested from different bays around the state or within very close proximity.* The beverage program will feature an expanded wine list, and highlight low ABV cocktails as well–think creative takes on Spritzes inspired by the Mediterranean coast. *More info on oyster programming available.

Additionally, Oberlin which is currently located at 186 Union Street in downtown Providence will move directly across the street to a new location this Summer to 266 Westminster Street. The team plans to close the restaurant for a brief time to anticipate and prepare for the new location’s opening. Benjamin and team will expand hours of operation to add lunch and brunch service. The change of location promises to continue to offer the same experience diners have come to expect in the past six years, along with many added amenities including a new wood-burning oven–which will serve as the heart of the restaurant influencing respective seafood and vegetables dishes alike–a larger wine cellar and bar program, and overall more expansive footprint with additional seating, along with options for private dining and catering. The new location–being adjacent to Grant’s Block Park–allows for an expansive outdoor patio and bar, which will be weather proofed with a retractable roof and heaters to extend seasonal dining. Longtime general manager, Bethany Caliaro, will join as a partner in the restaurants as well.

“Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance” Gets The Greenlight From USDA

Rhode Island Food Policy Council awarded $498K grant to fortify RI’s emergency food network while supporting local farms and fisheries

Movement Ground Farm in Tiverton, Rhode Island, photo courtesy of RI Food Policy Council

The Rhode Island Food Policy Council has been awarded a $498K grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) to launch the “Serving the Food Insecure Market: Connecting Rhode Island Farmers and Fishermen with Our Emergency Feeding Network” project. Implementation partners include Farm Fresh RI, Southside Community Land Trust, and the Commercial Fisheries Center of RI The Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance will work with emergency food providers to build sustainable market channels between local farmers and fishers and Rhode Island residents in need of fresh, local, culturally-appropriate food.

This project was strongly supported by Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation. A joint letter of support was signed by U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Rep. Jim Langevin and Rep. David Cicilline.

“This federal funding will help feed the hungry and expand opportunities for local food producers and businesses. Rhode Island has amazing food and this collaborative effort will help the Rhode Island Food Policy Council and their partners find new ways to improve marketing, transportation, and distribution of local food and strengthen supply chains for food businesses,” said Senator Reed.

“I’m pleased to have helped secure the funding to stand up the Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance, an innovative partnership that will connect fresh food from local farmers and fishermen to Rhode Islanders facing food insecurity,” said Whitehouse. “This initiative will strengthen our food supply chain, boost the market for local agriculture and seafood businesses, and provide healthy food to our neighbors in need.”

“All Rhode Islanders deserve access to safe and nutritious food, which is why I’m so happy to deliver these crucial federal dollars to launch the ‘Rhody Feeding Rhody’ Alliance,” said Rep. Jim Langevin. “This new partnership will establish a critical connection between Rhode Island’s underserved communities and our best-in-class farmers and fishers, so that families experiencing food insecurity can enjoy the fresh produce and seafood produced right here at home.”

“Congratulations to the Rhode Island Food Policy Council and all of the tremendous local organizations who will be partnering for the Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance,” said Congressman Cicilline. “I was thrilled to advocate to USDA for this innovative project. This effort will build a more resilient food system that not only addresses food insecurity but also supports our local producers and growers. It’s a win for our farmers and fishers and helps our vulnerable neighbors.”

Eva Agudelo, Farm Fresh RI’s Hope’s Harvest Executive Director, notes “This funding strengthens the work Farm Fresh RI does to bring millions of servings of locally grown and caught products into the emergency food market. “USDA programs like LFPP help us put our trucks, coolers, and dedicated staff in service to meeting the needs of Rhode Island farmers and our neighbors who struggle with food insecurity.”

“Add up the costs of healthy food, housing, child care, utilities – everything families need to succeed. It’s all too expensive relative to income levels. Until this problem is fixed, SCLT will work through this program with USDA and our local partners to help hundreds of families in need serve up fresh produce grown right here by 40 small scale, sustainable urban and rural farmers.” says Margaret DeVos, Executive Director, Southside Community Land Trust

“This project will help to build on unique initiatives to connect local products to the emergency food system during a time of increasing need.” says Fred Mattera, Executive Director of Commercial Fisheries Center of RI, “For the Commercial Fisheries Center, this funding allows us to greatly expand and streamline access to nutritious local seafood among communities in need while helping to support our vibrant fishing industry.”

“Local seafood is an abundant resource in Rhode Island, an important part of a healthy diet, and is also a fundamental part of our culinary traditions for so many people in our community and yet still many people don’t have access to it.” says Kate Masury, Executive Director of Eating with the Ecosystem, “This funding will help Eating with the Ecosystem and the Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode Island support seafood businesses in providing local seafood to the emergency food system and sharing this delicious and healthy resource with people in need.”

“Access to safe and healthy food is a key determinant of health at the individual level and the community level. This grant will be critical to the Rhode Island Food Policy Council’s work to ensure this access for Rhode Islanders in every ZIP code throughout the state,” said Utpala Bandy, MD, MPH, Interim Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. “We thank the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Local Food Promotion Program for their partnership, and we look forward to the vital collaborations with our community partners that these funds will support for years to come.”

“Both Rhode Island’s emergency feeding network and local food producers experienced massive disruptions and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rhody Feeding Rhody initiative will deepen supply chain connections between these stakeholders, helping to build the kind of resilient and regional food system we envision in our state food plan “Relish Rhody” says Juli Stelmaszyk, RI State Director of Food Strategy

RIFPC’s project builds on a successful planning grant awarded by USDA in 2020 which piloted connections between 25 RI farmers and fishers. Now, 80 RI farmers and fishers (at least 9 of whom are from historically underserved communities,

The new, 3-year grant will enable RIFPC and partners to build information exchanges, infrastructure, and ordering systems that will benefit these local businesses and RI emergency food providers alike. Mutually-agreed upon product, price and delivery specifications will build greater confidence and offer lower risk to food producers and harvesters.

The Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance will identify pathways to financial viability, enhancing and growing the wholesale market for 50+ locally-grown agricultural products as well as growing wholesale markets for 30+ locally-harvested, wild-caught seafood in the emergency food system. The Council will measure and evaluate project impacts, using findings to continually improve program operations and advocate for sustainable funding. As a result, the local emergency feeding system will become a larger, more reliable wholesale market for local producers and harvesters while also becoming more resilient to supply chain shocks from public health emergencies and climate-related disasters.

To learn more about the Rhody Feeding Rhody Alliance, email info@rifoodcouncil.org.

Rory’s Market And Kitchen Launches Pound For Pound Fresh Produce Program November 2022 In Downtown Providence

Rory’s Customer Shopping for Organic Produce, photo courtesy of Rory’s

Rory’s Market + Kitchen and UNFI Produce & Fresh Co. have partnered to expand the Pound for Pound program originally initiated in 2019 at the company’s Cape Cod stores to include Rory’s new location in downtown Providence.

Throughout the month of November, select produce will be on sale at all Rory’s Market + Kitchen locations. For every pound of eligible produce purchased by Rory’s customers, Rory’s will donate a pound to the community’s local food bank.

At the company’s Dennis Port and Mashpee locations, the weight of purchased produce will be donated to the Family Pantry of Cape Cod. Purchases made at Rory’s in downtown Providence will contribute to poundage donated to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. No monetary donations are required to participate; customers simply purchase at Rory’s and know they will be supporting members of their local community in need.

“Food insecurity affects every community, and fresh produce is often an area that food banks are lacking in donation or supply,” says Rory Eames, owner and namesake of Rory’s. “We are committed to using our purchasing power to help increase access to fresh, quality produce to our local communities.”

At the conclusion of the program, Rory’s will purchase the fresh produce in highest demand by the food banks which will then be delivered to drop locations at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and the Family Pantry of Cape Cod.

“The Food Bank is so appreciative of the generosity of Rory’s Market and its customers,” shared Lisa Roth Blackman, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank’s Chief Philanthropy Officer. “The need for food assistance in Rhode Island has increased dramatically. Our member agencies are serving 63,000 people per month – an increase of 20% from last year. This donation from Rory’s will help us meet the demand for healthy, fresh produce – an important part of our distribution.

November 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.

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.

August 31, 2022 0 comment

Newer Posts

Older Posts