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Lasagna from Giusto
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Giusto’s Lasagna Program Returns / Weekapaug Inn Sunday Suppers / Holidays with Sakonnet Vineyard / Holidays at Track 15

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

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

Giusto’s BOGO Lasagna is Back with Some Extras

Giusto’s annual Buy One, Give One Lasagna program is back for its 5th year. For guests who purchase a lasagna, Giusto will donate one to the MLK Center in Newport and new this year, Giusto also will donate five items from their food pantry wish list as well.

Lasagnas are $75 and feed 6-8 people. They can be with meat or vegetarian with mushroom bolognese.

They’re also encouraging guests to donate directly to MLK Center as well. If a guest purchases a lasagna and makes a donation directly to the MLK Center, Giusto will thank that guest with a $20 gift card they can use on their next visit to Giusto (limit one per guest).

Orders can be placed via phone between 1pm-6pm by calling 401-324-7400. Lasagna pick-ups start on November 24th and go through December 23rd.

Weekapaug Inn Announces Sunday Supper Series

A Seasonal Family Dining Experience

This November, Weekapaug Inn, a timeless Relais & Chateaux and Forbes Five Star Hotel, New England-style inn set in the peaceful Weekapaug community perched on the idyllic Quonochontaug Pond with sweeping views of the Atlantic beyond, announces its Sunday Suppers, a weekly tradition celebrating the flavors of the fall and winter season.

Taking place every Sunday evening 5:30-9 pm throughout the months of November and December (Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, and 28) at The Restaurant, these gatherings feature a family-style menu crafted by the culinary team and served in an inviting coastal-New England setting.

The rotating menu highlights seasonal ingredients from Rhode Island’s local farms and fisheries, blending New England flavors with a refined coastal presentation. The evening begins with freshly baked artisan bread and Vermont-cultured butter, followed by a rotating selection of salad or appetizer, entree, and dessert each week, plus a complimentary glass of house red or white wine for each adult.

Capturing the spirit of traditional Sunday gatherings where conversation and connection take center stage, the price is $65 for adults, $25 for children ages 9-12 and children under eight years old dine complimentary. Guests are encouraged to reserve in advance by visiting OpenTable. Visit weekapauginn.com for more details. Follow Weekapaug Inn at @WeekapaugInn on Instagram, Facebook.

Complement Your Holiday Feast with Wines from Sakonnet Vineyard

From Turkey to Trifle, New England’s Oldest Vineyard offers the Perfect Pairings

As the holidays approach, Sakonnet Vineyard, New England’s oldest vineyard celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, is pleased to offer a variety of wines to pair with any holiday dish, from longtime family recipes to twists on the traditional.  Bottles and cans can be purchased in the Little Compton tasting room, at local retailers, and can be ordered online at www.sakonnetwine.com/shop and shipped to 40 states.

“This time of year is all about the food; from the Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings, to holiday cookies, to the dishes that promise good luck as we enter a new year,” said Marissa Stashenko, Director of Operations, Sakonnet Vineyard. “A perennial challenge for many is choosing the wines that will best complement all the wonderful flavors on the table and please the palates of their guests. Our wines are approachable enough for everyday enjoyment, yet complex enough to be worthy of a celebration.”

Stashenko and her husband, Sakonnet winemaker James Davids, recommend the following pairings this holiday season. 

Vidal Blanc / 2023 Sauvignon Blanc: Both are dry, bright, and crisp white wines with citrus flavors and floral aromatics that pair well with:  

  • Roasted seafood and poultry 
  • Green salads 
  • Roasted vegetables 
  • Oysters 
  • Goat cheese, Brie, Gruyere, Gouda 

Belcourt White: This delightful estate-grown blend combines the crisp, refreshing notes of Chardonnay with the aromatic, floral characteristics of Vidal Blanc, resulting in a well-balanced wine with a hint of citrus and a smooth lingering finish. Pairs well with: 

  • Roasted fish (flaky white fish or salmon)  
  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Potatoes, cream sauces 
  • Semi-soft, triple cream cheeses 

Eye of the Storm Rosé: This ripe, medium-bodied, fruit-forward, and aromatic Rosé pairs well with: 

  • Charcuterie 
  • Fried chicken 
  • Grilled meats and seafood 
  • Fruit desserts 

Pinot Noir: This elegant wine showcases vibrant red fruit flavors, subtle earthy undertones and delicate tannins. Pairs well with:  

  • Glazed ham, duck, lamb, salmon 
  • Mushrooms, truffle, cinnamon, orange 
  • Creamy sauces or lighter red sauces 
  • Chocolate dishes 

Belcourt Red / Cabernet Franc & Merlot: These classic red blends boast deep, intense flavors of blackberry and dried cherry, with subtle hints of clove and tobacco. Belcourt Red is riper, and the Cabernet Franc & Merlot is earthier, but they both pair well with: 

  • Roasted turkey, beef roast, pork shoulder, venison 
  • Braised dishes 
  • Potatoes, red sauces 
  • Chocolate desserts 

Sakonnet Vineyard is open year-round, Thursdays through Sundays, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  An array of guest experiences is available, including a café with a seasonal menu; wines by the glass or bottle; event packages for private groups; and seasonal activities, including yoga classes, harvest events, live music, holiday celebrations and more.

Festive Happenings at Sakonnet Vineyard for the Holiday Season Start on November 30th  

Visits with Santa, holiday market and more mark the season of celebrations

Holidays at Sakonnet Vineyard
Holidays at Sakonnet Vineyard

Sakonnet Vineyard,  New England’s oldest vineyard celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, is celebrating the holiday season with a series of festive events beginning November 30th. 

  • On Sunday, November 30th, kick off the holiday season with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus! From 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can visit Santa and take complimentary photos, decorate cookies, and enjoy mulled wine and hot chocolate. The event will conclude with a special tree lighting. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the Tiverton Police Department’s “Operation Blue Santa” program to help provide holiday gifts to local children in need.
  • On Saturday, December 6th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., a Christmas market will feature more than a dozen local artisans offering their work for sale in the barn.  
  • On Saturday, December 13th, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of classic Christmas cookies crafted by the pastry team at the Coast Guard House and paired with Sakonnet wines. Available while supplies last.

Throughout the season, guests can enjoy mulled wine and hot chocolate by the fire in the tasting room and outdoors by the firepits and heaters, in addition to wine tastings and a selection of seasonal foods. Each Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can enjoy live music in the tasting room. The lineup includes pop singer and songwriter Ruby Mac on November 29th and December 20th, one-man band Frank Foot on December 6th, the modern acoustic stylings of Stefan Couture on December 13th, and the versatile singer and songwriter Dave Alves on December 27th.  

“Between the warmth of the tasting room fire and the glow of the outdoor fire pits, the vineyard takes on a quiet magic this time of year,” said Marissa Stashenko, Director of Operations, Sakonnet Vineyard.  “It’s a cozy escape from the pace of the season – the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.”

In addition to the special events, Sakonnet Vineyard’s tasting room is open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday & Saturday 12:00 – 7:00 p.m. The indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits and heaters will be lit while guests enjoy wine tastings, wines by the glass or bottle, and selection of seasonal menu items. Sakonnet Vineyard has a variety of gifts available for purchase in the tasting room and online, including gift cards, merchandise, and wine (available to be shipped to 40 states), as well as membership to the Wine Club. Wine Club members receive 20% off quarterly wine allocations, each including three bottles selected by the winemaker; discounted bottles, tastings, retail, and food at the vineyard; and invitations to Wine Club release parties. Allocations can be shipped to 40 states or picked up at the winery. Membership is free and can be canceled at any time. To sign up, visit www.sakonnetwine.com/wine-club.

All Aboard the Holiday Cheer Train at Track 15!

Festive décor, giving trees for Children’s Friend, and visits from Santa start November 24th  

Track 15 Holiday Cocktails
Track 15 Holiday Cocktails

Track 15 food hall, located at 1 Union Station in downtown Providence, is celebrating the holiday season with a variety of events and activities for all ages.

“We are excited to celebrate our first holiday season at the food hall,” said Chris Marsella, owner, Track 15.  “From holiday markets to visits with Santa, and support for the local community through a partnership with Children’s Friend, we look forward to sharing the holiday spirit with our guests.”

Track 15’s halls will be decked on Tuesday, November 25th as they kick-off a gift drive for Children’s Friend, which serves Rhode Island’s most vulnerable young children.  Through December 17, guests are encouraged to choose a tag from the giving trees located throughout the food hall, purchase a new gift for that child, and return it unwrapped.  Children’s Friend will distribute the gifts to local families in time for their holiday celebrations. 

On Saturday, November 29th, Track 15 will mark Small Business Saturday with a holiday market showcasing local artisans from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by the official lighting of the food hall’s 20-foot Christmas tree on the outdoor plaza at 4:30 p.m.  Carolers from the VoX (Voices of Christmas) will be on hand to sing holiday favorites and Track 15 vendors will offer festive treats.

A second holiday market co-hosted by RI Night Market will also be held on Friday, December 5th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to coincide with that evening’s WaterFire, featuring more than 20 local artisans.

Santa will visit Track 15 on Thursday, December 11th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 20th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Visits with Santa are complimentary and guests may take their own photos. Local arts and craft vendors from Local401Artists will also be on-hand for mini-holiday markets.During these special events, guests can look for festive treats from Track 15 culinary vendors, such as Crispy Borek:flaky, fried handheld pastry roll filled with vegetables or meat from Tolia;  Tiramisu with Vermont Creamery mascarpone and cocoa nib crumble from Giusto; and from Little Chaska, a Potato Fritter seasoned with carom seeds and spices and Warm Carrot Pudding with pistachios.  Bar Romolo will offer Hot Apple Cider, Hot Chocolate (boozy or non-alcoholic), Winter Sangria, and a Blood Orange Spritz.

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PVD Winter Lights Market and Tree Lighting 2017
chefs & restaurantsnewswine & drinks

Eat Drink RI Presents an Artisan Winter Lights Market featuring Local Artists and Food & Drink as Part of the City of Providence’s 2017 Holiday Celebration

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

PVD Winter Lights Market and Tree Lighting 2017

PVD Winter Lights Market and Tree Lighting 2017

This weekend, Friday, December 1st from 5-9 p.m. and Saturday, December 2nd from 12-9 p.m., Eat Drink RI is pleased to present the Artisan Winter Lights Market for the city of Providence’s Holiday Celebration. The annual holiday tradition, hosted by Mayor Jorge Elorza, the Department of Art, Culture + Tourism and the Department of Parks & Recreation, is produced by the City of Providence and the Downtown Providence Parks Conservancy. This year, the celebration will take place over two days and feature a wide array of activities for all to enjoy, including two tree lighting ceremonies, world champion figure skating demonstrations, special giveaways, live performances, children’s programming, music, the Artisan Marketplace and much more!

The Artisan Marketplace will take place in a large heated tent in the trolley lane, in between the ALEX AND ANI City Center and Burnside Park. Local artists selling everything from jewelry to glass art, to handmade soaps and candles, will be setup under the tent showcasing their wares—perfect for holiday gifts. Other fun things include face painting, hand dipped chocolate treats, and a mobile fashion truck!

Beat the chill with a warm beverage from New Harvest Coffee Roasters, or enjoy a beer from Revival Brewing Company or Trinity Brewhouse! Wine from Jonathan Edwards Winery will also be available. Come hungry and check out the local food, there’s something for everyone: GottaQ Smokehouse BBQ, Red’s, Hometown Poké, and Ocean State Oyster Festival featuring Salt Pond Oysters.

Local artists and artisans include Andre’z Dipped & Drizzled, Conjoined Pins, Glass Monkey, Kelila’s Designs, Luxe Lathers Boutique, Ocean State Pepper Co., Old Flame Candles, Providence Plastic, RI Face Painting, Radia Herbs, Stone Street Tye-Dye, The Attic Project Jewelry, and The Blank Space Collection.

For a schedule detailing all the programming and highlights, please visit: http://artculturetourism.com/2017-city-of-providence-holiday-celebration-christmas-tree-lighting/

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farmsnews

RI DEM News Release: DEM Announces Award of $205,311 in Farm Viability Grants to Enhance and Promote Rhode Island Specialty Crops

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

RI Department of Environmental Management

For Release: October 29, 2013
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402

DEM ANNOUNCES AWARD OF $205,311 IN FARM VIABILITY GRANTS TO ENHANCE AND PROMOTE RHODE ISLAND SPECIALTY CROPS

PROVIDENCE – The Department of Environmental Management has announced the award of farm viability grants totaling $205,311 for projects that will enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Rhode Island. The funds are from the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant program. Specialty crops are defined by this federally-supported program as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, and nursery crops including floriculture and turf grass production.

“We’re pleased to award these grants for projects that will help strengthen markets for specialty crops, sustain the livelihood of Rhode Island farmers, and promote the long-term viability of agriculture in our state,” said DEM Director Janet Coit.

The farm viability grants will be used for a wide range of purposes, such as increasing purchase of specialty crops by local schools, creating African vegetable markets in select stores in African and Latino neighborhoods, and supporting agricultural research at the University of Rhode Island.

DEM’s Division of Agriculture and Resources Marketing received 11 applications for the grants. Following is a list of projects awarded funding through the grant round:

  • $50,000 to Farm Fresh Rhode Island, to increase specialty crop purchases by local public schools by continuing to provide technical assistance to food service management companies and local farmers; making connections resulting in local specialty crops on the menu at schools, hospitals, care facilities, senior meal sites and worksite cafeterias; and building demand for local specialty crops through classroom and worksite education programs. Matching funds cover the costs associated with non-specialty crop items;
  • $20,000 to the African Alliance of Rhode Island, to provide access to African vegetables grown in urban vegetable-growing parcels by creating African vegetable markets in pilot corner stores in African/Latino neighborhoods that will incorporate native African vegetable education programs and cooking demonstrations;
  • $17,000 to the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Rhode Island, to provide training for specialty crop farmers in the use of organic production techniques;
  • $10,500 to Beanhouses Inc. and the University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension, to determine if there are any varieties of dry beans that can be grown in Rhode Island, and make dry bean production an affordable option for farmers by conducting variety trials and demonstrating a bean thresher and bean winnow to growers;
  • $31,865 to the University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension, to improve yield and quality of melons by testing innovative methods of protecting melons from striped cucumber beetle damage throughout the crop cycle while minimizing risks to bees. Successful control methods will be shared with interested growers through Vegetable Twilight Meetings hosted by the Cooperative Extension, and through the newly web-accessible “RI Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin;” and
  • $35,000 to Alex Caserta, to promote Rhode Island specialty crop growers and educate consumers about locally-produced specialty crops by working with the Rhode Island Public Broadcasting Service and the Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association to develop a pilot television series promoting specialty crops.

In addition to the grants, $40,946 in funding is provided to DEM’s Division of Agriculture, to continue to increase demand and consumption of Rhode Island-grown specialty crops by expanding on the “Rhode Island Grown Get Fresh Buy Local” initiative through produce preparation demonstrations featuring local celebrity chefs at all RI farmers markets and participating roadside stands; updating its RI agricultural display; enhancing the marketing program by making point-of-purchase advertising material available to farmers; and introducing electronic benefit transfer banking to farmers markets to allow federal nutrition benefit recipients to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. Matching funds will be used to cover non-specialty crops and producers.

RI School Districts Spend 11 Percent of Food Budgets Buying Local Products, According to New USDA Report

Director Coit pointed to Farm Fresh Rhode Island as a good example of an effort that is regularly supported by the specialty crop grant program. Today, Farm Fresh Rhode Island is a successful organization supporting the local food system that sponsors the Farm to School program, which is aimed at increasing the consumption of locally-harvested fruits and vegetables by Rhode Island school students. In addition, Farm Fresh Rhode Island also sponsors a host of farmers’ markets including one year-round market; distribution channels for bringing locally-grown products to restaurants, worksites, hospitals, grocers, schools, food pantries and community centers; and special events such as the Local Food Forum held annually at Brown University.

As indicated in USDA’s first-ever Farm to School Census which was released today, Rhode Island has a very high participation rate in farm-to-school programs, which was reported at 100 percent among the census respondents. The state’s responding school districts spent $1.1 million, or approximately 11 percent of their school food budgets buying local fruits and vegetables. “There’s nothing better than biting into a freshly-picked apple or ear of sweet corn from a local farm, and thanks to the farm-to-school program, students across Rhode Island can enjoy these delicious, healthy foods as part of their school lunch,” said Director Coit. “Plus, more than 95 percent of the responding school districts said they will but more local foods in the future. This is a real win-win for our students and Rhode Island’s agriculture industry.”

Sheri Griffin, co-executive director of Farm Fresh Rhode Island said, “Support from the specialty crop program has created important successes for the RI Farm to School program. All of Rhode Island’s public school districts purchase locally-grown specialty crops, with support from Farm to School Coordinator Kim Clark providing technical assistance to school purchasers and farmers alike. Kim is also able to provide agricultural education programs for students in these districts, with lessons that touch on math, history, business and environmental topics. We are so fortunate to be able to secure this funding for this important work.”

DEM’s Division of Agriculture oversees numerous efforts designed to maintain the viability of farming in Rhode Island, including locally-produced milk, meats and locally-harvested seafood, farmers’ markets, and buy local and agri-tourism programs. “All across our state we can see the tremendous growth of agriculture, from the expanded network of farmers’ markets to the promotion of local foods in our outstanding restaurants,” noted DEM Director Janet Coit. “Rhode Island’s $1.7 billion green industry – and the 12,300 jobs it supports – is a bright spot in the economy of our beautiful state, thanks to growing consumer interest in products grown locally. On top of these economic benefits, agriculture also contributes to tourism, open space, quality of life, and access to local foods and horticultural products.”

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