Passport to foodie heaven in East Greenwich, Rhode Island
Of course! As your local guide to the culinary heart of Rhode Island, I'm absolutely thrilled to take you on a gastronomic tour of East Greenwich. This isn't just a list; it's a love letter to the flavors, aromas, and vibrant scenes that make our town a true destination for food lovers. So, loosen your belt, bring your appetite, and let's explore the ten essential stops that define dining in EG.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of East Greenwich, Rhode Island**
Nestled along the western shore of Narragansett Bay, East Greenwich is a jewel box of a town where colonial charm effortlessly blends with a modern, sophisticated palate. For those in the know, its Main Street and surrounding avenues are not just paved with history, but with the intoxicating scents of freshly baked bread, simmering marinara, and shucked oysters. This is a town that takes its food seriously, from the humblest deli counter to the white-tablecloth establishments. Join me as we embark on a detailed, mouthwatering journey through ten of its most beloved culinary haunts.
#### **1. Natale's Deli: The Heartbeat of the Neighborhood**
**Location:** 2708 S County Trail
Step through the door of Natale's Deli and you're not just entering a restaurant; you're stepping into the warm, noisy, and wonderfully authentic embrace of an Italian-American family kitchen. The air is thick with the scent of cured meats, aged cheeses, and that particular yeasty fragrance of fresh-baked bread. This is a place of tradition, where the sandwiches aren't just made—they're crafted with a palpable sense of pride.
**The Vibe:** Unpretentious, bustling, and genuinely friendly. It’s a classic deli counter where regulars are known by name and the line out the door is a testament to its quality. The decor is a comfortable clutter of family photos, local sports team paraphernalia, and a menu board that promises paradise between two slices of bread.
**What to Order:** This is sandwich nirvana, and decision paralysis is a real risk. But fear not, here’s your game plan:
* **The Godfather:** You can't go wrong with a name like that. This is their masterpiece—a glorious pile of genoa salami, capicola, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and the house giardiniera (a spicy, pickled vegetable mix). The tang and heat of the giardiniera cut through the rich, fatty meats perfectly. Ask for it on a fresh-baked torpedo roll with the oil and vinegar works.
* **The Meatball Sub:** A classic for a reason. Natale's meatballs are tender, generously herbed, and smothered in a robust, sweet marinara sauce. The melted mozzarella forms a glorious, stretchy seal over the top. It’s messy, it’s heavenly, and it’s everything a meatball sub should be.
* **The Chicken Parm Sandwich:** A sleeper hit that often flies under the radar. The chicken cutlet is pounded thin, breaded, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and never soggy, even under its blanket of sauce and cheese.
**Pro-Tip:** Go early for lunch to avoid the peak rush. And don't overlook their refrigerated case filled with house-made pasta, sauces, and salads (the antipasto is a winner) to take a piece of Natale's magic home with you.
#### **2. The Sweet Spot EG: A Sugar-Coated Daydream**
**Location:** 1000 Division St
If you have ever dreamed of a place where whimsy and buttercream collide, you’ve found it. The Sweet Spot EG is a boutique bakery and cafe that looks like it was decorated by a fairy with a serious baking habit. It’s bright, cheerful, and filled with the kind of treats that make you feel like a kid again, albeit with a much more refined palate.
**The Vibe:** Insta-worthy and utterly delightful. This is the place for a celebratory treat, a girly brunch, or simply to satisfy a powerful sugar craving in a beautiful environment. The staff is as sweet as the confections they sell.
**What to Order:** Your eyes will be bigger than your stomach, so plan accordingly.
* **Custom Decorated Cookies:** Their signature item. These aren't just cookies; they're edible art. The flavor matches the stunning design—a soft, buttery sugar cookie with a smooth, not-too-sweet royal icing. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because it's Tuesday.
* **Cake Jars & Parfaits:** A genius creation for those who want a perfect portion of cake. Layers of moist cake, decadent frosting, and fillings like fruit curd or cookie crumbles come in a portable jar. The Unicorn Food or Salted Caramel parfaits are local legends.
* **Specialty Lattes & Hot Chocolate:** Pair your treat with a beautifully crafted drink. Their seasonal lattes, often adorned with intricate latte art, and their rich, decadent hot chocolate are the perfect liquid companions to your baked goods.
**Pro-Tip:** Follow them on social media! They frequently announce daily specials and seasonal offerings that aren't on the regular menu. And if you need a custom cake, order well in advance—their talent is in high demand.
#### **3. Dantes Kitchen: Cozy Elegance on Main Street**
**Location:** 315 Main St
Dantes Kitchen is the epitome of East Greenwich's elevated dining scene. Housed in a charming, intimate space on Main Street, it offers a menu that is both sophisticated and comforting. The focus here is on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients transformed into beautifully executed dishes that feel like a warm hug.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, rustic-chic, and romantic. Exposed brick, soft lighting, and a bustling open kitchen create an atmosphere that is both energetic and cozy. It's ideal for a date night, a special occasion, or a quiet dinner where the food is the star.
**What to Order:** The menu changes with the seasons, but certain staples are perennial favorites.
* **Duck Confit:** If it's on the menu, order it without hesitation. The skin is crackling-crisp, the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, and it’s often served with a clever accompaniment like a sweet potato hash or a tart cherry gastrique that cuts through the richness.
* **DK Burger:** Don't let the simplicity of a burger fool you. This is arguably one of the best in the state. A perfectly grilled blend of high-quality beef, melted cheese (often Gruyère), bacon jam, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. It’s a symphony of umami and texture.
* **Fresh Pasta of the Day:** The pasta is made in-house, and the daily special is always worth exploring. Whether it's a delicate ricotta ravioli with brown butter and sage or a hearty bolognese, you can't go wrong.
**Pro-Tip:** Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Save room for dessert—their pastry chef creates stunning finales that are well worth the indulgence.
#### **4. Pasta Patch: The Italian Grocer of Your Dreams**
**Location:** 183 Old Forge Rd
Pasta Patch is a hidden gem for purists and home cooks alike. While they have a small cafe area, this place is primarily a treasure trove of fresh, house-made pasta, sauces, and Italian groceries. Walking in is like being transported to a small shop in Emilia-Romagna.
**The Vibe:** Authentic, no-frills, and focused on the product. The centerpiece is the glass-fronted case displaying a rainbow of fresh pasta—from classic linguine to vibrant beet tortelli. The shelves are stocked with imported olives, oils, and tomatoes.
**What to Order:** You have two options: eat there or take the magic home.
* **To Eat In:** Order a plate of freshly made pasta with your choice of sauce. The **Lobster Ravioli** is a showstopper—plump pillows of pasta filled with sweet, fresh lobster meat, typically served in a creamy, sherry-laced sauce. The **Pappardelle Bolognese** is another winner, the wide ribbons perfect for clinging to the slow-cooked, deeply flavored meat sauce.
* **To Take Home:** This is where Pasta Patch shines. Buy a few pounds of their fresh fettuccine, a container of their vibrant pesto (made with local basil in season), and a quart of their marinara. In ten minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Don't forget to grab some freshly grated Pecorino Romano from the cooler.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their weekly specials. They often feature hard-to-find regional pasta shapes and seasonal sauces. It's also the best place in town to put together an impressive, effortless charcuterie board.
#### **5. Besos Kitchen & Cocktails: A Vibrant Fiesta**
**Location:** 378 Main St
For a burst of color, flavor, and energy, head straight to Besos. This isn't your standard Mexican fare; it's a creative, upscale take on Latin American street food and cocktails, served in a space that's as lively as the food is bold.
**The Vibe:** Modern, vibrant, and buzzing with energy. The decor is a playful mix of bright colors, rustic wood, and industrial touches. The bar is always hopping, crafting some of the most inventive cocktails in town. It's a fantastic spot for a fun night out with friends.
**What to Order:** Think small plates and shareable delights.
* **Guacamole Preparado:** Prepared tableside, this is an event in itself. You choose your spice level, and they mash fresh avocado, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and serranos right in front of you. It’s the freshest guacamole you'll ever have.
* **Tacos:** You can't go wrong with any of them, but the **Crispy Fish Tacos** are a revelation. Beer-battered local white fish, crunchy cabbage slaw, chipotle aioli, and a squeeze of lime. The **Carnitas** tacos, with their tender, slow-braised pork, are a close second.
* **Queso Fundido:** A skillet of bubbling, melted cheese mixed with chorizo or wild mushrooms, served with warm tortillas. It’s decadent, shareable, and utterly irresistible.
* **Cocktails:** The drink menu is a star in its own right. The **Besos Rita** with its signature black salt rim or the **Spicy Cucumber Margarita** are perfect complements to the flavorful food.
**Pro-Tip:** It gets loud and crowded, so embrace the fiesta atmosphere. Coming with a group allows you to sample a wider variety of the menu.
#### **6. Chef-a-Roni Fancy Foods: Gourmet To-Go, Perfected**
**Location:** 2832 S County Trl
Chef-a-Roni is the secret weapon of East Greenwich's busy families and entertainers. This unassuming shop is a gourmet market and prepared foods counter that delivers restaurant-quality meals without the hassle of cooking. The quality and consistency here are phenomenal.
**The Vibe:** Efficient, clean, and focused on excellence. It feels like a high-end European market. The service is knowledgeable and helpful, ready to guide you through the day's offerings.
**What to Order:** The entire case is tempting, but here are the must-tries:
* **Stuffed Chicken Breasts:** Their signature item. They take a simple chicken breast and elevate it to new heights with stuffings like broccoli and cheese, cordon bleu, or sun-dried tomato and pesto. They are perfectly cooked, juicy, and an effortless dinner solution.
* **Shepherd's Pie:** A classic done to perfection. Creamy mashed potatoes blanket a savory, well-seasoned filling of ground meat and vegetables. It’s the definition of comfort food.
* **Daily Specials:** Always ask what's hot. Their meatloaf, lasagna, and stuffed peppers are legendary among regulars.
* **Salads:** Don't skip the sides. The tortellini pasta salad and the quinoa salad are fresh, flavorful, and far superior to typical deli offerings.
**Pro-Tip:** Place larger orders for holidays or parties ahead of time. This is also the place to go for high-quality, pre-marinated meats and skewers ready for the grill.
#### **7. Providence Oyster Bar East Greenwich: The Taste of the Sea**
**Location:** 5707 Post Rd
As a coastal Rhode Island town, East Greenwich demands a top-tier seafood restaurant, and Providence Oyster Bar delivers in spades. It’s a sleek, modern space dedicated to the fruits of the ocean, with a particular emphasis on the humble, glorious oyster.
**The Vibe:** Nautical, chic, and bustling. The centerpiece is the raw bar, where shuckers work with practiced precision. The air smells of the sea and melted butter. It's a place to see and be seen, but the true star is what's on your plate.
**What to Order:** You are here for the ocean's bounty.
* **The Raw Bar:** Start with a dozen oysters on the half shell. They source from all over the East Coast, so ask your server for the daily selection and their recommendations. A crisp glass of Muscadet or a local craft lager is the perfect pairing.
* **Lobster Roll:** Choose between the classic Maine style (cold with mayo) or the Connecticut style (warm with drawn butter). Both are exemplary, piled high with sweet, succulent lobster meat on a perfectly grilled, buttery split-top bun.
* **Clam Chowder:** This is New England, after all. Their chowder is a benchmark—creamy, briny, and packed with tender clams. It’s the real deal.
* **Pan-Seared Scallops:** If you're looking for an entree, this is it. Perfectly seared, sweet sea scallops served with seasonal vegetables and a sophisticated sauce.
**Pro-Tip:** Happy hour at the bar often features fantastic deals on oysters and cocktails. It's the best way to experience the high-quality seafood without the full dinner price tag.
#### **8. Wild Harvest Bakery & Cafe: The Artisan's Breakfast & Lunch**
**Location:** 1675 S County Trail
Wild Harvest is the daytime anchor for so many in EG. It’s a bakery, cafe, and coffee shop that prides itself on from-scratch baking and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. This is where you go for a perfect cup of coffee, a flaky pastry, or a hearty, healthy lunch.
**The Vibe:** Warm, rustic, and community-focused. It has the feel of a well-loved neighborhood spot. People are here to work on laptops, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a scone and the newspaper.
**What to Order:** A tale of two meals.
* **For Breakfast:** The **Avocado Toast** is legendary, elevated with radishes, microgreens, and a perfect soft-boiled egg. Their **breakfast sandwiches** on fresh-baked biscuits or croissants are unbeatable. And you must, must, MUST try one of their pastries. The **almond croissant** is flaky, buttery, and filled with just the right amount of marzipan.
* **For Lunch:** The **Harvest Bowl** is a nutrient-packed powerhouse of grains, roasted veggies, greens, and a delicious tahini or green goddess dressing. Their **turkey club** on multigrain is a classic done right, with high-quality bacon and ripe avocado.
**Pro-Tip:** Get there early for the best pastry selection—they sell out fast. Their coffee, from a local roaster, is some of the best in town.
#### **9. The Revival Craft Kitchen and Bar: Culinary Ambition Realized**
**Location:** 219 Main St
The name says it all. The Revival is about bringing classic dishes back to life with modern techniques and bold, global flavors. The menu is adventurous, the cocktails are complex, and the atmosphere is sleek and contemporary.
**The Vibe:** Upscale, trendy, and dynamic. It's a larger, more polished space with a stunning bar and an open kitchen. It's the place for a celebratory dinner or for when you want to be impressed by culinary creativity.
**What to Order:** Be prepared to explore.
* **Short Rib Poutine:** A decadent appetizer that reimagines the Canadian classic. Crispy fries are smothered in braised short rib, cheese curds, and a rich gravy. It's a shareable dish that packs an unbelievable flavor punch.
* **Miso Glazed Salmon:** A testament to their fusion style. The salmon is always cooked perfectly, with a crispy skin and a sweet-savory miso glaze, served with sticky rice and bok choy.
* **Revival Burger:** A contender for the burger crown. Often featuring a blend of meats, unique cheeses (like taleggio), and gourmet toppings like onion jam and truffle aioli.
* **Craft Cocktails:** The bar program is exceptional. Try one of their signature creations, like a smoked old fashioned or a gin-based cocktail with fresh, herbal notes.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a destination for foodies who love to try new things. Don't be afraid to ask your server for guidance—the menu is designed to be explorative.
#### **10. Victor's Kitchen and Pizzeria: The Neighborhood Staple**
**Location:** 5641 Post Rd
Sometimes, you just need a great slice of pizza. Victor's is that reliable, always-delicious spot that every town needs. It’s a family-friendly pizzeria that does all the classics well, from pies and calzones to pasta dishes.
**The Vibe:** Casual, family-oriented, and welcoming. It's the kind of place where kids' sports teams celebrate after a game and families gather for a no-fuss Friday night dinner. It’s comfortable, familiar, and consistently good.
**What to Order:** Keep it simple or get creative.
* **The Margherita Pizza:** The true test of a pizzeria. Victor's version is excellent—a thin, slightly chewy crust, vibrant San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It’s a perfect balance of flavors.
* **The Victor's Special:** For those who want it all. This everything pizza is loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and olives. The quality of the ingredients shines through.
* **Eggplant Parmigiana:** A fantastic non-pizza option. The eggplant is breaded and fried to a perfect crisp, not greasy, and layered with plenty of cheese and a tangy sauce.
**Pro-Tip:** Their delivery and takeout are fast and reliable, making it a go-to for a cozy night in. They also offer gluten-free crust options that are better than most.
***
From the nostalgic comfort of a Natale's sub to the refined elegance of
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of East Greenwich, Rhode Island**
Nestled along the western shore of Narragansett Bay, East Greenwich is a jewel box of a town where colonial charm effortlessly blends with a modern, sophisticated palate. For those in the know, its Main Street and surrounding avenues are not just paved with history, but with the intoxicating scents of freshly baked bread, simmering marinara, and shucked oysters. This is a town that takes its food seriously, from the humblest deli counter to the white-tablecloth establishments. Join me as we embark on a detailed, mouthwatering journey through ten of its most beloved culinary haunts.
#### **1. Natale's Deli: The Heartbeat of the Neighborhood**
**Location:** 2708 S County Trail
Step through the door of Natale's Deli and you're not just entering a restaurant; you're stepping into the warm, noisy, and wonderfully authentic embrace of an Italian-American family kitchen. The air is thick with the scent of cured meats, aged cheeses, and that particular yeasty fragrance of fresh-baked bread. This is a place of tradition, where the sandwiches aren't just made—they're crafted with a palpable sense of pride.
**The Vibe:** Unpretentious, bustling, and genuinely friendly. It’s a classic deli counter where regulars are known by name and the line out the door is a testament to its quality. The decor is a comfortable clutter of family photos, local sports team paraphernalia, and a menu board that promises paradise between two slices of bread.
**What to Order:** This is sandwich nirvana, and decision paralysis is a real risk. But fear not, here’s your game plan:
* **The Godfather:** You can't go wrong with a name like that. This is their masterpiece—a glorious pile of genoa salami, capicola, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and the house giardiniera (a spicy, pickled vegetable mix). The tang and heat of the giardiniera cut through the rich, fatty meats perfectly. Ask for it on a fresh-baked torpedo roll with the oil and vinegar works.
* **The Meatball Sub:** A classic for a reason. Natale's meatballs are tender, generously herbed, and smothered in a robust, sweet marinara sauce. The melted mozzarella forms a glorious, stretchy seal over the top. It’s messy, it’s heavenly, and it’s everything a meatball sub should be.
* **The Chicken Parm Sandwich:** A sleeper hit that often flies under the radar. The chicken cutlet is pounded thin, breaded, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and never soggy, even under its blanket of sauce and cheese.
**Pro-Tip:** Go early for lunch to avoid the peak rush. And don't overlook their refrigerated case filled with house-made pasta, sauces, and salads (the antipasto is a winner) to take a piece of Natale's magic home with you.
#### **2. The Sweet Spot EG: A Sugar-Coated Daydream**
**Location:** 1000 Division St
If you have ever dreamed of a place where whimsy and buttercream collide, you’ve found it. The Sweet Spot EG is a boutique bakery and cafe that looks like it was decorated by a fairy with a serious baking habit. It’s bright, cheerful, and filled with the kind of treats that make you feel like a kid again, albeit with a much more refined palate.
**The Vibe:** Insta-worthy and utterly delightful. This is the place for a celebratory treat, a girly brunch, or simply to satisfy a powerful sugar craving in a beautiful environment. The staff is as sweet as the confections they sell.
**What to Order:** Your eyes will be bigger than your stomach, so plan accordingly.
* **Custom Decorated Cookies:** Their signature item. These aren't just cookies; they're edible art. The flavor matches the stunning design—a soft, buttery sugar cookie with a smooth, not-too-sweet royal icing. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because it's Tuesday.
* **Cake Jars & Parfaits:** A genius creation for those who want a perfect portion of cake. Layers of moist cake, decadent frosting, and fillings like fruit curd or cookie crumbles come in a portable jar. The Unicorn Food or Salted Caramel parfaits are local legends.
* **Specialty Lattes & Hot Chocolate:** Pair your treat with a beautifully crafted drink. Their seasonal lattes, often adorned with intricate latte art, and their rich, decadent hot chocolate are the perfect liquid companions to your baked goods.
**Pro-Tip:** Follow them on social media! They frequently announce daily specials and seasonal offerings that aren't on the regular menu. And if you need a custom cake, order well in advance—their talent is in high demand.
#### **3. Dantes Kitchen: Cozy Elegance on Main Street**
**Location:** 315 Main St
Dantes Kitchen is the epitome of East Greenwich's elevated dining scene. Housed in a charming, intimate space on Main Street, it offers a menu that is both sophisticated and comforting. The focus here is on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients transformed into beautifully executed dishes that feel like a warm hug.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, rustic-chic, and romantic. Exposed brick, soft lighting, and a bustling open kitchen create an atmosphere that is both energetic and cozy. It's ideal for a date night, a special occasion, or a quiet dinner where the food is the star.
**What to Order:** The menu changes with the seasons, but certain staples are perennial favorites.
* **Duck Confit:** If it's on the menu, order it without hesitation. The skin is crackling-crisp, the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, and it’s often served with a clever accompaniment like a sweet potato hash or a tart cherry gastrique that cuts through the richness.
* **DK Burger:** Don't let the simplicity of a burger fool you. This is arguably one of the best in the state. A perfectly grilled blend of high-quality beef, melted cheese (often Gruyère), bacon jam, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. It’s a symphony of umami and texture.
* **Fresh Pasta of the Day:** The pasta is made in-house, and the daily special is always worth exploring. Whether it's a delicate ricotta ravioli with brown butter and sage or a hearty bolognese, you can't go wrong.
**Pro-Tip:** Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Save room for dessert—their pastry chef creates stunning finales that are well worth the indulgence.
#### **4. Pasta Patch: The Italian Grocer of Your Dreams**
**Location:** 183 Old Forge Rd
Pasta Patch is a hidden gem for purists and home cooks alike. While they have a small cafe area, this place is primarily a treasure trove of fresh, house-made pasta, sauces, and Italian groceries. Walking in is like being transported to a small shop in Emilia-Romagna.
**The Vibe:** Authentic, no-frills, and focused on the product. The centerpiece is the glass-fronted case displaying a rainbow of fresh pasta—from classic linguine to vibrant beet tortelli. The shelves are stocked with imported olives, oils, and tomatoes.
**What to Order:** You have two options: eat there or take the magic home.
* **To Eat In:** Order a plate of freshly made pasta with your choice of sauce. The **Lobster Ravioli** is a showstopper—plump pillows of pasta filled with sweet, fresh lobster meat, typically served in a creamy, sherry-laced sauce. The **Pappardelle Bolognese** is another winner, the wide ribbons perfect for clinging to the slow-cooked, deeply flavored meat sauce.
* **To Take Home:** This is where Pasta Patch shines. Buy a few pounds of their fresh fettuccine, a container of their vibrant pesto (made with local basil in season), and a quart of their marinara. In ten minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Don't forget to grab some freshly grated Pecorino Romano from the cooler.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their weekly specials. They often feature hard-to-find regional pasta shapes and seasonal sauces. It's also the best place in town to put together an impressive, effortless charcuterie board.
#### **5. Besos Kitchen & Cocktails: A Vibrant Fiesta**
**Location:** 378 Main St
For a burst of color, flavor, and energy, head straight to Besos. This isn't your standard Mexican fare; it's a creative, upscale take on Latin American street food and cocktails, served in a space that's as lively as the food is bold.
**The Vibe:** Modern, vibrant, and buzzing with energy. The decor is a playful mix of bright colors, rustic wood, and industrial touches. The bar is always hopping, crafting some of the most inventive cocktails in town. It's a fantastic spot for a fun night out with friends.
**What to Order:** Think small plates and shareable delights.
* **Guacamole Preparado:** Prepared tableside, this is an event in itself. You choose your spice level, and they mash fresh avocado, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and serranos right in front of you. It’s the freshest guacamole you'll ever have.
* **Tacos:** You can't go wrong with any of them, but the **Crispy Fish Tacos** are a revelation. Beer-battered local white fish, crunchy cabbage slaw, chipotle aioli, and a squeeze of lime. The **Carnitas** tacos, with their tender, slow-braised pork, are a close second.
* **Queso Fundido:** A skillet of bubbling, melted cheese mixed with chorizo or wild mushrooms, served with warm tortillas. It’s decadent, shareable, and utterly irresistible.
* **Cocktails:** The drink menu is a star in its own right. The **Besos Rita** with its signature black salt rim or the **Spicy Cucumber Margarita** are perfect complements to the flavorful food.
**Pro-Tip:** It gets loud and crowded, so embrace the fiesta atmosphere. Coming with a group allows you to sample a wider variety of the menu.
#### **6. Chef-a-Roni Fancy Foods: Gourmet To-Go, Perfected**
**Location:** 2832 S County Trl
Chef-a-Roni is the secret weapon of East Greenwich's busy families and entertainers. This unassuming shop is a gourmet market and prepared foods counter that delivers restaurant-quality meals without the hassle of cooking. The quality and consistency here are phenomenal.
**The Vibe:** Efficient, clean, and focused on excellence. It feels like a high-end European market. The service is knowledgeable and helpful, ready to guide you through the day's offerings.
**What to Order:** The entire case is tempting, but here are the must-tries:
* **Stuffed Chicken Breasts:** Their signature item. They take a simple chicken breast and elevate it to new heights with stuffings like broccoli and cheese, cordon bleu, or sun-dried tomato and pesto. They are perfectly cooked, juicy, and an effortless dinner solution.
* **Shepherd's Pie:** A classic done to perfection. Creamy mashed potatoes blanket a savory, well-seasoned filling of ground meat and vegetables. It’s the definition of comfort food.
* **Daily Specials:** Always ask what's hot. Their meatloaf, lasagna, and stuffed peppers are legendary among regulars.
* **Salads:** Don't skip the sides. The tortellini pasta salad and the quinoa salad are fresh, flavorful, and far superior to typical deli offerings.
**Pro-Tip:** Place larger orders for holidays or parties ahead of time. This is also the place to go for high-quality, pre-marinated meats and skewers ready for the grill.
#### **7. Providence Oyster Bar East Greenwich: The Taste of the Sea**
**Location:** 5707 Post Rd
As a coastal Rhode Island town, East Greenwich demands a top-tier seafood restaurant, and Providence Oyster Bar delivers in spades. It’s a sleek, modern space dedicated to the fruits of the ocean, with a particular emphasis on the humble, glorious oyster.
**The Vibe:** Nautical, chic, and bustling. The centerpiece is the raw bar, where shuckers work with practiced precision. The air smells of the sea and melted butter. It's a place to see and be seen, but the true star is what's on your plate.
**What to Order:** You are here for the ocean's bounty.
* **The Raw Bar:** Start with a dozen oysters on the half shell. They source from all over the East Coast, so ask your server for the daily selection and their recommendations. A crisp glass of Muscadet or a local craft lager is the perfect pairing.
* **Lobster Roll:** Choose between the classic Maine style (cold with mayo) or the Connecticut style (warm with drawn butter). Both are exemplary, piled high with sweet, succulent lobster meat on a perfectly grilled, buttery split-top bun.
* **Clam Chowder:** This is New England, after all. Their chowder is a benchmark—creamy, briny, and packed with tender clams. It’s the real deal.
* **Pan-Seared Scallops:** If you're looking for an entree, this is it. Perfectly seared, sweet sea scallops served with seasonal vegetables and a sophisticated sauce.
**Pro-Tip:** Happy hour at the bar often features fantastic deals on oysters and cocktails. It's the best way to experience the high-quality seafood without the full dinner price tag.
#### **8. Wild Harvest Bakery & Cafe: The Artisan's Breakfast & Lunch**
**Location:** 1675 S County Trail
Wild Harvest is the daytime anchor for so many in EG. It’s a bakery, cafe, and coffee shop that prides itself on from-scratch baking and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. This is where you go for a perfect cup of coffee, a flaky pastry, or a hearty, healthy lunch.
**The Vibe:** Warm, rustic, and community-focused. It has the feel of a well-loved neighborhood spot. People are here to work on laptops, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a scone and the newspaper.
**What to Order:** A tale of two meals.
* **For Breakfast:** The **Avocado Toast** is legendary, elevated with radishes, microgreens, and a perfect soft-boiled egg. Their **breakfast sandwiches** on fresh-baked biscuits or croissants are unbeatable. And you must, must, MUST try one of their pastries. The **almond croissant** is flaky, buttery, and filled with just the right amount of marzipan.
* **For Lunch:** The **Harvest Bowl** is a nutrient-packed powerhouse of grains, roasted veggies, greens, and a delicious tahini or green goddess dressing. Their **turkey club** on multigrain is a classic done right, with high-quality bacon and ripe avocado.
**Pro-Tip:** Get there early for the best pastry selection—they sell out fast. Their coffee, from a local roaster, is some of the best in town.
#### **9. The Revival Craft Kitchen and Bar: Culinary Ambition Realized**
**Location:** 219 Main St
The name says it all. The Revival is about bringing classic dishes back to life with modern techniques and bold, global flavors. The menu is adventurous, the cocktails are complex, and the atmosphere is sleek and contemporary.
**The Vibe:** Upscale, trendy, and dynamic. It's a larger, more polished space with a stunning bar and an open kitchen. It's the place for a celebratory dinner or for when you want to be impressed by culinary creativity.
**What to Order:** Be prepared to explore.
* **Short Rib Poutine:** A decadent appetizer that reimagines the Canadian classic. Crispy fries are smothered in braised short rib, cheese curds, and a rich gravy. It's a shareable dish that packs an unbelievable flavor punch.
* **Miso Glazed Salmon:** A testament to their fusion style. The salmon is always cooked perfectly, with a crispy skin and a sweet-savory miso glaze, served with sticky rice and bok choy.
* **Revival Burger:** A contender for the burger crown. Often featuring a blend of meats, unique cheeses (like taleggio), and gourmet toppings like onion jam and truffle aioli.
* **Craft Cocktails:** The bar program is exceptional. Try one of their signature creations, like a smoked old fashioned or a gin-based cocktail with fresh, herbal notes.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a destination for foodies who love to try new things. Don't be afraid to ask your server for guidance—the menu is designed to be explorative.
#### **10. Victor's Kitchen and Pizzeria: The Neighborhood Staple**
**Location:** 5641 Post Rd
Sometimes, you just need a great slice of pizza. Victor's is that reliable, always-delicious spot that every town needs. It’s a family-friendly pizzeria that does all the classics well, from pies and calzones to pasta dishes.
**The Vibe:** Casual, family-oriented, and welcoming. It's the kind of place where kids' sports teams celebrate after a game and families gather for a no-fuss Friday night dinner. It’s comfortable, familiar, and consistently good.
**What to Order:** Keep it simple or get creative.
* **The Margherita Pizza:** The true test of a pizzeria. Victor's version is excellent—a thin, slightly chewy crust, vibrant San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It’s a perfect balance of flavors.
* **The Victor's Special:** For those who want it all. This everything pizza is loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and olives. The quality of the ingredients shines through.
* **Eggplant Parmigiana:** A fantastic non-pizza option. The eggplant is breaded and fried to a perfect crisp, not greasy, and layered with plenty of cheese and a tangy sauce.
**Pro-Tip:** Their delivery and takeout are fast and reliable, making it a go-to for a cozy night in. They also offer gluten-free crust options that are better than most.
***
From the nostalgic comfort of a Natale's sub to the refined elegance of
Comments
Post a Comment