These 9 Restaurants In Rhode Island Don’t Look Like Much… But WOW, They’re Good
When it comes to amazing restaurants, the biggest problem in Rhode Island is having too many choices! From traditional Italian, amazing seafood, and so much more, there is no shortage of wonderful food destinations. There are some, however, that might not look like much from the outside, but the food is so good the exterior doesn’t bother you at all. In fact, it adds to the charm. Here are nine hidden gem restaurants in Rhode Island that you might not expect much from on the outside, but what you’ll find inside will bring you back again and again.
One of the best local restaurants in Rhode Island is this authentic Italian pizzeria which is easy to miss in its East Greenwich location. But it serves what many Rhode Islanders argue is the very best Italian food around. Family-owned and operated since the 1970s, this is a great place to enjoy an amazing slice of pizza or even some pasta. For more information on Frank and John's From Italy, visit the website.
This cozy and delicious European-style cafe and patisserie is located off a side street in the heart of historical Federal Hill. The deserts are baked fresh each day right inside, making this place worth searching for next time you're on the hill. For more information on Pastiche, visit the website.
Amaral's in Warren might not look like much on the outside, but the fried seafood served inside is some of the best around. This is one of the most delicious hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Rhode Island. For more information on Amaral's Fish and Chips, visit the website.
This neighborhood bar and grille located in the heart of North Smithfield is a much loved destination for locals. For more information on Lindy's Tavern, visit the website.
This Peruvian and Bolivian style restaurant is not only difficult to find in Providence, it also has an unassuming storefront. Walk inside and the intense aroma of the amazing food and inviting atmosphere hit you instantly. The enclosed patio located at the very back of the restaurant with a pond and fire pit is an especially beautiful place to enjoy dinner with friends. For more information on Los Andes, visit the website.
Located off the beaten path in Providence and identifiable by just a small neon sign, North doesn't look like much on the outside. Delicious fresh seafood and a unique and ever changing dinner menu make this place a great hidden option. For more information on North, visit the website.
Best known for their traveling food truck, Poco Loco serves up some of the best tacos to be found in state. The truck was so successful, they opened a small storefront in Cranston. For more information on Poco Loco Tacos, visit the website.
This Asian bistro and sushi spot might have a dull exterior, but the food is some of the most exciting dishes the city of Warwick has to offer. From amazing seafood to asian inspired dishes, Lemongrass is sure to please. For more information on Lemongrass, visit the website.
Though tiny and plain in appearance, there is always a guaranteed line out the door and often times around the corner every morning outside Kitchen. Famous for its tasty breakfast menu, this restaurant has become a Providence legend. For more information on Kitchen, visit our previous coverage.
Are there any other hidden gem restaurants in Rhode Island you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments.
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Address: 186 Main St, East Greenwich, RI 02818, USA
Address: 92 Spruce St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Address: 4 Redmond St, Warren, RI 02885, USA
Address: 98 School St, North Smithfield, RI 02896, USA
Address: 903 Chalkstone Ave, Providence, RI 02908, USA
Address: 122 Fountain St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Address: 2005 Broad St, Cranston, RI 02905, USA
Address: 1138 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02888, USA
Address: 94 Carpenter St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hidden Gem Restaurants In Rhode Island
April 29, 2021
Melissa M
What are the best local restaurants in Rhode Island?
Although chain restaurants do exist throughout the Ocean State, there are thankfully countless wonderful, locally-owned eating establishments as well. Every corner of Rhode Island seems to be teeming with fantastic food, so it’s hard to pinpoint what is actually the best. You may discover the best meal of your life in a small Rhode Island town or head to Federal Hill for some of the best Italian food at one of the many restaurants there. Your choices are absolutely endless!
What are the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Rhode Island?
Finding a good hole-in-the-wall restaurant is like finding treasure. These unassuming places that offer fantastic meals are hidden all around the state. Royal Fried Chicken is one such place and it offers some of the best fried chicken in the state. If you’re in the Middletown area, head to Becky’s BBQ, a tiny cozy restaurant with some amazing slow-cooked pulled pork and beef, ribs, and some hearty sides.
Are there any food road trips or trails I can take in Rhode Island?
For a foodie state like Rhode Island, there are several food-related road trips and trails we have put together over time. Do you want to find places for some good chowder or “chowda?” If the answer is yes, then take our incredible Chowda Trail where you’ll stop at places like The Lodge Pub in Lincoln and Evelyn’s Drive-In located in Tiverton (Evelyn’s also happens to have one of the best lobster rolls in the Ocean State). If you’re looking for a sweeter sort of trek, take our Donut Trail and satisfy that sweet tooth of yours!
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