Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Providence, United States
1. Clam Chowder at Crazy Fish
Savor a steaming bowl of Providence's best Clam Chowder at this waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and scenic views.
- Authenticity: Uses locally sourced clams and potatoes to create a rich, flavorful broth.
- Location: Enjoy the dish with panoramic views of Providence's bustling waterfront.
- Portion Size: Generous servings to fill you up and warm you on a chilly day.
2. Greek Grilled Lamb at Nick's on Broadway
Savor tender, slow-cooked Greek grilled lamb served with a side of garlic rice and tzatziki sauce at this iconic Providence eatery.
- Flavor Profile: Marinated overnight, the lamb has an incredible depth of flavor.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Greek dishes for over 70 years.
- Portion Size: Perfectly portioned to satisfy your craving without overwhelming you.
3. Grilled Cheese at Bucktown Bee's
Indulge in a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich crafted with locally sourced cheeses and artisan bread at this cozy Providence eatery.
- Local Ingredients: Uses Rhode Island's finest cheeses for a truly local experience.
- Creativity: Innovative flavor combinations like pesto, bacon, and mozzarella.
- Portion Size: A generous serving to keep you satisfied.
4. Calamari at Al Forno
Treat yourself to crispy, tender calamari served with a side of marinara sauce and garlic-roasted peppers at this legendary Italian eatery.
- Preparation: Hand-breaded and deep-fried to perfection.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant using traditional Italian cooking techniques.
- Portion Size: Large enough to share with friends or save for later.
5. Pizza at New York System
Experience a Providence classic by trying their famous hot wieners and pizza at this iconic diner.
- History: A beloved institution in Providence since the 1940s.
- Taste: Thin-crust pizza with a slightly crispy texture and flavorful sauce.
- Value: Affordable prices for a taste of Providence history.
6. Gazpacho at Los Andes
Cool off with a refreshing bowl of gazpacho made from fresh tomatoes and peppers at this authentic Peruvian restaurant.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Peruvian dishes.
- Freshness: Made fresh daily using only the freshest ingredients.
- Taste: Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
7. Lobster Roll at Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant
Savor a classic New England lobster roll made with fresh, tender lobster meat at this popular Providence eatery.
- Freshness: Lobster caught daily and served within hours.
- Taste: Served on a fresh, buttery roll with a side of coleslaw.
- Portion Size: Generous portions to fill you up on a summer day.
8. Cioppino at Salty Brick
Delight in a hearty cioppino, a seafood stew featuring local catches, at this modern Italian eatery overlooking Providence's historic downtown.
- Seasonality: Uses fresh, seasonal seafood from nearby fisheries.
- Taste: Filled with a variety of fish, shellfish, and vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Location: Enjoy the scenic waterfront views while savoring your dish.
9. Beef Wellington at Persimmon Club
Indulge in a classic Beef Wellington, wrapped in puff pastry and served with creamy horseradish sauce, at this upscale Providence dining spot.
- Quality: Uses premium cuts of locally sourced beef.
- Taste: A rich and flavorful dish that's perfect for special occasions.
- Service: Exceptional service in a sophisticated setting.
10. Cannoli at Venda Ravioli
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a traditional Sicilian cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips at this Providence favorite.
- Authenticity: Family-owned business using time-honored recipes.
- Taste: Sweet and creamy filling with a crispy shell.
- Portion Size: Just the right size for a satisfying treat.
11. Pho at Pho Cali
Warm up with a steaming bowl of authentic Vietnamese pho at this popular Providence restaurant.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
- Taste: Flavorful broth with tender, mouthwatering noodles and meat.
- Value: Affordable prices for a filling meal.
12. Empanadas at El Rancho Grande
Experience authentic South American flavors with a bite of these delicious, hand-made empanadas at this popular Providence spot.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant serving traditional dishes from various Latin American countries.
- Taste: Filled with a variety of savory meats and vegetables, wrapped in flaky pastry.
- Portion Size: Perfectly sized for a quick snack or appetizer.
13. Baklava at All-American Food To Go
Indulge in a sweet treat by trying this traditional Greek baklava, made with layers of flaky pastry, honey syrup, and nuts at this popular Providence eatery.
- Authenticity: Family-owned business using time-honored recipes.
- Taste: Delicate, flaky pastry filled with sweet, sticky honey syrup and crunchy nuts.
- Portion Size: Perfectly sized for a satisfying treat.
14. Tacos at Tortilla Flat
Experience the flavors of Mexico by trying their authentic tacos made with fresh ingredients and hand-made tortillas at this Providence eatery.
- Authenticity: Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes.
- Taste: Soft, hand-made tortillas filled with mouthwatering meats and vegetables.
- Portion Size: Perfectly sized for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.
15. Fried Clams at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
Savor classic New England fried clams served with tangy tartar sauce and fresh lemon at this elegant Providence eatery.
- Local Ingredients: Uses locally sourced, freshly caught clams.
- Taste: Crispy, tender fried clams with a tangy dipping sauce.
- Location: Enjoy the scenic waterfront views while savoring your dish.