FOOD NEWS: Dining updates in Newport include tropical

By Karen Greco

Tropical vibes at new Broadway eatery

Restaurateur Callum McLaughlin and his family traded NYC for Rhode Island when COVID hit. “We arrived for spring break with the kids and never left,” he says, only half joking. Now rooted in the state, he recently opened Cabana in the old Salvation Cafe space in Newport.

One of the partners behind NYC’s celebrated Lower East Side restaurant Grey Lady, named for Nantucket, McLaughlin admits to a bit of a fetish for island-style eateries. Cabana is Caribbean themed with a New England beach bar twist. He’s kept Salvation’s team intact, but the menu is all new, with island flavors like Jerk chicken and vegetable curry nestled beside reinvigorated classics like a lobster BLT (served on thick slices of toasted sourdough) and an old-school smash burger. The vibe extends to the cocktails, which are inspired by beach bars McLaughlin’s visited across the world. New England brews fill the taps. 140 Broadway, CabanaNewport.com

A Big Easy speakeasy opens above a hot dog joint

An upscale New Orleans-style speakeasy above Wally’s Wieners? According to Wally’s owner Bradley Head, the juxtaposition of a hot dog or burger with a high-end cocktail was a concept too delicious to pass up. “The plan was always to open a speakeasy or lounge,” Head says. But with the configuration of Wally’s Thames Street spot – namely, its second floor – the opportunity to open The Copper Club presented itself.

The menu features classic cocktails from old-school NOLA spots like Galatoire’s or Commander’s Palace. The bourbon-heavy offerings include Milk Punch, Sazerac, and the Vieux Carré. The atmosphere in the intimate 30-seat, two-room lounge is classic speakeasy. Red velvet-covered banquettes fill one room while the dark wood bar with its copper backsplash welcomes revelers in front. The full Wally’s menu – including the beer, wine, and cocktails served downstairs – is available. Head says it’s also available for private events. 464 Thames Street, CopperClubNPT.com

Noodle chefs excited about expanded eatery

The relocation of Yagi Noodles from Thames Street to Long Wharf Mall was unexpected but fortuitous. With double the square footage, co-owner and chef Basil Yu and his partner Kodi Keith can flex their culinary muscles and stretch their imaginations. “We’re combining two units,” explains Yu, enabling them to expand their kitchen and storage areas, have a larger dining room, and add a boba-focused cafe, not to mention oodles of outdoor dining space.

Yu sounds most excited about installing a noodle room, a 10x10-foot former office that’s being repurposed into a low hydration space where customers can watch the noodle making process. The humidity-controlled chamber is also perfect for making Asian-inspired desserts to serve at the cafe. Although the new space doesn’t come with a liquor license, they plan on continuing their robust spirit-free beverage program. “There’s a lot of fun possibilities,” the chef teases. 20 Long Wharf Mall, YagiNoodles.com

Live the Salt Life

FROM LEARNING THE ROPES AND TAKING THE TILLER TO BASKING ON A YACHT – A GUIDE TO BOAT CULTURE ACROSS THE EAST BAY

ABOARD THE EAST PASSAGE 24

BY ANDREA E. MCHUGH

Boating is more than just a recreational activity in these parts. There are more than 13,000 marine-related jobs in Rhode Island and over 1,700 marine-related businesses. In fact, the state is considered a leader in the “blue economy,” which encompasses economic sectors with a direct or indirect link to Rhode Island’s coasts and ocean. These include defense, the marine trades, tourism and recreation, fisheries, aquaculture, ports and shipping, and offshore renewable energy, as well as higher education and research institutions and marine-focused advocacy and civic groups. With a direct economic impact of more than $5 billion – a number that’s projected to double by the end of this decade – Rhode Island’s blue economy has been recognized both nationally and globally. (Read more on page 9.)

Whether you’re looking to sail along the Sakonnet River, dock and dine at waterfront eateries along Mount Hope Bay, kayak along the Kickemuit, standup paddleboard Portsmouth’s shoreline, or tack on a 12-meter yacht while learning exactly why Newport is the Sailing Capital of the World, we’ve assembled the best of local boat builders, charter experiences, and harbor cruises, as well as tips on how to feel like a yachtie so you can live your best Ocean State summer life.

Located in the heart of Bristol, the Herresho Marine Museum o ers youth and adult sailing classes in the summer and fall (the latter start mid-September). The museum’s Herresho Seamanship Program teaches the principles of sailing, and sailors-in-training can get to know the legacy, design, and performance of the museum’s stunning vessels, be it Herresho wooden sloops up to 16 feet or a Sea Sprite 23 (class sizes are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis). Private lessons are also available for that one-on-one experience. All boats utilized in Herresho ’s sailing school are also available for rent with a $250 yearly “Columbia” level membership and demonstrated sailing ability. If landlubbing is more your speed, check out the museum’s exhibits and campus. The Nathanael Greene Herresho Model room, named for the famed Bristolian and renowned naval architect, holds a collection of 500 models significant to the Herresho legacy. Herresho .com

Did you know the premier marine trades and modern manufacturing school in the US is right here in the smallest state? Located on Newport’s harborfront, IYRS School of Technology and Trades is a non-profit, post-secondary experiential learning institution. Since its founding nearly 30 years ago, the school has soared, recently being named one of Newsweek’s Best Maker Schools in the world. Here’s what sets it apart: you can visit the campus and watch boat builders in training, crafting vessels by hand, not so di erently than the way it was done centuries ago. Restoration Hall, built in 1903, has an elevated catwalk where visitors can take it all in. Grab some iced co ee at neighboring Mokka Co eehouse (you’re welcome in advance) and peruse the three-acre campus and marina (warning: you may be tempted to change careers and enroll after your visit). IYRS.edu

Photo by Svetlana Ivano , courtesy of Herresho

THE HERRESHOFF OFFERS MOORING RATES FOR VISITS RESORATION HALL AT IYRS

EXPLORE EXHIBIT HALLS AT THE SAILING MUSEUM

Newport’s newest attraction, The Sailing Museum, opened this past May with much anticipation – and it’s not hard to see why. Housed in the striking stone Armory building on Thames Street that was built in 1894, the museum will wow both sailing enthusiasts and non-sailors alike with its interactive exhibits, including the grinding challenge, where you can see if you have what it takes to raise and trim the sails and move the boom, or enter the dome where you get the sensation of flying over the water at 50 knots (it’s more intense than you may think!). A personalized journey through six thematic areas, the museum is also littered with fascinating sailing artifacts and captivating videos that tell sailing’s story through the centuries. The non-profit museum is home to the National Sailing Hall of Fame and America’s Cup Hall of Fame, so there’s plenty to see, do, and learn in this Ocean State gem (plus kids 10 and under are free). TheSailingMuseum.org

Founded in 1983 after the loss of the America’s Cup in local waters (a day that lives in Newport infamy), Sail Newport has grown to be New England’s largest public sailing center and is considered Rhode Island’s premier public sailing site. The organization’s purpose is to make learning to sail easy, fun, and a ordable while also o ering rental programs so people can have access to boats. With tomorrow’s sailors in mind, Sail Newport works to attract new enthusiasts of all di erent ages and backgrounds to the sport. Here you’ll find programs designed for everyone from the first-timer or those who are a little rusty steering the tiller to seafarers looking to sharpen their skills. Families or groups can schedule a Try Sailing experience with one of their certified instructors and up to four adult guests (or up to two adults and three children) where you’ll learn the ins and outs of sailing, or sign up for a weekly group adult learn-to-sail program where you’ll dive deeper into sailing instruction aboard a J/22. SailNewport.org

The world’s most expensive superyacht, the History Supreme, is worth nearly $5 billion and is made of solid gold and platinum. But you don’t need a billionaire’s bank account to get out on the water. With more than 400 miles of coastline, boating in the summertime is virtually a requirement here in the Ocean State, whether boating on the bay is new territory for you or you’re an old salt.

It’d be downright blasphemous to have a story about boating and sailing without including the classic sailing thoroughbreds that put Lil’ Rhody on the map: 12 meters (or “metres,” the British spelling, which you’ll commonly see when referring to these boats). The America’s Cup, the oldest international competition still operating in any sport, was raced in Newport from 1930 until 1983 with majestic, painstakingly built wooden 12 meters racing until the debut of aluminum 12 meters in 1974. Today, more than a half dozen America’s Cup competitors call Newport Harbor home, including a handful on which you can take a two-hour sail in Narragansett Bay. America’s Cup Charters counts five 12 meters among its fleet including 1962 winner Weatherly, one of only three surviving wooden America’s Cup defenders in the world, and Intrepid, winner in both 1967 and 1970 and considered one of the most famous racing yachts of all time. Go along for the ride or roll up your sleeves and pitch in the thrill of sailing one of these historic gems. AmericasCupCharters.com

Making its seasonal debut this year, Tabasco is the newest addition to Newport’s fleet of charter vessels, and it’s making a splash (pun intended). Built in 1973 and spending most of her life o the coast of Maine, this 32foot Wasque (way-squee) is perfect for groups up to six and comes with a captain and crew. Sit back with a BYO cocktail or mocktail in hand and get an up-close look at mega-mansions along the coast, lighthouses, private yacht clubs, and cool sights like Clingstone, the house on the rocks. Owner and captain Curtis Adam says whether embarking on a 1.5-hour cruise or 3.5-hour excursion, guests can choose their own adventure. “What I love about the boat is the ability to be anything. We can clear the deck chairs and have a dance party,” says Adam (bachelorette parties: take note for

AMPLE DECK SPACE AND A FULL AUDIO SYSTEM MAKE TABASCO A POPULAR CHARTER

CHARTERING IS ESSENTIALLY RENTING A BOAT. IF “SKIPPERED,” THE CHARTER COMES WITH A CREW; “BAREBOAT” MEANS YOU’RE THE CAPTAIN NOW. ALWAYS CHECK CHARTER COMPANIES FOR EXACT DETAILS.

that last sail before the veil). Swimming in heavenly spots like Potter’s Cove and Mackerel Cove, both in Jamestown, is particularly popular. Also, the boat welcomes fourlegged friends and is basically your Instagram content dream, so bring your charger. CharterTabasco.com

Want to throw a party with 39 of your closest friends? Enter Heron Luxury Charters, a 63-foot catamaran o ering full-day, half-day, and sunset sails; all of which are exclusively private. Charming from the get-go with its signature Tiffany-blue hull, Heron is equipped with plenty of plush bean bag chairs to relax upon, two large trampolines for luxuriating, paddle-boards, floating water mats, and blankets for chilly sunset sails. But you’ll have to book this memorable charter experience in summertime as Heron heads south when temperatures start to drop. Chasing that endless summer – we feel you, Heron. HeronLuxuryCharters.com

Photo (L) courtesy of Discover Newport, (R) by Billy Black, courtesy of Belle’s Cafe THE NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW IS SURE TO LURE EVEN LANDLUBBERS TO THE NEWPORT YACHTING CENTER DISCOVER ONE OF NEWPORT’S BEST KEPT SECRETS, BELLE’S CAFE, SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH

FEEL LIKE A YACHTIE

While the Clarke Cooke House is downright legendary and the restaurant’s Bistro and Candy Store (note to newbies: not a candy store) dining floors are awash in the owner’s noteworthy personal collection of America’s Cup prints and sailing memorabilia, the lesser-known 12 Meter Yacht Club Room is practically encased in centuries-old dark wood and illuminated by the glow of candlelight and few strategically placed sconces. While often used for special events, the dining room is sometimes available for evening meals, and if you’re lucky enough to secure a crisp, white linen-covered table with its leather nailhead-detailed seats, you can take in the historic 12 Meter Class trophies and models on display. ClarkeCooke.com

Celebrating its 51st year, the Newport International Boat Show is more than just a show; it’s one of the largest in-water events in the country. Commanding more than 14 acres of the waterfront, this September 15-18 you’ll find hundreds of exhibitors, dealers, and manufacturers, with new powerboats and sailboats ranging from 15 to 90 feet, plus an extensive selection of marine equipment, services, and accessories for boaters. Not in the market to buy a boat? That’s the best part – it doesn’t matter. You can board these stunning seacrafts and explore to your heart’s content (who’s to say you’re not one NFT away from deep pockets?). Cocktails and cold brew, shopping, swag, places to sit back and relax and take in the late summer breezes – what’s not to love? Insider tip: wear shoes you can easily slip on and o as boats request you remove your footwear before boarding. NewportBoatShow.com

A captain, a carpenter, or a cryptocurrency millionaire – you never quite know who you’ll be dining next to at Belle’s Cafe, a dockside cafe tucked inside Newport Shipyard (technically now named Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard). Open for breakfast and lunch, what was once a waterfront hidden gem now draws the masses, but weekday and early morning visits are considerably less crowded. Don’t let the guard shack fool you – you’re welcome to walk inside the shipyard, head toward the docks and look for the signature “checkerboard patio” marking Belle’s. While charming inside with shiplap, bamboo pendant lights, and a bright white and blue color scheme, dockside dining under the patio umbrellas is the place to be – how often do you get to enjoy flu y pancakes next to a superyacht? NewportShipyard.com

Nestled in the heart of Bristol is East Passage Boatwrights, a full-service marine yard that’s one of the region’s preeminent comprehensive yacht repair and maintenance companies. The company led the restoration of the 1935 Sparkman & Stephens 55’ yawl Santana, best known as Humphrey Bogart’s beloved boat – a project that earned Classic Boat’s prestigious Restoration of the Year award. While restorations have been incredibly rewarding, owner Carter Richardson, a graduate of IYRS, felt a deep desire to get back to what brought him to IYRS in the first place: classic wooden boat building. Last fall, the company unveiled the East Passage 24 (EP24), a traditionally constructed Down East style launch, at the Newport International Boat Show. Since then, the EP24 has been awarded Best New Powered Vessel of the Year by Classic Boat magazine and Best in Show/Professionally Built New Boat from Wooden Boat Magazine Boat Show in Mystic in June. EPBWS.com

How could Ernie Gavin know that when he created Stur-Dee Boat Co. in Tiverton 75 years ago, he’d be building a legacy. Gavin’s daughter, Heidi Reid, started working for her pop when she was just 17 years old. “I’m just starting to get the hang of it,” she says with a dry sarcasm. She took over the business after Gavin’s passing in 2007 and the company continues to build finely crafted eightfoot dinghies 12-, 14-, and 16-foot dories; a 10-foot rowing ski ; and 14-foot catboat. “We just keep building them and people keep buying them,” says Reid matter-of-factly. While some materials have changed, including the use of composite materials for better performance, the principles of Stur-Dee Boat Co. stay the same – just the way people want them. Stur-DeeBoat.com

LAND HO! A VIEW OF NEWPORT FROM THE WATER

You want to see live music. They want a sunset cruise. Date night solution: jammin’ aboard the Coastal Queen, a charming boat rain or shine with its covered but open-air upper top deck for catching fresh ocean breezes and weatherproof main salon on the main deck. While there’s a host of daily narrated tours including lighthouse and mimosa cruises, scenic bay cruises, and evening cocktail cruises, their special event cruises include wine tastings, live bands, beer tastings, and theme nights, like reggae night. Most daily cruises depart from Newport but special event cruises depart from Jamestown or Wickford, which allow you to explore those charming downtowns before or after your adventure. CoastalQueenCruises.com

Gansett Cruises out of Bowen’s Landing on Newport’s Bowen’s Wharf o ers laid back, 1.5-hour narrated harbor boat tours and sunset cruises on Narragansett Bay with both covered seating and plenty of room on the bow and rooftop deck for sun-worshippers. M/V Gansett may just be the most

ENJOY A NEWPORT CRUISE ABOARD SCHOONER ADIRONDACK II