Make your beach house a home with a cozy & fun addition from Lou Lou’s Décor with locations in Tiverton & Newport. Full interior design services available. 3913 Main Road • (401) 816 4362 • loulousdecor.com
FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
New Artists & New Art Works! Collections of painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography & jewelry
Over 200 cheeses, Sandwiches, Soups, House-Made Bread, Local Meats, Produce & Prepared Meals. Call to order!
Open 9-5 Tues-Sunday • 3838 Main Road (401) 816 5069 • @thecheesewheelri
TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY & HEALING ARTS
One-of-a-kind gemstone, pearl and gold jewelry handmade by Tiffany Peay, artwork by Peter Dickison & hats by The Dapper Flapper. Crystal Bed Light Therapy available. Open Daily 3851 Main Road • (401) 816 0878 • tiffanypeay.com • @tiffanypeayjewelry
MICK’S ARTFUL
ODDITIES & ANTIQUES
“Purveyors of the obscure.” Explore the world of oddities, unique antiques & unusual props. 8 Neck Rd., Lower Level
WRIGLEY STUDIO & GALLERY Brenda, a studio artist and educator hosts monthly visiting artists and West Wing Gallery & Painting Groups • 3852 Main Road - Garden Entrance
STUDIO BY THE SEA
Peter Tirpaeck, Master Jeweler, will transform your ideas into heirlooms! Colors are sourced, designs are drafted
Kasmir Sapphire and Diamond Platinum 3848 Main Road • (401) 639 4348
FARMERS MARKET
A rotating selection of local farms, food vendors Summer location: Town Farm Recreational Area 3588 Main Road • tivertonfarmersmarket.com @TivertonFarmersMarket
CEDIAN PAINTING
Studio-Gallery of artist Jennifer Jones Rashleigh. Nature inspired wildlife painting, pillows & tiles. 3848 Main Road • @cedianpainting cedianpainting.com
&
Wright, Operations Manager, with Thor at the
Rufn’ Wranglers® gives your pup more than just a leash walk – we give them an adventure! It starts when your dog is picked up from your home and whisked away to a doggie oasis, the Rufn’ Wranglers® Ranch in Rehoboth.
The 14.5-acre ranch boasts seven acres of fenced-in grassy fields and trees with amazing trails that were cleared by some of our own Wranglers. We have created such a beautiful space for your dog to run, play, and make furry friends.
Socialization, exercise, and freedom are crucial to your pet’s health, happiness, and your sanity!
Since 2007, the Rufn’ Wranglers® team has provided over 300,000 excursions. The Wranglers handle the pick-up and drop-of in our doggie outfitted SNIFF Mobiles and are hands on with all the fun at the ranch. The dogs have a better social life and exercise routine than most humans!
We know our clients’ dogs are their children. Our Wranglers are deeply invested in the dogs; there is no other team like them. They get to know each dog, their preferences, what causes them anxiety and what they love. They ensure every dog has the experience they crave…it may be extreme ball chasing, lots of kisses, wrestling, running through trails or just snoofing at their own pace!
We have dogs that have been with Rufn’ Wranglers® most of their lives and are still
at the ranch weekly! We are going to have to outfit a geriatrics SNIFF Mobile for those dogs and me soon! I had a vision for the company when I started it 17 years ago, but I really did not conceptualize where we are today.
We were full for about a year and a half and I said I would not buy another van, but I did! We have also added a few routes, so we are able to accommodate more dogs!
We not only provide excursions, but overnights to our weekly clients. When you travel, you know your dog is living their best life with one of our Wranglers in their home, being a part of their family and running at the ranch all day! It’s like being at a doggie camp while you are gone…they might ask you to travel more often!
I am so proud of our team of Wranglers and the leader of our pack, Austin Wright. He just celebrated his 12-year anniversary! There is absolutely no way we would be where we are today without his dedication to Rufn’ Wranglers®.
There is nothing like seeing pure joy in the eyes of a dog, and that is what we provide, joy...not bad for your daily gig!
We are so grateful for our loyal customer base, the Ruffin’ Wranglers® Family. We would have never accomplished what we have in 17 years without the support of our human and canine clients.
Ruffin’ Wranglers® covers the East Side, West Side and Downtown Providence, Oakhill in Pawtucket, Edgewood in Cranston, Riverside, East Providence, Rumford, Southern Seekonk, Barrington, parts of Rehoboth and parts of Swansea close to the ranch.
Austin
Photo by Madison Peck @mvdso
Te Buzz
9 arts: A Portsmouth illustrator goes big for Newport aquarium murals
12 Location inspires luxe goods made in Tiverton
14 VOICES OF THE BAY: Honored professor makes time to help students
16 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style
A19 HOME: A woodworker helps smooth rough edges in an old kitchen
A24 SHOP: Buy local picks for back to school
A26: STYLE: Artisan bag biz with a Little Compton origin story
A30 RHODY READS: Six thrilling book picks plus upcoming author chats
A32 RHODY GEM: Explore a world of rugs in Providence
Feature
49 Craft breweries get crafty drawing crowds with pop-up workshops
Food & Drink
57 EXPERIENCE: Sunset views and seafood channel date-night vibes in Portsmouth
60 IN THE KITCHEN: Say “oui” to Tiverton’s taste of Paris
62 FOOD TRENDS: Corn on and of the cob at East Bay eateries
PIC OF THE BAY
Cover Story: Fall’s Best Bets
From festivals to farm stands, your guide to Rhody’s standout season
Photo by Shannen Viveiros Photography, courtesy of Sakonnet Candle Co.
Photo courtesy of Sarcastic Sweets
Photo by Andrea E. McHugh
ON THE COVER: Tiverton Harbor showing its colors. Photo courtesy of Discover Newport
Photo by Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport
Publishers
Barry Fain
Richard Fleischer
Matt Hayes
John Howell
Editor in Chief Elyse Major
Editor
Ken Abrams
Digital Media Specialist
Jenna Kaplan
Advertising
Design Director
Layheang Meas
General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice
Managing Editor Abbie Lahmers
Senior Designer Taylor Gilbert Senior Editorial Designer Abigail Brown
Portsmouth-based illustrator paints, rolls, and delivers vivid murals to new aquarium
By Cheikh Higgs
For the past two years, Amy Bartlett Wright has been busy painting murals on canvas for Save the Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium in Newport. Among them is “Rocky Shore,” a 9x18-foot depiction of Sachuest Point in Middletown that serves as backdrop for live exhibits as you enter the aquarium. There’s also “Freshwater Habitats,” a 28-foot-wide canvas painted at Wright’s Portsmouth studio. Once completed, Wright rolls each canvas on a PVC pipe and delivers them in her car to the aquarium. She’s currently working on a magnetic mural for the destination, a first for the artist in her 40 years of work. “This interactive exhibit combines a painted underwater landscape and separate magnetic painted sculptures of our native marine life,” she explains.
Section of a mural at Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium in Newport
Photo courtesy of Amy Bartlett Wright
In the vivid world of Wright, each stroke is an ode to the wildlife, landscapes, and communities that define Rhode Island. The muralist and natural science illustrator’s artistic passage traces back to the nurturing influence of her grandmother, whose playful challenges and innate teacher-like qualities ignited a passion for drawing. “When we were very young, my sisters and I lived next door to my grandmother’s house and we were frequently in her care,” Wright reminisces. “To keep us busy, she would lay out sheets of paper and tell us to draw an animal for every letter of the alphabet. Of course she loved everything we drew, so from a young age, I felt rewarded and encouraged to draw.” Childhood books were another influence and she cites Scribner Illustrated Classics, produced during the Golden Age of American illustration, as an inspiration.
Calling Rhode Island home for over four decades, Wright, who is part of the RISD Continuing Education faculty, attributes the state’s diverse habitats and wildlife as a logical nest for her creativity. “Rhode Island has such a variety of birds, mammals, and marine life. Because of our varied habitats – sandy beaches, fresh and saltwater waterways, woods, farmland, and rocky hills – there are areas to explore and capture through art.”
Mural painting came about naturally through clients and competitive art opportunities that challenged Wright to work larger and larger. Her largest mural to date is 57 feet on Washington Street in Providence; her widest is 260 feet for a private residence in Massachusetts. The process of choosing mural locations is often a collaborative endeavor initiated by building owners or representatives. While most of her murals are around New England, her portfolio includes 12 states.
Working large-scale presents logistical challenges that Wright navigates meticulously. “Mural painting requires a lot of planning,” she elaborates. “All my murals begin with a smallscale model.” Her preferred medium, acrylic paint, offers the stability and fast-drying qualities necessary for executing expansive artworks. The public spectacle of mural creation, where passersby become witnesses to her evolving masterpiece, adds another layer of excitement.
Wright’s artistic evolution reflects a shift from the precise drawing from her days as an illustration intern at the National Museum
GALLERY SHOW
Pathways and Waterways: Scenes of Rhode Island Through September 7 at The
Graham Gallery, Bristol
“Blackstone River at Cadillac Mills,” 18x54 feet at 30 Meeting Street, Cumberland
Amy Bartlett Wright
Photos by and courtesy of Amy Bartlett Wright
Painting en plein air in Portsmouth at Common Fence Point
Installation of the “Rocky Shores” mural exhibit, which measures 9x18 feet, at Save the Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, Newport
of Natural History, Smithsonians in the Departments of Botany and Entomology, to today’s sublime mural expanses and plein air painting in oils. “My style has changed a lot over the years as my artistic priorities have changed,” she says. “My current work is looser and more expressive. I now consider detail as less important, and I prioritize volume and dimension.” Solo show at The Graham Gallery, Bristol, runs through September 7. Learn more at AmyBartlettWright.com and follow on Instagram @amybartlettwright.
CARMEN GRINKIS, PHD, CLTC, CLU®, CFP®
Wealth Advisor & Co-Managing
Attending the Northern California Financial Planning Conference in San Francisco was a special experience. Known as one of the top conferences in the country, it brought together more than 1,000 planners from across the nation. This year’s focus on the intersection of health and wealth was particularly fascinating.
The numbers associated with financial planning are crucial. Investments and asset allocation are the gas in the engine that supports lives, hopes, dreams, and challenges. But there is more to it. As advisors, we need to challenge ourselves to openly speak with our clients about their fears and concerns as they face these life changing transitions. Retirees face a change in identity, a change in social relationships, a change in mental stimulation, and perhaps psychological struggles around the loss of a paycheck. If not proactively addressed, retiring may become an unwell experience bringing anxiety and depression.
This conference reminded all the advisors to look beyond finances into deeper
Partner,
AAF Wealth Management
discussions around the impact of life transitions for families. As a psychologist, I naturally consider these aspects in my practice. I believe a solid financial plan should also support continued learning, relevance, meaningful work, achievements, and legacy building. Retirement should encompass leisure, health, and social wellbeing, as well.
Take some time now to think about new activities you might enjoy, which will improve your overall happiness and well-being. I have added pickleball into my weekly routine and, wow, what fun. If work is your main social network before you retire, how might you expand that network in advance to ease the inevitable transition? In my discussions with clients, I’m not just talking about one piece of the pie. I’m considering how all of those pieces come together to help you retire well.
This is particularly important if you’re already in retirement or faced with challenges. I want to help you plan not just from a financial perspective but also from a psychological one.
While in San Fran, Kitty and I had the pleasure of visiting the Redwood Forest and wine tastings in Sonoma. It was a beautiful 70 degrees, cool from the ocean, warm in the sun—and so much fun!
Lighting the Way
Motherhood inspires a Tiverton woman to launch a brand of eco-friendly lifestyle goods
By Hugh Minor
Crafted to harken its namesake location, the CLIFFWALK has notes of sea salt, earthy moss, and driftwood
The Sakonnet peninsula is known for producing delectable wines and ruggedly designed boats that travel all over the world, and since 2021, the area has also been the source of handcrafted non-toxic household luxury items from Sakonnet Candle Co. The brand was launched by former teacher Alecia Milot, whose unique approach incorporates a combination of science, craftiness, and adoration of New England. As the Tiverton resident explains, “I’ve always loved being creative from a young age. I attribute my creative nature to my mother and grandmother.”
Milot’s line of exquisitely scented products includes the namesake candles as well as soaps, skincare, and perfumes, all made in Rhode Island using all-natural, safe, high-quality, and sustainably sourced ingredients. The idea for the business was born when Milot became a mom and decided she wanted to fill her home with healthier alternatives to some of the toxic merchandise on the market. “After I had my daughter, I realized there was a significant need for products that people could buy and use without worrying about harmful and unnecessary ingredients.”
Milot’s line of goods struck a chord with customers, filling a gap in the market that has allowed her to expand to meet the needs of her loyal fans. Everything Sakonnet Candle Co. offers is inspired by New England themes and
P hotos by Shannen Viveiros Photography, courtesy of Sakonnet Candle Co.
Milot suggests repurposing emptied and cleaned candle containers as planters or cocktail glasses
locations; think Cliff Walk, Nantucket Garden, and Maine Woods. While the business is firmly planted in the East Bay, Milot’s sales span the globe, with customers seeking a reminder of the Ocean State or simply appreciating the beautiful scents of the region. As the fall season nears, scents like Apple Cider Donut, Spiced Pumpkin Roll, and New England Autumn are rolling out. There are even Spellbook and Black Flame candles inspired by the movie Hocus Pocus 2 (beware of the Sanderson Sisters when you light them).
Along with stocking her wares in local shops, Milot also sells wholesale to hotels and vacation rentals so guests may enjoy a healthier experience during their stay. She even makes personalized luxury custom candles for weddings, corporate events, salons, and local businesses, and shares that she’s currently working on a tallow cream (a rendered fat, like lard), an all-natural deodorant, and organic spray perfumes, plus new scents like New England Road Trip and candles inspired by The Addams Family
What’s next for Sakonnet Candle Company? Milot tells us she plans to expand into the greater New England region and hopes to open a brick and mortar location in Rhode Island. Find Milot’s handiwork online at SakonnetCandleCo.com and in local shops like Fenwick and Oliver in Bristol and Kiel James Patrick in Newport.
Voices of the Bay: John Mc Q uilkin
A RWU accounting professor helps students by emphasizing well-being and connection
By Nina Murphy
John Mc Q uilkin’s curious nature and innate desire to learn for the pure joy of learning opened up a world of opportunities over the span of his successful business career. He spent his early years working at two top international accounting firms, then with one of the country’s largest steel companies, before ultimately relocating to Rhode Island to work at a national mortgage company where he eventually became the chief financial officer. It was during his time as a financial analyst that Mc Q uilkin accepted an invitation to teach a course at Lafayette College; the experience whetted his appetite for more. Two decades, three degrees, and several professional and academic accolades later, Mc Q uilkin is a tenured Professor of Accounting and will mark his 17th year this month at Roger Williams University (RWU) in Bristol. His philosophy is three fold: form strong bonds with his students, discover their passions, and share his years of hands-on corporate world knowledge to prepare them for careers beyond the classroom walls.
LIFE STORY: On the first day of class, I have my students fill out a seven-page questionnaire. I ask them, “What do you want to do with your life?” and more importantly, “What are you passionate about?” I tell them my story: I grew up in a really low-income, poor section of Portland, Oregon. My dad was hit by a drunk driver, incurred brain damage, and there was a lot of financial instability. Our family didn’t know any CPAs (certified public accountants) or lawyers. My thinking is if I can do it, you can do it, too. I’ve had some students from really challenging backgrounds, who in their first year of college got a 1.5 GPA, but now they’re going onto PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in New York.
OFFICE HOURS: With my students, it’s not so much me being a sage on a stage; it’s about providing vision for my students and helping them get jobs. Most professors have nothing to do with getting their students jobs. I’m in my office from 8am to 6pm Monday through
Friday [when not in class], so my doors are always open and they can come in. Often they just need to talk about something, so it’s building those relationships and connections.
BIG FOUR: When I started at RWU, the accounting curriculum was not oriented towards providing the background for students to become CPA students. None of our students were going to the big four CPA firms [Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, and KPMG]. In the last seven years, we have had an average of 20 students per year.
ROAD TRIP: I’m involved in some different clubs and organizations and I encourage my students to get involved so they can learn leadership skills. With Habitat for Humanity, I have taken students on trips to build houses or to Puerto Rico to offer disaster relief. When you travel with your students, you really get to know them.
WELL BEING: Cell phones, social media, and COVID certainly don’t help with emotional health. I’ll ask my students, “How are you doing? No, really. How are you doing?” Then I get them to talk about it, because if they’re going for 150 hours in four years, there’s a certain amount of pressure there. They’ll tell me, “Mc Q uilkin, you’re an interesting guy because it isn’t all about grades with you. You’re more interested in my mental health. You want to know how I’m doing.” There are cases where I refer students over to counseling.
JUST LISTEN: My faith is very important to me. I feel I’ve been so blessed. Yes, I had a lot of trauma growing up, but so blessed. As a follower of Christ, I seek to show concern and care for the students I’m working with. Part of that is being someone who they can talk to. Sometimes I think listening is the biggest gift you can give other people.
Photo courtesy of John McQuilkin
John McQuilkin
Farm Market & Café
Artisan Cheeses & Charcuterie Delicious Food to Stay or Go Fresh, Fun & Tasty! Apples & Pumpkins
Fresh Produce & Baked Goods Soups, Salads & Sandwiches
Te Must List
a statewide listing of events visit us online!
September 17: Laugh it up with Texas-based comedian Uncle LaZer , who shares outlandish dating stories alongside tales of his rough and rowdy upbringing and trauma-filled childhood growing up on the bad side of town. East Pro v idence, RIComedyConnection.com
September 18: Celebrate Bristol’s Portuguese heritage and create your own set of Azulejo coasters based on traditional designs at Taps and Tiles , a Portuguese tile-painting workshop, while enjoying a flight of beer or seltzer. Bristol, VigilantBrewing.com
September 3-27: Fans of the HBO hit are sure to enjoy the guide-led Inside The Gilded Ag e Tour where the series was filmed, including The Elms, Marble House, Château-sur-Mer, and The Breakers. NewportMansions.org
September 6: Kick off Raptor Weekend at Birds & Brews Brewery Night at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium and encounter owl and hawk ambassadors, beer from Proclamation Ale, and live music from To Be Continued Band. Bristol, ASRI.org
September 7: Portsmouth-based singer-songwriter and nationally acclaimed blues guitarist Ryan Lee Crosby shares tunes from Mississippi Delta, at an afternoon guitar workshop followed by an evening concert on Main Road. Tiverton, FourCornersArts.org
September 7 & 21: Blithewold hosts local artist Beth Adoette for the Outdoor Tree Mandala Series , workshops held outdoors beneath the trees, where participants create temporary assemblages from natural objects to be photographed and left behind. Bristol, Blithewold.org
September 11: An evening of shucking and sipping is planned at the Shuck a Rita Workshop . Brightside Seafood and Two Gals Cocktails team up for grown-up fun learning how to shuck oysters over margs. Bristol, MountHopeFarm.org
September 20 – November 9: Material Matters is a multimedia exhibition at Jamestown Arts Center that explores how four nationally recognized artists, Michael Cochran, Lloyd Martin, Susan Shutan, and Jason Travers, navigate cross-cultural narratives to reshape meaning. JamestownArtCenter.org
September 20: The sixth annual 9 Central Film Festival provides local filmmakers an opportunity to present their indie films, including comedy sketches, documentaries, music videos, and experimental works. Local band DILL n’ CO open. Newport, JanePickens.com
September 27: Fans of the soulful sibling rock duo are sure to enjoy Devoted2You – The Everly Brothers Experience . The set list will include top hits along with B-sides (for you vinyl fans), and deep tracks. Bristol, LindenPlace.org
Photo by John W. Corbett, courtesy of Discover Newport
The Gilded Age Tour, Marble House
BUSHEL LIST 2024
100+ activities to enjoy the Ocean State’s most sensational season
BY THE EDITORS
Autumn in Rhode Island can be divided into two parts: second summer and fall. Until early November, days are still quite warm and so many of the things we enjoy doing outdoors (aside from life-guarded beaches) are still going strong, only now, they’re fall-themed and less humid (winwin)! Pick-your-own season is in full swing with everything from apples to zinnias, and restaurants and cafes have added pumpkin and spice and everything nice to their offerings. Whether you want to buy enough apples for 10 pies, embark on a weekend paddle, or get your scare on, this guide has listings for all of these activities and more. Divided into regions, this beautiful print resource is your go-to for whatever you want to make of fall. On Instagram? Show us your magazine and fall photos by tagging #heyrhodyphotos
FROM THE EDITORS:
Please note that all events are subject to change, especially crop- and weather-dependent activities. To avoid disappointment, we recommend first checking with the host venue on social media or by phone for any details, restrictions, rain dates, and cancellations. If we missed your favorite event or activity, let us know! Email Marketing@heyrhody.com
Apple picking at Sweet Berry Farm
CENTRAL RHODY
ALL AUTUMN LONG
Confreda Fall Fest: Tractor-pulled hayrides, amusement rides, PYO pumpkins, cider donuts, wooden cut-outs for photo taking, corn maze, barnyard animals, and more are just part of the family fun at Rhode Island’s largest vegetable farm! Hope, ConfredaFallFest.com
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 10
Oakland Beach Cruise Night: Motor down to the seawall to check out a fleet of classic cars by the bay. Oldies music is playing, and raffles support the Lion’s Club. Warwick, VisitWarwickRI.com
SEPTEMBER 12 & OCTOBER 4
Warwick Food Truck Nights: Taste local flavors from your favorite food vendors at the Crowne Plaza. Facebook: PVD Food Truck Events
SEPTEMBER 21
Exeter Fall Festival: This outdoor event includes the Yawgoo Valley equipment sale, local vendors, and more to support the Exeter Public Library. Exeter, Yawgoo.com
Jump Into Fall Marketplace: The grounds at New England Tech is the location for 100+ vendors, food, and more. Partial proceeds will be used to establish a scholarship. East Greenwich, Facebook: Jump Into Fall Marketplace
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 5
Conimicut Village Art Festival: The location is TBD so be sure to check in for a list of unique vendors for this afternoon of coastal shopping. Warwick, Conimicut.org
Yankee Steam-Up: Start your engines for the region’s oldest steam engine show at the New England Wireless & Steam Museum. Music hosted by Cruisin’ Bruce. East Greenwich, NEWSM.org
OCTOBER 6
Spooktacular Marketplace: A day full of free, spooky fun, featuring over 100 vendors, a petting zoo, costumed characters, photo ops, kids' activities, sweet treats, live performances, music, and food trucks for all to enjoy. Warwick Facebook: Spooktacular Marketplace
OCTOBER 11 - 14
Halloween Campsite Decorating Contest: Tent and RV campers are sure to have fun making their sites spooktacular at Oak Embers Campground. Kids’ crafts and train rides, bingo, and more await. West Greenwich, OakEmbers.net
OCTOBER 19
Kids Expo & Halloween Costume Contest: Show your creativity in this contest that has a family category! Indoor trick-or-treating, karate demonstrations, an appearance of the New England Witches Guild, balloon-twisting, and more pack this day of fun. West Warwick, BridalShowsByKelly.com
OCTOBER 26 - 27
West Bay Open Studios: Roam through North Kingstown, Warwick, and East Greenwich on a self-guided tour of local artists and their maker spaces. WestBayOpenStudios.com
Confreda Fall Fest
P hoto by Steve Popiel for the Cranston Herald
EAST BAY & NEWPORT
ALL AUTUMN LONG
Wednesday Nature Walks: Norman Bird Sanctuary opens trails to the public for fascinating late-afternoon guided walks, free of charge. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
Free Family Fun Day: On the first Saturday of each month, the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium opens to the public, free of admission costs! Grab the fam and visit the center for simple crafts, storytime, animal discoveries, autumn nature walks, and more. Bristol, ASRI.org
Land Trust Days 2024: Explore more with Rhode Island Land Trust Council-led activities (some requiring registration), including a full moon walk, kite flying on the beach, and guided nature hikes, through October 27. Various, RILandTrusts.org
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 7 - 8
Raptor Weekend: Billed as New England’s largest celebration of birds of prey, the Audubon Society of RI hosts programs, presentations, and activities to educate about owls, hawks, and falcons. Adults can pre-game with Birds & Brews on September 6. Bristol, ASRI.org
SEPTEMBER 12 - 15
Newport International Boat Show: This expansive event is a must for passionate boaters. Walk the docks to see brand new sailboats and powerboats, or find hundreds of marine products, services, and accessories on land. Sign up for educational seminars, in-water boating courses, and daily giveaways, too. NewportBoatShow.com
SEPTEMBER 15
Bristol PorchFest: Local bands and musicians take the “stage” on neighborhood porches, entertaining passersby and concert-goers with a myriad of acoustic sets all over town. Rain date: September 22. Facebook: Bristol PorchFest
Summa Sizzla: Bid summer a fond farewell at this event bursting with local flavor, featuring grilled produce, meats, and seafood, plus baked goods, live music, artist-vendors, and more. Tiverton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
A WEEK OF FARMERS MARKETS
Across the state there are outdoor spaces where local growers can set up and sell their produce, meats and fish, blooms, honey, and more. Many farmers markets are open through midOctober, and all are great ways to invest in your neighbors while eating fresh. Provided is a sample itinerary to have you on your way. Find more at FarmFreshRI.org or search for “farmers market near me” – there might just be a farmers market minutes away, hiding in plain sight!
SUNDAYS:
TIVERTON FARMERS MARKET
Tiverton
TUESDAYS: GREENE LIBRARY FARMERS MARKET
Greene
THURSDAYS:
FOSTER FARMERS MARKET
(and on Sundays)
MONDAYS: NEUTACONKANUT PARK FARMERS MARKET
Pro v idence
WEDNESDAYS: AQUIDNECK GROWERS MARKET
Newport (and on Saturdays in Middletown)
FRIDAYS: PAWTUCKET FARMERS MARKET
Pawtucket
SATURDAYS: BURRILLVILLE FARMERS MARKET
Harrisville
Bristol PorchFest
SEPTEMBER 17 & OCTOBER 17
Full Moon Ride: Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a 15-mile bike ride lit by the Harvest Supermoon! This month’s ride gathers at 6:30pm at Equality Park on Broadway. Rides have limited capacity, so register early. BikeNewportRI.org
SEPTEMBER 19 - 22
Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival: Tasty seminars, a daily Tasting Tent, special dinners, Sunday Jazz Buffet Brunch, and a special guest appearance by celebrated chef Jacques Pépin and his daughter Claudine Pépin are part of this event at Rosecliff. NewportMansions.org
SEPTEMBER 20 - 22
Ocean State Bluegrass Festival: Head to Frerichs Farm for three days of musical talent; catch performances and jam sessions, and enjoy workshops, food, and camping. Warren, RIBluegrass.org
SEPTEMBER 21
Warren Works - Then & Now: JADE Engineered Plastics serves as the location for this 10th anniversary gala. Live music by the Willie Myette Trio, local seafood, and bites from Prica Farina and Black Basil Kitchen comprise this festive evening. WarrenHeritageFoundationRI.org
SEPTEMBER 27 - OCTOBER 17
Newport Festa Italiana: This annual appreciation of Italian culture through food, music, and the arts kicks off with the Ziti Night benefit. A series of lively events continues through October 14 with the Italian Heritage Parade, and caps October 17 with a sauce challenge! NewportFesta.org
SEPTEMBER 28
Newport Oktoberfest: The North Lawn at Fort Adams State Park is where you’ll find German beer, wine, food, and live music at this 21+ fundraiser where a portion of all proceeds go to Fort Adams Trust. Newport, FortAdams.org
GET WITCHY
Formerly known as the RI Witches Guild, the growing group of enchanting dancers is now the New England Witches Guild. You’re likely to see them descending upon the state this time of year with their brooms and hats, spreading bewitching fun. Find a schedule of their pop-up dances and flash mobs at NewEnglandWitchesGuild.com.
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 2 - 6
Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week: Car showcases, gatherings, seminars, and luxurious events lead up to the annual gala. Seminars and a special surprise guest are planned. Newport, AudrainConcours.com
OCTOBER 5
The Great Townie Pumpkin Festival: Get ready for a whirlwind of autumn adventures at Crescent Park, where you can enjoy pumpkin decorating, explore local vendors, and delight in a variety of children's activities. Riverside, Facebook: The Great Townie Pumpkin Festival
Hope & Main’s Schoolyard Twilight Party: Hand-crafted small bites and beverages by local makers, plus a raw bar, are the centerpieces of this can’t-miss foodie evening under the stars. Warren, MakeFoodYourBusiness.org
OCTOBER 9 - 13
Rogue Island Comedy Festival: Some of the best nationally and locally acclaimed comedians perform stand-up for 13 shows at five venues around the island to get folks laughing the night away. Newport, RogueIslandComedyFest.com
OCTOBER 11 - 14
Columbus Day Sidewalk Sale: Enjoy breezy coastal browsing at this lively annual event where participating shops sell their nifty wares outside and offer special discounts. Newport, BowensWharf.com
Trinity Church Pumpkin Patch: Each year 1 Q ueen Anne Square is filled with pumpkins as far as the eye can see. Also find gourds, mums, pick-your-own, and more. Newport, TrinityNewport.org
Photo by Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport
Trinity Church Pumpkin Patch
OCTOBER 16, 23 & 30
Warren Walkabout: Park, walk, take the free trolley, or hop on a pedicab to explore historic downtown at this annual festival of arts, food, independent businesses, and history; live music all over town and artist demonstrations add to the scene. Disco v erWarren.com
OCTOBER 19
New England Witches Guild Halloween Parade & Festival: Previously held in Wickford, this year’s event moves to the East Bay, with hundreds of witches marching from Riverside Square to Crescent Park Looff Carousel for live music, food, and more. East Pro v idence, NewEnglandWitchesGuild.com
OCTOBER 19 - 20
Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Fest: Indulge in classic RI delights at this delicious festival; sip on Whalers, listen to live music, and enjoy fresh lobster rolls, fish tacos, calamari, and oysters to your heart’s content. Newport, BowensWharf.com
OCTOBER 20
Pell Bridge Run: The four-mile road race and walk is the only day of the year pedestrians are permitted to cross the famous Newport Pell Bridge! It starts in Jamestown and finishes in downtown Newport. PellBridgeRun.com
OCTOBER 27
Trunk or Treat: Rather than going house to house, head to Fort Adams State Park where kids get to go trunk to trunk. Admission is typically a canned good. Newport, AudrainAutoMuseum.org
Photo by Wild Tea Photography
NORTHERN RHODY
ALL AUTUMN LONG
Seven Cedars Farm Haunted Hayride: Ride through a mile-long trail that twists and turns through the farm’s haunted woods for a Halloween experience you won't soon forget, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in October. Smithfield, SevenCedarsFarm.us
Historic House Tours: On third Sundays, take a tour of the Smith-Appleby House. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the house dates back to 1702 and is situated on a rolling lawn by a stream. Smithfield, SmithApplebyHouse.org
Observatory Open Nights: On clear Saturday evenings, hop on over to Peeptoad Road to view the sky at the Seagrave Memorial Observatory. Free and open to the public, weather permitting. Scituate, TheSkyScrapers.org
Sunflower & Fall Fest: Weekends through October head to historic Great Road for fun by a sunflower field, including a variety of vendors and food trucks, all in the fresh air. Lincoln, Instagram: @butterflyfarmri
SEPTEMBER
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2
Central Falls Restaurant Week: There’s still time to sample a range of participating eateries that make up a diverse dining scene within a small footprint, from Stanley’s – an IYKYK burger joint since 1932 – to the most authentic Mexican restaurants around. CentralFallsRI.go v
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 8
Pawtucket Arts Fest: This nine-day festival features a variety of programming, including dance, music, theater, film, visual, and folktraditional arts, to showcase the city’s dynamic creative community. PawtucketArtsFestival.org
SEPTEMBER 7 - 8
Slater Park Fall Festival: The historic park, which features a Looff Carousel, is the setting for two days of arts and crafts, a pops concert, food trucks, and more. Pawtucket, BlackstoneHeritageCorridor.org
Photo courtesy of Revive the Roots
SEPTEMBER 14 - 15
Burrillville Fall Harvest Festival: Horsedrawn wagon rides are a highlight at this event hosted by Liberty Farm at The Assembly Theatre, next to a scenic waterfall. Harrisville, Facebook: Burrill v ille Fall Harvest Festival
SEPTEMBER 21
Great Pumpkin Festival: Revel in the start of autumn at this family-friendly fall fest, with contests, food vendors, live entertainment, and community organizations. North Smithfield, GreatPumpkinFestival.org
Stillwater Reservoir Paddle: Experience the wooded shores, islands, and scenic hills of the Woonasquatucket Reservoir, the largest water body in the Woonasquatucket River watershed at 300 acres and 2.3 miles long. Smithfield, WRWC.org
Great Road Day: Every year, the public historic properties on Great Road open their doors for visitors, each displaying special exhibits and free tours curated for this event.
A bakery, blacksmith shop, and mill are among the sites. Lincoln, HearthsideHouse.org
SEPTEMBER 21 - 22
Apple Festival: Now in year 36, this celebration of all things apple includes a craft fair, family entertainment, food trucks, and apples! Facebook: 26th Annual Apple Festival at Johnston Memorial Park
SEPTEMBER 22
Rootstock: Don’t miss a day of community, arts, music, food, and eco-learning on the lands of Mowry Commons hosted by Revive the Roots. Tickets are limited, so plan ahead. Smithfield, ReviveTheRoots.org
North Smithfield, Facebook: Goodwin Brothers Farm Stand
HEALEY FARM
North Kingstown, Facebook: Healey FARM
HIGHLAND FARM*
Wakefield, Facebook: Highland Farm
JASWELL’S FARM
Smithfield, JaswellsFarm.com
MANFREDI FARMS*
Westerly, Facebook: Manfredi Farms
*Corn Mazes
Continued on next page...
Apple Festival
Photo by
SEPTEMBER 28
Harvest Festival & Tractor Show: This annual fundraiser for a historic farm is a fall-a-palooza of fun with hayrides, barn tours, pony rides, and more. Cumberland, Facebook: Franklin Farm’s Harvest Festival & Tractor Show
SEPTEMBER 28 - 29
Oktoberfest: The German American Cultural Society of RI invites guests to their biergarten, bierhalle, and Rathskeller bar for a cultural celebration of live music, dancing, festbier, and traditional cuisine. Pawtucket, GACSRI.org
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 11 - 14
Woonsocket AutumnFest: Since 1979, this event that spans the entire long weekend has been a northern RI favorite and the largest fest in the area. A long itinerary includes a parade, rides, food, live entertainment, fireworks, and more. Woonsocket, AutumnFest.org
OCTOBER 12 - 14
Scituate Art Festival: Don’t miss this annual event that stretches across and beyond the town’s postcard-perfect village green. Shop arts, crafts, and antiques from regional makers, plus live music and a food court, rain or shine. ScituateArtFestival.org
OCTOBER 19
Glocester Scarecrow Festival: Peruse a variety of decorated scarecrows, plus live music, pony rides, face painting, a marketplace, and more. Chepachet, Facebook: Glocester Scarecrow Festival
OCTOBER 19, 20, 26 & 27
Gone But Not Forgotten Mourning Exhibit & Tour: Visit Hearthside House for a guided tour journeying from Simon Thornton’s wake with all the traditions and pageantry of death embraced by the Victorians on display. Lincoln, HearthsideHouse.org
Glocester Scarecrow Festival
PROVIDENCE
ALL AUTUMN LONG
Brown University Football: Watch the Brown Bears throw around the pigskin at their home games at Richard Gouse Field all fall long for their 2024 season. BrownBears.com
Food Truck Fridays: Craving handheld eats and an evening outdoors? Roger Williams Park Zoo hosts local food trucks doling out street fare at Carousel Village, every Friday through September 27. RWPZoo.org
Haunted Boat Tours: Take a spooky boat ride and learn about the many restless souls that haunt the streets and rivers of Providence. Tours run all season, and check for special Haunted Booo-zy Boat Rides. Pro v idenceRiverBoat.com
Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular: Take a stroll through Rhody’s favorite pumpkin patch as Roger Williams Park Zoo is lined with thousands of masterfully carved, candlelit gourds from September 26 through November 2. Volunteer opps available for ages 16+. RWPZoo.org/jols
PechaKucha: A traveling presentation series, this idea- and story-sharing phenomenon hosts members of the Providence community speaking on a different theme every month, accompanied by 20 images. Find upcoming dates online. PechaKuchaPVD.org
Providence Artisans Market: Artists from all over Southern New England convene at Lippitt Park to sell their fine crafts, jewelry, paintings, and more on Saturdays through October. Facebook: PVD Artisans Market
Providence Flea Market: Now in its new home at 195 District Park, this buzzing market is brimming with varied vendors. Enjoy live tunes, savor mouthwatering bites from food trucks, and mingle with local nonprofits every Sunday through September 15. Pro v idenceFlea.com
PVD Horror: These podcasters host pop-up scary movie screenings for cult-horror enthusiasts at Buttonwoods Brewery select nights. Follow for dates. Facebook: PVD Horror
WaterFire: This quintessential Providence after-dark tradition of seeing the river set ablaze while strolling Waterplace Park continues into fall, with food trucks, live entertainment, and more, on September 21, October 5, and November 2. WaterFire.org
FARM MARKETS & STANDS
Continued from previous page...
MAPLEVILLE FARM
Mapleville, BensBakery.com/MaplevilleFarm
MORRIS FARM*
Warwick, Facebook: J Morris Farms
NARROW LANE ORCHARD
North Kingstown, NarrowLaneOrchard.com
OLD STONE ORCHARD
Little Compton, Facebook: Old Stone Orchard 33
PASQUALE FARMS Richmond, PasqualeFarms.com
PAT’S PASTURED East Greenwich, PatsPastured.com
PEZZA FARM
Johnston, PezzaFarm.com
PIPPIN APPLE ORCHARD Cranston, Facebook: Pippin Apple Orchard
QUONSET VIEW FARM
Portsmouth, Facebook: Quonset View Farm
SALISBURY FARM* Johnston, SalisburyFarm.com
SPRING HILL SUGAR HOUSE* Richmond, Facebook: Spring Hill Sugar House
STAMP FARMS Exeter, StampFarms.com
STEERE ORCHARD Greenville, SteereOrchard.com
SUNSET ORCHARD FARM North Scituate, SunsetOrchardsRI.com
SWEET BERRY FARM Middletown, SweetBerryFarmRI.com
THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughterRI.com
WISHING STONE FARM
Little Compton, WishingStoneFarm.com
YOUNG FAMILY FARM
Little Compton, YoungFamilyFarm.com
*Corn Mazes
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 6 - 7
PVDFest: The city’s signature event returns to downtown with spectacles like eVenti Verticali, where aerial dancers perform at 60 feet suspended by crane; multiple stages of local and international acts; Food Truck Village; vendors; maker spaces. PVDFest.com
SEPTEMBER 7 - 8
Rhode Island Seafood Festival: Head to India Point Park for a day of live music, libations, and, of course, seafood from top local names in the biz. RISeafoodFest.com
Breakfast with the Zebra & Wildebeest: Start your day with a delicious breakfast al fresco and get ready for an adventure with the zookeepers as they prepare the mixedspecies yard for zebras, wildebeests, and Watusi cattle. RWPZoo.org
SEPTEMBER 9 & 23
Architectural River Tour: Departing from 101 Dyer Street, 75-minute boat tours take guests through 300 years of architectural history along the city’s waterways, from landmarks to hidden gems, led by the Providence Preservation Society. PPSRI.org
SEPTEMBER 13 - 20
DESIGN WEEK RI: Rhode Island designers and entrepreneurs gather for an annual celebration of local talent featuring talks, tours, panel discussions, open studios, and parties, all showcasing the innovation and economic impact of the design sector. DesignXRI.com
SEPTEMBER 15
Hope Street Summer Block Party: Pedestrianfriendly festivities from Rochambeau Avenue to Fifth Street offer a vibrant shopping, dining, and beverage experience. Enjoy live music, performances, food trucks, local artists, and more. HopeStreetPVD.com
SEPTEMBER 21
Heritage Day Festival: Bring the family to the WaterFire Arts Center to explore world cultures represented in RI via exhibits, visual art, demonstrations, diverse cuisine, and a multicultural fashion show. Preservation.RI.go v
SEPTEMBER 29
Rain Harvest Festival: A celebration of water, science, and art returns for this annual event at the Roger Williams Park Boathouse Lawn. Last year’s performers included RI Black Storytellers, Sussy Santana, Alpaca Lunch, and more. StormWaterInno v ation.org
TBA
Makers Market: Stroll Wickenden Street for this family- and pet-friendly fest, where the street will be closed to traffic so vendors and artists can showcase their wares among local food trucks. ShopWickenden.com
Photo (L) by Erin X. Smithers, courtesy of PVDFest, (R) courtesy of Storm Water Innovation
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 4 - 6
Narragansett Brewery Oktoberfest: The Fox Point brewery brings a taste of Munich to PVD with their very own Festbier, authentic German food, and lots of fun. NarragansettBeer.com
OCTOBER 5
Ocean State Oyster Festival: 195 District Park is your oyster as the new location for this celebration of the state's rich oysterfarming tradition with live music, local food vendors, and an abundance of fresh oysters. OysterFestRI.com
OCTOBER 5 - 6
Little City Thrifty: Shop vintage and preloved clothing, books, records, art, home goods, furniture, and more at this curated experience of rummaged regalia taking over the WaterFire Arts Center with more than 85 vendors. LittleCityThrifty.com
OCTOBER 11 - 14
Columbus Day Festival: An annual tradition put on by the Federal Hill Commerce Association, Atwells hosts entertainment stages, live chef demonstrations, a parade, and a taste of the Hill’s many restaurants throughout the weekend. FederalHillPro v .com
OCTOBER 18
Halloween Friday Night: The Providence Flea and Witches’ Night Out Market team up to bring the magic of autumn to Farm Fresh RI. A bewitching evening of shopping and snacking awaits! Pro v idenceFlea.com
OCTOBER 19
Rhode Island Festival of Children’s Books and Authors: Meet award-winning authors and illustrators, enjoy storytelling sessions, and participate in fun activities centered around books and reading. LincolnSchool.org
RISD Craft: Stroll Benefit Street to peruse handmade fine art and design work by 130+ student and alumni artists, exemplifying mastery of craftsmanship and attention to detail in a wide variety of media. Facebook: RISD Craft
OCTOBER 24
The Rocky Horror Picture Show : Experience the cult classic with Nell Campbell, the film’s Columbia. Join the unedited screening with a live shadow cast and audience participation, and costume contest. TheStrandRI.com
OCTOBER 27
Halloween Monster Dash 5K: Dash through the RIPTA bus tunnels in your costume of choice dodging spooky zombies – and bring the little ones along for a fun dash of their own. MonsterDashRace.com
Come on a journey the whole family will love at the world’s largest Native American Museum! Experience the amazing culture of the Pequot people, learn about their distinctive relationship with nature, their challenges, and their inspiring resiliency. Our story lives on…
Rain Harvest Festival
SOUTHERN RHODY
ALL AUTUMN LONG
Seaside Shadows Downtown Ghost Tours: Hear stories of deadly shipwrecks, cursed pirate treasure, and witches while exploring the historic architecture of this small seaside city. Westerly, SeaSideShadows.com
Fall Harvest Festival: Enjoy hayrides, a pumpkin dunk tank, corn maze, scavenger hunt, barrel train, and more, weekends from late-September through October. South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughterRI.com
URI Rhody Rams Football: Bring your Rhode Island pride to the Ryan Center for the URI college football team’s home games. Arrive early for the tailgate, which requires a separate ticket, or just hit the stadium at gametime to cheer the team on to victory. Kingston, GoRhody.com
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 1
The General’s Market: Don’t miss the summer finale of the oldest continually operating flea market in Rhode Island. Protip: arrive early at the General Stanton Inn for a delish buffet before getting your shop on. Charlestown, TheGeneralsMarket.com
Rhythm & Roots: The three-day festival still has one day left so don’t miss the Sunday concert lineup, plus food and craft vendors, at Ninigret Park. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com
SEPTEMBER 6 - 8
Folk Art Q uilt Show: The South County Museum celebrates the history of quilting and contemporary forms for its 36th annual show, featuring quilts from local makers and a raffle. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org
SEPTEMBER 7
45th Annual Run Around the Block: Enjoy stunning vistas of rolling meadows, sparkling water, and towering cliffs on this 9.3-mile run around Block Island. BlockIslandInfo.com
The Farmer’s Daughter
GHOST TOURS
BLOCK ISLAND GHOST TOURS
BlockIslandGhostTours.com
GHOSTS OF NEWPORT GhostsofNewport.com
HAUNTED BOAT RIDES ProvidenceRiverboat.com
PROVIDENCE GHOST TOUR ProvidenceGhostTour.com
SEASIDE SHADOWS DOWNTOWN
WESTERLY GHOST TOURS
SeaSideShadows.com
SEPTEMBER 12 - 14
Block Island Pride: Rainbow tie-dying, drag queen bingo, movies at the beach, a Pride march, and more are among the fab activities planned for this year’s celebration. QueerBlockIsland.com
SEPTEMBER 13 & OCTOBER 18
Wickford Harbor Fire: The village’s natural beauty is illuminated by glowing lanterns on the water for a night of food trucks, restaurant specials, shopping, and music. Facebook: Wickford Harbor Fire
SEPTEMBER 13 - 15
Misquamicut Fall Fest: Take in the view of the Block Island Sound from atop a ferris wheel, snack on food truck fare, admire classic cars, and enjoy other fall festivities on the beach. MisquamicutFestival.org
SEPTEMBER 14
Farm to Table Dinner: This museum fundraiser kicks off with a cocktail hour before dinner and an auction. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org
Family Day Celebration: Party like it’s 1674 at this fun afternoon at Wilson Park for the ongoing celebration of the North Kingstown 350th anniversary. All-age activities, music, food, and more are planned. NorthKingstownRI.go v
SEPTEMBER 21
Calamari Festival and Cook-Off: Dig into the Ocean State’s official appetizer at this tented rain-or-shine event featuring tastings, live music, cash bar, vendor marketplace, and food trucks. Narragansett, NarragansettCOC.com
SEPTEMBER 22
Paddle for Progress: “Let’s turn Wickford Harbor pink for breast cancer” is the call to action for this second-annual two-mile paddle. WickfordVillage.org
SEPTEMBER 27 - 29
Block Island Birding Weekend: Autumn on the island is flock-full of migratory birds on their way to their winter homes. Audubon naturalists lead birders on field trips to spot all kinds of species. Block Island, MassAudubon.org
SEPTEMBER 28
Bark on the Beach: Leash up your pup and head to Narragansett Town Beach for an invigorating mile-long walk to raise
money for Animal Rescue Rhode Island. Narragansett, AnimalRescueRI.org
Harvest Festival: Celebrate fall with Fayerweather Craft Guild’s festival featuring crafts from local artisans, live music, food trucks, and other seasonal treats. Kingston, FayerweatherCraftGuild.com
SEPTEMBER 29
Pumpkins With a Purpose Sale: Set your watch for 12 noon when 5,500 pumpkins transform the grounds of Peace Dale Congregational Church into a pumpkin patch. Net proceeds will benefit Welcome House of South County. Wakefield, PeaceDaleChurch.org
Calamari Festival and Cook-Off
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 4, 11, 18 & 25
Halloween Sweet Treats: Learn to make fan favorites such as royal icing-based sugar cookies, isomalt “glass” shards, ghosted meringue, cupcakes, cake pops, and more from the culinary pros at Ocean House. Watch Hill, OceanHouseEvents.com
OCTOBER 5
Applumpkin Fall: An amazing autumn afternoon awaits at Ninigret Park, with a scarecrow building contest, bounce house, pumpkin painting, balloon twisting, a costume parade, storytellers, and more! Charlestown, Applumpkin.com
350th Anniversary Parade: One of the signature events celebrating NK’s big birthday is the parade, kicking off at 1pm for a day of community pride. Rain date: October 6. NorthKingstownRI.go v
Pumpkin Palooza: Join this family-friendly community party that boasts pumpkin bowling, a candy hunt, pumpkin roll, obstacle course of inflatables, white elephant sale, hot dogs, burgers, baked goods, and more. Wakefield, PeaceDaleChurch.org
OCTOBER 12
Wakefield Oktoberfest: Brews flow all day from the biergarten, along with live music, street performers, traditional dancing, art vendors, and entertainment at this autumn celebration of German culture for the whole family. ContemporaryTheaterCompany.com
OCTOBER 13
Block Island Half Marathon: There are no views quite like this half marathon, which takes you past beach dunes, the North Lighthouse, and rolling pastures. BlockIslandFerry.com
OCTOBER 19
Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night: The Misquamicut Players reenact Monty Python’s parody of Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605. A bonfire will set the stage for this comedic night at The Windjammer. Misquamicut, GuyFawkesUSA.com
OCTOBER 19 & 20
HopArts Studio Trail: Artists and artisans open their studios to the public for the weekend, offering demonstrations, details of their craft, and work for sale. Hopkinton and Richmond, HopArts.org
Photo courtesy of I Love Wickford Village
SCREAM PARKS
13TH WORLD
Cumberland, 13thWorld.com
FACTORY OF TERROR
West Warwick, FactoryOfTerror.com
SCARY ACRES RI
Cranston, ScaryAcresRI.com
SEVEN CEDARS FARM
Smithfield, SevenCedarsFarm.us
SLATER PARK HAUNTED TUNNEL
Pawtucket | Facebook: Haunted Tunnel RI
OCTOBER 25
Spooky Views - A Halloween Stargazing Experience: Frosty Drew Observatory will be in Halloween mode with frightful sights, spooky sounds, and candy available, so don a costume and motor over to Ninigret Park. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
OCTOBER 27
Ocean State Rhode Races: Lace up those sneakers and enjoy iconic RI scenery while you run a marathon, half marathon, or 5K at the 8th annual Ocean State Rhode Races. A festival at Narragansett Town Beach follows. Narragansett, RhodeRaces.com
Thriller Panel with Deborah Goodrich Royce: Ocean House’s resident bestsetter hosts a panel of authors Sara DiVello, Jean Kowk, Liv Constantine, Luanne Rice, Juliet Grames, and Elise Hart Kipness. Wine, finger sandwiches, and book signings are included. Watch Hill, OceanHouseEvents.com
Mystical Autumn Artisan Fair: Shop handcrafted pieces at the North Beach Clubhouse and get in the spooky mood when the New England Witches Guild perform their frightful dance. Narragansett, BridalShowsByKelly
TBA
Wickford Wicked Week: While dates were not available at press time, we anticipate a full roster of events –including the popular Witches’ Paddle and Spooky Sip ‘n Stroll – to be posted soon. WickfordVillage.org
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HOME & STYLE
Homes | Shop | Makers | Rhody Reads | Rhody Gem
Sage Advice
A
couple turns to a woodworker to make sense of their circa-1900s kitchen
By Ann Martini
Alejandro Brambila and Rachel Hallock were living in San Francisco when they decided on Providence – one of their “favorite cities on the East Coast” – as the location of their wedding. Friends living on the East Side told them about a house that was available in the Mount Hope section and they decided to take a look, as they’d wanted to buy a house but couldn’t afford much in California. “The house needed a lot of work, and we weren’t sure we wanted to take on such a big project as our first home,” says Hallock, “but when we started looking at other houses over the next six months, we kept comparing them to this house, and in the end we couldn’t resist.”
The three-inch-thick butcher block was made from hard maple and finished with a food-safe oil-wax blend
A curved-end cabinet, hand-turned island legs, range hood, and large three-inch end-grain butcher block bring cohesion and flow to the kitchen
Maple was used for the interior cabinets and frames, floating shelves, and butcher block
“It’s a really quirky house,” says Hallock of the circa-1900 three-bedroom. “The rooms don’t all make sense, and it’s clear that the original builder changed plans last-minute to include indoor plumbing, but it’s forced us to get creative with how we use the space. The other big appealing factor was that the kitchen was basically non-existent — the owner who sold it to us had started to remodel and never finished. It was basically a blank slate for us to work from.”
To help decode some of the design challenges, Brambila and Hallock enlisted the help of nearby artisan furniture designer Matthew Soule of SouleWork, a firm in South Elmwood offering custom cabinetry and millwork. “Designing a modern kitchen that blends well with the style of an existing old home is a fun challenge, and I think the result was a success for this project,” Soule says. The work included creating functional space by removing a wall, installing updated light fixtures, and custom cabinetry. The main entrance to the kitchen might have been a sticking point, but Soule designed curved cabinets – using a bent lamination technique – to service the flow.
Brambila, an agroecologist for the Trustees of Massachusetts, and Hallock, a software designer, set out to curate their own interior aesthetic. “We like to collect things from flea markets, antique stores, and from our travels,” she explains. “Our decor ends up being pretty eclectic, and also kind of permanently unfinished.” When it came to selecting paint, the couple considered of-the-period colors, “but we’re not militant about it,” Hallock shares. “We painted one room lavender because we’d never painted a room purple before and new colors are fun.”
Now, two years later with a baby in tow, the couple is delighted with the choices Soule and team made for the house. They enjoy spending time cooking, learning about the craft of home restoration, and gardening, with Brambila tending to the property’s various fruit trees, and beekeeping, and Hallock planning a year-round garden. Says Hallock, “There are people who have lived here forever, and there are new people like us here, too. That mix of people creates such an interesting community.”
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Heart and Soul
Matthew Soule has been practicing the craft of woodworking for as long as he can remember. “I grew up a carpenter’s son, so I was exposed to building and working with my hands early on working with my father.” He returned to it in Los Angeles before moving back to Rhode Island and building out his first shop in Providence. “We make everything from architectural millwork and custom cabinetry to artisan tables and chairs, custom furniture designs, and smaller products like lamps and decor. Find Soule’s work at his shop at 95 Hathaway Street by appointment, at Inhabit in Warren, or online at SouleWork.com.
Patterns of Use
For the custom kitchen, Soule started by listening to the couple’s needs and laying out a kitchen that functions according to their lifestyle. “The conversation typically moves from function to form and any special details they had in mind or if they are open to any unique design details I might envision,” he explains. The maker’s personal favorites are the curved cabinet and the three-inch-thick butcher-block island. “It was a challenge,” he admits, “and it came out beautiful.”
Discovering Hope
Homeowners Brambila and Hallock enjoy exploring the ever-evolving East Side. “We love getting little treats from Stock Culinary Goods, and fish from Fearless Fish Market on Hope Street. We’re super close to Nikki’s Liquors [Branch Avenue] and they have a great selection of beer and interesting liquors.”
by
Photography
Christian Scully, courtesy of Design Imaging Studios
Command by Benjamin Moore was applied by Fresh Paint RI
The Back-to-School Edit
Buying local is where it’s at for cool supplies and more
By Abigail Clarkin
School is back in session and whether you’re headed out of state, attending a local college or university, or simply want to add academic atmosphere to your life, buying local is always in style. Looking for a book on practical magic, a mini Bluetooth speaker, a pair of new kicks, or a sturdy backpack? Skip those chain stores and shop local! Items shown were all sourced downtown (AKA downcity) Providence, but you’re sure to find the unique at commercial districts across South County – or take yourself on a field trip to Providence. InDowncity.com or @InDowncityPVD
Bluetooth Speaker Homestyle 233 Westminster Street
Fjällräven Kånken Totepack ueen of Hearts/ Modern Love 220 Westminster Street
Mandarin Orange Beef Jerky Serendipity Gourmet 173 Weybosset Street
Rhode Island Mug Craftland 212 Westminster Street
Sneakers Civil
231 Westminster Street 86 Main Street, East Greenwich
Spell Book Symposium Books 240 Westminster Street
Strawberry Shortcake
KitKat Bars
Maruichi Japanese Food & Deli 113 Washington Street
In Stitches
By Elyse Major
Olga Bravo and Rebecca Wagner are perennial vendor market stalwarts. On Saturday mornings, you might find the artsy pair at Casey Farm in Saunderstown, Tiverton Farmers Market, Aquidneck Growers Market in Newport, or other destinations –courtesy of their trailer. Under brand name The Golden Trout, the trained mixed-media artists sell one-of-a-kind handbags stitched at their Hope Valley studio from a stash of burlap sacks, plastic feed bags, textile remnants, hardware, and pieces of suede hand-stamped
with their alluring logo of a fish.
Long before Bravo and Wagner were making totes, they were baking artisanal bread in the small building next to Walker’s Roadside Stand in Little Compton. In the early 1990s, they opened Olga’s Cup and Saucer in Providence’s Jewelry District, which was a huge success that received national attention. For years, they served a wildly popular menu of sandwiches on oven-fresh bread and baked goods like tomato-corn pizza, scones, and pies, along with coffee, salads, and more.
While the two loved the rush of the restaurant
business and the smell of bread baking, rising costs and piling bills rendered them receptive to a change when a friend shared news that Johnson & Wales University was seeking instructors. On a lark, Bravo and Wagner applied to be adjunct professors. The two laugh as they describe the comedic hijinx during the serious bench-test of having to bake a range of goods on demand and clean up on the spot for their interview. Both were hired and decided to part with Olga’s Cup and Saucer (the space is now inhabited by both Tiny Bar and Seven Stars Bakery on Point Street).
The pair behind a beloved bakery-cafe pivot to making bags at their home studio
Olga Bravo and Rebecca Wagner inside their Hope Valley studio
Photography by Elyse Major
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Finished
While running the cafe, Bravo and Wagner lived in Providence, and often sought refuge from the kitchen and the city by not only vending at weekend markets, but also kayaking Wood River through Arcadia Management Area in Hope Valley. When Wagner spotted a fixer-upper for sale on a 1.3-acre lot that included a trail down to the river, plus a few small outbuildings perfect for her-and-her studios, they were sold. Not long after moving in, the perfect storm of a plastic bag ban, a pandemic, and time at home with piles of burlap sacks saved from the cafe by an employee sparked an idea. “I wanted to make bags,” says Wagner.
“Growing up, I made my own clothes,” Bravo begins, “but I hadn’t sewn in years.” What she did remember, she showed Wagner, who began creating simple totes. Before long, they were both all in; next came an industrial sewing machine, and friends and colleagues shipping empty bags to their Hope Valley HQ from all over the world.
“This one is from Africa, this one is from Portugal,” says Bravo, pointing to their collection of materials. She notes that they make what they make, no custom orders.
When it was time to name the business, an encounter with a man by the river proudly holding a shimmering fish provided the inspiration. “We asked if it was a golden trout, and he said ‘yes!’ They’re a big thing around here. If you catch one, you get a prize,” Wagner says, referencing the annual RIDEM fishing challenge. And thus, The Golden Trout was born.
Today, the Bravo-Wagner homestead is a maker’s compound. The old house was torn down and rebuilt using historic plans; a two-story barn was constructed that houses Wagner’s studio, where she paints and does metalwork; and a small garage serves as the sewing studio, with totes and cross-body bags displayed on metal rods, and artful open storage of vintage spools holding belt webbing, galvanized tins of supplies, and a worn cookie tray that Bravo utilizes as a design board for plotting her next bag. There’s also a storage shed painted a glossy gray adorned with a pair of watering cans on hooks that match the tiger lilies in the patch of garden below.
In the main house, decorated in a minimalist-meets-historic aesthetic, loaves of rustic sourdough bread rest on cutting boards and there are handfuls of zinnias and hydrangeas placed in canning jars. The vibes of all things Olga’s past and present are strong. Follow on Instagram @thegoldentrout for upcoming vendor markets and more.
by Elyse Major
caption
Photography
Rhody Reads
Thrilling reads by women authors and a fall line-up of author panels
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Here’s to the beauty of fall in Rhode Island. As I write this, I’m looking at Watch Hill Lighthouse on a sunny summer day, but autumn is just around the corner and with it comes a host of great books. Here is a list of enticing mysteries, one by a Rhode Island author and two by authors who will be part of the Ocean House Author Series.
Rhode Island’s own Juliet Grames released The Lost Boys of Santa Chionia on July 23. In a remote Italian village – with no running water, doctor, electricity, or even mail delivery due to a recent flood – an unidentified skeleton turns up, three men go missing, the villagers hold secrets, and a young American turns amateur detective. Grames, along with Liv Constantine, Sara DiVello, Elise Hart Kipness, Jean Kwok, and Luanne Rice will join the Ocean House Author Series Thriller Panel on Sunday, October 27.
For fans of Liane Moriarty ( Big Little Lies ) – and who isn’t? – her newest twisty tale, Here One Moment , comes out on September 10. If you knew your future, would you try to fight fate? When a group of passengers on an ordinary flight are each informed of the exact moments of their coming deaths, how do they react? How would you? These are the questions posed in this deft exploration of free will and destiny, grief, and love. It is fresh, original, and surprising.
The thrills keep coming when September 17 brings The Night We Lost Him by New York Times bestselling novelist, Laura Dave. Liam Noone, a hotel magnate with three ex-wives, falls to his death on the California coast. The authorities ruled it an accident. But is it? His adult children Nora and Sam overcome their estrangement to solve the mystery of their father’s death. But along the way, they uncover a family secret that threatens to change everything.
I am a serious fan of Alfred Hitchcock, the British film director known as the “master of suspense,” and I am very excited for the release of The Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie Wrobel on September 24. In it, a fan with an ulterior motive invites friends for the weekend at his remote themed hotel in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The agenda is all Hitchcock, all the time with screenings, props, and memorabilia at every turn. There’s even an aviary filled with crows. What could possibly go wrong?
Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White team up again on The Author’s Guide to Murder (November 5), a locked-room mystery (and literary satire) set in Scotland. Kat, Cassie, and Emma – writers who share little affection – are thrust together at Castle Kinloch. The owner, literary superstar Brett Saffron Presley, is murdered. Suspicion falls on each author as the investigation ensues. Join me and Team W for our special holiday event at the Ocean House Author Series on Thursday, December 12.
In another type of mystery, Lili Anolik examines the complicated friendship of Joan Didion and Eve Babitz in Didion and Babitz (November 12). Didion rose to the pinnacle of literary success throughout her life; Babitz, in contrast, was found dead amidst the ruin and filth of her apartment. But a sealed box was also found, packed by Babitz’s mother years before, of her insightful and incisive letters revealing more of Didion than she herself had ever done.
ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE
Deborah Goodrich Royce’s thrillers examine puzzles of identity. Reef Road, a national bestseller, was named one of the best books of 2023 by Kirkus Reviews and an Indie Next pick by the American Booksellers Association. Ruby Falls won the Zibby Award for Best Plot Twist, and Finding Mrs. Ford was hailed by Forbes , Book Riot, and Good Morning America . Royce began as an actress on All My Children and in multiple films, before transitioning to the role of story editor at Miramax Films. With her husband, Chuck, the couple restored the Ocean House, United Theatre, Martin House Books, and numerous Main Street revitalization projects in Rhode Island and the Catskills. She serves on multiple governing and advisory boards. Learn more at DeborahGoodrichRoyce.com
OCEAN HOUSE AUTHOR SERIES
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases
A salon-style conversation that Royce hosts in partnership with Bank Square Books,brings world-class authors to the Watch Hill. It has featured a wide range of fiction and non-fiction writers including Chris Bohjalian, Katie Couric, Emma Straub, and many more. The OHAS also airs on WCRI, Rhode Island’s classical music station. Upcoming events include Laura Dave at The United Theatre, Westerly on September 18, the Thriller Panel and Brunch on October 27 at 11:30am, and The Author’s Guide to Murder Holiday Event December 12 at 6pm. Learn more at OceanHouseEvents.com
Loominous
Rug Gallery
What it is:
A family-owned retail store and showroom offering an extensive collection of antique, contemporary, and custom rugs from around the world.
Where to find it:
Just past Moss Salon and LOLA, find Loominous at the corner of North Main Street and Hammett Lane. You can’t miss the red and silver art deco entrance. Older locals might know the spot as what was once ‘50s dance club Sh-booms.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
“A rug is artwork for your floor,” says Susan O’Gorman, Loominous manager and custom work coordinator. “When you’re renovating or decorating, sometimes it’s easier to start with the rug. Find the one you love and work around it.” The retail space and showroom located in College Hill is the shared passion of brothers Behboud and Behrouz Sarlak, who source fine handwoven, hand-knotted, and vintage rugs in various piles, palettes, and patterns from textile regions around the globe. Says Behboud, “your house, your room, even your dorm is your refuge where you want to relax, you want to recover, you want to get your energy; a rug is the best investment you can spend.” Loominous also offers professional rug cleaning services and restoration with drop-off or pick-up options. Online closeouts are available, too.
Loominous
126 North Main Street, Providence 455-1010
LoominousRugs.com
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
Photo by Ella Corrao for Hey Rhody Media Co.
FEATURE
Tap Into Fun
Breweries hosting crafty collabs provide grown-ups with a creative night out
By Emily Olson
n the alchemy of brewing, creativity is the essential ingredient that distinguishes craft beer from its mass-produced counterparts. From conceiving a concept to formulating a recipe with a distinctive flavor profile, brewers depend not only on their expertise but also on a generous dose of imagination to envision an enticing pint.
But why should brewers have all the fun? Local breweries are sharing the joy of creativity with their patrons by partnering with local workshop instructors to add some innovative events to calendars already stacked with the usual trivia and karaoke nights. The offerings bring a different energy to chill patio spaces, and the cross-promotion helps both the breweries and educators develop larger communities.
The majority of beers trace their roots to hops, so it makes sense to pair plant care with a pint. Tim Arsenault, founder of Bonsai Bar, regularly partners with Rhode Island breweries to teach beginner workshops on bonsai design. His pop-up shop appears at the hightop tables of breweries across the state, including Pivotal Brewing in Bristol and Crook Point Brewing Company in East Providence. The breweries provide the space, and Arsenault brings in the folks interested in quaffing a pint while taking in his two-hour workshop. Each attendee is provided with a tree and a planter and learns how to pot the mini-specimen, style it, and care for it later. Arsenault says the marriage of bonsai and brew is a logical one. “We can make a mess because the breweries are used to hosing the floor down,” he jokes.
Arsenault says the magic of bonsai workshops is that people enter it with no preconceived notions about their talent for trimming or lack thereof. “There’s a really cool energy at our workshops because people fall in love with bonsai. There’s something about getting your hands into the soil that brings out a childlike sense of wonder,” he says. “And they end up with a beautiful, living piece of art capable of thriving.”
Arsenault shares that “90 percent of the people who attend the workshops have never been to the brewery before. And we’re also reaching a new audience. When brewery regulars see us setting up the tiny trees, they want to know what the workshop is all about.” This sentiment is echoed by Sara Carroll, owner of Bellissimo Boards, who offers another hands-on pairing: beer and charcuterie. “Many of the people attending my classes are also attending the brewery for the first time,” she says.
RAISE A CLASS
These East Bay breweries open up their taprooms to a range of workshops and interactive events. Catch the latest from each by following or visiting online. BREWERIES
Crook Point Brewing Company East Pro v idence CrookPointBrewing.com
Newport Craft Brewing and Distilling NewportCraft.com
Pivotal Brewing Company Bristol | PivotalBrewing.com
Ragged Island Brewing Co. Portsmouth RaggedIslandBrewing.com
Cheese boards and brews with Bellissimo Learn the ins and outs of tiny tree care with Bonsai Bar
Photo (top) courtesy of Bellissimo Boards, (bottom) courtesy of Bonsai Bar
But it’s often not the last time, especially since no two classes Carroll teaches are the same. “I use different ingredients or develop themes,” she says, describing the fresh flowers she provided for her students to incorporate into a Mother’s Day charcuterie board class. Although many people think of wine as the best pairing with cheese, there’s something enticing about the way the salty edible elements meld with different brew flavor profiles, a harmony she showcases with popup workshops.
People who attend Carroll’s classes are given a board, a box of ingredients, and an inspiration handout, but Carroll stresses that
her students have total creative freedom in how they present their completed charcuterie board. “Teaching is my passion,” Carroll says, “and this doesn’t feel like a job because I get to taste different cheeses and meats and bring that expertise into my classes.”
Nina Reed, owner of Sarcastic Sweets, wouldn’t dream of leaving those with a sweet tooth out of the mix. She regularly pops up at breweries and distilleries around the state with brownies, donuts, and cupcakes that not only complement what’s on tap, but also incorporate the brews, swapping the wet ingredients in her recipe with beer or another
spirit. “Adding the beer creates a different fermentation process,” she explains. “It cooks slower and adds new layers of flavor.”
Each beer Reed uses results in a different type of baked good. Stouts create a rich, fudgy flavor while ales create something light and fluffy, like a chiffon cake. “Vigilant Brewing [in Bristol] gave me a piña colada sour and it made the most decadent blondie,” she says, adding that it’s fun to watch how people experience her creations. “Some people sip and then bite and others bite and then sip,” she says. “But with the beer brownies and doughnuts, I see dunking.”
A flight of beer paired with Sarcastic Sweets at Vigilant Brewing
Photo courtesy of Sarcastic Sweets
Reed has an upcoming Cupcake Night at Pivotal Brewing Company in Bristol, where she’ll offer a flight of cupcakes, much like a flight of beer. Rebecca Ernst, cofounder of Pivotal says, “The beer tastes pretty amazing in the cupcakes.”
Pivotal invites the community to a whole host of pairing events, from cupcakes to exercise. “We have a large space, and we chose that
intentionally,” says Ernst. “We can have a variety of things popping up together. Once we hosted the Bristol Warren Art Night, an art class, and Music in the Alley all at the same time. Incorporating beer and music and art and food into our space really aligns with our values. I’m from a massive family and we entertain, so we really wanted this to be a gathering spot.”
HOPPY HAPPENINGS
Add these workshops and culinary events to your calendar this season. Find tickets at brewery websites.
SEPTEMBER 2:
Labor Day Clambake
Experience an authentic feast by McGrath’s Clambake & Catering at Ragged Island.
SEPTEMBER 4:
Homebrew Workshop
Learn how to brew your own beer from the experts at Six Pack Brewing.
Learn the art of tiny trees with Bonsai Bar at Crook Point Brewing and Pivotal Brewing, respectively.
SEPTEMBER 18:
Taps and Tiles –Portuguese Azulejo Tile Painting Workshop
Craft traditional Portuguese coasters at Vigilant Brewing.
OCTOBER 10:
Beer & Cupcake Pairing
Try brew-flavored desserts by Sarcastic Sweets at Pivotal Brewing.
Craft brews are a Pivotal ingredient in this batch of cupcakes
Photos courtesy of Sarcastic Sweets
Let’s save more while using less.
Every transformation begins with a single act. And when it comes to saving energy, money and the
Let’s make waves.
saturday, September 7th 9am - 1pm or while supplies last visit blountretail.com & follow us on facebook for sale dates & times.
575 Currant Rd, Fall River, MA down the road from our store - follow the signs -
FOOD & DRINK
Experience | In the Kitchen | Food Trends
Land and Sea
A cove-side eatery dishes late-summer entrees and sunset views perfect for date night
By Gina Mastrostefano
Asymphony of hydrangeas and 360-degree water views are the perfect surroundings to get you in the mood for a quintessential Rhode Island seafood dinner as you approach 15 Point Road Restaurant. Our destination is the anchor at the tip of the Island Park area of Portsmouth, with views of Blue Bill Cove and Grinnell’s Beach on either side. Here, guests enjoy year-round dining in the classic nautical room, or out on the moonlight-soaked patio during summer’s last hurrah. Our visit was the perfect opportunity to wear my blue and white floral-printed peplum dress I had been saving in my closet specifically for a fancy seafood dinner date.
The evening started with an introduction to owner Sean Smith, and our lovely waitress took our drink orders once we chose from the extensive cocktail menu – with a page dedicated to martinis. I went with a classic, the 15 Point Espresso Martini, and for my fiance, a Bully Boy Old Fashioned. We were offered a basket of warm bread and olive oil with fresh roasted garlic cloves to start.
Photography by
Gina Mastrostefano
Wild Berry Roasted Split Duckling and Sesame Pan Seared Tuna
For apps, we had a choice of many coastal classics like Fried Calamari and Scallops Wrapped in Bacon, but we opted for the Burrata, a refreshing go-to to warm up the palate. The cheese was super fresh and garnished with blistered grape tomatoes and a balsamic glaze, which had a richness that contrasted nicely with the lightly toasted crostini drizzled with olive oil. I also tried the Soup of the Moment, which was a chilled cucumber and dill concoction. It was cool, tangy, and fabulously
served in a martini glass with a cucumber garnish. We opted for one entree from the land, and one from the sea. My fiance enjoyed the Wild Berry Roasted Split Duckling, a unique approach to the traditional dish with blueberries, raspberry geleé, and a hoisin glaze. It came served with mashed potatoes and asparagus. I went for the Sesame Pan Seared Tuna Steak, a generous cut of tuna, even more generously garnished with a black and white sesame seed crust,
Must Try Items:
15 POINT ESPRESSO
MARTINI ( $14 ) Chilled espresso, Pearl Vanilla vodka, Galliano’s espresso liqueur, Kahlúa, and Merrys Irish Cream
WILD BERRY ROASTED SPLIT
DUCKLING ( $36 ) Blueberries, raspberry geleè, and hoisin glaze, served with mashed potatoes and a choice of house vegetables
Cuisine:
Coastal, traditional seafood
Atmosphere: Upscale yet approachable
Cocktails and fresh bread
P hotography by Gina Mastrostefano
and plated over spaghetti squash with a Thai chili sauce made in-house. Both selections were at once traditional but with just the right amount of flare to make them memorable.
As we enjoyed our dinner, we fawned over our lucky view for the evening. Although it wasn’t quite clear enough to see the sunset, the sky turned a vibrant shade of blue as day transitioned to night. The restaurant was bustling but not overly crowded, the perfect energy to wind down after a long day. Walking back to the car, we took a few extra moments just to soak in our surroundings at 15 Point Road and snap a few selfies to remember the picture-perfect evening.
15 Point Road Restaurant 15 Point Road, Portsmouth 401-683-3138 • 15PointRoad.com
691 Main Street • Warren
Burrata
Très Bon
Thyme, truffles,
By Andrea E. McHugh
Aand traditional French flavors will awaken your inner Francophile in Tiverton
s Paris commanded the global spotlight this summer during the Olympic Games, gastronomes around the world were reminded of France’s culinary prowess. While flying across the pond sounds like a dream to most, Plouf Plouf Gastronomie in Tiverton offers the flavors of the nation’s quintessential cuisine – without the jet-lag.
After earning an enviable reputation for their Plouf Plouf food truck, which traipsed around the East Bay and beyond for half a dozen years, inviting people to delight in escargots, duck confit, and – for those with a sweet tooth – crème brûlée (oui oui!), husband-and-wife-duo chef Mario Molliere and Anik Palulian laid down more permanent roots in 2018 when they opened their full-service seasonal restaurant, Plouf Plouf Gastronomie.
Growing up just outside Paris, Molliere was raised on traditional French rustic-style cuisine, inspiring him to eventually hone his own cooking skills as a chef. His diligence and talent in the field earned him top honors as an executive chef in leading kitchens worldwide before making his way to the US.
Plouf Plouf Gastronomie’s farm-coast location, straddling rolling green hillsides and the tranquility of Nanaquaket Pond, is a natural fit for this cozy eatery. The pocket-sized interior renders the majority of guests dining on the front porch or newly reconstructed side patio illuminated by strings of bistro lights dangling along the pergola.
A BYOB eatery (with a reasonable $8 house fee per bottle of four-pack), it’s conveniently located next to Stonebridge Liquors, but one should take a close look at Plouf Plouf’s drool-worthy menu
before making any wine selections.
It’s clear just from glancing at the list of starters – Les Premiers Plats – that the focus is iconic French favorites. Escargots à la Bourguignonne steal the spotlight with imported French vine snails in garlic butter and parsley, perfect for sopping up with crusty bread served alongside. The Salade Niçoise includes fresh, seared wild-caught yellowfin tuna with baby potatoes, haricot verts (or French green beans), tomato, boiled egg, olives, and anchovy with artisanal greens and scratch-made vinaigrette, and then there’s the slow-cooked, Sherry-forward French onion soup with ooey-gooey gruyère pouring over the sides of its piping hot crock.
“Our menu of classics stays the same for the most part, with additions and surprises popping up as specials,” says Palulian, who can typically
by
Photos
Andrea E. McHugh
Cheese and charcuterie board
Chef Molliere curates a menu of authentic French cuisine, including the Saumon à la Niçoise
be found orchestrating the front of house in between greeting diners, delivering plates to tables, or explaining the selections on the extraordinary cheese board. “Some dishes making an appearance this season include Bilibi, which is a French saffron-mussel chowder made with organic Prince Edward Island mussels,” begins Palulian, who goes on to also describe a chilled Maryland jumbo lump crab salad with fresh dill, braised Wagyu beef Bolognese, an organic rack of lamb, a wildcaught jumbo shrimp fettuccine dish, and fresh brook trout sauteed in browned butter.
Other in-demand dishes celebrating provincial cooking at Plouf Plouf include Duck Magret au Poivre, a zesty French brandy sauce made from the duck’s drippings and green peppercorn, and Moules Pernod, made with cream, shallots, garlic, thyme, fennel, and Pernod, the oldest anise liqueur in France. While many mains come with a side of handcut frites made from Canadian potatoes, a simple salad, or ratatouille, it’d be a crime for any fry aficionado to miss out on the Truffle Frites – available as a side or a shareable dish for the table that’s sure to be devoured.
“Nearly all our ingredients are sourced from farms throughout New England that are dedicated to quality, sustainability, and humane practices,” says Palulian. “Although, we do import our bistro ham and wild vine snails from France. Our lobster, which pops up as a special, is always fresh, whole, and local!”
Don’t forget to save room for dessert. While the selection is small, the flavors are robust, whether you choose the aforementioned crème brûlée, Italian gelato, chocolate mousse, or creme caramel.
The only tragédie about Plouf Plouf Gastronomie is its abbreviated season. The restaurant typically opens at the beginning of June and serves through late October, so plan a fall visit before it’s too late.
Plouf Plouf Gastronomie
2490 Main Road, Tiverton 401-236-1937 • PloufPloufGastronomie.com Inquire for year-round catering services
305B
Food Trends: Beyond the Cob
From chowder to corn ribs and more, chefs get creative with a staple seasonal crop
By Ken Abrams
From the streets of Mexico City to Newport
The secret behind La Vecina Taqueria’s Mexican street corn recipe is found in its authenticity. “That’s where I’m from originally, so it’s where most of my inspiration comes from,” says James Beard Award-nominated chef Mariana Gonzalez-Trasvina.
“The appetizer pays homage to what you’d find on the streets of Mexico City. We make
our own lime aioli; the mayonnaise that is typically used in Mexico City has lime juice instead of lemon, so it has a more astringent flavor. We make our own tajin with salt, fresh lime zest, and dried Aleppo pepper. We mix that with cotija, and we cover the corn with that mixture to try to make it as authentic as possible.”
Gonzalez-Trasvina suggests enjoying the dish with the House Margarita, which uses a corn liquor instead of the usual triple sec. “The corn liquor has more depth of flavor and changes the viscosity and the way the margarita drinks. We also use fresh juice in all of our drinks.” Newport, LaVecinaTaqueria.com
P hoto courtesy of Coast Guard House
Street Corn from La Vecina Taqueria
“GOOD, OLD-FASHION USTOMER SERVICE”
German Motors and its staff (Tracey rocks) personify customer service as it used to be. you want somebody to answer the phone, et you, efficiently and professionally service ar…with a smile…make it your service center. ” – Karen B , Providence, Audi Q5
Move over clams – corn chowder pleases vegetarian crowds
The Newport Chowder Company is widely known for its award-winning seafood chowder – and was even inducted into the International Chowder Hall of Fame in 1989 – but an underrated option on the menu is their corn chowder, prepared without meat or seafood. “We serve a corn chowder that is a perfect blend of spices and creaminess,” says owner Katie Potter. “It can be served with a warm soft pretzel, which is especially good when dipped in chowder.”
Issue 2024
Beyond their beloved clam-centric offerings, the Newport brick-and-mortar eatery and statewide seafood food truck offer Harvest Mac & Cheese, made from corn chowder, cavatappi pasta, and shredded cheese. “We also have a Super Stuffy, which is a stuffed clam with a scoop of our chowder on top,” adds Potter. Other customer favorites include lobster rolls, done New England style (chilled) or Connecticut style (warm), served on a grilled brioche bun, and a grilled shrimp and corn chowder combo available. NewportChowderCompany.com
“EXCELLENT SERVICE”
“Best German car shop in town. Great quality work in a timely fashion and great communication. Highly recommended.”
– Nick C , Volkswagen CC
With locations in Providence and Warren, Chomp Kitchen & Drinks has earned a solid reputation for its burgers and sandwiches. Recently, their Street Corn Q uinoa Bowl has become a hit. “Being able to offer something that’s light but heavy on flavor makes some of our not-so-crazy-about-burgers customers happy,” says owner Tanner Larkin. “We use red or brown quinoa and we make a street corn mix – roast up a bunch of corn and cilantro, add red peppers and jalapeños, and we fold in cotija mayo, lime juice, and red onion – everything you’d put on the full corn on the cob.” Along with avocado and fried Brussels sprouts, the dish is finished with a flavorful sprinkle of chili lime tajin seasoning.
“It’s an awesome vegetarian dish and probably the most popular non-sandwich entree we have on the menu,” says Larkin, who suggests pairing the dish with a Tequila Mockingbird, a signature cocktail with tequila, jalapeño, watermelon, lime, and agave. “The drink is a spicy take on a watermelon margarita and our number-one cocktail at both spots.” Warren, ChompRI.com
Off the cob at a burger joint in Warren
Te elephants complete their Newport migration this month!
ABOUT KAYLA
@k___elizabeth
Awkward millennial sarcastically MacGyvering my way through marriage, motherhood & life with my camera in hand.
– Charlotte Drive
In Ready – 3 Beds/1 Bath Updated Kitchen – Single Level Living on 10,000 sq.ft Lot
PORTSMOUTH – Spring Hill Road Open Design for Seamless Entertaining 4 Beds/2.5 Baths – 2,100+ sq.ft. w/Finished Basement for Additional Living Space
EAST PROVIDENCE – Rich Street
Beautifully Maintained Rumford Colonial 4 Beds/2.5 Baths – Great Fenced Yard –Easy Access to Area Amenities
BRISTOL
REHOBOTH – Pleasant Street Classic Charm & Modern Comfort 4 Beds/2.5 Baths – 1.88 Acres – Lovely Deck & Patio for Your Enjoyment
BRISTOL – Weetamoe Farm Drive Townhouse Condo – 2 Beds/2.5 Baths Short Stroll to Private Beach – Enjoy the View From the Rooftop Patio
PORTSMOUTH – Sandy Point Avenue Glen Hill/Sandy Point – 4 Beds/2.5 Bath – Built for Family Comfort & High-end Entertaining
