Hey Rhody July 2023

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Photo by Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport

News & Life

10 See Block Island from new heights with a longtime parasailing captain

12 Tours shine a light on East Providence’s maritime history

14 Middletown stationer ditches single-use plastic in e orts to reduce ocean trash

16 Freshwater boat launches make it easy to enjoy RI lakes

18 RHODY GEM: A small coastal boutique on Tiverton’s waterfront

Food & Drink

42 EXPERIENCE: Dock and dine at a Warren seafood destination

44 RECIPE: Local catches shine in flavorful fish tacos

48 IN THE KITCHEN: A J&W grad returns to PVD with a downtown pop-up

50 RHODY EATS: RESTAURANT GUIDE

Home & Style

54 HOME: Minimalist decor keeps salt pond views front and center in Wakefield

58 ENTERTAINING: Portability is the priority for seaworthy bites on the go

60 SHOP: Goods with seaside allure from South County

61 BEAUTY: Natural skincare products from RI brands

Art & Culture

64 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

66 RHODY READS: Six tomes with local ties shore to please

68 MAKER: From her Bristol studio, an artist creates beauty with shells

72 #HEYRHODYPETS This month’s winning pet photo – share yours on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

On the Cover: A view of Newport Harbor. Photo by digidreamgrafix / Adobe Stock.

Photo courtesy of Boat House

Photo by Kayla Aucoin

Photo courtesy of BI Parasailing

CONTRIBUTORS

KAYLA AUCOIN

For July’s boating-themed issue, Aucoin headed to the East Bay on a quest to source items for a portable “By Land or By Sea” (page 58) nosh, ready to bring on board or set on a blanket. When not roaming Little Rhody for picnic provisions, the talented creative keeps busy selling her custom line of paper goods at community market events. Instagram: @AucoinDesigns

PATTY J

Think you know the best local places to dine by water? Think again! Our longtime contributing writer Patty J has compiled a list that even lifelong Rhode Islanders might not be aware of. Check out “On the Waterfront” (page 46) for 10 places you need to visit this summer for delicious food with uniquely Ocean State views.

Instagram: @PattyJDotCom

ANDREA E. MCHUGH

Who better qualified to pen our cover story on ways to enjoy and explore waterways than an accomplished writer who resides in Newport, the Sailing Capital of the World? Enter McHugh, who knows her port from her starboard. In “The Ocean State” (page 29), she shares useful info for both would-be and experienced sailors, paddlers, surfers, and more. Instagram: @NewportStyle

HUGH MINOR

A fan of the TV series The Lo v e Boat (the OG, that is) Rhody Reads’ Captain Hugh Minor was game to set a course for an adventure of discovering six picks with nods to our shorelines. Turn to page 66 where you’ll find books repping most every genre – including novel, thriller, memoir, and picture books.

Instagram: @Hughman_Being70

Publishers

Barry Fain

Richard Fleischer

John Howell

Editor in Chief

Elyse Major

Editor

Ken Abrams

Digital Media Specialist

Rachel Brown

Advertising Design Director

Layheang Meas

Senior Designer

Taylor Gilbert

Account Managers

Shelley Cavoli

July 2023

General Manager & Creative Director

Nick DelGiudice

Managing Editor

Abbie Lahmers

Senior Editorial Designer

Abigail Brown

Louann DiMuccio-Darwich

Ann Gallagher

Kristine Mangan Olf

Lisa Watson

Interested in advertising?

Email Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com

Contributing Photographers

Evelyn Ansel

Kayla Aucoin

Cate Brown

Classic Beauty Photography

Corey Favino

Elaine Fredrick

Contributing Writers

Kayla Aucoin

Callie Bisset

Patty J

Belinda Jones

Karen Kalunian

Interns

Abigail Lebowitz

Lani Leigh Photography

Wolf Matthewson

Tyler Mclewin

Kendall Pavan St Laurent

Alexandra Rice

Brett Stanley

Friday 7/7 | 7:30pm

GREG PICCOLO & HEAVY JUICE

Saturday 7/22 | 7:30pm

THE CORVETTES DOO WOP REVUE

Emily Lynch

Andrea E. McHugh

Hugh Minor

Liz Murray

Friday 7/14 | 8pm

STEVIE NICKS-FLEETWOOD MAC-GYPSY

Saturday 7/15 | 7:30pm ONE HIT WONDERERS

Thursday 7/20 | 1:30pm

FRANKIE VALLI/MICHAEL PANARELLO

Friday 7/28 | 8pm

DAVID BOWIE - REBEL REBEL

Saturday 7/29 | 8pm

THE FOO FIGHTERS - THE BEST OF FOO

Sat 8/5 | 7:30pm

NEAL YOUNG EXPERIENCE HARVEST & RUST

Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com

Friday 7/21 | 8pm

ROLLING STONES THE BLUSHING BRIDES

Thursday 8/10 | 5pm-8pm

JULIE BRAYTON & PHYLLIS BEINART GALLERY OPENING

SPONSORED BY

Kayaking on Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods State Park

Photo courtesy of RIDEM

Sea to Sky

The man who brought parasailing and banana boating to the Block

By Abbie Lahmers

On a clear day on Block Island, you don’t have to be in an airplane to catch a glimpse of four states at once – New York’s Montauk Point, the shores of Connecticut, mainland Rhode Island, and Cuttyhunk in Massachusetts are all visible when you’re floating aloft on 800 feet of line attached to captain Robert (Bob) Littlefield’s winchboat.

“Everybody expects parasailing to be something that it’s not,” says Littlefield, who owns and operates Block Island Parasail for a bustling yet fleeting eight-week season every summer, launching around 40 people each day during busy weekends. “It’s not like jumping out of a plane. As you’re clipped into the chute and we start to pick up speed in the boat, you gently lift off of the deck and then you’re slowly reeled out, so you’re actually sitting still and the boat is going away from you. It’s actually kind of relaxing.”

Littlefield grew up on Block Island and used to parasail off the beach as a kid, but the invention of the winchboat, a self-contained parasailing vessel reeling passengers up into the air and safely back onto deck, was a game changer. “Back in the late ‘80s, early ‘90s, it was just becoming a big thing at all the island resorts,” says Littlefield. After witnessing the phenomenon while vacationing in Hawaii in 1988, he knew he needed to introduce the craze to his home island. He didn’t waste any time in purchasing a winchboat, going before the council, and opening Block Island Parasail – which celebrates 35 years this summer.

“My business is all about families,” says Littlefield, explaining that he’s flown young kids who have come back as adults with their own children. “One lady from, maybe it was last year or the year before – the screensaver on her phone was her when she flew with her dad. She was five.” His youngest parasailer? “My nephew was six months old and he flew with my brother.” His oldest passenger was 94, and Littlefield has even made it possible for wheelchair users to take flight.

While it’s not for everyone, parasailing

isn’t just for thrill seekers, either. “I actually fly a lot of people who are afraid of heights, and it doesn’t bother them because of the fact that they’re over the water, and it really is a different perspective,” says Littlefield.

Banana boating, on the other hand – “That’s a little crazier than parasailing,” says Littlefield, who offers the group rides towed by his 23-foot competition ski boat. “It’s kind of like white water rafting on the ocean. All it takes is one person to lean incorrectly and it will flip the whole banana over. With that kind of ride, you’re going to get wet; you’re most likely going to fall in the water.” The 10-12 miles per hour feels more like 30.

Whether aboard a banana or drifting from a parachute, safety is top priority. Despite falling in love with parasailing early on, Littlefield is never strapped into the harness himself anymore for one simple reason: “I’m the only one that’s ever captained the boat,” he says. His many years of experience and knowledge of Block Island’s fickle weather patterns allow him to make sound judgements on and off the water.

But Littlefield doesn’t miss taking to the air, and looks forward to returning to Old Harbor Dock every June. “It’s a great job because you’re making memories and you’re making peoples’ vacations.”

Bob Littlefield has been captaining his winchboat on Block Island for 35 years P hotos courtesy of Block Island Parasail

LAUNCH TIME

For folks looking to parasail or banana boat this summer, Block Island Parasail takes same-day reservations at Old Harbor Dock starting at 9am every morning. Late June through August is the busiest part of the season when the water temperatures are a comfortable 68 degrees, but for parasailers looking to avoid the crowds, still-warm September is the sweet spot. Parasailing is $85 per person, with tandem rides available (and triples for young children), and banana boats hold six passengers and rides are $45 per person. For more information, visit Facebook: Block Island Parasail, Inc.

Keeping the Light On

Grant funding helps an East Providence lighthouse museum continue illuminating history

By Abbie Lahmers

Just 200 yards off the coast of East Providence, on a half-acre island, and atop a 42-foot tower is the Pomham Rocks Lighthouse lantern room –a literal beacon of Rhode Island’s maritime history. Along with panoramic views of the Narragansett Bay and the antique Fresnel lens, the site houses a time capsule of the early 20th century in its exhibits showcasing East Providence lighthouses in their heyday.

“Rhode Island is home to 21 lighthouses. Pomham Rocks is the only surviving of five that once protected the waters in East Providence. The lighthouse still serves as an active aid to navigation,” says Louise Paiva, board member of Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse. The other four – Bullocks Point, Sabin Point, Sassafras, and Fuller Rock – and the people who attended them are represented in rooms throughout.

Paiva explains that the site of Pomham Rocks was chosen in 1871 to help an increasing volume of shipping traffic safely travel to and from the Port of Providence. “The northernmost lighthouse in Narragansett Bay, it was designed by Vermont architect Albert Dow in a French empire mansard style, with seven rooms and a 42-foot tower,” says Paiva.

“It has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1979.”

The never-ending work of preservation is buoyed by a $10,000 grant Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse recently received from The 1772 Foundation in cooperation with Preserve Rhode Island. The funds will go toward the design, fabrication, and installation of 19 sets of historically accurate shutters, along with restoring the outer appearance to its early years. “The shutter project will help protect the lighthouse

from the harmful effects of New England storms, which have increased in frequency and intensity in recent years,” explains Paiva.

“We are so grateful to be selected to receive this prestigious award,” noted Dennis Tardiff, president of Friends of Pomham Rocks, in a press release. “It will allow us to safeguard this important landmark, so it will be a lasting symbol of the crucial role our community played in maritime safety.”

Guests wanting to embark on a voyage through time learning about Pomham Rocks’ crucial role of safely guiding mariners across the Providence River can lace up their good walking shoes and board the Lady Pomham II as self-guided tours are available all summer. “Learn about the surgery performed on the kitchen table,” says Paiva, “and a lightkeeper’s cat that gained national attention by catching his dinner by jumping off the rocky

Photo courtesy of Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse

island.” A trek upstairs to see the Fresnel lens – shaped like a beehive and constructed of 54 individual pieces of glass – is well worth it.

“Lighthouses have played an integral role in the history of our nation. By maintaining Pomham Rocks Lighthouse as a museum, we preserve for everyone a time in American history when maritime trade was essential to our economy,” says Paiva. “Historical sites, such as this lighthouse, cannot be replaced. Once they are gone, the cultural history they embody is destroyed forever.”

Find a schedule of tour dates and registration online at PomhamRocksLighthouse.org, and meet the Friends of Pomham Lighthouse (plus models of lighthouse pets Tommy the cat and Jennifer the dog) at the The Looff: East Pro v idence Arts Festival on August 12.

Drawing Interest

A Middletown-based paper goods company helps reduce plastic in their industry

By Elyse Major

Film buffs may remember the conversation in The Graduate , when a middle-aged partygoer utters one-word advice to titular character Benjamin. “Plastics,” said Mr. McGuire with intensity. “There’s a great future in plastics.” Jump-cut to 2023 and indeed the polymers are ever-present in our daily lives – their durability, light weight, and low production costs have led to domination in a multitude of uses but their sluggish-at-best (hundreds of years) decomposition rate is wreaking havoc on the environment. “The world is surrounded in plastic and it doesn’t need to be that way,” says Jenni Laundon, chief executive officer at E. Frances Paper, a stationery brand based in an auto garage-turned-luminous studio and HQ in Middletown.

In her own little corner of the world, Laundon wants the “positive paper goods company” she runs with Alison Flippin (artist, chief creative officer) and Emily Roberts (chief operations officer), to “be the change.” Having spent a semester sailing as a biology student in college, Laundon saw with her own eyes the floating barges of plastic in the sea. “We realize we are part of the problem, so we want to be part of the solution.”

When the trio started their company in 2013, vendors demanded each product come wrapped in individual plastic cello sleeves to avoid damage from handling. Excited for those first orders, E. Frances Paper acquiesced: cards and notepads were stuffed into single-use plastic sleeves and all boxed sets like their popular Little Notes (as seen on actress Jennifer Garner’s Instagram account) were housed in clear plastic boxes. “Papyrus started this trend of cards in plastic sleeves

about 25 years ago,” says Laundon of the company known for placing decorative embellishments like felt flowers and wood-cut ornaments on card fronts. Roberts chimes in, “Before that, cards were just sitting on shelves, no plastic sleeves.”

Efforts to appease retailers while allowing the E. Frances Paper team to sleep at night includes implementing changes like housing sets of cards in cardboard boxes with cutout windows, cardboard sleeves for notebooks, and low-tack sticker labels indicating what’s inside individual greeting cards – and no more plastic sleeves on cards. The company recently introduced plastic-free packaging with their gift tag boxes, and source only 100 percent cotton for gift tag string. Envelopes come from mills that practice responsible, sustainable forestry and are produced without elemental chlorine (PCF), and every effort is made to choose paper that contains at least 30 percent post-consumer waste. The printing process relies on eco-friendly inks and soy-based solvents, which emit very low traces of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). E. Frances Paper also provides recycling for all pens, markers, and dental care products, and launched PaperNotPlastic.org to share their research and efforts in hopes to create a movement within their trade and beyond.

“Paper packaging is often a lot more expensive,” Laundon shares. “We can’t snap our fingers and expect our customers to be okay with completely new practices in the industry. What we hope is that with time, slowly using less and less plastic will lead to more awareness. So this will be a process. We just hope people are ready sooner rather than later.”

This summer at the Pequot Museum we will be offering a variety of culture-filled fun and educational programs, workshops and events for families and friends of all ages. Join us each Wednesday–Saturday in July and August for some of the best experiences that Mashantucket has to offer at the largest Native American museum in the world!

Photos courtesy of E. Frances Paper

Breezy Boating

Don’t underestimate the Ocean State’s lakes when plotting your water itinerary this summer

By Emily Lynch

Along with being known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island is also home to hundreds of freshwater lakes and ponds covering over 20,000 acres. Beyond providing an important aquatic habitat and a reliable source of drinking water for most residents, these water bodies offer ample recreational opportunities. Recently, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) upgraded boat ramps at a few popular lakes to make summer fun on the water even easier.

The first established state park, Lincoln Woods has a rich history as a recreation hub because of its proximity to major population

centers. At the heart of the park is Olney Pond, a prime location to launch a canoe or kayak, especially now that the recently completed boat ramp allows for the launch of trailered boats, as well as hand-carried ones. Its single-lane concrete ramp, floating dock, and adjacent concrete abutment make launching and retrieving vessels easy for boaters of all abilities. A second T-shaped dock anchored to the shore includes an ADA-compliant canoe and kayak launch, providing universal access for all paddling enthusiasts.

Other freshwater boat ramps that underwent similar improvements include Echo Lake in Glocester, also known as Pascoag Reservoir;

Indian Lake, a 260-acre body of water with lots of natural shoreline in South Kingstown; and Watchaug Pond, one of the state’s largest freshwater lakes, covering 573 acres in Charlestown, much of it within Burlingame State Management Area. Each features a new concrete ramp and timber floating dock.

The design and construction of these boat ramp projects are part of a statewide effort and partnership between DEM and The Nature Conservancy (with funding from the US Fish and Wildlife Service Sport Fish Restoration Program) to improve the state’s most valuable freshwater boating and fishing access sites and promote their use and enjoyment for all.

KNOW BEFORE YOU BOAT

EARLY LAUNCH

The 325-acre Pascoag Reservoir is a popular lake in the summer, so plan to arrive with anglers in the morning if you’re looking for a quiet paddle. The reservoir is large enough that it can easily get windy, even in the summer.

OH ROW YOU DON’T

REEL VARIETY

Freshwater fishing is a year-round family fun activity that offers opportunities to catch a variety of species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, or a variety of warm-water species and pan fish, such as black crappie, yellow perch, sunfish, and pickerel. Each of the lakes mentioned above is stocked with hatchery-raised trout. To experience the thrill of reeling in your first catch of the season, buy a fishing license at RIO.RI.gov. Need help tackling all this? Sign up for an outdoor education class at DEM.RI.go v /are.

Both Echo Lake and Indian Lake restrict the use of motors over 10hp. No personal watercraft are allowed on Watchaug Pond, but motorboats and water-skiing are permitted and common.

SAFETY FIRST

New boating safety regulations require all operators and passengers of canoes, kayaks, sailboards, kiteboards, paddleboards, and any other paddle craft to always wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device while on the water per RIDEM.

Photo courtesy of RIDEM

The Salt Shack

Coastal Gifts

What it is:

A snug coastal-themed gift and apparel shop that is anything but beachy-kitsch.

Where to find it:

Along the part of Route 77 that skirts Mount Hope Bay, look for a stand-alone cottage with window boxes and a charming entrance. If you see a long line of people at the never-sleepy Coastal Roasters, it’s right next door.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

This little shop is a seaside lover’s dream – the back window even looks right out onto the sparkling water! Inside find soft cotton shirts with the shop’s adorbs logo and other graphic Ts with local appeal. There’s also a range of items for both home and table perfect for infusing a salt life vibe into any space or gift bag. Owner Emily Wheeler, who opened the shop in 2011, says, “When the space became available, we thought it would be a perfect complement to our sister store Salt in Tiverton Four Corners. While Salt is primarily clothing, accessories, and gifts, The Salt Shack places an emphasis on coastal and Rhode Island-themed merchandise to cater to our Rhody residents and visitors. Plus, you can’t beat the view – and the coffee!”

The Salt Shack

1793 Main Road, Tiverton

IG: @_thesaltshack_ Facebook: The Salt Shack RI

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@ProvidenceOnline.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!

Photography by Elyse Major

At Atlantic Audiology, Inc. we understand that each patient is unique. Your hearing loss is unique as well. Our goal is to implement a personalized treatment plan to help you hear what you’ve been missing.

RHODY PETS

Pets of the Month | Boat Day | Specialty Vets

Feel

Photo by Alexandra Rice of @travelingwithgusto

Rhody Pets of the Month

By Karen Kalunian

Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters across the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.

If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.

HUNTER & FRENCHIE

This adorable bonded pair is thought to be mother and son or grandmother and grandson – either way they are beautiful! Frenchie (left) female is about 7-8 years young and Hunter (right) male is about 2-3. They are both very shy because they came from a hoarding situation and were never properly socialized. They need lots of love, time, and patience – and multiple visits to get to know them at the shelter to be sure it’s the perfect match.

Warwick Animal Shelter

401-468-4377

JAZZ

This sweet face belongs to Jazz, and she can't wait to bring the music back into your life! She is a domestic short hair with a shiny black coat and her eyes will truly steal your heart. This poor kitty was found outside declawed and fending for herself. She’s looking for a home where she’ll feel safe and loved, and in return, she’ll be your loyal feline companion.

Pawswatch at the Community Cat Care Center

401-285-9800

PawsWatch.org

Photo by Karen Kalunian

Hunter & Frenchie Jazz

Photo courtesy of Community Cat Care Center

Playful, active, and lovable, Melody is everything you could want in a four-legged friend! This beautiful one-year-old medium-sized Schnauzer mix is just waiting to be part of your family. She likes other friendly dogs, going on walks, blueberry treats, and giving kisses. A fenced-in yard is preferred so she has space to run and stretch her legs. Visit the shelter to meet this fun-loving pup.

Heart of RI Animal Rescue League

44 Worthington Road, Cranston 401-467-3670

MELODY

Photo by Tyler Mclewin, courtesy of Heart of RI Animal Rescue League

Melody

Sea Dogs

Local

By Belinda Jones

The summer sun is luring us Ocean Staters out onto our 40 miles of coastline, and naturally we want our dogs to share in the fun. But before you embark on your excursion, check out these essential items and advice for safely making waves.

GOOD BUOY

First port of call, life jacket shopping at The Kayak Centre in Wickford. Manager Rachel McCarty explains that even strong swimmers tire. “Plus, it’s far easier to haul a dog out of the water using the sturdy handle than it is to grapple with wet, slippery fur, especially if the dog is panicking.” McCarty stocks performance dog gear from RuffWear, and recommends bringing your dog into the shop for a fitting. “Avoid under-belly floats if your dog has short legs as they tend to tip them upside-down – the opposite of the safety goal.” KayakCentre.com

NAUTICAL LOOK

Does your pup pant in the heat? To combat July heat waves, get your sea dog outfitted in cooling bandanas, vests, or harnesses from Rumford Pets, with locations across the state. Pick up a portable water dish to ensure fresh sips are at the ready. Add a little nautical fashion flair with Instagrammable captain hats and sailor suits from Port of Paws in Newport. You’ll also find tough rope toys woven into ship wheels and flip-flops – far preferable to your pup chewing your deck shoes. RumfordPet.com, PortOfPaws.com

YACHTY OR NICE

A good day on the water starts with basic obedience to ensure safety aboard the vessel. Pups who are new to voyages – whether land or sea –could benefit from training sessions before adventuring around new faces. Patience Inspired Dog Training in Coventry is all about fostering healthy human-dog relationships through positive learning experiences. Meet with a trainer

or enroll in a class to set you and your pup up for success. PatienceDogTraining.com

ONBOARD BITES

For sea-faring snacks, opt for protein-packed, healthy choices. Eco-friendly dog store Bone Appetit is a great choice for wholesome, organic brands to keep at the ready when your swimming buddy surfaces for a bite. Located in East Greenwich, it’s not far from Greenwich Cove and Goddard Memorial State Park Beach – a great spot for a brisk walk along the water. BoneAppetitDogBakery.com

BONE VOYAGE

Nothing says Rhode Island more than a plush lobster from the nautically themed Wag Nation in Newport, which has plenty of aquatic toys to choose from. Over at Critter Hut in Wakefield, you can find Tall Tails lifesaver rings and Kong’s resilient fish-shaped Wubba Finz. Wag-Nation.com, CritterHutRI.com

hoto (L) courtesy of Ellen Pastor, (R) by Belinda Jones

Vet Best Bets

By Karen Kalunian

When it comes to pet medical care, it’s a matter of when , not if , you’ll need to bring your furry friend in for an exam. With so many different treatments and specialty clinics available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the best course of action to keep your pet healthy and happy. From treating skin allergies to rehabilitating from injuries, specialty clinics offer a range of therapies many pet owners may be unfamiliar with, including acupuncture, laser treatment, and more. While you should always first discuss options with your vet, here’s a handful of services to consider throughout your pet’s lifecycle.

NUTRITION

To prevent some health issues from arising in the first place, proper nutrition is key. Johnna Devereaux, a certified clinical pet nutritionist and the owner of Fetch RI, advises to look at what goes in the food bowl. "Focusing on small changes, like providing better treats or adding fresher foods that are rich in whole food nutrients and cellular enzymes, is the perfect place to start," she explains. Find healthy treats and advice at the shop. Richmond, FetchRI.com

ACUPUNCTURE

At Atlantic Animal Hospital & Wellness Center – a holistic veterinary practice offering a range of traditional and complementary medicine –pets can receive acupuncture to help alleviate a variety of conditions. After your pet’s evaluation, Dr. Seychelle Hoffer and her team of vets work one-on-one with each client to discuss options, which could also include herbal and food therapy prescribed in conjunction with the acupuncture, as well as other therapies. Charlestown, AtlanticAnimalHospital.com

DERMATOLOGY

If a case of the itchies is driving your pet crazy, a visit to Veterinary Healing Arts might just be the solution you've been searching for. Treating skin, nail, and ear diseases in both dogs and cats, Dr. Tiffany Tapp is a board-certified veterinary dermatologist and a fear-free certified practitioner –meaning she not only relieves allergy symptoms in pets but also takes the stress out of the process for the owner. East Greenwich, VetHealingArts.com

LASER TREATMENT

One of the worst things is watching our pets suffer from chronic pain, but new technology can offer better ways of managing pain and promoting faster

healing. A team of staff certified in laser therapy at Newport Animal Hospital offer specialized treatment to meet each pet’s needs in their state-ofthe-art facility – the only laser service of its kind in the area. Newport, NewportAnimalHospital.com

REHAB

When it comes to recovering from an injury or surgery, Rhode Island Pet Rehab can answer your questions and provide options for getting your dog or cat back on their paws and trotting for treats in no time. Louise Anderson Nicolosi, a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner, can work with you on a plan that’s best for your pet, whether it’s a wheeling walker, exercise program, or other methods or restoring quality of life. Charlestown, RhodeIslandPetRehab.com

EMERGENCY SERVICES

In times of crisis, it’s important to know who to call. A 24-hour facility with a team of practitioners who are experts in a range of care and species, Ocean State Veterinary Specialists offers emergency care, where you can rest assured your pet will be monitored around the clock. If you’re unsure of what qualifies as an emergency, their website shares helpful tips to determine when to make the call. East Greenwich, OSVS.net

Demystifying some unique treatments that could improve your four-legged friend’s quality of life

HOMEMADE PUPPY POPS

A simple nutritious treat devised by Johnna Devereaux of Fetch RI can be given to your pup daily for a boost of vitamins and minerals supporting overall health.

INGREDIENTS:

• Lactose-free, unflavored yogurt or kefir

• Organic cucumbers

• Organic blueberries

INSTRUCTIONS:

Puree the cucumber and blueberries in a blender or food processor. Add the yogurt or kefir and blend until smooth. Once smooth, pour the mixture into a silicone ice cube tray, or a small 1-cup pyrex bowl if you want to provide your pup a licking experience versus a chewable one. Place in the freezer for at least 4 hours until firm. (Pro-tip: If you pour your mixture into a bigger container, you can slice into 8-10 squares or servings once frozen. Store the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or BPA-free sealable bag.)

THE OCEAN STATE

SAIL ON AN AMERICA’S CUP BOAT, SURF THE ATLANTIC, PA LE A WINDING RIVER – RI IS YOUR OYSTER

BY ANDREA E. M c HUGH

Every corner of Rhode Island is pretty awe-inspiring, but arguably it’s the sea and those miles of coastline that’s most deeply woven into the state’s identity. With summer finally in its full glory, the itch to experience the aquatic spoils of the Ocean State grows more difficult to ignore. Whether you’re looking to learn to sail, paddle along a river, or go fishing on a yacht, we’ve assembled the ultimate resource for putting the sea in your season.

Photo by Evelyn Ansel, courtesy of Herreshoff

Photo courtesy of The Kayak Centre

LEARN TO SAIL

If you’ve dreamed of gripping the wheel of a sleek sailboat with the wind billowing in your sails up Narragansett Bay’s West Passage at a steady clip but can’t tell stem from stern, fear not. NEW ENGLAND SAILING CENTER (NESC) in Jamestown offers beginner through advanced sailing certification courses, both private or in group settings of up to four. Accredited by the American Sailing Association, private lessons can be tailored to couples or families, as well, so all aboard can learn to cruise safely and confidently, whether trimming the sails or mastering the perfect starboard tack. In the Basic Keelboat course, students learn the fundamental principles of sailing in just two days via both classroom and on-the-water training, rendering them ready to skipper an 18- to 27-foot keelboat. NESailingCenter.com

Founded after the 1983 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. With tomorrow’s sailors in mind, Sail Newport works to attract new enthusiasts of all different ages and backgrounds to the sport. 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

Photo by Evelyn Ansel, courtesy of Herreshoff

Photo courtesy of Discover Newport

1962 AMERICA’S CUP WINNER 12 US 17 WEATHERLY

The America’s Cup is the oldest international competition still operating in any sport and 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

A boating center in Providence? Yup! Founded by a group of sailors in 1994, COMMUNITY BOATING CENTER (CBC) at India Point Park offers outreach, lessons, and affordable access to Narragansett Bay with a range of programming including summer EcoAdventures and sailing camps. Adults can become CBC members, and after completing lessons or passing a challenge test, have access to the center’s fleet of more than 60 boats. Save the date for their annual Renaissance Regatta Fundraiser on August 17. CommunityBoating.com

Bristol’s HERRESHOFF MARINE MUSEUM offers interactive youth and adult sailing classes during summer and fall. Skilled instructors teach the art of seamanship and the principles of sailing aboard classic wooden Herreshoff sloops on the Narragansett Bay. Private lessons are also available, but if landlubbing is more your speed, check out the museum’s exhibits and campus. The Nathanael Greene Herreshoff Model room, named for the famed Bristolian and renowned naval architect, holds a collection of 500 models significant to the Herreshoff legacy. Herreshoff.org

VISITING THE HERRESHOFF BY BOAT? DOCKAGE AND MOORINGS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE WATERFRONT FACILITY

Photo by Evelyn Ansel, courtesy of Marine Museum

SUMMER SESH

Not only does UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND have an awesome sailing team that boasts several Olympians and 28 All-Americans – along with a nicesized sailing fleet of Flying Juniors, RS Q uests, and Turbo 420s – during summer they offer many one-week youth camps for ages 6-17, and 18+ programs at their sailing center in Wakefield. Learn more at Web.URI.edu/CampusRec

BEHIND THE SCENES

If you’re not ready to take to the seas but want to see where the magic happens, visit the INTERNATIONAL YACHT RESTORATION SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & TRADES in Newport. At its core, it’s a trade school, albeit a very unique one focused on maritime trades, design, and modern manufacturing, but it’s also one of the only places you can see shipwrights in training. Take your time exploring the school’s three harborfront acres and don’t miss the elevated catwalk inside the century-old Restoration Hall for a bird’s eye view of yacht restorations in progress. IYRS.edu

Photo courtesy of IYRS

CATCH A WAVE

In 1962, NARRAGANSETT SURF SHOP made history by being the first surf shop to open in Rhode Island. Today, folks of all ages and abilities speckle the swells at spots along RI’s coastline, and most days, the waves are decidedly undaunting, making conditions ideal for both longboards and new learners (but don’t be fooled – a good storm swell brings out top talent!). Best bets for today’s surfers include ISLAND SURF & SPORT in Middletown, MATUNUCK SURF SHOP , PADDLE SURF RI and RHODE ISLAND SURF CO. in Westerly, and WARM WINDS in Narragansett.

Photo by Cate Brown, courtesy of The Sailing Museum

Photo by Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport

MUSEUM DAY

For an interactive, educational, and just plain cool way to learn about the past, present, and future of sailing, you don’t need your sea legs to love everything about THE SAILING MUSEUM , which opened in Newport just last year. With high-tech exhibits like the immersive film dome and an opportunity to test your strength by grinding the winches, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the sport like never before and leave with a little hometown pride when you see just how much Little Rhody has played a critical role in the sport’s success. TheSailingMuseum.org

SECOND BEACH IN NEWPORT AND NARRAGANSETT TOWN BEACH ARE TOP RI SURF SPOTS

PADDLE ALONG

If you’re looking to paddle in various forms, RI has waterways for all levels with scenic locations from Block Island to the Blackstone River and places in between. Before you set out, be sure to do a little research ( ExploreRI.org ) so you’re not in over your head because yes, even Little Rhody has Class I-II whitewater levels (including Clear River, Harrisville). When it comes to equipment, test the waters by renting. NARROW RIVER KAYAKS is now a mobile outfitter providing full- and multi-day kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals with delivery and pickup services; self pick-up is also available in West Kingston ( NarrowRiverKayaks.com ). Over in North Kingstown, THE KAYAK CENTRE offers onsite rentals, inviting paddlers to soak in the charm of picture-perfect Wickford Harbor ( KayakCentre.com ). Seeking a city view? Experienced paddlers with their own kayaks can register for Clear Currents, a community paddling event in Providence on August 19 where illuminated fish are mounted on each craft adding to the spectacle of a WaterFire night ( WaterFire.org ).

Photo by Kendall Pavan St Laurent, courtesy of Narrow River Kayaks

Photo courtesy of Frances Fleet

GO FISH

The boat, the bait, the cast, the wait… fishing has its rewards but you may need a boatload of patience. Enter: THE FRANCES FLEET , which operates four boats out of the Port of Galilee in Narragansett and offers a variety of options, including half- or full-day charters, night fishing, and for serious anglers up for a fight, tuna charters, where you might be reeling in albacore, yellowfin, and bigeye tuna as well as swordfish, mahi-mahi, and bonito that’ll put your muscles to the test ( FrancesFleet.com ). Also docked in Galilee is SEVEN

B’S V , a customized fishing yacht which carries on multi-generational family tradition dating back more than 65 years. Captain Russ Benn’s 80-foot yacht can welcome up to 113 passengers for public fishing or private charters and this time of year, you can cast your line for fluke (summer flounder), black sea bass, bluefish, and porgy (scup) ( SevenBs.com).

HAPPY PADDLERS ON A NARROW RIVER KAYAKS GUIDED TOUR

HOP A FERRY

The BLOCK ISLAND FERRY is celebrating 90 years but keeps swimming forward with tickets now accessible on Apple Wallet or Wallet Passes on Android. Offering both traditional (allowing passengers, bicycles, and vehicles) and high-speed service (passengers and bicycles only), sail away from either Point Judith or Newport this summer for a fantastic day trip or vacay ( BlockIslandFerry.com ). For a low-key BYO-everything adventure, the PRUDENCE ISLAND FERRY departs from Bristol for a 30-minute journey ( PrudenceBayIslandsTransport.com ). From Q uonset Point in just 95 minutes, you can be licking lobster ice cream in Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard via the RHODE ISLAND FAST FERRY ( RhodeIslandFastFerry.com ).

SEE THE LIGHT

Discover new-to-you small islands along the coast with a 90-minute narrated cruise aboard a catamaran that sails past Hope Island, Fox Island, and others. You’ll also see 10 lighthouses and cool sights like Clingstone, the famous “house on the rock” near Jamestown on one of the outcroppings called “The Dumplings.” Fun fact: Mumford & Sons shot a music video in the house in 2018 for their song “Guiding Light.” RhodeIslandFastFerry.com

Photo by Elyse Major

ONE OF 10 LIGHTHOUSES ON THE RI FAST FERRY TOUR

Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Fast Ferry

Photo courtesy of Eric Brown

Dockside Dining

This waterfront restaurant in Warren is a seafood destination for boaters and landlubbers alike

By Taylor Gilbert

Whether arriving by boat or other means of travel, The Wharf is easy to spot along the Warren River by its nautical blue exterior, rooftop deck, and its own private dock. Taking advantage of the restaurant’s unique dock-and-dine amenities, we arrived by boat on a sunny day – a 35-minute voyage from Providence. Pro-tip: mariners flock to The Wharf during summer months, so give the restaurant a call first to ensure there’s room at the dock if you’re traveling by water.

Waterfront views are visible from every section of the restaurant, so even landlubbers can feel like they’re on a boat without ever leaving the dock. I recommend visiting the rooftop deck while waiting for a table below – on most days, there’s live music playing and always tropical cocktails to choose from.

Must-Try Items

MERMAID VIBES ( $13 ) Cocktail of Empress Gin, lavender and honey syrup, lemonade, and lemon juice

ASIAN THAI SALAD ( $16 ) Romaine, cabbage, mandarin orange, carrots, red pepper, edamame, snow peas, almonds, rice noodle, wontons, lime cilantro dressing, and Thai peanut sauce

ASIAN GLAZED CHILEAN SEA BASS ( $42 ) With jasmine rice stir fry and baby bok choy

Cuisine: Seafood

Asian Glazed Chilean Sea Bass

Photos by Taylor Gilbert

Mermaid Vibes and a Spicy Watermelon Margarita

Creative cocktails cater to every taste. A fun go-to for rooftop sipping is Mermaid Vibes with Empress gin, lavender syrup, and lemonade, plus a little sparkle from golden edible glitter stars and a stunning purple-to-pink gradient. For a bit of a kick, go for the Spicy Watermelon Margarita, featuring jalapeño-infused tequila and watermelon puree.

Once we settled into our seats, we perused the menu. The Wharf is an obvious choice for seafood lovers – with a full raw bar, steamed lobster, and the fresh catch of the day – but the menu has a satisfying selection of flatbreads and salads, too.

We opted to embrace the nautical vibe and split the Coconut Shrimp first. This dish has a perfect balance of crunchy sweetness from the panko coconut exterior and a little zest from the Asian chili sauce drizzle. It comes with a refreshing orange pineapple marmalade dipping sauce. Next came the Asian Thai Salad – another sweet and savory offering. This is the perfect choice for those who love a classic chopped salad but crave some extra flavor and texture. With toppings like mandarin orange slices, crisp snow peas, and almonds over rice noodles coated in a lime cilantro dressing and Thai peanut sauce, what’s not to like?

For the main course, we decided to continue our theme and ordered, by our server’s recommendation, the Asian Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, served pan-seared over a jasmine rice stir fry, with baby bok choy. The sea bass had a smooth buttery mouthfeel with a light flavor complemented nicely by the veggies.

Though we had a return boat journey ahead of us and were already plenty full, we ordered one last pick-me-up – the creme brulee – before setting sail. The Wharf is a must-stop on any boater’s day trip, or for a summer seafood fix surrounded by cozy nautical vibes and views.

The Wharf

215 Water Street, Warren 401-289-2524 • TheWharfTavernRI.com

Taco Night

This seafood favorite gets a Mediterranean twist with fresh cucumber salad

By Liz Murray

FISH MARKETS

Can’t decide what seafood is right for you? Ask your local fishmonger for recommendations. Here’s a handful of spots stocking catches from local shores.

ANDRADE’S CATCH

Bristol

BRIGHTSIDE FISH MARKET

Wakefield

DAILY CATCH SEAFOOD

Smithfield

DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD MARKET

Warwick

FEARLESS FISH MARKET

Pro v idence

FERRY WHARF FISH MARKET

Narragansett

GARDNER’S WHARF SEAFOOD

Wickford

THE LOCAL CATCH

Delivery from TheLocalCatch.com

TThese Mediterranean-inspired fish tacos are the perfect healthy addition to your summer recipe list! Flakey white fish is baked with oregano and other spices, then topped with a balsamic cucumber tomato salad and a tangy lemon garlic Greek yogurt sauce. It comes together in about 20 minutes and is a bright and fresh way to enjoy in-season produce. When it comes to choosing the right fish, almost any will do, so opt for local, sustainable catches.

INGREDIENTS

Fish:

• 1.5 pounds white fish of preference, cut into 2-4 equal portions (pictured is cod loin)

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 Tbsp dried oregano

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Cucumber Mixture:

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced

• 2 medium tomatoes, cored and diced

• 1 small red onion, peeled and diced

• 10 basil leaves, sliced and chopped

• 3 Tbsp parsley, minced

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

• ¼ tsp salt

• Fresh-cracked black pepper

Greek Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 Tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon

• 2 garlic cloves minced or pressed

• Pinch of salt

• 4 large tortillas or 8 small tortillas

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of a baking dish, and place the fish in, turning to coat with the olive oil.

2. Mix together the cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Spread evenly over the tops of the fish. Bake until the thickest part registers 145ºF, about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness.

3. While the fish is cooking, place diced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion into a large bowl. Sprinkle with basil and parsley. Mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, and add the mixture to the bowl. Stir well and set aside.

4. For the sauce, mix plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice and minced garlic. Add a pinch of salt and set aside.

5. When the fish is done, distribute evenly onto the tortillas. Top with a few scoops of the cucumber tomato mixture, and spoon over the lemon Greek yogurt sauce. Enjoy!

P hoto by Liz Murray

On the Waterfront

Ten places that make any summertime meal feel oceans away

By Patty J

The much-anticipated patio season in Lil’ Rhody has arrived – but it won’t last, so don’t drag your feet when it comes to visiting these waterfront spots for al fresco drinks and food. From fine dining with sweeping sea views to casual fare over the sounds of a rambling river, these sunny-day destinations are just a handful of the Ocean State’s coastal dining scene.

15 Point Road Restaurant

A classic example of Rhode Island waterfront wining and dining – with stuffies, littlenecks, lobster bisque, and more treats from the sea on the menu – this eatery on the Sakonnet River boasts an open-air patio where diners can occasionally spy fishing boats

and even lobstermen checking their traps. Portsmouth,15PointRoad.com

Boat House

Located on Mount Hope Bay, Boat House has earned a reputation for consistently great food, service, and ambiance, including a superb coastal setting. Whether you want to treat yourself to local seafood or go the salad route (along with a side of salty breezes), you can’t go wrong. Tiverton, BoatHouseTiverton.com

Bridge Restaurant

This former wheelhouse is bathed in light on the inside, and an outdoor deck overlooks the Pawcatuck River. Sip a Grey Sail beer (based nearby on Canal Street) and indulge in their

raw bar and weeknight buck-a-shuck. Or go on Sunday afternoon for a mimosa and their spin on eggs Benedict. Westerly, BridgeRI.com

Cap’ N Jack’s

Open since 1972 (family-owned and -operated, too), this quaint restaurant, including Salt Marsh Pub & Raw Bar inside, has become known for their fish ‘n chips, clam cakes, and chowder over a cold beer, knocked back while looking out over the marsh. Watch for the tall blue sign and porthole windows. South Kingstown, CapnJacksRestaurant.com

Crow’s Nest

Even if you don’t hail from Apponaug, odds are good you’re already familiar with Crow’s

Crow’s Nest

Nest, a fish house and oyster bar that’s garnered quite the following. With a recently added patio, there’s no reason not to indulge in a sampler of shellfish or Tuna Tower with a refreshing frozen beverage. Warwick, CrowsNestRI.com

Frank & John From Italy On The Water

Looking for a laidback restaurant where you can enjoy some old-school Italian eats? This no-frills eatery on a man-made lake has a spacious deck where you can tuck into eggplant or chicken parm sandwiches, pasta entrees, and pizza, with a cocktail. Green v ille, FrankJohnFromItalyOnTheWater.com

River Falls Restaurant

Seated outside on the babbling banks of the Blackstone River is a fab spot to enjoy River Falls’ full bar and menu of comfort eats on a summer day or night. From fish and chips to wings, pastas, and tempting desserts like housemade cheesecake, it’s an essential stop in northern RI. Woonsocket, RiverFallsComplex.com

Tavern By The Sea

As the name would suggest, waterside scenes of the Wickford Harbor are part of the experience at this tavern in its 18th season. Enjoy an ice cold lemonade and crab cake sandwich outside – but reservations are highly recommended because the wait for a table on any given July day can be lengthy. Wickford, TavernByTheSeaRI.com

Tel Aviv Waterfront

Part cigar and hookah lounge, part bar and grille (with a smoke-free second-level dining room), this popular Fox Point destination for Mediterranean brunch, lunch, and dinner opens up for al fresco during the summer months, where diners enjoy an extensive area with Providence River views. Pro v idence, TelAvivCigarBarAndGrill.com

Trafford Restaurant

This gorgeous Water Street restaurant features an open-air bar and porch seating with swell views of the Barrington River. Grab a lobster bisque, raw bar sampler, and one of their glorious margaritas, along with a primo seat not far from docks and bobbing boats. Warren, TraffordRestaurant.com

Yes, Chef

A culinary scene in transition provides fertile ground for a new dining concept in downtown Providence

By Rose Kenyon

When chef Eric Brown moved back to the area last fall, he had no idea he’d be hosting a pop-up dinner in Providence just four days later. But with his mattress still on the floor, a call for guest chefs had him unpacking his knives and plates sooner than expected. Now, under the moniker of Thick Neck, you can get a taste of his fine coastal New England fare every week at The Dean Hotel.

Brown is no stranger to Providence. While attending Johnson & Wales, he gained some of his early experience in fine dining here. Looking for a fresh scene after college and searching for more fine dining opportunities, he moved to Chicago to work in Michelin star kitchens.

After three or four years in a few different restaurants, Brown started doing his own popup dinners. Soon after, he got a call from the owners of Saint Emeric, a “secret restaurant” in Chicago’s Logan Square. The building was once a church, built in 1880, but had been converted to a residential property. In hopes of keeping the space accessible to the community, the owners opened a speakeasy-style dining venue in the basement.

After one impressive meal, Brown was brought on to help run the operation. “Once we really caught our stride,” Brown says, “the format was three serves a week – Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – with only 12 guests per night. It was BYOB with a blind, eight to 10-course chef’s tasting menu. Customers didn’t know the address or what they were having until three days before.”

Three years later, after a sold-out summer at Saint Emeric, Brown and his fiance decided to move back to New England to be near family. While Brown was on the lookout for his next fine dining venture, he didn’t expect to plug back into the Providence culinary scene so quickly. At The Dean, Brown and colleague Justin Friedman work together to run Thick Neck, which you can find every Friday, Saturday, and Monday at The Dean Hotel. Their dinner is offered alongside The Dean Bar team who curate the beverage list.

Thick Neck’s menu stays around 10 items, with three to five new items incorporated every week. While they serve an occasional

meat dish, more often than not, the menu is pescatarian. Ingredients are sourced locally as much as possible. “One really fortunate thing about cooking in Providence,” Brown says, “is the accessibility to farms and farmers that are willing to deliver to your doorstep. We work a lot with Wishing Stone Farm and White Barn Farm. We’re still working to build connections with fishermen and fish purveyors. We source coastal and Point Judith seafood.” Thick Neck also features a rave-worthy cheese selection from Sweet and Salty Farm in Little Compton, which Brown calls a “tiny farm making perfect cheese.” Brown’s goal is to serve high-quality, integrity-driven food in an approachable, sharable way. “Right now we’re taking the intent and the creative elements that go into a fine dining meal and dressing it down into nice, shareable, approachable dishes,” he says. One

favorite is the Creamed Beans, a light bean stew with muscles, kohlrabi, and Japanese chili paste. Another is the Spaghetti Squash Salad, which Brown says is by leaps and bounds one of his favorites from his time at Saint Emeric. The dish features lightly roasted spaghetti squash dressed in a creamy vinaigrette made from burnt pumpkin seeds. It’s topped with dried parsley and fermented squash powder.

With beloved restaurants like Chez Pascal, big king, and north closed, Brown says the Providence food scene is in a transitional period, with a lot of room for upcoming chefs, talents, and concepts. For him, it’s an exciting time to be cooking in Providence on his own terms. He looks forward to seeing what buds in the city in the next couple of years, and hopes a permanent home for Thick Neck will be part of that future. Follow @eat_thickneck on Instagram for menus.

P hotos courtesy of Eric Brown

Chef Eric Brown of Thick Neck

Discover the flavors of Rhode Island! From fresh seafood shacks to farm-to-table eateries, little Rhody o ers a diverse culinary landscape that caters to all tastes. Indulge in delicious seafood, global cuisines, and locally-inspired dishes, and experience the culinary richness of the Ocean State with a dining experience that will leave you craving for more.

Dave’s Fresh Marketplace

1000 Division Street Suite 20, East Greenwich | 401-558-0190 | davesmarketplace.com/WeeklySpecials

Made fresh daily in our kitchens - 60+ Take Out Options!

All Favorites Cafe

1678 Broad St, Cranston | 401-941-3550 allfavoritescafe.com |

A Breakfast/Lunch restaurant serving a mash up of Southern and French inspired flavors. Everything from French Toast to Cubanos.

Chelo’s Hometown Bar & Grille

8 locations across RI!

Chelos.com |

A Rhode Island staple since 1955! Fresh, homemade deliciousness in every bite.

El Paisa Restaurant Patio and Bar

598 Dexter Street, Central Falls 401-726-8864 | ElPaisa.com |

Since 1978, El Paisa Restaurant and Bar has served home-cooked, classic Colombian recipes and cocktails with great joy.

BLU On The Water

20 Water St. East Greenwich | 401-885-3700

bluonthewater.com |

Fresh seafood daily and live outdoor entertainment make BLU RI’s premier waterfront destination.

Chelo’s Waterfront

1 Masthead Dr. Warwick | 401-884-3000

Cheloswaterfrontri.com |

Fresh food, family friendly, and unparalleled views of Greenwich Bay.

Mambo Sushi

380 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-642-8439 |

mambosushiprovidence.com

Peruvian Flair to Asian Cuisine

CAV Restaurant

14 Imperial Place, Providence | 401 751-9164

CavRestaurant.com |

Bistro style Brunch and Lunch. Fine Dining Dinner.

The Coast Guard House Restaurant

40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett | 401-789-0700

thecoastguardhouse.com |

Waterfront dining - local raw bar, lobster, pasta, steak & seafood. Award-winning wine list. Dining rooms, bars, patio & deck.

Marcelino’s Boutique Bar

1 W Exchange St, Providence | 401-666-0088

marcelinosboutiquebar.com |

Craft cocktail bar serving Mid-Terranean Fusion Mezze and World-Class Craft Cocktails | #ItsMarcelinos

Slice of Heaven

32 Narragansett Ave. Jamestown

401-423-9866 | sliceofheavenri.com

| Serving breakfast, lunch and daily handcrafted pastries. Family and dog friendly with a great outdoor patio.

Stack House

99 Fortin Road, Unit 108, Kingston

401-854-7470 | Stackhouseus.com |

New England’s Premier Brunch, Fried Chicken and Southern Cuisine Restaurant with a menu boastings over 20 chicken flavors.

Plus,

Tallulah’s Taqueria

Three Locations: West End • Fox Point • Jamestown tallulahstaqueria.com | Order by App, Online, or In-Store. Chicano Street Food...Rooted in Hospitality.

Twin Willows

865 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett

401-789-8153 | TwinWillowsRI.com |

Water-view dining with fresh lobsters & steamers served daily in this casual sports bar/restaurant.

For

Photos by Elaine Fredrick, courtesy of Three Sparrows Interior Design

Coastal Contemporary

A minimalist approach keeps the focus on the seaside location in Wakefield

By Elyse Major

There’s something about the allure of the Ocean State that draws most expats back, even if on a part-time basis. The Chans both grew up by the ocean in Westerly and, while they made their home in Wellesley, MA after finishing their medical training, always dreamed of one day owning a home near the ocean. “Once we were in the position to be able to buy a beach house, we really did not seriously consider anywhere other than South County, where we would not only be close to the ocean but also close to family,” says Mrs. Chan.

For their active family of four, the Wakefield location was the main selling point. The property is set back from the ocean on a salt pond, which offers protection from storms as well as opportunities for recreation while still offering views of the water and Block Island in the distance. “The features of the house that appealed to us most were the elevated living space, both for breathtaking views and for storm protection, as well as the high ceilings, the multitude of south-facing windows, and the large deck,” Chan adds.

The open-concept floor plan in the living,

A sectional sofa offers ample seating

Wishbone chairs are a light touch around the table

dining, and kitchen area required a furniture plan that would allow the space to function for their needs as well as create distinction between the three areas. Defining their decorating style as contemporary coastal, the Chans sought the expertise of Three Sparrows Interior Design, a small residential design firm located across the bay in Warren. “Since this was their beach home, they wanted the interior to reflect their surroundings but still have the essence of their clean minimalistic style,” says Nicole Martel, TSID interior designer. While furnishings in main living spaces

Photos by Elaine Fredrick, courtesy of Three Sparrows Interior Design

are streamlined and contemporary, livable textures like soft textiles and wood grains make them anything but sterile. A creamy backdrop of shiplap and barely-there – or none at all – window treatments keep the focus on the coveted views outside. A faded shoreline-inspired palette of sand, cloudy gray, and dusty indigo lend a coastal feel that is at once casual and elegant.

“It is calming, clean, inviting, and timeless,” says Chan of her seaside retreat. “From the furniture, to the rugs, to the pillows, to the beach-themed artwork, to the rustic wooden whale wall hanging, to the scent of the sandalwood vanilla candles...we could not be more happy with the way Nicole pulled everything together!”

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.

Family Faves

The Chan family cite the following as So Co go-tos: “Matunuck Oyster Bar in East Matunuck (we can see the oyster farm from our deck), The Coast Guard House in Narragansett (especially the igloos during the pandemic), Del’s Frozen Lemonade, the gift shop at Skip’s Dock in Jerusalem, and Adventureland in Narragansett.”

Rhody Love

Best part of spending time in the Ocean State? “Being able to smell the sea and feel the ocean breeze and hear the crash of the waves. Being able to drive to the fishing docks in Galilee and buy fresh seafood directly from a fisherman. Being able to bring our sons to many of the places we enjoyed going as children growing up in RI. Being able to drive here from the Boston area in less than 1.5 hours,” says the family.

Local Accents

The curtain panels in the bedroom and dining space were made by Budget Blinds of Westerly. The throw pillows came from Three Sparrows’ own shop.

Best of Houzz

Three Sparrows is known for providing clients with timeless spaces that are visually stunning yet practical for the families who will live in them for years to come. Their aesthetic uniquely blends modern farmhouse with New England coastal in a way that thoughtfully reflects each client’s lifestyle. ThreeSparrowsHome.com

Photos by Elaine Fredrick, courtesy of Three Sparrows Interior Design

Subtle artwork complements window views

By Land or By Sea

From a basket that turns into a table to grab-and-go gourmet and wine, everything you need for a picnic with panache

By Kayla Aucoin

It’s hard to think of a better summer afternoon than drifting lazily on the water in a boat – or set up on a blanket on the grass – with good company, breathtaking views, and a warm breeze. Rhode Island is filled with picnic-perfect destinations, and a trip to Bristol and Middletown easily provides essentials for an elegant meal on the go.

PACK AND PLAY

Directly across from Independence Park in Bristol is Fenwick & Oliver, a homegoods shop curated by owners Lisa Newcity and Don Ruest, an industrious couple with a knack for entertaining. Inside, find leveled-up paper goods, boat-friendly plastic wine glasses, and the pièce de résistance – the Convertible Picnic Table Basket by F&O, handcrafted by Ruest himself. Functional, sturdy, and beautiful, load it up to carry along and then open the latches and it becomes a raised surface perfect for setting up your soiree.

GRAB AND GO

Anchored at an Aquidneck Island marina? With three days notice, the folks at Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown will deliver bagged lunches, platters, cookies, cupcakes, and more to you from their To Go Boat Menu. For landlubbers, picnic provisions are aplenty, including fruit and veggie platters, baked goods, meals, and more, plus bagged lunches that come with a sandwich, chips, fruit, cookie, and drink. This all happens inside a post-and-beam market cafe on over 100 acres of farmland owned by Jan and Michelle Eckhard.

SIP AND SHOP

There are many places to buy wine, but why not go to the source? Five minutes from Sweet Berry Farm is Newport Vineyards, a popular spot for dining and drinks. Crowd pleasers include their Great White and Island White, which can be purchased along with Vidal Blanc as their Spring Sweets Trio. These sweeter white wines pair nicely with cheeses, fruits, and desserts. Place your pick in a fanciful wine bag with matching cocktail napkins for a fun centerpiece.

Bottles of white pair nicely with a fresh loaf of blueberry bread

Photography and styling by Kayla Aucoin, courtesy of AUCOIN

This convertible tote easily transforms into a table with surface space for your picnic spread

RHODY RESOURCES

A handy list of brands, shops, and makers featured in this article:

AUCOIN

Featured Products: cocktail napkins and wine bag North Kingstown | @aucoindesigns

FENWICK & OLIVER

Featured Products: convertible picnic basket, paper products, plastic wine glasses, Turkish towel Bristol | @fenwick.and.oliver

NEWPORT VINEYARDS

Featured Products: Great White Wine, Island White Wine Middletown | @newportvines

SWEET BERRY FARM

Featured Products: blueberry loaf, gluten-free crackers, packaged sandwiches, and tabouleh

Middletown | @sweetberryfarmri

Ocean State of Mind

Whether serving lemonade

By Elyse Major

ANCHOR PENDANT: The Love Shack by LOLA, Newport

BARNACLE NECKLACE: MarMar Boutique, Wakefield

SHELL BANK: Peter Pots Pottery, West Kingston

BLUE WAVE CHEESE BOARDS: SunStruck Gift Boutique, Narragansett

BLUE SEA URCHIN PITCHER: Fuller Art Gallery, Jamestown

ANCHOR BAG: Conanicut Gift Shop, Jamestown

FRAMED FINE ART PRINT: Didem Kokturk Fine Art at Harbor View Artisans, Wickford

Farm to Tub

Nourish summer skin with small-batch bath and body products made naturally

By Callie Bisset

OOcean State summers are filled with long days relaxing on beach es, riding on bike paths, and kayak ing waterways. Everything seems a little more magical, and we dream of the perfect sun-kissed radiant skin. Unfortunately, reality is sometimes a bit different. There’s bug bites, sunburns, and dry skin to combat. Thankfully, we have products made right here to help keep safe, hydrated, and glowing well past Labor Day.

BUG SPRAY

Tick season is predicted to be bad this year, so if your plans include woodland adventures or just spending time outdoors, you need to protect yourself. Enter Tick Off! from Hope Valley-based All Things Lavender. Formulated by a husband-and-wife team using homegrown lavender, herbs, and other locally sourced ingredients, they attest to their spray keeping ticks at bay. DEET-free, it gets its strength from a mix of essential oils. Find products at Peter Pots Pottery, West Kingston, and at community markets across the state; for event schedule, visit AllThingsLavender.com.

Want a bronzed look without the sun damage? Cranston’s own Slay Natural’s GLOW Bronzing Body Butter gives all that plus a hint of shimmer. Body butters are made from high-quality, unrefined ingredients and are jam-packed with nutrients to nourish and heal the skin. Even better, Slay Natural’s products utilize Fair Trade shea butter that helps support the women of Ghana. SlayNaturalBody.com

LIP BALM

Protecting skin from the sun means also protecting your lips, and a sweet way to do that is with Beeswax & Honey Lip Balm from Aquidneck Honey. Made from pure raw honey from Jeff Mello’s East Bay apiaries, this SPF 15 stick available in six lip-smacking flavors will keep your kisser from stinging. Feel like heading to Hive HQ in Tiverton? Just call first (862-2171), or shop online at AquidneckHoney.com.

POWDER

Keep fresh, dry, and sweet smelling with a dusting of this all-natural body powder drawing its light scent from finely ground lavender buds, thyme flowers, and sage. Part of the Farmaesthetics herbal skincare line, it’s perfect for use after a post-beach shower or to start your day with a preventative sprinkle that helps reduce chafing by on summer sweaty places like under arms, inner thighs, and feet. Shop online or head to their pop-up shed on the grounds of Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown. Farmaesthetics.com

SOAP

Rich soaps handcrafted at Heavenly Homestead Farm in Foster are perfect for after-sun skin care. All soaps are made from raw goat’s milk right on the farm, and boast minerals and vitamins ready to nourish and hydrate. Soaps are as pretty as they are luxurious with vibrant swirls and designs making each a work of art. Look for seasonal scents like Watermelon, Stars & Stripes, and Campfire S’mores. See for yourself at Beauty and the Bath, Wickford; Brown & Hopkins Country Store, Chepachet; or online at HeavenlyHomesteadSoaps.com.

Alyssa Wick sunbathing on the rocky coastline

Photo by Classic Beauty Photography, courtesy of The Rhode Island Mermaid

e Must List

10 essential events this month

July 4: The 97th annual Ancients and Horribles Independence Day Parade returns to the village of Glocester with bizarre floats, outlandish costumes, and some of the most irreverent personalities you’ll find anywhere. GlocesterRI.org

July 4-23: Featuring everything from opera to chamber music, the Newport Classical Music Festival boasts an impressive lineup of acclaimed musicians from around the world at various locations around the seaside city. NewportClassical.org

July 8: North Smith eld Heritage Day is a free event that commemorates the town’s Indigenous, colonial, and political heritage with walking tours, antiques, art, and car displays, plus food vendors and more. NSHeritageAssn.org

July 4: For a more traditional Fourth of July experience, line up along the red, white, and blue-striped roads of Bristol for the ultimate patriotic display at the oldest July 4th Parade in the nation. FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com

July 8-9: The annual Wickford Art Festival features 200+ artists and crafters from across New England at Wilson Park displaying their wares, just as they’ve done for 60 years. WickfordArt.org

July 9-22: Providence Restaurant Weeks is a two-week dining event – the perfect opportunity to try new-to-you places and dishes with participating venues in Providence, Cranston, and Warwick o ering deals and specials. GoProvidence.com/rw/

July 16-29: The FringePVD Festival encourages attendees to “keep an open mind and have fun.” Over 300 performing artists from across the US will share their work in uncensored performances of theater, dance, visual arts, and more. FringePVD.org

July 19-23: Swamp Meadow Community eatre presents an adaptation of e Jungle Book, the Rudyard Kipling classic recast as a comedic, one-act play written by Audrey Dubois and Shannon McLoud. Burrillville, Assembly eatre.org

July 23: The FirstWorks Summer Beats Concerts continue with Red Baraat, a Brooklyn, NY band that performs explosive, multicultural dance music – bhangra funk –in a high-octane show at the Roger Williams Park Bandstand. Pro v idence, FirstWorks.org

July 29-30: The gang from RI Comic Con has assembled voice actors, artists, vendors, and will set up a Maid Cafe for two days of fun at the Rhode Island Anime Con at RI Convention Center. Pro v idence, RIAnime.com

Photo courtesy of Discover Newport

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Rhody Reads

Coastal beauty, intrigue, and heart are at the core of these six picks

By Hugh Minor

Set a course for adventure with this month’s selections curated to explore the beauty, mystery, and quirks of the Ocean State. From an illustrated picture book to a stunning coffee table book to engrossing yarns and history lessons, every salt and landlubber is shore to find something that floats their boat. Be a first mate and purchase copies at your local independent bookseller.

LA-based photographer Gray Malin’s MO is “make every day a getaway,” and flipping through his latest collection in Coastal is sure to transport you from couch to beach. More than a coffee table book, this follow up to 2016’s Beaches , is a treasured keepsake for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the ocean. Shot in his pioneering aerial style, Narragansett is included, along with other grand beaches around the globe, including Hawaii and Australia.

Noted lighthouse and history expert Ray Jones returns with his latest exploration, Lighthouses of New England: From Maine to Long Island Sound . Engaging stories of Rhode Island’s lighthouses and their keepers are featured prominently and illustrated with photographs that demonstrate their magnificence. These watchers of the sea serve to remind us of the dangers that sailors faced during their ocean travels while still holding a cherished place in our culture today.

Explore the beauty of Jamestown letter by letter with Sharon McDermott Babbitt’s An Island Alphabet: Jamestown, Rhode Island . The island resident and youth services librarian at Kingston Free Library collaborated with East Greenwich artist and retired police officer Donald Mong to bring young learners a new way to explore letters through the sights and sounds of this unique coastal community. It’s the perfect gift for Conanicut Island fans of all ages.

Greg McLaughlin sets Moonstone in Matunuck, where the author spent every summer of his youth. Filled with landmarks and loving jabs of the community, the story centers around the return of native son Mick Maguire. When aging parents, real estate, and romance come crashing down, Mick must rise to the challenges. Moonstone is the third book in McLaughlin’s Matunuck Beach Series, which includes Matunuck and Erosion .

In Will Sofrin’s memoir, All Hands On Deck A Modern-Day High Seas Adventure to the Far Side of the World , a film crew must transport The Rose , a replica of an 18th-century ship, from Newport to California for the shooting of Master and Commander , an adventure starring Russell Crowe. Then a 21-year-old wooden boat builder and yacht racer who joined as the ship’s carpenter, Sofrin tells the suspenseful tale of near-disasters during the monumental voyage.

The America’s Cup in Newport is the colorful setting for Robert Elliott’s The Shrouded Keel: A Michael Wickham Mystery . Amidst crowds of sailors and tourists, a radio talk show host and the city’s lead homicide detective team up to investigate the death of a young nurse; soon evidence points to potential links from past crimes at another coastal resort city in Vietnam. Wealth and power come into play as the pair works against the clock to prevent further deaths.

Send your Rhody book recommendations to Hugh at RhodyReads@gmail.com

Sailor’s Valentine

Melonie Massa’s fascination with flowers and the sea shines through in her ethereal creations

By Callie Bisset

Melonie Massa has been making things for as long as she can remember, but it was at age 10 that she found the medium she still uses today. During a school field trip to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the Bristol native first laid eyes on a sailor’s valentine, an old maritime craft dating back to the 1800s where shadow boxes are filled with intricate designs made of seashells. The lore is that sailors would bring these home to their

sweethearts as love tokens from sea. “So many of them featured shell flowers, and I became obsessed with that detail,” explains Massa. Combining artistic talent with an interest in botany, Massa began looking at shells as petals – and was soon constructing flowers. At first, Massa created wearable pieces for herself like jewelry and hair accessories, but received so many compliments and inquiries that she started carrying business cards. In 2009 she opened an online Etsy shop and started attending

artisan shows under the name Mermaid’s Baubles. Today, Massa produces and sells her shell blossoms as bracelets, rings, pendants, earrings, and more, along with taking custom orders. One of her favorite requests was creating home accents for a newlywed couple using shells they’d beachcombed on their honeymoon.

Seeking shells for Mermaid’s Baubles has brought Massa to the beaches of Puerto Rico, and most recently Riviera Maya, a stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán

by Wolf Matthewson

Closer to home, Massa is active in the local community and works with Save the Bay organizing and leading beach cleanup efforts. “My art is exclusively created using a medium that is not an infinite resource,” notes Massa who is very careful to never take any live creatures and aims to leave the shoreline cleaner and freer of

debris than when she arrived. “There are some species of mollusks, conchs, and such that are highly desirable and also extremely rare, and there are many treasures that I use sparingly in my work that are now sadly extinct,” says Massa of her extensive shell collection, which includes antique shells from the 1920s. While her handiwork can be found at artisan co-op shops around the state, Massa still enjoys selling at festivals and can be found popping up throughout New England in the summer months,

as well as at the Scituate Art Festival in October. However, she has cut back a bit on outdoor markets due to a recent brush with skin cancer. Massa emphasizes that when she works festivals she may be “out in the blazing sun for up to 12 hours a day without a break” and now tries to be mindful of that reality when filling her schedule.

“I’d like to encourage all my fellow festival artists and fellow beachcombers to wear sunscreen every day, and make sure to get a dermatologist check every year.” Spoken like a true mer-mom.

LEFT: Massa places shells in a shadowbox

RIGHT: The completed sailor’s valentine

Peninsula; the shells collected from that visit are part of her Summer 2023 collection. “I am having so much fun using them, along with seashells I beachcomb right in my backyard.”

The Life Aquatic

By Elyse Major

With Disney’s The Little Mermaid packing movie theaters this summer, there is a resurgence in popularity for all things mer; there’s even the trending hashtag “mermaidcore,” which celebrates an aesthetic of shimmery sequins and paillettes, dreamy shades of aqua and coral, and mermaidlike silhouettes in fashion. Far from new, these fantastic creatures with the upper body and head of a human and tail of a fish have been swimming about in folklore and mythology for centuries, long before Hans Christian Anderson penned the fairy tale in 1836. With 400 miles of shoreline, it seems quite natural that the Ocean State would have its share of mermaids – and businesses devoted to these enchanting sea dwellers.

“I am a Rhode Island native and grew up making memories on all of the beaches across Rhode Island,” begins Alyssa Wick, founder of The Rhode Island Mermaid, a venture

providing professional mermaid entertainment for parties and public events. This year Wick, who is Freedive/PADI certified (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), will debut the region’s first and only transportable viewing tank, which holds 2,400 gallons of water and has a seven-by-six-foot acrylic window – “so that people can enjoy watching a mermaid in her natural underwater habitat,” she explains.

Wick’s original plan was to become a rescue swimmer but that dream was sunk during her senior year of high school when she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and didn’t qualify to join the US Coast Guard. Fast forward to today, and after years of building a career in the corporate world and juggling life as a single parent, Wick felt disconnected to the buoyant side of herself and returned to the water as a means of rediscovering playfulness with her daughter. “An important part of who I am and felt I had lost was brought back to life through this as a hobby, before it

ever turned into a business,” says Wick. “The challenge of consistently growing this skill set and the associated accomplishments and experiences under the water, and the joy of being part of such magical moments for kids… that makes this side of my professional life so special to me.”

“Mermaids embody the spirit you feel when you are underwater watching the rays of sunshine through the surface,” says Jessie Jewels of Warwick, a Save the Bay beach captain, fulltime mermaid, underwater model, and artist. Additionally, Jewels represents the state in pageants, and since 2021 has held the title of Miss Mermaid Rhode Island. “My platform is working with Save the Bay to help make our bay clean and accessible for all,” says Jewels, who founded her own charity last year, Save the BaySave the Mermaids, where a portion of proceeds from her mermaid-themed art and events go directly to the nonprofit dedicated to cleaning up and improving Narragansett Bay.

More than a trend, Mermaidcore is about embracing life by the sea

Alyssa Wick, The Rhode Island Mermaid

Photo by Lani Leigh Photography, courtesy of The Rhode Island Mermaid

FINDING YOURSELF MER-MYSTIFIED? HERE ARE WAYS TO DIP YOUR FIN INTO THE WATER.

GOODS & MERMAIDING SWIM LESSONS

Behind a blue door on Bristol’s State Street discover a treasure trove in this gallery, shop, studio and Center for Oceans Watch, an international non-profit dedicated to conservation and sustainability. Owner Bonnie Blue is a sculptor, artist, author, and certified swim instructor so along with selling artwork and books, you can enroll in Mermaid/Merboy lessons in a swimming pool with a photo shoot. HealingDolphins.com

VISITS & PARTIES

If you’re looking to make a splash at your next event in water or on land, Alyssa Wick’s mermaids and sirens are available to make the scene, offering performances that include sing-a-longs, charades, bubble wishes, and more. TheRhodeIslandMermaid.com

MEETUPS

Feeling mer-curious? Take part in an Ocean State Merfolk Meetup led by Erin Walsh, where like-minded merfolk are encouraged to join the pod and swim (often at the Smithfield YMCA). Please note this is an adults-only cosplay group. OceanStateMerfolk.com

MAKEOVERS & ART MAKING

Ever dream of swapping your legs for a shimmering tale? Jessie Jewels can work her magic and turn humans of all ages into mermaids, sirens, or selkies. And to prove it all happened, there’s a photoshoot on the beach. JessieJewelsArt.com

HANDMADE ACCESSORIES

From her Bristol studio, Melonie Massa handcrafts stunning sailor’s valentines, wine stoppers, jewelry, and more all fashioned from “an ocean of treasures” for her Mermaid’s Baubles brand. Pieces are available at Hotpoint Emporium, Bristol; Harbor View Artisans, Wickford; and similar art co-ops. Learn more about Massa on page 68.

KNITTING SHOP

A short walk from Wickford harbor, The Mermaid’s Purl is the perfect place for spinning a yarn. Owned by Lizzie Shriner, who says, “I’ve always considered myself part

mermaid,” the shop is a destination for knitters, stocked with skeins bearing names like Siren Song, along with Mermaid Mitt Kits, and more. Merch bearing their lovely mermaid logo includes a custom stitch marker by local maker Katrinkles, a pin, apparel, tote bag, and more. TheMermaidsPurl.com

BEACH FOOD

Tucked behind Alfie’s Surf Shop on Westerly’s Atlantic Avenue is Little Mermaid’s. The name implies that it could be owned by Ariel herself but whoever is manning the grill keeps beachgoers happy and full with solid breakfast and lunch diner classics that you can sink a dinglehopper into. Did we mention ice cream? Instagram: @LittleMermaidsRI

NOVELTIES

Cast a glow with a Mermaid Tail Glitter Lamp, be styling with a Flip Sequin Mermaid Tale Drawstring Backpack, or keep cozy with a Mermaid Tale Wearable Blanket. All this can be yours from Rhode Island Novelty, a seller of toys and gifts since 1986. RINo v elty.com

JEWELRY

Nearly all Rhody-based jewelry sellers have pieces that harken the sea, like the Sea Life Station Necklace by RS Pure, a subsidiary of Ross-Simons, sure to add allure with its small charms on 14kt yellow gold ( RSPure.com ), and the Iconic Mermaid necklace at Pink Pineapple at 380 Thames Street in Newport ( PinkPineappleShop.com ).

SWEETS

Along with other sweet treats, Chocolate Delicacy in Warwick makes beautiful molded Mermaid Pops for sale in both milk and dark chocolate, and Sweenor’s Chocolates (Wakefield, Wickford) sells seashells and starfish. ChocolateDelicacy.com; SweenorsChocolates.com

LIBATIONS

Toast King Triton on Block Island with a glass of Tipsy Mermaid Red Sangria at Poor People’s Pub. A colorful mix of organic red wine, açai berry, and orange juice with a splash of soda is perfect for landlubbers.

P hotos by Ingrid Brown

Miss Mermaid Rhode Island Jessie Jewels

Wick making waves

Photo (top) by Brett Stanley, courtesy of Jessie Jewels, (bottom) by Classic Beauty Photography, courtesy of The Rhode Island Mermaid

HEY RHODY PETS