Hey Rhody August 2024

COCKTAIL

News & Culture

9 Visiting elephant sculptures bring a mission of sustainability to newport

12 Local talent shines in new tourism video

14 THE PUBLIC’S RADIO: With no bids to rebuild, RI ofcials decline to define timeline for opening westbound Washington Bridge

16 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

Hey Rhody Pets

19 Meet and greet with cats looking for homes at a Tiverton cafe

22 Three adoptable pets of the month

24 Treat your pet to luxe lodgings and daycare adventures while you’re away

Home & Style

a17 HOME: Architect applies sensitive approach to 300-year-old home reno in Wakefield

a23 INFLUENCER: The GM serving up big flavors at PVD’s tiniest bar

A25 RHODY READS: Six thrillers perfect for hot August nights

a27 WELLNESS: Enjoying Richmond’s luxe resort spa may be more attainable than you think

a30 RHODY GEM: South County children’s clothing chain has a warehouse with deals

A32 RHODY EATS: RESTAURANT GUIDE

Feature

57 Former Olympians from Rhode Island reflect on going for the gold

Food & Drink

65 IN THE KITCHEN: Westerly restaurant curates coastal nightlife vibes

72 RHODY RECIPE: New distillery in Pawtucket shares a classic cocktail

74 What’s shaking at a Providence whiskey bar

76 ROUNDUP: Beat the heat with fruit-flavored frozen treats

Hey Rhody Photos

80 The #heyrhodypet of the month via Instagram

Cover Story: From inventive mixology to meet-ups and more, everything you need to know about summer cocktail sipping

Photography by Gina Mastrostefano

Photography by George Gray Photography, courtesy of Laura Krekorian Architect

72

Photo courtesy of Working Man Distillers

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Beisel

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Photography

Karen Kalunian

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Ruthie Wood

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CONTRIBUTORS

ROBERT ISENBERG

A writer and filmmaker based in Cranston, our former editor Robert Isenberg was ideal for getting a behindthe-scenes look at the making of a lush tourism video produced by in-state talent (page 12). When not behind the lens or laptop himself, Isenberg can be found biking across the globe, as documented in his most recent book, Mile Markers: Essays on Cycling

KAREN KALUNIAN

With her tireless devotion to helping rescue pets get adopted from shelters, each month animal advocate Karen Kalunian sends us a trio of furry faces with descriptions for Rhody Pets of the Month. Additionally, she hosts Animal Talk , a digital series on Rhode Island PBS. Turn to page 22 to see this month’s group, which includes a Hollywood namesake.

GINA MASTROSTEFANO

This month’s cover story “Cocktail Culture” (page A3) was written and photographed by Gina Mastrostefano. For years, the Rumford native has been a go-to for food and drink experience features, and she enjoys going out for cocktails with her fiance, so this assignment was the perfect pairing. Keep up with this busy photographer on Instagram: @ginalaurenpvd.

RUTHIE WOOD

From star intern to Columbia Journalism School’s publishing course student, writer Ruthie Wood of Portsmouth keeps one foot in Rhode Island with her coverage of restaurants, arts, and more. In “Shaking Things Up” (page 74), she tells the story of a bar manager’s vision for a Wickenden Street watering hole.

Alicia and Nick Donadio have a unique business – their Service blows mulch into garden beds, saving homeowners and landscapers countless hours of work. We recently caught up with Alicia to learn more about their innovative mulch service.

How does blown-in mulch work?

We deliver and install the mulch without it ever touching your driveway. The operator uses a remote control that allows materials to be precisely applied. It is very uniform and creates an even application. Having the mulch blown in saves time, and a lot of hard work.

How long does a typical mulch installation take with this service?

It really depends on the layout and size of the beds. A 10-20 yard job can typically be completed in about an hour.

What types of properties do you service?

We service both commercial and residential properties throughout Rhode Island with a 10 yard minimum.

What kinds of products and other services do you provide?

We install mulch, playground chips and errosion controls like silt sock.

What do you say to skeptics?

one you dread doing every year. have that customer for life. They’ll never touch a wheelbarrow again.

Celebrating 30 years serving RI Homeowners

NEWS & CULTURE

Exhibit | Tourism | The Public’s Radio | Calendar

By Jenna Kaplan

ASculpting Change

Newport is the summer stop of a global exhibition designed to enlighten and motivate

s summer winds blow, chart a course for Newport and prepare to be moved by a herd of artistic giants narrating a timeless tale of coexistence, conservation, and the immense power of community in safeguarding the natural world. In a striking fusion of art and conservation, Newport is making a significant impression this summer as it hosts The Great Elephant Migration , an art exhibition featuring 100 life-sized elephant statues curated by Art&Newport. Crafted by The Coexistence Collective – a team of over 200 indigenous Indian artisans – these statues serve as more than just a visual spectacle; they are a call to action, promoting the symbiotic relationship between humans and wildlife.

From July 4 to September 6, Newport’s renowned green spaces, including Rough Point, The Breakers, Salve Regina University, and Great Friends Meeting House, are transformed into a makeshift savannah. The elephant statues, each skillfully shaped from the invasive weed lantana camara, serve as ambassadors advocating for nature’s plea for coexistence. Utilizing this particular plant also helps clear protected areas of the weed, thus expanding habitats for native wildlife.

Organized by Elephant Family USA, a

nonprofit committed to the protection of Asian wildlife, this initiative marks Newport as its inaugural venue and strives to have a profound impact. Through this exhibition, they aim to spotlight the delicate balance between human development and wildlife preservation. It’s an artistic endeavor pulsing with life, resonating through Newport’s historic streets and encouraging onlookers not just to observe but to engage in the conservation. The project strategically places grand sculptures in key green spaces across the city,

inviting both locals and tourists to explore Newport’s picturesque landscapes while connecting with the art.

Adding a local dimension, Elephant Family has established a partnership with Save the Bay, the Newport-based nonprofit dedicated to marine conservation. This collaboration is poised to amplify the exhibition’s impact through a substantial $10,000 donation from Elephant Family, bolstering local ecology and emphasizing the interconnectedness of global and local conservation efforts.

Photo courtesy of Elephant Family

A stampede at The Mall in London

As these elephantine figures make their stand in Newport, they carry with them stories of survival, harmony, and the intricate bonds that link us to the natural world. This exhibition serves not only as a cultural and artistic spectacle but also as a compelling reminder of the delicate balance between human development and wildlife preservation. Visitors to Newport are encouraged to witness and join these gentle giants in a march toward a more sustainable future. Learn more at TheGreatElephantMigration.org.

Home Movie

South County shimmers in alluring new promo video produced by the tourism council’s former intern

By Robert Isenberg

It’s surreal, watching a well-made movie about your home state. You see Narragansett Beach, but the sunset is perfect, and two model-beautiful surfers point to the fiery horizon. You see hikers on a familiar trail, but the sun flares through the leaves in just the right way, and boulders are all around. The colors are perfect. The characters look like people you wish you knew. It’s real, but somehow realer than real.

“I know the landscape very well,” says Dave Sarazen, director of a new promotional video for the South County Tourism Council. Sarazen grew up in East Greenwich and is co-founder of Tandem, a Newport-based media company. “For this particular video, we asked, ‘What are the key activities and locations we really need to feature?’ We wanted to make sure we had a good range.”

The tourism council commissions a new commercial each year for television broadcast, and 2024’s ad spot was developed for social media as well. Sarazen was a natural choice to direct; five years ago, when he was still a student at the University of Rhode Island, he interned for the council as a photographer. He has a strong background in fashion photography – including working with RI-based brand Kiel James Patrick – and is accustomed to hiring talent and creating scenes. When Sarazen established Tandem two years ago with his business partner Charlie Turchetta, the council offered to collaborate with them on this summer’s promo.

“One of the things we wanted to focus on this year is to keep everything local,” says Faye Pantazopoulos, creative director of the South County Tourism Council. “Everything about David’s photography style envisioned what I wanted South County to look like.” Adds Louise Bishop, the council’s president and CEO, “We’re extremely proud of not just the final video, but that 100 percent of our investment in it, stayed in the state.”

The video illustrates a range of summery scenarios. A father and son carry fishing tackle to the shore. A family eats ice cream in the back of a station wagon. Kayakers relax next to a sky-blue shoal. To capture these moments, Sarazen incorporated 19 different performers, who play recurring roles in the one-minute video. Sarazen himself voiced the lyrical narration that plays above a swelling score. “This is what you’ve been looking for,” he intones. “This is South County, Rhode Island.”

Much of the cinematography looks handheld and natural, almost like a documentary, yet every

Photography by Tandem, courtesy of South County Tourism

Filming Dan Darrezo and Hudson St. Martin fly fishing at Narrow River in Narragansett

shot was carefully crafted. Building a bonfire on the beach required a formal permit from the municipality. To flesh out a dining scene, Sarazen asked his own parents to act as background characters. When two paddlers cut across the glassy Narrow River in Narragansett, Sarazen required three crewmen to huddle together in an inflatable dinghy and motor alongside, aiming their lens low to the water. As methodical as the production was, the final video looks spontaneous and carefree.

“South County is not a fast-paced kind of place,” says Pantazopoulos. “We really want the feeling of South County. Once you get here, you can breathe in the salt air. We wanted to have this come across in the video.”

“We wanted this to feel like a story,” says Sarazen. “We didn’t just want it to be a montage of different activities. We wanted you to feel like you could picture yourself in these scenes.”

View the video on Instagram at @southcountyri

The Tandem crew wraps the day at Long Pond Trail, Hopkinton

Left to right: Charlie Turchetta, Evan St. Martin, Dave Sarazen, and Rich Ferri

With No Bids to Rebuild, RI Ofcials Decline to Defne Timeline for Opening Westbound Washington Bridge

Previously, the state projected the new span would be done by August 2026

In partnership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org • By Ian Donnis

State officials declined [on Tuesday] to project when a new westbound Washington Bridge would open. Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee’s administration plans to issue a request for information to determine why a proposal to rebuild the span attracted no bids by a recent deadline. The governor declined at a press conference to say what the lack of interest thus far in constructing a new bridge means for the timeline to rebuild the structure.

“We’re going to know what the timeline is when we get the timeline,” McKee told reporters in response to a question.

Under a previous estimate, the state projected the new westbound Washington Bridge would be done by August 2026 – before the next statewide primary for governor.

Peter Alviti, director of the state Department of Transportation, also declined to specify a new timeline. “I’m not going to speculate as to the time,” Alviti said. “I think the request for information will help us find the acceptable timeframe that companies will need in order to execute the process and create a competitive

environment. That’s the target we’ll be aiming at.”

Asked if the estimated cost of bridge replacement – initially put at $250 million to $300 million – will go up, Alviti said he has maintained that market prices will determine the ultimate price.

Brian Daniels, head of the state Office of Management and Budget, said he does not expect the longer process to hinder the state application for a federal mega-grant of up to $334 million to help pay bridge costs.

However, if former president Donald Trump retakes the White House in November, that could affect the federal government’s transportation funding to Rhode Island.

In related news, the legal team hired by McKee to conduct a forensic analysis of what went wrong prior to the abrupt emergency closing of the westbound Washington Bridge last December plans to discuss its findings Wednesday morning. McKee declined to say whether the forensic report will be made public. Alviti acknowledged the added congestion caused by the bridge has been difficult for people who regularly use it. He

said one possible reason for the lack of bids could be that the state’s request for proposal included an aggressive schedule for completing the bridge project in hopes of accelerating the fix.

“And there were substantial penalties, as you all know, associated with meeting those schedules during the project,” Alviti said. “We asked the bidders to assume more risk than normal to hold them to a very high accountability standard.”

Alviti also pointed to a high volume of available work in the New England construction market, “and we can’t discount the high level of scrutiny and attention this has been getting and the atmosphere of controversy around this project.”

Another possible factor: the state’s legal team has advised some of the companies that have previously done construction work for the state that they may face bridge-related litigation.

McKee noted the bidding process is conducted outside his office, by the state departments of Administration and Transportation.

This article was originally posted on July 9, 2024. Ian Donnis can be reached at idonnis@ripr.org

RI Transportation Director

Peter

gives an update on the Washington Bridge on July 9, 2024

by

Photo

Ian Donnis

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Eat your fill of Ocean State bounty at the Charlestown Seafood Festival

Te Must List

10 essential events this month

Through August: The Herreshoff Marine Museum hosts the Summer Sunset Music Series Thursday evenings, featuring local favorites like Roomful of Blues live on the waterfront stage. Bristol, Herreshoff.org

Through August 17: The Sound of Music comes to Theatre By The Sea, presenting the timeless story and iconic songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “Edelweiss.” Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com

August 4: The annual Hope Street Summer Block Party brings live music, performances, food, drinks, artists, makers, and more to the East Side. Pro v idence, HopeStreetPVD.com

August 2-4: Enjoy the region’s best at the annual Charlestown Seafood Festival at Ninigret Park, and stick around for midway rides, rock wall climbing, a car show, arts and crafts vendors, and fireworks on Saturday night. CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com

August 10: The family-friendly Cumberland Community Celebration at Diamond Hill Park features live music, over 40 artisans curated by Juicy Market, a dozen food trucks, and beer and wine from local vendors. Facebook: Cumberland Community Celebration

August 16-18: The Japan-American Society of Rhode Island hosts the 41st annual Black Ships Festival , celebrating the friendship between the US and Japan with martial arts, Taiko drumming, and activities. Bristol & Newport, BlackShipsFestival.com

August 17: Warren Folks Fest is a free, familyfriendly event with music, art, and wares from regional artists and makers, with music from Allysen Callery, The Glare, and the David Tessier All-Star Stars. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org

August 24: Raise a mug at Roger Williams Park’s Brew at the Zoo , with over 170 beers, hard seltzers, and ready-to-drink cocktails from over 100 local, regional, and national brewers, plus live music, animal encounters, and more. Pro v idence, RWPZoo.org

August 25: Enjoy a full day of music at scenic Crescent Park at this year’s Rhode Island Folk Festival . Along with top acts on three stages, there will be food trucks, a songwriting workshop with Mark Cutler, kids activities, and more. Riverside, RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com

August 30-September 1: Emmylou Harris and Old Crow Medicine Show headline this year’s Rhythm & Roots , an extravaganza that features a roster of acts and 1,500 camping tickets for those planning to make a weekend out of it. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com

Photo courtesy of Poland Media Group

RHODY PETS

Cat Cafe | Pets of the Month | Animal Stays

Whisk-er Away

Tiverton’s cat cafe sends guests home with warm fuzzies, and sometimes a new fuzzy friend

By Abbie Lahmers

f the cat distribution system has yet to deliver a feline friend to your doorstep, a match may be waiting for you at a local shelter, or a visit to a Tiverton cafe could be the setting for a magical encounter that sends you home with a kitty who’s been waiting to find a forever home.

Inside

patrons are greeted by a menu of aptly named beverages – from Kitty-ccinos to Catnip Cold

– and

by reservation, the whimsical woodland-themed cat room is where purr-fect pairings happen.

Bajah’s Cat Cafe, human

Brews

light bites before entering Bajah’s Villa. Open

“The cafe aims to provide a stress-free and relaxing environment for both the cats and the customers, promoting the well-being of the cats and encouraging adoption,” explains owner Amanda Souza.

Since its founding in 2021, Souza has had the privilege of seeing many felines prowl into the hearts and homes of cafe guests. A recent match stands out to her: enter Luna, a shy tabby with an affectionate nature that took some patience

to uncover, and Sarah, who recently moved to Tiverton and visited Bajah’s on a whim. “Sarah was immediately drawn to Luna, who seemed to sense her gentle and patient demeanor,” Souza recounts. “Unlike her usual reserved self, Luna approached Sarah and allowed her to pet her. They spent hours together, with Luna curling up on Sarah’s lap, purring contentedly.”

After a few more visits, it was evident that Sarah and Luna had formed a special bond, and adoption

paperwork filled out, they went home together.

“The staff were thrilled to see Luna find such a perfect match and were touched by their connection,” says Souza. “This adoption story is a beautiful reminder of the unique and powerful bonds that can form between humans and animals.”

BAJAH’S CAT CAFE

137 Main Road, Tiverton BajahsCatCafe.com

Photos courtesy of Bajah’s Cat Cafe

Adoptable kitties Pumpkin (L) and Nala

CAT ADOPTION 101

Before planning a visit to Bajah’s, here’s a few things to consider before adopting, and what to do when you find the one:

FAMILY DECISION

“It’s essential to understand the responsibilities involved in adopting a cat, ensuring that everyone in the household is on board with the decision,” says Souza. Spending time around cats first is a good way to find out about any allergies in advance, too.

FELINE FUND

Like any pet, getting a cat is a commitment. “Be ready for the financial responsibilities, including food, litter, toys, and veterinary care, and consider if you have the time to provide attention, play, and care for a new cat.”

CAT READY

If all signs point to yes, “Preparing your home for a new cat, including setting up a safe space, litter box, and providing food and water dishes, is crucial.” Shop local pet stores to stock up on the basics.

MEET THE FELINES

Familiarize yourself with Bajah’s policies and procedures online, and schedule a visit! “Spend time interacting with the cats, observing their personalities and behaviors to see which cat might be a good fit. Feel free to ask the staff about each cat’s background, personality, and any special needs they might have.”

ADOPTION DAY

If you find the perfect feline for you, it’s time to fill out an adoption application, await approval and any additional paperwork, and bring home your new family member! Staff will share advice on helping kitty adjust to the new environment.

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 dogs ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees. Mark your calendar for International Dog Day on August 26, as if you need a special day to make pups feel special.

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

Bessiebug

BREED: Mixed

AGE: 7 months

GENDER: Female

Bessiebug is just like you would imagine a sevenmonth-old puppy to be: curious, smart, wants to learn, playful, and loving! She’s oh-so adorable with her white and brown coat accented by sparkling brown eyes. Bessiebug is up for adventures, too, so if you’ve been searching for an all-around great pup, this little girl will bring complete joy and laughter to your home and family. Several of her littermates are available, too!

HEART OF RI ANIMAL RESCUE

401-467-3670

HeartOfRI.org

Harrison Ford

BREED: Terrier Mix

AGE: 1

GENDER: Male

This adorable terrier mix is just waiting to be your leading man. With his movie-star good looks, Harrison Ford can join in all of your adventures. He loves playing fetch and romping in the yard, but he’s also ready to snuggle on the couch, and this good boy gets along well with other friendly dogs. At less than 20 pounds, he’s going to remain on the smaller side. If you’d like to give him a Hollywood style happily-ever-after, contact the rescue to meet him!

FRIENDS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS FOHARI.org

Bessiebug

Harrison Ford

Photos (left and right) by Karen Kalunian, (center) by Donna Normand

BREED: Mixed

AGE: 11 months

GENDER: Male

Are you ready to get rollin’? Well, so is Roland! He’s a mixed breed with a beautiful brindle coat and a white nose that looks like it was dipped in sugar. If you have another playful pup, Roland loves other dogs. This happy-go-lucky guy has long legs and loves to run. If you are ready to spend your days playing and snuggling, then Roland is your boy. He loves everyone!

RHODE HOME RESCUE

RhodeHomeRescue.org

RhodeHomeRescue@gmail.com

Paw-some Lodgings

From pet sitters to doggie hotels, tails will be wagging over these boarding services and amenities

By Abbie Lahmers

Why should humans have all the fun when traveling this summer? Whether going on vacation or seeking a sitter for the day, have peace of mind by entrusting your furry friend with pet hotels, sitters, and boarding facilities across the state for all kinds of pet personalities.

FOR ALL KINDS OF ANIMALS

What if your animal companion isn’t a dog or cat? No problem for The Chicken Sitter – Melissa Lavoie cares for clients’ farm animals, as well as all things furred and feathered, scaled or swimming. She offers overnight sitting, dog walking, and more, with a personal touch. “I provide updates, pictures, and communicate with my clients each and every visit, forming a bond that is lifelong. I provide the utmost care to each pet,” she says. Tune into her podcast for tips and stories from the field, too. Serving South County, TheChickenSitterLLC.godaddysites.com

FOR PLAY-FILLED STAYS

Dogtopia staff take pride in caring for your pup as if it were their own. “We offer everything your furry family member requires with award-winning dog daycare; overnight, weekend, and holiday boarding; spa services; and training,” explains owner Jennifer Giardino. Each four-legged guest

goes through a meet-and-greet to ensure a good fit, and while away from home, pet parents can see their dogs play all day through webcams. “You can trust your dog will come home overjoyed – and most likely overtired – from all of the excitement of the day!” Warwick, Dogtopia.com/warwick

FOR A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Offering doggie daycare, boarding, and grooming services, Friends of Toto ’s apt tagline is “A place like home.” Regardless of your pet’s age or energy level, the professionally trained staff members ensure they feel safe and comfortable in a facility that’s clean, safe, and fun. Social dogs can meet new friends, exercise during play time, and be mentally stimulated at this home away from home, leaving owners to go about their busy lives during the day without worry. Pawtucket, FriendsOfToto.com

FOR PAMPERED POOCHES

For the dog accustomed to the lap of luxury, there’s no better lodgings than Lucky Dog Resort . Rest assured that your pup will be living it up while you’re on vacay with this resort’s custom pampering. Overnight stays, private training, enrichment daycare, and even wedding valet services are all available. Doting parents can expect photos and updates – whether snuggling up on cozy couches or frolicking in the yard – as their pet receives

around-the-clock care from staff who understand that your little prince or princess deserves only the best. Middletown, LuckyDogResortRI.com

FOR A PERSONALIZED TOUCH

Pups get all the love and attention they crave at My Lucky Dog , a family-owned daycare and overnight boarding facility that also offers grooming and training. Catering to each animal’s individual needs, the team gets to know both furry and human family members, and groups dogs by size, energy, and personality to create a fun and safe environment for all. With 6,500 square feet inside, 7,000 square feet outside, and a swimming pool, there’s space for plenty of play, even when the weather is iffy. Smithfield & North Pro v idence, MyLuckyDogRI.com

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS CANINE

Is a seven-acre ranch with space to run, play, and splash more your dog’s speed? Ruffin’ Wranglers goes beyond walkies and pet sitting. Doggie clients are escorted by van to the ranch in Rehoboth, MA, where safety is their experienced staff’s first concern, followed by maximum fun. “When dogs are running with us two times a week or more, they are eligible to bunk with our wranglers at their homes,” explains owner Blythe Penna. “They become a part of their family and go on excursions all day.” Serving Rhode Island, RuffinWranglers.com

Photos

(L to R) courtesy of The Chicken Sitter, Dogtopia, and Ruffin’ Wranglers

The Chicken Sitter

Ruffin’ Wranglers

Dogtopia

COCKTAIL CULTURE

WHETHER SHAKEN, STIRRED, MUDDLED, OR EVEN CAGED, DESTINATIONS ACROSS THE STATE ARE PUTTING THEIR STAMPS ON CLASSIC DRINKS

BY GINA MASTROSTEFANO

From housing one of America’s oldest breweries to being one of the most defiant states during Prohibition, you could say Rhode Island itself is perhaps the biggest speakeasy of the Northeast, hiding in plain sight. Though often celebrated for our small-but-mighty dining scene, food isn’t the only thing this state’s crafty industry professionals have gone to great lengths to perfect. Local restaurateurs and mixologists are shaking up creative takes on beloved boozy beverages and taking risks with unexpected flavors and techniques. Whether you’re new to the cocktail scene, or ready to try something different, here’s a splash of places worth giving a shot!

The Café

EPICUREAN FOR THE

While there is no shortage of alcohol to be consumed on Broadway, BAR 12 is tailored to guests looking for a peaceful oasis to wind down after work, or get some preor post-dinner drinks with friends. The smooth, modern atmosphere makes you feel relaxed before alcohol even touches your lips. They also offer a limited food menu that pairs perfectly with their creative catalog of cocktails. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted, so plan accordingly, and check out enticing Date Night Thursday deals.

ORDER THIS: The Shrub It Off is a spicy margarita lover’s dream, offering an elegant and refreshing twist on the genre with lime and yuzu soda, 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila, and a homemade shrub made up of muddled strawberry, habanero peppers, and vinegar. The rich cocktail is served with a cilantro, cucumber, and black strawberry salt garnish. For a smokier iteration, the bartender recommends subbing the tequila for mezcal.

PAIR WITH: When in Newport, you can’t go wrong with some Shrimp Cocktail. The refreshing raw bar staple is served with a homemade cucumber and tomato horseradish salsa that complements the spicy and saltiness of the Shrub It Off. Alternatively, go for the Deviled Eggs that are thoughtfully garnished with pickle salsa and microgreens sourced from Interstellar Microgreens in West Warwick. 12 Broadway, Newport

SHRUBBING IT OFF WITH LIGHT BITES AT BAR 12

by Gina

Photography

Mastrostefano

EXPLORER FOR THE

If you plan to visit PALO TAPAS BAR in Providence, make a reservation ASAP because you rarely see an empty seat at this downtown gem, and for good reason. Palo has become a favorite amongst locals for their eclectic tapas (small plates) with international flavors, and an unmatched cocktail menu. From the food to the drinks to the quaint and artistic ambiance, Palo scores a 10 across the board.

ORDER THIS: The Cubano Viejo is a take on an Old Cuban, a mojito-like cocktail that consists of white rum, dry Spanish vermouth, lime, mint, and cava – a Champagne-like sparkling wine – and garnished with lime and bitters. The secret, according to owner Samir Zaiter, is not to skimp out on the mint. The drink is vibrantly green, and insanely refreshing. It’s everything you love about a classic mojito, but better.

PAIR WITH: You can’t go wrong with anything off of Palo’s rotating tapas menu, but classics like the Torreznos/Crispy Bacon and Costillas de Maíz/Corn Ribs are solid choices. Torreznos are twice-cooked fatty bacon strips with apple, celery, and herbs, served with an apricot mustard that is the stuff of dreams. Pair that with a towering basket of corn ribs, wash it down with the Cubano Viejo, and you will be making your next reservation at Palo before you even leave. 3 Steeple Street, Pro v idence

PVD’S OWN BELLINI

The pretty blush drink made from fresh peach puree and Prosecco known as a Bellini was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Venice, Italy’s famed Harry’s Bar. Find the original cocktail and more at BELLINI , the fourth-generation Cipriani family Italian restaurant housed at The Beatrice boutique hotel in Providence.

Photography by Gina Mastrostefano

¡SALUD! WITH A CUBANA VIEJO AND G&T AT PALO

EXTROVERT FOR THE

Since opening its doors in June, THE SOCIAL HOUSE in the Apponaug neighborhood of Warwick has quickly become a happy hour haven. Unrecognizable from its previous life, the property was transformed into a stunning and soulful space with warm woods and brick, tropical wallpaper, ample seating, and elegant light fixtures. Everything is a vibe and oh-so Insta-worthy, including the drinks.

ORDER THIS: The Jungle Bird tastes as exciting as it looks: a rum cocktail served in a black bird cage. The flavor is a mod version of a Piña Colada, consisting of Madagascar Vanilla Bumbu Rum, campari, brown sugar, and pineapple, with a frothy finish and fresh fruit garnish. The Jungle Bird is a showstopper, both as a delicious drink and conversation piece.

PAIR WITH: You’ve seen charcuterie with cheese and meat, but how about something a little sweeter?

Pair The Jungle Bird with a dessert board of small treats, cookies, and pastries, gorgeously presented on a cutting board to share with your flock. 3295 Post Road, Warwick

by Gina Mastrostefano

Photography

LUMINARY FOR THE

In the heart of downtown Westerly, THE CAFÉ evokes a kind of old Hollywood glamor. The perfect storm of delicious food and drinks, dim lights, and comfy seating just might make you miss your showtime at the connected UNITED Theatre. The Café has an upscale vibe with a down-toearth feel; it’s a place where you can grab an afternoon snack at the bar in your work clothes or celebrate a milestone dressed to the nines.

ORDER THIS: Before you can understand the Dipper’s Sipper, you must first have a lesson on soupy, a coveted dry-cured pork sausage that Westerly-ians (predominantly of Italian heritage) have made for decades. There’s even a Soupy Fest, which sells out instantly. Dipper’s Sipper would be your typical old fashioned, but in a traffic-induced fever dream, Stephen Corrigan, the manager of The Café, thought “What if I fat-washed bourbon with soupy?” And so, the unique cocktail was born. The drink pays homage to the local tradition and does it with style.

PAIR WITH: Keep it classy and pair your Dipper’s Sipper with a classic 10-ounce Seared New York Strip. The classic steak dish gets a fanciful twist with a pea and parsley puree, king oyster mushrooms, a vinaigrette made of foraged ramps, and wild rice. Steak and the fat-washed cocktail is a carnivore’s delight. 3 Canal Street, Westerly

Photography by Gina Mastrostefano

ELEGANT BITES AND SIPS AT THE CAFE

RHODY RESOURCES

A SMATTERING OF SPOTS FOR MORE CREATIVE SIPPING

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COCKTAIL BARS

Clementine Cocktail Bar, Pro v idence

Courtland Club, Pro v idence

The Dean Bar, Pro v idence

Jefferson Speakeasy, Warwick

Justine’s, Pro v idence

Marcelino’s Boutique Bar, Pro v idence

Needle and Thread, Pro v idence

BARS

Askew Bar & Lounge, Pro v idence

The Avery, Pro v idence

The Eddy, Pro v idence

Kimi’s, Pro v idence

Lucky Enough, Pro v idence

Nolan’s Corner Pub, Pro v idence

Red Door, Pro v idence

Tiny Bar, Pro v idence

The Walnut Room, Pro v idence

DISTILLERIES

Dark Outpost Distilling, Pawtucket

The Industrious Spirit Company, Pro v idence

O’Brien & Brough, Bristol

Rhode Island Spirits Distillery & Tasting Room, Pawtucket

Sons of Liberty Spirits Co., South Kingstown

South County Distillers, Westerly

White Dog Distilling, Pawtucket

Working Man Distillers, Pawtucket

COCKTAILS SERVED HERE

Audrey’s Coffee House & Lounge, South Kingstown

Casa Azul Taquería, Pro v idence

CAV Restaurant, Pro v idence

Crepe Corner, Pro v idence

Ella’s Food & Drink, Westerly

Great Northern BBQ Co, Pro v idence

Main Street Coffee, East Greenwich

Maria’s Seaside Cafe, Westerly

Moonshine Alley, Pro v idence

New Harvest Coffee & Spirits, Pro v idence

Perks & Corks, Westerly

The Slow Rhode, Pro v idence

The Surf Shack Bed & Breakfast, Narragansett

Viva Mexico Cantina Grill, Pro v idence

Photos (top to bottom)

courtesy of Marcelino’s Boutique Bar, courtesy of Tiny Bar, and by Gianguzzi

Photography, courtesy of Sons of Liberty

MARCELINO’S BOUTIQUE BAR

SONS OF LIBERTY SPIRITS CO.

TINY BAR

COCKTAIL COUTURE

BY ELYSE MAJOR

While there’s no need to get fancy for your next trip to the bar, a dress code that calls for cocktail attire generally implies something semi-formal, polished, and poised. Dressing for late afternoon “cocktail hour” dates back to the 1920s with women donning short sheaths with matching accessories to private parties and speakeasies during Prohibition, but the label truly became a thing when designer Christian Dior referred to one of his designs as a cocktail dress, and marketers were off and running. “A cocktail dress typically suits any woman, regardless of her age,” says fashion designer Tatyana Ayriyan of T Ayriyan women’s clothing boutique in Newport. “It gives you an elegant and feminine look and is usually accompanied by heels and a small handbag. The length of this dress can vary from above the knee or below the knee to reach the middle of the calf. A cocktail outfit can also be a set consisting of a skirt and a blouse.” And for added bling, slip on a beautifully ostentatious cocktail ring, and you’re ready to go!

AQUAMARINE COCKTAIL RING FROM TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY, TIVERTON

T AYRIYAN COCKTAIL DRESSES AS SEEN ON THE STYLEWEEK RUNWAY

SOCIAL MIXER

NORTH KINGSTOWN-BASED ELECTRICAL ENGINEER SPARKS JOY WITH BIWEEKLY COCKTAIL CLUB

BY ELYSE MAJOR

“Hello, everyone! My name is Jamie. I’m happy to start this new event for everyone!” begins Rhode Island Cocktail Club’s February 2023 introductory post on Instagram. The event is a biweekly meet-up open to all, occurring the second and fourth Friday or Saturday of every month, curated by electrical engineer Jamie Long, who has two other foodie platforms: Tasting RI (food) and Hoppy Purrfection (craft beer), founded in 2017 and 2023 respectively.

Originally from Middletown and eager to traverse the state from her recent home base of North Kingstown, Long’s posts on Tasting RI featuring cocktail bars often led to friends and followers mentioning that they’d like to experience these places but didn’t want to go alone. This sparked the idea to create a social gathering to introduce new spots and bring people together in a safe space. “We welcome everyone 21+ to socialize and drink together with no memberships, fees, or RSVPs,” says Long of RI Cocktail Club.

“A lot of time goes into scheduling and planning with each cocktail bar,” says Long, who is the sole organizer, and often relies on the connections she’s built over the years as an emerging local social media influencer in the foodie space. All events are arranged with the establishments weeks or months in advance, and because not all club members imbibe, selected venues offer mocktails. “On occasion, cocktail bars will adjust their hours to accommodate us,” says Long. “Cocktail bars have the opportunity to create specials for us, which has been positively received by attendees.”

When it comes to Long’s current favorite cocktails, she is quick to cite a creamy espresso martini with real espresso; pickle-tinis (found at Rhode Island Spirits and Working Man Distillers); or anything with gin and elderflower or banana. “I’m known for my love for banana-flavored drinks!” she exclaims. Long is a fan of the summer drink trend of floral beverages like lavender lemonade, which she’s seen appearing on specials boards.

The best part for Long is meeting new people and witnessing friendships and connections made through the club. “It’s exciting to find and try new places together, and each gathering is filled with excitement,” she says. “Attendees are always inquiring where the next RI Cocktail Club will be!”

MAI TAI OLD FASHIONED

RI SPIRITS PICKLETINI

ALE HOUSE ESPRESSO MARTINI

MARCELINO’S APRICOT

JAMIE LONG

Photos courtesy of Jamie Long

I’LL HAVE WHAT SHE’S HAVING

Jamie Long, founder of RI Cocktail Club shares a few favorites:

BLACKSTONE HERB + MARTINI BAR

Reese’s Espresso Martini: Loaded with Reese’s peanut butter, it’s delicious. When I’m feeling indecisive, this is the perfect spot. Food and drinks are available in flights so you can try everything! Co v entry, BlackstoneCo v entry.com

THE EDDY

Temperance Hill: They recently refreshed the menu and this one immediately spoke to me, with floral, lavender notes – yes, please! The Eddy is a small bar with great drinks and small plates. The menu changes on occasion and always has great hits. Pro v idence, EddyPVD.com

THE JEFFERSON SPEAKEASY

Sazerac: This classic cocktail of rye whiskey, absinthe, and bitters is for anise lovers! Hidden below a restaurant, find a wide variety of cocktails, great playlist, and warm vibes at The Jefferson Speakeasy. They’re a proud supporter of RI Cocktail Club and I’m grateful for our friendship over the years. Warwick, JeffersonSpeakeasyRI.com

MARCELINO’S BOUTIQUE BAR

Apricot: This cocktail uses an apricot-infused gin to create a tart, fruity, and bitter beverage that is great all year long, and perfect for a date night. Think low lighting and comfy seats. You can cozy up with a drink and their tasty food menu. Pro v idence, MarcelinosBoutiqueBar.com

WHITE DOG DISTILLING

Old Fashioned: Order it traditional or with fun twists. Technically, this distillery and tasting room isn’t a cocktail bar, but it’s my favorite spot in Rhode Island. I discovered them in 2020 and I’ve never had a drink I didn’t like from them. Warm hospitality makes you feel right at home. Pawtucket, WhiteDogDistilling.com

HOME & STYLE

Home | Influencer | Rhody Reads | Wellness | Rhody Gem

Past Perfect

One of the oldest homes in Wakefield gets a functional facelift that celebrates its past

By Ann Martini

hen retirees Maria and Jim Burdett had the opportunity to buy a 300-year-old Wakefield house nearly three years ago, it felt like kismet, and like coming home. “We fell in love with this house over 40 years ago,” explains Maria, when they met and became friends with its then-owners. “Every time we stayed in the house, it just felt so welcoming and special. It was the house of our dreams.”

But like anything so old, the house, one of the oldest in Wakefield, needed some careful attention. Enter South County-based architect Laura Krekorian, who appreciated the house’s exposed timber, wide-plank flooring, and beautifully proportioned spaces and details. “It had a lot of character and good bones, but the house is old!” Over the years, messy additions and changes left the circa 1721 house less than functional.

The scope of the new design includes the entry and porch, an expanded kitchen, relocated interior stairs, a renovated first-floor bathroom, and a renovation of the second-floor master bathroom. Notably, the new expanded kitchen addition incorporated with the porch also allowed Krekorian to re-envision and streamline the exterior. The goal?

“To make the house beautiful again with additions that look like they belong,” says the architect.

Maria and Jim respected the history of the house

as well as so many of its quirky details. “We didn’t want a museum, but a home that was functional and easy to live in,” says Maria, especially when hosting their three grown children and their families. It became about embracing the new while preserving the old; a bright white spacious kitchen addition coexists with “the 300-year-old beams in the oldest part of the house that have Roman numerals carved into them as building assembly marks,” Maria notes. “Talk about old and new!”

BEFORE AND AFTER

An addition accommodates a modern kitchen, small mudroom, and new entry.

“When working on a special property like this, our intention is always to make upgrades that look timeless and original,” says Krekorian.

Photography by George Gray Photography,

courtesy of Laura Krekorian Architect

Legged furnishings create the illusion of more space

A newly expanded primary bathroom seamlessly connects historic spaces with modern comfort

by

Maria, an avid gardener, also wanted to remove the boundaries between outside and inside so that the landscape was part of the house. “I removed all window coverings in the downstairs living areas to let as much light in as possible,” she explains. “It is really cool to view the outside world through the vitrified glass in the old windows.” Krekorian, an expert in working with coastal and agrarian landscapes, pulled in nature. “I think the lighter colors and tones in the kitchen and the baths, the shell tones in the backsplash, and the soft hues in the

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The relocation of an interior stairway facilitates the addition of a modern kitchen and invites natural light into a new connection to the existing dining room

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

Outside In

“We live in a beautiful coastal place,” says Krekorian. “With every project, I try to bring that view or landscape feature into the home by carefully placing windows and openings, and sensitively locating spaces to be able to take in the perfect sunset, a beautiful view, and the best natural lighting.”

Discover Wakefield

“There is something very relaxing about the area’s slower pace,” says homeowner Maria Burdett. “Most roads have a 25 miles-per-hour speed limit so you have to slow down and take in the beauty of your surroundings. Being so close to the beaches also offers opportunities to enjoy the ocean breezes and take walks in all seasons.”

Clear Favorities

“We love Wakefield and its charming downtown,” says Maria. “We can walk to get coffee, ice cream, or dinner!” They have also found a place to add to their growing glass collection. The Glass Station on Wakefield’s Main Street is a gallery featuring the works of national and local glassblowers.

countertops in combination with the natural wood on the island and stair rail give the home a coastal feel but one that is comfortable and timeless,” she says of Maria’s design choices.

“We have embraced the history of the house by keeping its integrity, yet made it so much more functional and comfortable,” says Maria. “I think this translates to guests when they walk in; they are awed by the traditional features and eased by the modern improvements.”

Photography by George Gray Photography, courtesy of Laura Krekorian Architect

Harwood Putty by Benjamin Moore is used throughout spaces

Meet Matty Durgin

This affable bartender/general manager shares what’s shaking in the city’s tiny cocktail bar

By Elyse Major

What can first-time visitors to Tiny Bar in Providence expect?

Tiny Bar is a little oasis serving handmade craft cocktails in the heart of the Jewelry District. We have six seats indoors at our main bar and an expansive outdoor garden space that allows for drinking al fresco. Soon, we will offer additional seating in our new glass house structure, featuring a retractable roof!

What are your favorite cocktails to make, and why?

My favorite cocktail to make is the Mai Tai. There have been innumerous versions and variations of the drink since its creation. I believe wholeheartedly in Trader Vic’s original 1944 formula. Although the original rum used has long been obsolete, we serve ours with a blend of exotic rums that does the recipe justice. It requires just the right amount of crushed ice, just the right amount of shaking (so as not to over-dilute), and it’s always a turn-on for firsttime imbibers. It may be a tropical drink but it’s a solid choice for any season.

What’s the perfect summertime cocktail?

Personally, I always lean into tropical preparations. We also offer three ever-changing frozen drinks. As of this chat, we offer a frozen Cucumber + Mint Moscow Mule, a frozen Painkiller, and our frozen Tiny Bar Margarita. That said, I think a spritz cocktail is always the drink of summer.

When you’re not mixing things up on Richmond Street, what do you like to do around RI?

As uninteresting as it may sound, I take long walks around the city. I live in Fox Point, so I frequent Twenty Stories, which is an awesome independent bookshop. I enjoy a glass of wine and a burger at The East End on a Sunday afternoon, and occasionally I indulge in a little treat from East Side Cheese. All that said, I’m usually with my daughter at the skatepark or at the beach. Time is precious, so I try to make the most of it.

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Six suspenseful thrillers sure to keep you at the edge of your beach chair

By Robin Kall

Rhody Reads W

ho likes to guess who the murderer is as they are reading? Sometimes I can’t help myself, but I prefer the full effect of the reveal. Whether it’s the soaring temperatures, longer days, or simply the time to keep those pages turning, August is made for thrillers! We still have plenty of sunlight left, so whether you love to read at the beach, snuggled in a hammock, or in your favorite indoor spot with the air conditioning blasting, here are six thrilling novels to add to your stack!

The Next Mrs. Parrish is the long-awaited follow-up to Liv Constantine’s bestselling novel, The Last Mrs. Parrish . While her latest novel is a stand-alone, there is extra fun if you’ve read the first book. I’ve been known to read out of order, which gives a whole other perspective on the characters. While Constantine’s books are fast-paced and plot-driven, it’s the deep dive into the characters that keeps me turning the pages.

Love a good domestic suspense novel? Kimberly McCreight of A Good Marriage and Friends Like These (the titles alone, right?) brings us Like Mother, Like Daughter . This gripping novel by the New York Times bestselling author taps into all of the high notes: fraught relationships, misunderstandings, and a mother who will protect their child at whatever cost. This propulsive read will keep you up, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.

The Hollywood Assistant by May Cobb is one of those novels you read and think: well surely, we’ll be watching this on the screen sometime soon; think Devil Wears Prada meets The White Lotus . As the subtitle teases, “her big break will lead to big trouble,” which is what happens to Cassidy Foster when she lands what seems to be her dream job in Hollywood working for a famous couple. When one of them is found dead, Cassidy is a suspect!

Lily Samson’s debut novel The Switch is a seductive dance involving obsession and two couples, so buckle in because it is quite a ride! The plot centers on Elena and Adam, a young couple who are house-sitting in a posh London neighborhood; when Elena meets their neighbors, she becomes obsessed with the pair. The four become fast friends and a secret partner swap is suggested. What could go wrong?

Another debut is Knife River by Justine Champine, the haunting tale of Jess and Liz, two teenage sisters whose mother goes missing after a walk. Fifteen years later, when they learn their mother’s remains have been found, younger sister Jess must return to the small town she fled and finds Liz frozen in time and obsessed with missing persons cases. Jess plans to stay until the case of their mother is solved, but the sisters have old wounds to heal, wrongs to right, and perhaps a chance at a new life.

From the beloved author who brought us The Guest List , it’s The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley. This locked-room murder mystery has all the elements of the perfect whodunit. It’s the opening night of The Manor, a luxurious resort where guests have come to rejuvenate and relax, but old friends and enemies are afoot, and when a body is discovered it’s anyone’s guess as to which guest is guilty.

ABOUT ROBIN KALL

Taking the advice of her mother, Robin Kall never leaves home without a book. “People want to know what I’m reading,” says the “fairy book mother” widely known under the moniker Reading With Robin (RWR). Based in East Greenwich, since 2002 Kall has been connecting readers and writers via author events and interviews, book clubs, giveaways, a podcast, and online platforms. A self-made force in literary and publishing circles, Kall receives advance review copies of books, and hosts popular events that have included authors Wally Lamb, Jodi Picoult, and Alice Hoffman, among many others.

READING WITH ROBIN EVENTS

Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases

On August 23, from 9am-4pm, join Robin Kall and publishing coach Lisa Tener for the Seaside Writing Retreat for Creative Flow. This one-day event in Narragansett includes lively discussion, a delicious lunch, writing prompts, a Q&A, writerly swag, and more. Learn more and register at LisaTener.com.

Oh, What a Beautiful Day

An attainable afternoon escape awaits in Richmond

By Elyse Major

Recently a TV commercial from 1978 enjoyed a moment on TikTok. A blurry upload shows a screen split into four with images of highway traffic, a crying baby, what looks like an angry boss holding a telephone, and a barking dog. In the center foreground, a woman dressed for a day at the office in a silky tie-neck blouse has clearly had it, and yells to the camera, pleading, “Calgon, take me away!” Jump cut to her smiling, sans clothes, in a tub full of bubbles, someplace fabulous; the box of Calgon strategically placed in the frame. “Lose yourself in luxury.” End scene.

Forty-six years later, we all still experience those moments of wanting some pampering, and an escape from drudgery and distractions, even if just for a few hours. Of course, this is where spas come into play. However, if you are looking to linger for longer than a massage or pedicure, a day pass to OH! Spa at The Preserve in Richmond might be the takeme-away-cation you seek.

At press time, day passes to OH! Spa are $100, require reservation, and guests must be 18 years of age. From 9am to 6pm, you have access to the rural resort’s whirlpool, steam room and sauna in both the men’s and women’s

locker rooms, the co-ed whirlpools, the cold plunge shower, and infinity pool. The spa is located on the lower level of the Hilltop Lodge, the hotel at the gated 3,500-acre property. Arrive, pour a glass of fruit-infused water, and check in at the spa reception desk. If you schedule a service, you’ll wait in the common relaxation room nibbling on dried fruit and nut mixes on a tufted chaise lounge chair, or head directly to the locker room to slip into a white robe before retrieving the provided slippers and grooming necessities from your locker.

Before dipping into the whirlpool, wander

Leaving the world behind at OH! Spa whirlpool

over to the Lily Pad, a luminous space within the spa facility with floral decor cascading from the ceiling. Depending on the day, tables of sweet treats and refreshments like mimosas are offered. After your dip in the water, no need to worry about bringing home a wet bathing suit because there is a bathing suit dryer in the locker room – so just drop it in, close the lid, and the extractor spins out most of the water. If you find yourself sitting in a white robe, sipping a mimosa with your legs dangling in the whirlpool, you will truly feel taken away.

“My goal is to bring my client’s vision to life and create an extraordinary, stylish and authentic wedding or event that will not only be cherished,

Be a Passenger Prince/Princess

Imagine getting picked up in a luxurious Bentley car and being driven to and from your spa treatment? Well, it’s a thing if you book one of the OH! Spa’s Beauty & Bentley Experiences. Pick-up location must be within 15 miles of The Preserve. Learn more at OHSpaAtThePreserve.com.

GOOD TO KNOW

• Cell phones are not allowed in any areas of the spa.

• Allow 24 hours notice to change or cancel a reservation to avoid being charged in full.

• There’s a spa boutique where you can buy bath and body products.

• Swimsuits are required in all co-ed areas.

• The spa cannot be responsible for any loss or damage or personal articles, so leave the valuables at home.

Benches with towels are at the ready

Photos courtesy of The Zimmerman Agency

Teddy Bearskins

Children’s clothing boutique

What it is:

A family-owned children’s clothing store.

Where to find it:

Teddy Bearskins has two storefronts –Wickford Village and inside Benny’s Plaza in East Greenwich – and a warehouse store at 135 Frenchtown Road open on Fridays. All locations have parking and adorable window displays of children’s clothing.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

Looking for quality kids’ clothing, accessories, and toys, paired with knowledgeable customer service and gift wrapping? Founder Deb Semple has been selling children’s goods for 40 years. “We’ve seen generations come through the store, so we’ve watched the kids grow from babies up to being parents themselves,” Semple begins. “That’s the most rewarding thing to see: the kids that we dressed, now dressing their kids.” Inside, goods fill the shop in displays that are playful and organized without being overwhelming. The North Kingstown location near scenic Wickford Cove provides a breezy vibe to the storefront. “The beauty of this state is unbelievable,” says Francie Christophersen, the store manager who has been with the company for 39 years. “We’re very, very lucky to be able to live here with all this beauty around us.”

Teddy Bearskins

5600 Post Road, East Greenwich 17 Brown Street, North Kingstown 135 Frenchtown Road, EG/NK line TeddyBearskins.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

Discover the flavors of Rhode Island! From fresh seafood shacks to farm-to-table eateries, little Rhody offers 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.

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.

Casa Azul

890 Allens Ave, PVD | 401-414-7799 CasaAzulri.com |

Our Casa is Your Casa. Authentic Mexican Flavors, Delicious Recipes and Vegan options. Home of the Wicked Best Margarita.

CAV Restaurant

14 Imperial Place, Providence | 401 751-9164 CavRestaurant.com |

Bistro style Brunch and Lunch. Fine Dining Dinner.

8 locations across RI! Chelos.com |

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

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.

Dave’s Fresh Marketplace Ten Locations throughout Rhode Island 401-558-0190 | davesmarketplace.com/WeeklySpecials Made fresh daily in our kitchens - 60+ Take Out Options!

137 Main Street, East Greenwich 401-885-8787 |

MainStreet-Cofee.com

Casual cofee house meets hip martini bar. Best Espresso Martinis in Rhode Island.

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

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.

MainStreet Cofee

Chelo’s Hometown Bar & Grille

FEATURE

Going for the Gold

Former Ocean State Olympians reflect on highlights in anticipation of this year’s Paris games

By Ken Abrams

t’s no secret that athletes from all over the world train tirelessly for years with the goal of qualifying for their country’s Olympic team. For them, there’s no greater honor than representing their nation at the international event held every four years. As over 10,000 of the world’s best head to Paris to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics, we decided to check in with three former Olympians who not only showed up for the US, but also for Rhode Island.

SUMMER CAMP CAMARADERIE

ELIZABETH BEISEL

Swimming: 2008, 2012 & 2016

Three-time Olympian and two-time medalist (and the first woman to swim to Block Island), Saunderstown native Elizabeth Beisel returns to the Olympic Games this summer – but not as an athlete. Beisel is part of the NBC Sports team working as a commentator and poolside reporter. She channels the excitement of her first Olympics in 2008 into this new opportunity, saying, “The first time I made the Olympic Team was by far the best moment of my life. Whenever someone asks me what my favorite and proudest moment of my swimming career was, I always tell them, making the team for the first time. It’s the moment when my life changed forever.”

Beisel’s most precious memories revolve around her teammates, many of whom remain close friends. “Swimming is such a close-knit community,” she explains. “We see each other at meets at least once a month during the season, so having six weeks of uninterrupted training (in the lead-up to the games) and competing with these people is the absolute best. It’s like summer camp, but for Olympic athletes.”

Beisel still champions the Olympic ideal. “The culture of the Olympics represents so much peace and hope for the world,” she says. “It’s the one time when everyone comes together, and although it’s to compete against one another, there is such profound respect among athletes.” Unlike basketball or soccer, there is no professional league for swimming – the Olympics is the pinnacle, adding to the significance of the competition. “Representing the United States is an honor. I’m beyond proud and thankful for the men and women who make it possible for us as athletes to compete at the Olympics.”

Elizabeth Beisel at the 2012 London Olympics

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Beisel

Across America

SWEATING THROUGH OPENING CEREMONIES

MICHAEL PARKHURST

Soccer: 2008

This summer, the USA men’s soccer team returns to the Olympics for the first time since the 2008 games in Beijing, China. Cranston native Michael Parkhurst, who recently helped establish the Rhode Island Football Club (RIFC), played on that team. His selection to the team came as a surprise to the defender, who was playing professionally for the New England Revolution at the time. “It came as a complete shock to me when I was selected for the group,” Parkhurst recalls. “It was only a few weeks before the Olympics began. Being

there was an amazing experience.”

Like so many others, Parkhurst has vivid memories of the opening ceremonies. “We convinced coach to let us go to the opening ceremonies,” he explains. “It was about an hour and a half away from where we were staying, and we had a game the next day. The heat was incredible, and Polo Ralph Lauren had us outfitted in collared shirts with a jacket. Everyone was sweating through everything they were wearing.”

That year, the men’s soccer team played two of their three games outside of Beijing. “Only

one of our games was in Beijing and we were planning to stay at the Olympic Village,” says Parkhurst. “We spent one night there, but Argentina, who had already qualified for the next round, was on the floor right above us, and they were up all night celebrating. Our coach switched us to a hotel after that.” Parkhurst jokes that he had no bitter feelings toward the Argentinians, as the American team would have likely done the same. “It doesn’t matter where you are from in the world; there’s that mutual respect. Sport unites us.”

Photos courtesy of (L)

U.S. Soccer, (R) Rhode Island Football Club

Michael Parkhurst leads Team USA at the 2008 Olympics

Michael Parkhurst

RI REPRESENTING IN THE 2024 GAMES

Follow a handful of Rhode Islanders heading to Paris this month to compete.

• Women’s rower and Jamestown native Emily Kallfelz is a two-time USRowing Under 23 Female Athlete of the Year who previously rowed for Princeton University. She competes for the gold with preliminary rounds beginning on July 27.

• Three-time US national champion in sailing, Stuart McNay, of Providence, is heading to Paris for his fifth Olympic appearance, having made his debut at the Beijing games in 2008.

• Emily Sisson is running in the final Olympic event: the women’s marathon on August 11. The former Providence College All-American and NCAA Champion competed in the 2021 games and finished second at the US Olympic trials in Orlando, Florida in February.

• University of Rhode Island women’s basketball head coach Tammi Reiss serves as assistant coach for Team USA’s 3x3 team.

Goalie Sara DeCosta wins gold at the 1998 Olympics

CHILDHOOD DREAM REALIZED SARA DECOSTA-HAYES

Hockey: 1998 & 2002

Warwick native Sara DeCosta-Hayes competed in two Olympics: the 1998 games in Nagano, Japan, where she won a gold medal playing goalie for the women’s hockey team, and 2002 in Salt Lake City, where she won silver. “Both Olympics were different experiences – each exciting and amazing,” she recalls. “Representing your country and wearing the USA jersey, walking in the opening ceremonies, especially the first Olympics, was a dream come true. The Olympics were a big deal at my house; we always had a party and waited to see what Team USA was wearing. I always dreamt of going to the Olympics.”

Like many former Olympians, DeCosta-Hayes recalls her emotions at the opening ceremonies. “I think as an athlete, the moment you walk into the opening ceremonies is when you truly feel like an Olympian,” she says. “The ceremonies in ’98 were just amazing. Marching in with Team USA is a surreal moment. It just hits you – we’ve had such a long journey, training for all these years to get here.”

DeCosta’s first Olympics came just after her freshman year at Providence College. Those games were the first to include women’s hockey as an official sport. “It was a new experience for all 20 of us,” she remembers. “That team still has the strongest bond of any team I’ve ever been on.”

DeCosta welcomes the expansion of women’s hockey on the collegiate level and in the newly established Professional Women’s Hockey League, founded in 2023. “It shows the growth of the female sports movement,” she says. “There are so many opportunities; you go to any rink and you’ll see girls on the ice with the boys or girls on a team together. In the ’98 Olympics, all the girls had played on boys’ teams; now the level of women’s hockey is outstanding. For us to see how far it has come is what it’s all about.”

“The beauty of the Olympics is that when you go there, you’re not just the hockey team or the bobsled team,” emphasizes DeCosta. “You are Team USA, you are one team – it really feels like that.”

A cure for the

FOOD & DRINK

In the Kitchen | Recipe | Profile | Ice Cream

Hope on High Street

A Westerly raw bar and restaurant by day keeps the good times rolling after dark

By Abbie Lahmers

Though originally from Connecticut, Pete Canny knows that Westerly is a special place. He grew up vacationing in Misquamicut since he was eight years old, and though culinary school brought him to Manhattan, where he and his business partners opened four bars and restaurants in New York City, it wasn’t long before the southern Rhode Island coastlines called him back.

Now in its second summer, High Hope Tavern is a seafood restaurant and cocktail bar that channels Westerly’s proximity to the ocean in interior accents, like sweeping paintings depicting nautical scenes, but most importantly in the fresh-off-the-boat harvests of the sea. New this season is the addition of Sonny’s Clam Bar, which Canny describes as an ode to Goodnight Sonny, one of his NYC restaurants.

Photo by Christopher Sutcliffe

“I’m a huge fisherman myself,” says Canny, who happened to be on his way to a fishing tournament as he spoke, “so we incorporate that a lot. High Hope has all the local seafood you can think of: oysters, clams, scallops, local fish that’s available. I have a friend of mine who’s a commercial fisherman – if he says, ‘hey, I just got this tuna in today,’ then I’ll take it.”

The same goes for land-based ingredients.

With a focus on sustainability and minimizing waste, Canny explains that many of the ingredients sourced for the dining menu also end up being used in the drink program. Working with a farmers collective, Canny receives a list of what’s available every week and regularly switches up the menu to prioritize fresh, local harvests. Besides the potatoes, he says, “everything we use at High Hope comes from within

eight miles of the restaurant.”

From local cuts of beef used in house-made burgers to burrata, risotto, linguine with clams, and more, chef Ned Denton – who was convinced to move to Westerly from New York – is the mastermind behind High Hope’s menu. “He’s literally the most talented chef I’ve ever worked with,” says Canny. “He loves working with fresh ingredients and making magic with it.”

by

High Street Martini

Tavern Burger

Photo

Christopher Sutcliffe

Canny describes the restaurant as a “chameleon,” with raw bar-focused happy hour during the early evening and full dinner service, before transforming into a cocktail bar concept at night. “Our kitchen is open later than anyone in town and we have DJs and live music a couple nights a week,” he explains. “You can come in early with your family and crush some oysters,

High Hope Tavern infuses classic and nautical accents

Grilled

you can come in for a date night dinner, or you can visit by yourself late-night looking to meet people. We bring down the lights, turn up the music, and light candles.”

On the cocktail menu, expect plenty of seasonal flavors to find their way into new drinks, such as the Weekapaug Groove, a vodka drink with fresh rhubarb, watermelon, lemon, and lavender. A nod to Rhode Island’s state bird, the Red Rooster Margarita incorporates red bell pepper, cucumber, lime, and chili salt with tequila. A natural wine list also complements the tavern’s offerings.

While Canny was once in the keep-Westerly-

a-secret camp, he now relishes seeing how it’s grown, and how High Hope Tavern’s mission of sustainable sourcing and good vibes seamlessly fits into the town’s culinary scene. “Westerly’s such a good escape place on the weekends,” he says. “I mean, it’s three hours from Manhattan, two hours from Boston, it’s on the water. How could it not blow up?” Follow @highhopetavern for events, themed nights, live music, and more.

High Hope Tavern

18 High Street, Westerly 401-388-8450 • HighHopeTavern.com

High Hope’s raw bar serves up harvests of the sea

First Comes Love

A serendipitous sip leads to marriage and a grain-to-glass distillery in Pawtucket

By Abbie Lahmers

Photo courtesy of Working Man Distillers

“

Working Man Distillers is borne out of a love affair,” begins Kelly Lendall, describing a fortuitous series of events followed by years of sweat equity and elbow grease that went into the distillery’s recent opening in Pawtucket. “My husband and I had our very first date sharing a bottle of whiskey that I bought for him and knew very little about. We both instantly fell in love – with each other and that fine bottle of whiskey. I bought John a home-distilling kit as a gift and said I wouldn’t marry him until he had perfected the original recipe.”

You guessed it – John did indeed create the whiskey that won over Kelly’s heart. That was a decade ago, and since then the industrious husband-andwife team has been poring over the perfect pours on a much greater scale, producing a range of spirits and refining recipes. Their passion is contagious, often enticing tasting room guests to learn more about the art of organic distilling, which the Lendalls are happy to regale them with.

Naturally, whiskey – single malt, rye, and bourbon – is their claim to fame. “Our original whiskey recipe is based on a George Washington recipe from his distilling days. There’s a lot of history in those barrels!” says Kelly. They also produce barrel-aged gin, vodka (including a pineapple-flavored version), brandy, moonshine, and agave, all on-site. “Everything is ‘grain to glass,’ and we pride ourselves on quality. Our draft cocktails, hand-muddled cocktails, and cocktail flights reflect this high standard. Even our garnishes, like pickles and mint, are locally sourced from small family-run businesses like ours.”

Now settled into their Pawtucket digs, Kelly explains that they’ve outfitted the space with a “Nashville chic” sensibility, which makes good use of the former mill building’s exposed brick walls, 30-foot ceilings, and polished stone floors. The couple infuses inviting quirks, too, like a vintage bathtub fashioned into a loveseat, eclectic bar stools, and plants taking in the sunlight from tall windows. “We want it to be a place where you can come to enjoy a fine spirit and unwind after a long day,” says Kelly.

Since opening in the spring, the distillery tasting room has doubled as a happening hub for events, from open mic nights to live music shows, with food trucks supplying snacks to enjoy while imbibing. The Lendalls take pride in bringing together fellow hard-working patrons in the spirit of, well, spirits. “We can guide you through the menu and help you find that ‘just right’ drink,” says Kelly – and who knows, it may lead to a similar kismet meet-cute as that fateful glass of whiskey that brought the Lendalls together.

5 Carpenter Street, Pawtucket, WorkingManDistillers.com

Back to the Classics

As whiskey fans, the Lendalls love showcasing their bourbon with a tried-and-true cocktail: the Old Fashioned. Sip it in their tasting room or order a bottle to make it at home.

INGREDIENTS

• 1.5 oz. Working Man Distillers Cape House Rye Whiskey

• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters

• 1 tsp of sugar

• Orange peel

Muddle the orange peel in a rocks glass, and pour ingredients over a large ice cube. Top the glass with a twisted orange peel and a cocktail cherry. Enjoy!

Spirited Happenings

Go for the locally distilled liquor, stay for the camaraderie. Along with live music select nights, here’s just a handful of events happening at Working Man Distillers this month:

WEDNESDAYS: Open Mic Night welcomes everything from poetry readings to musical performances, 6-8pm.

AUGUST 3: Embellish a bottle with sunflowers and twinkling lights at Paint Night, 3-5pm.

AUGUST 22: Settle in for an evening of laughs at Comedy Night, 6:30-9pm.

AUGUST 31: The Ten Lives Rescue Adoption Event and Fundraiser features a cat-themed cocktail, merch sales, a food truck, and adorable kitty patrons seeking homes, 3-6pm.

Shaking Things Up

Whiskey bar’s new general manager brings reality show cred and moxie to Wickenden

By Ruthie Wood

When it comes to all the fine details that go into running a restaurant, The East End’s new general manager Hannah Weaver has gotten good at operating the proverbial switchboard behind the scenes. “There’s the stuff you expect, like running the floor, doing the fun things like managing the whiskey menus, planning the new cocktail programs, and getting to speak on those things to the customers,” says Weaver of her role at the whiskey bar and bistro on Wickenden Street. “Then there’s the funny things you’re not expecting, like trying to figure out trash protocols and who’s turn it is to clean the grease trap. At any minute I’m prepared to clean up broken glass, help shuck oysters, or wash silverware.”

The position is one that Weaver has earned through a dose of moxie and years of experience in all aspects in the service industry, beginning when she was 16, and over the course of a career that’s led her from Seattle to New York City to Detroit and now Providence. “I joined The East End team in 2021, right in that summer when restaurants were really starting to reopen. It was a really small staff at the time, and I think it was entirely women in the front-of-house. It was such a cool experience,” she reminisces.

Being surrounded by professional, career-driven women, as well as all female bartenders in a traditionally male-dominated space was “a dream come true.” After working as the assistant manager, Weaver took over the general manager role when the position became open. She also recently represented the Northeast region on season 13 of reality TV show MasterChef , showcasing her culinary skills and proving that she’s capable of running every aspect of a restaurant, from greeting guests and staffing to the bar and kitchen.

Weaver isn’t the only new addition to The East End. The restaurant briefly closed in November of last year for renovations, but retained all of its employees and paid them to help, from reupholstering benches and building new table bases to pitching ideas on how to make the restaurant function better. “We got

this chance to rebuild, reopen, with our own hands in it,” says Weaver. She and staff worked together to change the low dining tables to high tops at the lower area of the restaurant, which makes the atmosphere more casual for low-commitment eating (think quick drinks and appetizers like Shishito Peppers, Point Judith

Calamari, or Crispy Hakka Eggplant), while providing a feeling of space that post-pandemic diners need. “It brings the life back into the bar,” says Weaver, who touts the success of the team-led ideas, proudly noting that the restaurant has been slammed since reopening.

Her biggest goal for The East End is to create

P hoto courtesy of The East End

Weaver preparing a craft cocktail at The East End

a space that “caters to everyone at any given moment.” She is joined by the restaurant’s new head chef, Josh Davis, in developing a menu that reflects versatility to fit any diner’s wants and needs. To that end, Weaver is working to expand the bistro’s hours. “We just started opening for a late-night food service. The East Side doesn’t really have anywhere to grab dinner late – even a snack! – so we are doing burgers and fries all half-priced until midnight on Thursday, Friday, Saturday,” she says. Brunch hours to accommodate early afternoon oysters and charcuterie are in the works.

But at its core, The East End is a whiskey bar, and Weaver is creating a newsletter highlighting new spirits and happenings. With hundreds of varieties and seasonal bourbon-based cocktails, Weaver and bartenders can give recommendations based on price, taste, and flavor profile of

the meal. For diehard fans, The East End’s special brown-butter-washed bourbon Kettle Corn Old Fashioned might be a good choice with a burger, as the kitchen uses the same butter from the bourbon washing to cook the meat.

But no matter your choice – from Duck Reubens or raw bar fare to burgers and pork shanks – the establishment is “a classic.” “The East End will have whatever you want,” affirms Weaver, and exceptional service. “It’s important to know you have somewhere that feels comfortable and inviting, and I think beyond food, beyond whiskey, beyond the cocktail program, that’s what we really aim to be.”

The East End 244 Wickenden Street 401-433-9770

TheEastEndPVD.com

Native American Museum!

the amazing culture of the Pequot people, learn about their distinctive relationship with nature, their challenges, and their inspiring resiliency. Our story

Fruit Scoops

Strawberry and peach are the new chocolate and vanilla at these ice cream destinations

By Patty J

There’s no shortage of frozen desserts designed to entice sweet tooths across the Ocean State –namely the gold-standard spoonfuls like chocolate, vanilla, and even coffee ice cream – but what if your cravings speak to a more fruit-forward sensibility? From berry-flavored soft serves to creamy gelato and sorbet, these spots are certain to please, especially on a humid August day.

Big Feeling

This ice cream and sorbet pop-up recently announced that they are opening a storefront, which means we’ll soon be able to enjoy their thoughtfully crafted cold treats beyond the highly anticipated weekly pint drops. Flavors rotate, but past ones have included creative takes like Morello Cherry and Meyer Lemon Sorbet. Pro v idence, BigFeeling.co

Cold Fusion Gelato

Located on Thames Street, this sunny stop has dozens of flavors of silky smooth, hand-crafted gelato made with all-natural, top-shelf ingredients. A menu of decadent sorbet options also includes Blackberry Merlot, Jamaican Mango, Key Lime, and Strawberry Lemonade, just to name a few. Newport, ColdFusionGelato.com

The Frosty Owl

Newly opened this year, this darling shop (check out the lovely owl mural and rocking chairs on the back porch) is a triple threat with ice cream, gelato, and Italian ice. The Salted Caramel Chunk gelato is a can’t-miss, and specialty flavors have included the likes of the Love Potion for those feeling amorous about raspberry. West Greenwich, TheFrostyOwl.com

The Frosty Owl

Cold Fusion Gelato

NEW PARLOR IN TOWN

For more late-summer scoops, motor over to the recently opened Village Ice Cream Co. in Wickford Village to celebrate their first season with classic cones and creative specials like the PB&J Sundae. @villageicecreamco

The Ice Cream Machine

For anyone who’s shopped this family-owned ice cream parlor’s colorful variety of pints, cakes, and candy, you should know that this northern Rhody favorite also serves up fruit sorbet flavors (raspberry comes to mind), which also get five-star reviews. Cumberland, Facebook: The Ice Cream Machine Co

The Inside Scoop

The lines at this Wickford mainstay can stretch down the street. Next time you’re there, why not order outside your usual palate and try the Pink Lemonade soft serve? It tastes as refreshing as the drink it’s based on. The Inside Scoop also has lemon and peach sorbet. North Kingstown, TheInsideScoopRI.com

No Udder

This recently relocated PVD classic is famous for their dairy-free, vegan ice cream. Anyone craving fruit flavors should definitely sample their strawberry soft serve, and don’t miss out on their frozen lemonades, served on their own or as an ice cream float, and only available in the summer. Pro v idence, Like-No-Udder.com

The Moose Cafe

What’s the scoop about this cute drivethrough on Stafford Road? In addition to coffee and sammies for lunch, they have a ginormous menu of over 300 flavors of soft serve with a fab variety of fruit ones to choose from, including papaya, lime, black cherry, and tangerine. Tiverton, TheMooseCafe.com

Nana’s Ice Cream

Searching for late-night gelato? Nana’s at the Pier Market Place is open seven days a week until 11pm. In addition to traditional gelato, they have a dairy-free version that tastes as creamy and decadent as the real thing. Throw in dozens of classic and novelty toppings, and you’re living a frozen dessert dream. Narragansett, NanasGelato.com

Pompelmo Gelateria

Situated on High Street, the owners of this terrific spot make everything from scratch and actually studied gelato-making in Italy, so you know it’s the real deal. Their creative flavors change regularly, but star scoops from past seasons include grapefruit and oh-so daring raspberry chocolate chip. Westerly, PompelmoGelateria.com

Like

Photo (L) courtesy of Like No Udder

Like No Udder

Everything you’ve heard about these West Side ice cream sandwiches (and dessert tacos) is true – they are exceptionally good, and come in flavors ranging from Brazilian Passionfruit to Fruity Pebbles. Their sorbet pops (think mimosa and guava) are the ultimate summertime snack. Pro v idence, TricycleIceCream.com

Nana’s Ice Cream

Tricycle Ice Cream

HEY RHODY PETS

This month’s winning pet photo!

@rhodeislandfoodandtravel

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