Providence Monthly August 2012 by Hey Rhody Media Co.

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Contents

Photography: (L) Melissa Stimpson (R) Tiffany Medrano

AuGuST 2012

41 This Month 27 A Summer of Performance Art

57 41 City Style Living in high-rise style at the Plaza 43 The Look 44 Shop Talk 47 Get Fit

Providence is particularly artsy this season

31 Drink Your Way to the Gold Elevate your boozy prowess by working your way down our Olympics-inspired list

Every Month 8 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note 11 Feedback 12 PM List

51 Feast A culinary love story 53 In the Kitchen 54 On the Menu 57 Review 58 Behind the Bar 60 In the Drink 61 Dining Guide

67 Get Out Get your fill of fashion and fabulosity at The Biltmore 68 Calendar 71 Music 72 Theatre 74 Art

76 The Last Detail Forego taxis and go green

17 Providence Pulse Enjoy Breakfast in the backyard of an East Side filmmaker

On the Cover: Photographed at The American by Mike Braca

19 City 22 Malcontent 25 Scene in PVD August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Editor’s Note

PROVIDENCE MONTHLY

Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell Publishing Director Jeanette St. Pierre Executive Editor Julie Tremaine Special Projects Manager John Taraborelli Art Director Alli Coate Assistant Editor Erin Swanson

An Olympian Feat The Olympics are finally here and we can’t lie – we’re kind of excited. Seems like we’re just suckers for international competition and spectacle. Of course, you won’t find any worldwide athletic action here in Providence, and since we’ve always been better with a shot glass than a shot put anyway, we took our Olympic fever to the bar. This month’s cover story, Medal in Drinking, gives barflies, boozehounds and – ahem – connoisseurs the chance to go for the gold by challenging themselves to a new night out. Whether it’s beer clubs or whiskey flights, wines by the glass or cocktails containing egg whites, we’re sure you’ll find a new way to test your liver’s endurance. Okay, so maybe you’re not quite so… er, thirsty. How about a little music instead? Since free music sounds

Assistant Art Director Karli Hendrickson

best to us, we took a look at the mayor’s Neighborhood Performing Arts Initiative to find out who’s taking the stage in your neighborhood. If you’re hungry for a nice dinner before the show, consider revisiting New Rivers, now under new ownership. We’ve got a new Review on page 57. And if you’re looking for a convenient way to travel between all these stops (remember to designate a driver), check out Providence’s new pedicab company in The Last Detail. Oh, and lest we forget: USA! USA! USA!

Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas Graphic Designer Meghan H. Follett Veatsna Sok Account Managers Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher Nicole Greenspun Elizabeth Riel Dan Schwartz Sharon Sylvester Kimberly Tingle Jessica Webb Illustrators Karli Hendrickson Ashley MacLure Photographers Mike Braca Tiffany Medrano Corey Grayhorse Laurel Mulherin Kate Kelley Melissa Stimpson Contributing Writers Linda Beaulieu Stephanie Obodda Michael Clark Jim Pierce Emily Dietsch Caitlin Quinn Samantha Gaus Cristy Raposo Ben Goulet Eric Smith Jane C. Govednik Vikki Warner Molly Lederer Interns Amy Beaudoin Don Previe Samantha Leach Dale Rappaneau Ellen Merrit Adam Toobin Emily Payne Members of:

We’re Hiring! Providence Media is looking for a talented graphic designer to join the team. Email your resume

resumes@provi-

denceonline.com to apply.

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PAPER CONTAINS 20-25% POST-CONSUMER CONTENT Providence Monthly, 1070 Main Street, Suite 302 Pawtucket RI 02860 • Fax: 401-305-3392 www.providenceonline.com providencemonthly@providenceonline.com For advertising rates call: 401-305-3391 We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission. Copyright ©2012 by Providence Monthly, All rights reserved. Printed by Gannett Offset. Distributed by Special Delivery.

Providence Monthly | August 2012

first annual

EAS T G R EENWICH re s t a u ra n t w e e k

this month on

Providenceonline.com our Get y

fix dailyour

of y cal ite lo favor zine maga

Fierce Competition Photo: Eddie Ramirez

We’re helping the Providence Kickball League and DownCity Bocce League choose their MVPs – and later this month you’ll have the chance to weigh in.

August Events

September 14-23

a ten day culinary

celebration

Statewide Restaurant Reviews Get our critics’ takes on the Rhode Island dining scene with reviews from our sister magazines in South County and the East Bay.

S p o n s o re d b y :

Fo r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t :

EastGreenwichChamber.com 10

Providence Monthly | August 2012

Community Calendar

Weekly Blog Posts

Stay updated between issues with posts on news, events, food and much more.

Photo: Hilary Block

We round up the highlights of summervacation’s last month.

Feedback A Curious Thanks Many thanks to Erin Swanson for the great article she wrote on my store [“How Curious,” Shop Talk, July 2012]. It was much appreciated. Matt Bird, Curatorium

What an Honor Thank you for naming me Best Dressed in your Superlatives Issue [“Class of 2012,” July 2012]. I love helping women look and feel great and am honored to be recognized. Jill Marinelli, Personal Stylist Thank you to Julie Tremaine for the great piece [“Class of 2012,” July 2012]. I loved reading about all the other superlatives. I’m honored to be among them. Wendy Nilsson, Partnership for Providence Parks I greatly appreciate the mention [“Class of 2012,” July 2012] for A Fare Share and it has already gone viral on Facebook. It’s very exciting! Unfortunately, the organization has been spelled incorrectly. Is there a possibility it could be changed or corrected in the next issue? We are fortunate to have been considered in the first place. John Tarrats, A Fare Share Editor’s Note: A Fare Share directs surplus restaurant food to local area food pantries and public charity missions. We apologize for the misspelling.

Thanks My Friend I want to thank Julie Tremaine so very much for the wonderful article [“Pretty Necessary,” Beauty, July 2012]. You are that person, patient, and most of all friend who makes me realize how

lucky I am to help people to the best of my ability and have fun while doing what I love. Dr. Jeffrey Mansolillo, Mansolillo Dental

That’s Hot I want to thank John Taraborelli so much for the most interesting article on our ghost chili challenge [“A Ghost of a Chance,” PM Experiment, July 2012]. As soon as the magazine hit the shelves, they were coming in the door. On behalf of everyone at Hercules Mulligans, thank you thank you thank you. Charles Greene

From Twitter @JDinRI How great it is to see @sorenryherd and @retailprojectri featured in the @PVDMonthly superlative issue! @RosannaOSinel @PVDMonthly is producing a magazine for @StyleWeekNE- this is going to be insane. #getready #august

From Facebook Corey Grayhorse Photography & Black Label Artistry Thrilled to have had the wonderful opportunity to work with some awesome individuals, shoot, and do the makeup here in our studio for the new Providence Monthly cover.

at The Providence Art Club 9 Thomas Street, Providence, RI 02903

(401) 419-2821 AnthonyTomaselli.com Open Gallery Nights, by chance or by appointment

BRASSERIE

Anthony Tomaselli

Bravo

BRASSERIE

Roz Raskin and the Rice Cakes There is a full page article on us in Providence Monthly! Thanks to Eric Smith for all of the kind words!

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Bravo has EXTENDED Restaurant Weeks until August 14th! Join us for our 2 for 1 Dinner for $29.95 2 Salads, 2 Entrees & a bottle of wine Proudly Serving Stone Cellars by Beringer Chardonnay • Pinot Grigio • Merlot

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StyleWeek Northeast (formerly StyleWeek Providence) is gearing up for another week of fashion. Check out the newest fabulous styles by many talented designers including Jonathan Joseph Peters and Peach Carr (both of Project Runway fame). From August 26-September 1, enjoy runway shows, an accessory showcase and an opportunity to chat with local artists and fashionistas. The event will go down inside the swanky and historic Biltmore Hotel. Go online to buy your tickets, as this is one stylish event that you definitely do not want to miss. styleweekprovidence.com

Professional Nail Care for Ladies & Gentleman

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Think Pink Gloria Gemma is hosting its annual Celebrate Pink event on September 15 at The Warwick Mall. This free, oneday event helps to raise awareness about breast cancer. Families and individuals are encouraged to stop by and learn while having fun. There will be a

large variety of vendors on site, health screenings and a fashion show. Celebrate Pink will set the stage for Gloria Gemma’s 7th Annual Flames of Hope event, a much-anticipated Waterfire night set to take place on October 6. gloriagemma.org

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

There’s Only One Caserta 121 Spruce St., Providence (On the Hill) Parking Available

Take out 272-3618 or 621-3618 or 621-9190

dets. Don’t ask, just come and see for yourself. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online. All proceeds will go back to the cause, furthering the art careers of local youth. Call 767-2100 to schedule a pre-party tour. riverzedgearts.org

Chow Down Food Hounds The first ever East Greenwich Restaurant Week is just around the corner. From September 14-23, many of your favorite EG food spots will be offering up their best dishes at low prices. As EG was founded in 1677, the menu prices will reflect that date: Dinner is priced at $29.77, lunch at $12.77 and

breakfast at $7.77. The kick off party is being sponsored by our sister publication SO Rhode Island and will be held at the East Greenwich Yacht Club on September 13 from 6-9pm. Tickets are only $20 and will allow you access to food, drink and merriment. Purchase yours on sorhodeisland.com.

Photo: Zoe Conte

ing If you’re not e’Sa,t CASERTA you’re not eating pizza!

Join RiverzEdge Arts Project in celebrating its 10th birthday by joining them for their Industrial Ball on Friday, October 12 at Le Moulin Mill, the social enterprise’s home base. The party runs from 7-10pm and will feature DIY fun and some space ca-

SUMMER CAMP FOR GROWN UPS Day Use Pool Passes V.I.P. Program Special Events Catered Affairs and Private Parties Cabanas Fire Pits Tropical Beverages and Caribbean Cuisine AQUA AT THE PROVIDENCE MARRIOTT ONE ORMS STREET, PROVIDENCE, RI (401)272-2400 www.aquaprovidence.com

Daycation/Day Use Pool Pass: Monday - Thursday, 10AM-4PM - $20 per person - includes admission to indoor/outdoor pools, free parking, dressing room access and a $5 food and beverage credit. AQUA's Coming Attractions at Your Fingertips! To view the site either visit www.aquaprovidence.com on your mobile device or snap a photo of the code to the right with your phone.

Wonderful Wickenden

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Sakura R e s ta u R a n t Japanese & Sushi

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333 Wickenden Street, Providence • 454-1412 www.abyssinia-restaurant.com Free delivery in Providence Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm • Fri-Sat 11am-11pm

Gourmet

UnitedHealthcare is accepted at all Lifespan Laboratories.

On The GO! Local food trucks bringing delicious food right to you

A Non-Dairy Soft Serve & Vegan Treats Truck

Lifespan Laboratories: Highest Quality, Easiest Access Fair Trade, Organic and Locally Roasted Available for Events in Southern New England @LikeNoUdder •

like-no-udder.com / 419-8869

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Lifespan, the name synonymous with Rhode Island’s best hospitals, has made it easy to find a convenient location and time for your laboratory testing. Lifespan Laboratories has 42 locations throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts, each offering a complete range of the most advanced laboratory tests. And because you never need an appointment at Lifespan Laboratories, there’s sure to be a location and time that suits your schedule. Some laboratory locations are even open on Saturdays. Cranston

Phone: (401) 333-1051

Phone: 401-793-3137

1 Commerce Street Phone: (401) 335-1116

111 Plain Street Phone: (401) 444-2084

1681 Cranston Street, Suite F Phone: (401) 944-0713

2 Wake Robin Road Phone: (401) 333-3246

Medical Office Building 2 Dudley Street Phone: (401) 444-8323

Cumberland

Newport

1199 Reservoir Avenue Phone: (401) 946-8735

2140 Mendon Road Phone: (401) 333-9875

East Greenwich

1672 South County Trail, Suite 203 Phone: (401) 398-7827 925 Main Street Phone: (401) 884-8200

East Providence

400 Warren Avenue Phone: (401) 434-0993 1275 Wampanoag Trail Phone: (401) 433-0908

A Chez Pascal Production

Barrington Medical Center 1525 Wampanoag Trail Phone: (401) 433-5149

Foster

142 A Danielson Pike Phone: (401) 647-7426

Jamestown

20 Southwest Avenue Phone: (401) 423-2520

Lincoln

6 Blackstone Valley Place

@ChezPascal

chez-pascal.com

Newport Hospital 11 Friendship Street Phone: (401) 845-1260

North Providence

33 Staniford Street Phone: (401) 453-8218 160 Wayland Avenue Phone: (401) 621-4120

1515 Smith Street Phone: (401) 353-4812

1195 North Main Street Phone: (401) 865-6693

North Smithfield

285 Governor Street Phone: (401) 861-2130

594 Great Road, Suite 101 Phone: (401) 597-5940

Pascoag

1 Hoppin Street Phone: (401) 793-8780

Pawtucket

Shaw's Plaza 208 Collyer Street, Suite 101 Phone: (401) 793-4615

1 High Street, Unit 5 Phone: (401) 567-8790

85 Pearson Avenue Phone: (401) 721-9824

Portsmouth

148 West River Street Phone: (401) 272-1467

161 Chase Road Phone: (401) 682-1129

1125 North Main Street Phone: (401) 793-2881

77 Turnpike Avenue Phone: (401) 682-2067

Rehoboth

Providence

44 West River Street Phone: (401) 272-1649 146 West River Street

Slatersville

905 Victory Highway Phone: (401) 765-0957

Smithfield

400E Putnam Pike Phone: (401) 232-0927 28 Cedar Swamp Road Phone: (401) 231-4156

Tiverton

1800 Main Road Phone: (401) 625-1140

Warwick

400 Bald Hill Road Phone: (401) 734-1831 1035 Post Road Phone: (401) 467-4730 1444 Warwick Avenue Phone: (401) 463-3675

West Warwick

186 Providence Street Phone: (401) 615-2800 x2193

Woonsocket

450 Clinton Street Phone: (401) 767-4100 x3054 or 3056

237 Winthrop Street Phone: (508) 252-6920

Rumford

400 Pawtucket Avenue Phone: (401) 438-3409

For more information, please call 401–793–4242 or 1–800–980–4244 • www.Lifespan.org/services/labs *RIH Ventures d.b.a. Lifespan Laboratories

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Summer Has Arrived! Enjoy summer on our patio with a cool cocktail and a delicious plate of fresh, locally-sourced seafood.

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• Champagne and Stone Fruit Braised Rabbit with seared rabbit leg over crimson lentils and sauteed rainbow chard • Seared Dayboat Scallops over Buttered Baby Bok Choy with fennel pickled radishes and grapefruit buerre blanc • 14 oz Dubreton All Natural Soy Brined Center Cut Pork Chop with carmelized peaches, rhubarb compote and grilled kale

Providence Pulse CITY / MALCONTENT / SCENE IN PVD

Locally Grown Talent The year was 2010,

Breakfast with Curtis

the month, August. On the East Side, horses were on the loose and screaming matches ensued on a front porch that was otherwise quiet. Filmmaker Laura Colella, 42, was in the midst of it all, unabashedly egging on the chaos. “I had been trying to get a larger budgeted project off the ground for a few years, and after going many rounds with it, I realized I was capable of making a film immediately if I

went about it the right way,” Colella says of the reason she chose to shoot her feature-length Breakfast With Curtis right in her back yard… literally. Colella filmed at her own home, employing her neighbors as actors. “The main actors are the five residents of the three-family house I live in, and the family of four who live next door,” she says, noting that the non-involved neighbors barely batted an eye, even through scenes involving “an angry tirade, or

continued on page 19...

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Fashion show • Kid’s activities • Free samples • Fun for the whole family

Saturday, September 15 • 12-6pm at Warwick Mall

Cranston / East GrEEnwiCh

Providence Monthly | August 2012

Pulse |

City

LOCAL THREADS continued from page 17... a horse walking down the sidewalk, or drunken singing on the porch.” Colella is no stranger to the scene: Breakfast With Curtis, a coming-ofage tale, is her third feature-length narrative film, in addition to numerous shorts she’s turned out over the years. Colella’s other two feature-length films, Tax Day (1998) and Stay Until Tomorrow (2004) were also filmed mainly in Providence. In addition to her movie making, Colella teaches at RISD, and is also currently an MFA candidate in Brown University’s Writing for Perfor-

mance program. “Making a film is like putting together a ridiculously complicated puzzle that has infinitely more pieces and dimensions than you ever imagined,” Colella states. “So far, this feature has been the easiest one yet, despite the enormous amount of work that has gone into it.” See Breakfast With Curtis at the Rhode Island International Film Festival at 6:45pm on Friday August 10 at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (1 Avenue of the Arts). breakfastwithcurtis.com –Erin Swanson

Clutching at Fashion What happens when two creative best friends decide they need better, more affordable purse options? Well, if the BFFs in question are Holly Auchmoedy and Rochelle Blanchet, Roeho happens. The line of fabulous, fashionable clutches are all handmade in Providence by one or both of the ladies. “We always knew we wanted to do something with fashion because we both love it,” they explain. “Last Fourth of July we were on the beach talking about what we were going to wear that night. and couldn’t find a clutches to wear out. We decided to go to the

fabric store and Roeho was born.” Options vary from bold, graphic canvas clutches perfect for everyday wear to delicate, rosette-covered bags for brides. (Roeho also custom designs bags as bridesmaids gifts.) All of the bags are made in small batches and are limited edition. “We make a limited amount of each print so each clutch is unique and exclusive,” the ladies explain. Right now they’re available online at Roeho.com and on The Fashion Truck, a Boston-based mobile boutique. Pretty nice – and pretty – work. –Julie Tremaine

CURB APPEAL

Downtown Renovations Include a New Drop-Off Lane at PPAC Several of Rhode Island’s fearless leaders gathered at the Providence Performing Arts Center last month to celebrate the unveiling of the new PPAC Square. As part of the excessively named “Downtown Providence Traffic Circulation Improvements Project: Phase 2,” the square’s renovation seeks to bring more people downtown, according to Mayor Taveras. During the event, PPAC President Lynn Singleton presented Governor Chafee with

a Founder’s Award, recognizing his work to secure funding for the project. The renovations include a dedicated drop off lane, new sidewalks, new benches and the planting of 25 immature trees. (Those trees should really grow up already.) It’s nice to see Providence’s politicians pushing for the betterment of local art institutions, even if it meant that biking down Weybosset was a bit difficult during the process. –Dale Rappaneau

THE WRITE STUFF

What’s The Frequency, Kenneth?

The unveiling of PPAC Square

Writers are an odd lot. They choose to spend their time in solitary pursuit, forever erasing and deleting, cursing themselves at regular intervals. Blame it on writer’s block or lack of talent, but occasionally a writer just gets… stuck. If you can relate (who can’t?), you’ll be relieved to learn of Frequency Providence, a community of writers who band together to help each other grow creatively. The arts group offers a range of writing

workshops, volunteer assignments (such as editing non-fiction publications) and events so that participants can network, engage and learn. If you’ve been shy to share your writing thus far, now’s the time – get feedback from your peers or from the instructors, all of whom have many years of experience under their belts. It’s a supportive environment that can only help your creativity flourish. frequencyprovidence.com – Andy Schumaker

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Pulse |

City

KICKIn’ THE COMPETITIOn

PVD’s Semi-Pro Soccer Team Rocks Their First Regional Season Providence has it all: food trucks, art museums and an Ivy League university. It’s the biggest little city this side of the Mississippi. When it comes to sports, however, the Ocean State lacks a noteworthy soccer team, and Kabba Joof sought to change that with the creation of the Rhode Island Reds. Currently in their first year as a semi-professional team, the Rhode

Island Reds consist of 32 local members, their ages ranging from 18 to 26. During a practice on the field of the East Side’s Moses Brown campus, Joof ran through a list of countries represented by Reds players: Jamaica, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, India, Portugal, Liberia and El Salvador. The sport brings people from all walks of life and all corners

of the globe together; more importantly, though, it brings the community together. “Each member came to a try-out,” says Joof. “They have passion for soccer, they’re loyal to the team and they have talent.” The men run laps around the long field, rivers of sweat running down each of their faces and necks. I wonder if I should hand them a few towels.

The Rhode Island Reds participate in the Northeast Atlantic Conference, the regional competition governed by the National Premier Soccer League. Games are held in Cranston, at the stadium. If you’re interested in trying out for next season, contact Joof. Be sure to bring your A game… and your water bottle. rhodeislandredsfc.com –Dale Rappaneau

PM ExPERIMEnT

The Art of Burlesque Being a woman is a beautiful thing; with the bat of an eyelash and a toss of the hair, we can control a room. Females are the greatest magicians of all, with our crimson painted lips, lace push-up bras and hairsprayed curls. We create an illusion that most men can’t help but buy into. It’s a dynamic that’s as old as time. Is it unfair of us to employ the trickery of makeup, corsets and fishnet stockings? Perhaps. But, some women also go that extra mile to work on both their Monroe-esque seductiveness and their red-hot dance moves (aka the triple threat). These adventurous, fun-loving ladies study the art of burlesque, and I wanted in. I arrived at Bayside School of Dance wearing a short little dress, with a bow in my hair and high wedge sandals. I already had “that illusion thing” in the bag. It was the other two factors that had me squirming with doubt: Would I be able to give myself a come-hither look in the mirror without giggling? And could I still drop it low on the dance floor without fracturing a hip? Lady Miss Iris, a petite woman with a platinum pixie cut, greeted me at the door with a smile. She then looked down at my shoes. I was told that while we would dance in heels eventually, it was best to start off without. Sheepishly, I unbuckled my straps; with a four-inch loss of height 20

Providence Monthly | August 2012

came an intangible loss of confidence. I tried my best to hide it. Miss Iris then introduced me to the other gals, all of whom were one step ahead of me, as I was joining in session two of her 10-week “Pour On Some Sauce” class. It had been 14 years since I’d stood in a dance studio. I told her it had been awhile, and she told me not to worry. “There are only two levels of performance in here,” she said, “sexy… and more sexy.” The other ladies nodded in agreement. The music began. Dean Martin’s “Standing On the Corner” flooded the studio and I began mimicking the group’s movements, which were simple and easy to follow, yet – much like yoga – left me quite sore the next day. We practiced circling our hips and tracing our fingers up our bodies to the sounds of Gene Pitney and Sonny Lester. Listening to those classic tunes was almost as much fun as the dance itself. We also learned how to radiate sensuality while not moving at all. “Posing is a transferrable skill,” Miss Iris said, as she showed us how to position our feet, legs and arms in order to look our best. “Whether you’re at the club with your girlfriends or having your photo taken at a wedding – do this [pose] and you’re going to look hot.” Oh, and when all else fails, “go into ta-da pose, and everything

will be okay.” As I walked to my car, high on life and physically spent, I wondered if that wasn’t a metaphor for life. Lady

Miss Iris, I’ll be back. Rhode Island Burlesque Academy, 925 Central Avenue, Pawtucket. 284-7422, riburlesqueacademy.com. –Erin Swanson

Illustration: Karli Hendrickson

Getting saucy with Lady Miss Iris

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

The Malcontent

by John Taraborelli

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Pulse |

Manifest Density Providence needs more people Recently, I was taking a class up in Boston that required me to spend a bit of time every Monday night in the North End. What struck me every time was not so much the wealth of great Italian food available on Hanover Street – surely Providence can give Boston a run for its money in that department, at least on quality, if not quantity – but rather how busy the streets and businesses are. On a Monday night. Sadly, there isn’t anywhere in our fair city that can boast that kind of volume that early in the week – and that was just one of many busy streets in Boston. That contrast got me to thinking about Providence’s density problem. Simply put, there just aren’t enough people in this city. We now live in the third largest city in New England, with just about 178,000 people in Providence proper, where not too long ago we were second only to Boston. Now Worcester has a higher population. While some of you may be thinking, That’s exactly why I live in Providence: because it’s not overcrowded, I would counter that cities are supposed to be crowded. If you want room to breathe and stretch out, move to the suburbs. Cities thrive on a bustling, dense ecosystem of businesses, commercial thoroughfares, residents, visitors and workers that is surprisingly delicate. The very things that make cities such interesting, exciting places to be – whether theaters, restaurants, the arts, festivals, parks – can’t survive without enough people around to patronize them. And as with any other business, the rates of return and response are pretty low: if you want to get 1000 people to attend a festival, you need to be drawing from a population of several hundred thousand. With developers and city leaders clamoring for more housing Downtown, stocks of unsold condos around the city, and the increasing number of boarded up houses on the West End and South Side, the city could easily support a

population of 225,000, maybe more. Of course, Providence will never compare to Boston in terms of density: even if we broke 250,000 you’d still be measuring that against roughly 615,000 in Boston proper alone, not to mention the densely populated surrounding areas like Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville, etc. that comprise Greater Boston. But we should be able to compare on a proportional level. There will never be as many people on Federal Hill as there are on the North End, but there are also less businesses on Federal Hill for those people to patronize, so why shouldn’t they be equally busy on a Monday night? Beyond the problem of population density, we also need to boost the density of activity. In most major cities, a first time visitor looking for a night out can be pointed in the direction of a single well-known thoroughfare where they can be assured of finding a lively, buzzing scene: Philadelphia has South Street; New Orleans, Bourbon Street; Boston, Newbury or Landsdowne or Hanover, depending on your pleasure. But where in Providence could a newcomer find such a concentration of activity? Sure, there are Federal Hill and Thayer Street, but in each case we’re talking about only six to ten blocks, mostly full of restaurants and lounges. What if that visitor was looking for live music? Theater? Dance clubs? Make no mistake, we have plenty of great offerings throughout the city, but they’re too sparse and scattered to explore without a knowledgeable guide – and a car, which is a whole other problem we won’t delve into here. If there was a more interconnected core of activity, more people from both within and outside the city would congregate there – and people attract even more people, which creates more activity, which keeps businesses buzzing, which makes the city a more exciting, attractive and densely clustered place to live.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Pulse |

feminine fancies

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Guests flooded the Providence Marriot on June 30 to celebrate the Federal Hill House Association’s 125th anniversary. Before dancing to the legendary vocal harmonies and rock and roll rhythms of The Driftwoods, guests feasted on an elegant dinner and tipped their hats to this year’s Community Service Award Honorees. The FHHA has been helping families since 1887.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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The What Cheer? Brigade and Big Nazo perform in Riverside Park

Arts in the Parks Providence’s summer of creative collaboration brings hope for a continuously brighter tomorrow... and a lot of good music by Benjamin Goulet Over the past few years, living in Providence has meant dealing with some slight road bumps (pardon the cycling pun). Road conditions are bad in spots, making errand running an exercise in agility. Rental prices and property taxes continue their upward creep, while the economy sputters and coughs. Still, there are many reasons to celebrate the Creative Capital, namely through Celebrate Providence! Celebrate is a series of performing arts events sponsored by the City of Providence, the Mayor’s Office, the Department of Art, Culture and Tourism and the Department of Parks and Recreation. These successful initiatives have helped prove that creative collaboration between city departments can bring something fresh and interesting to our city. Celebrate Providence is a self-de-

scribed “neighborhood performing arts initiative,” which awards funding to both Providence arts organizations and neighborhood groups so that they can hold performances and events that are free to the public. These events include music concerts, theater plays and more. The 2012 Celebrate Providence performer roster highlights the wide talent and diversity of the city. The events are held in nearly every neighborhood in Providence. Each group receives an average of about $1,500 to put on an event (or a series of events). To name a few, Opera Providence held four Sunday performances in Hopkins Square. Across town, the Summit Neighborhood Association (SNA) is gearing up for their 3rd Annual Summit Music Fest, an August concert that has brought up-andcoming folk and rock musicians, such

as Brown Bird and Midnight Honey, to Lippitt Park. Spanish-language theater and music from the EACS Theater took place in Roger Williams Park, while Alliance Française’s energetic Bastille Day got an extra kick with funds from the initiative. The Department has encouraged artists and neighborhood groups citywide to apply for the available funding. This inclusiveness and willingness to experiment has helped make the initiative successful for all involved, from the performers and artists it employs to the city residents who, in this tough economy, have lots of free summer entertainment to choose from. Beyond a few requirements, the City has been open to groups getting creative with their events. Organizers of the aforementioned Summit Music Fest and the Olneyville Housing’s “Jammin’ in

the Park” concert held in Donigian Park invited food trucks to come to the events. Local vendors and small businesses have been given the opportunity to sell their wares and services, as well. For the artists who are chosen to perform, a slot on the summer roster is a coveted gig, bringing in extra cash and a high profile stage at a well-attended event. A two-time participant is the roots rock band The Mighty Good Boys, scheduled to play the Summit Music Fest. The band’s manager, Don Withersiltz, was highly enthusiastic about the project. “The Mighty Good Boys love playing outdoors,” he says. “What artist or musician wouldn’t want to be part of a community arts project? These public arts initiatives are an indispensable asset when it comes to growing and strengthening our communities.”

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Poet & Spoken Word Artist Christopher Johnson performs as part of ECAS Theatre’s event in Roger Williams Park

David Alexis & Company perform near the fountain in Burnside Park

A dance group performs as part of ECAS Theatre’s event in Roger Williams Park

August Events Thursdays in August: Culture combines with creativity in the ECAS Theater’s bilingual music, dance and theater shows happening at Roger Williams Park at 5:30pm. Tuesday, August 7: Local musicians descend on Donigian Park at 5:30pm for “Jammin’ in the Park,” an evening of dancers, hip-hop artists and brass band madness appropriate for both children and adults. Sunday, August 18: Between 1pm and 5pm, the Summit Music Fest proves once again that Providence is home to great music, delicious food and outstanding locallysourced crafts.

Providence Monthly | August 2012

Jump! Dance Company performs near the fountain in Burnside Park

Withersiltz highlighted the exposure for the band, noting that the gigs “help showcase their work to the public for free, instead of playing somewhere that costs money.” In addition, the Celebrate Providence series has inadvertently highlighted the growing role and influence of Providence neighborhood associations, too. Both the West Broadway Neighborhood Association (WBNA) and the SNA have been revitalized in recent years with younger, hipper members. Since many of these newcomers have young families, it’s an opportunity to give back to their communities and promote a “buy local” ethos, not to mention rocking live music and great local food. By giving these groups extra funds to hold events in their neighborhoods, the City has acknowledged the vital

importance of strong, active neighborhood associations and their impact on the community. In turn, with the ability to hold these events, the neighborhood associations are able to promote their mission to their neighbors and highlight their accomplishments (which helps recruit new members). The need for these neighborhood associations has become invaluable, as their work focuses on genuine quality-of-life issues that cities like Providence are grappling with in these difficult times. Kari Nel Lang, Executive Director of the WBNA, discussed the importance of the grant funding. “Celebrate Providence offers outdoor summer fun for free to the entire neighborhood,” she says. “It brings neighbors together, which is an important value of the WBNA and the feedback has been

very positive.” Turnout for WBNA’s West Side Thursdays has grown every year that the association has received the funding. The Thursday night concert series last month included hip-hop, rock and folk performers and attracted between 300-600 people to each concert. The collaborative aspect of these events could be a model for success on a larger scale, as City departments, local artists, businesses and neighborhood representatives all work together to make things happen. Witnessing this seamless intersection of the local economy, grassroots organizations, flexible, creative government and a diverse pool of artistic talent will leave any hardened Providence cynic with hope for the future. providenceri.com/ ArtCultureTourism

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In 1955, Walter Sweenor, a second-generation confectioner, opened Sweenor’s Open Fire Candies in Garden City. In the years since, the family has continued to focus on quality, using only the finest ingredients and no preservatives. Now in two locations and on the web, Sweenor’s offers delicious boxed chocolates, bark, fudge, gift baskets and corporate gifts.

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For more on these great local products, visit providenceonline.com

Photography: Mike Braca

Join the club at English Cellar Alehouse

Medal in Drinking Take your boozing to an Olympian level with this handy guide By Erin Swanson

ork towards this medal if you’re a casual, “social” drinker. You venture out from time to time, but you tend to frequent the same tired haunts and order the same boring cocktails. Let’s face it – you need some help. Here are some suggestions.

ents brought me along to a few barroom happy hours back in the early ‘80s, infant car seat and all. I’m still a sucker for a good deal… especially if oysters are on the menu. Tazza (250 Westminster St., tazzacaffe.com) offers a $1 raw bar from 4-7pm Monday through Friday, along with houseinfused vodkas and fresh squeezed juices. Try the Potent Palmer – it’s vodka infused with Darjeeling black tea and mixed with fresh lemonade. McCormick and Schmick’s (11 Dorrance St., mccormickandschmicks. com) offers a variety of affordable and delicious food and drink specials from 3:30-6pm daily and 10-midnight on Friday and Saturday. On Tuesdays, local oysters are $1.

Join a Beer Club You know beer; in fact you can name almost all of the crappy commercial domestics. Sigh. Isn’t it time you broaden your horizons? English Cellar Alehouse (165 Angell St., englishcellaralehouse.com) boasts the Cellar Dweller Beer Club. Work down the list to earn prizes ranging from t-shirts to coolers filled with booze. Only 16 people have finished all 200 beers, though one girl did it in just 41 days. For a slightly less challenging option, pop into Wickenden Pub (320 Wickenden St., 861-2555) and sign up for the 99 Beers Beer Club. Over 65 people have “been around the world” three or more times.

Rethink the Sports Bar

Try Wine Before You Buy Drinking Boone’s Farm is completely unacceptable. And unless you enjoy waking up with a massive headache, step away from the Barefoot White Zinfandel. Eno Fine Wines (225 Westminster St., enofinewines. com) hosts vino tastings every Friday from 4:30-6:30pm and Saturday from 3-5pm. Each session features two varieties; stop in twice weekly to broaden your wine knowledge in no time. Campus Fine Wines (127 Brook St., campuswines.com) also holds tastings on Fridays from 4-7pm and Saturdays from 2-5pm. The owners choose up to four wines for visitors to swirl, sniff and sip.

Sample a Cocktail You’ve Heard About Listen, despite what Vampire Weekend sings in their song “Horchata,” you will not look psychotic drinking the icy-cold beverage in December: It’s delicious any time of year. Head to Viva Mexico (129 Washington St., vivamexicocantinagrill.com) and order one ahora. There are several variations on the sweet cocktail, but Viva makes Horchata with rice, milk,

Cuban Revolution

cinnamon, sugar and a bit of vanilla extract. They’ll add coconut rum upon request. Cuban Revolution (50 Aborn St.; 60 Valley St., thecubanrevolution.com) serves La Floridita, a drink that Hemingway enjoyed while living in Havana. It combines white

rum, sweet vermouth, white crème de cacao and lime juice, then is finished with a sugared rim.

Hit Up a Classy Happy Hour Apparently, my “original hipster” par-

For an Extra Challenge Join A BEER (Running) CluB The Wild Colonial (250 South Water St., wildcolonial.com). Ask about the Grog & Dog Jog, a fundraiser put on by The Wild Colonial Running Club. TRy A gEnERouS PouR The Capital Grille (1 Union Station, thecapitalgrille.com). Through September 2, stop in for unlimited pours

of nine hand-selected wines – just $25 with dinner. TRy An oFFiCiAl CoCkTAil oF ThE inTERnATionAl BARTEndERS ASSoCiATion Kartabar (284 Thayer Street, kartabar.com). Order a Caipirinha. This “rustic daiquiri” has just three ingredients: rum, sugar and lime.

Rather than zombie-march to your usual boring pub, make the intentional move to a spot you wouldn’t normally think of as a sports bar. Restaurants are people, too. Angelo’s Civita Farnese (141 Atwells Ave. angelosri.com) is a surprisingly cool place to grab a drink on game night. It’s a staple on The Hill, though it’s undergone a facelift and may look different to folks who frequented the restaurant back in the “old days.” They’re still known, however, for serving old-fashioned, Italian-style house wine in small beer glasses. Cheer on your team at Broadway Bistro (205 Broadway, broadwaybistrori.com) while enjoying their famous Ribs and Grits with a glass of Prosecco.

Hit Up a Kitschy Bar Sometimes a little kitsch goes a long way. Captain Seaweed’s (162 Ives St., 261-9220) is a typical dive upon first glance, but out back behind the bar is an oasis of awesome. With strung-up fishing net, Christmas lights, fisherman statues and a river running through it, the patio is perfect for chilling al fresco with friends. Try their $2 Wench’s Waste… if you dare. The Salon (57 Eddy St., thesalonpvd.com) is unique for many reasons: the picnic tables, the ping pong tables and the PB&J sandwiches. I go solely for the Pickle Back Shots: Jameson followed by a pickle juice chaser.

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Photography: Melissa Stimpson

Taste your way through 100 wines at Flemingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar

ork towards this medal if you’re a frequent drinker; you venture out often, like to explore new bars and enjoy sampling unusual cocktails. Still, there’s a lot you don’t know and you’re open to suggestions. Here are some for you to try on for size.

Seek Out Beer Flights Unless you have a liver of titanium, there’s a limit on the number of pints you can put back in one evening. Enter, beer flights: their smaller portions allow you to sample several brews without dying of alcohol poisoning. Sullivan’s Publick house (572 Armistice Blvd., Pawtucket. sullivanspublickhouse.com) offers a small beer-snob approved selection with a fraction of the crowds found at larger establishments. Newly added beers include Southern Tier Pumking and Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. union Station Brewery (36 Exchange Terrace, johnharvards.com) brews on-site. Make sure to try some Providence Pale Ale in your five beer flight. Want to try all seven? Add-ons are a dollar and change.

Fancy Up Your Wine Tasting Ready to kick your wine tasting up a notch? The Providence Wine Academy (150 Union Street, providencewineacademy.com) is a best-kept secret. Events occur at the seventh floor garden room inside the Peerless Building. After a welcome aperitif, there’s a short lesson in the evening’s

topic: France’s Loire Valley and Alsace is next up on August 16. You’ll blindtaste 10 examples and nosh on food. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar (1 West Exchange Street, flemingssteakhouse.com) boasts 100 wines by the glass, which is pretty insane. Order a wine flight - a trio of two-ounce servings – so that you can work your way through the entire “Fleming’s 100.”

Try Top-Shelf Tequila While cheap tequila and premium tequila will both get you to the same inebriated state, only the latter will taste delicious. (I’m defining “cheap” as anything less than 100 percent blue agave.) That said, it’s time you upgraded from Sauza. Chilango’s Taqueria (447 Manton Ave., 383-4877) has a top-notch selection of nonmixtos, which you can enjoy atop a horse saddle barstool. don Jose Tequilas (351 Atwells Ave., donjoseteq. com) is a welcoming spot that stocks over 100 types of tequila, including Don Julio 1942, a Bourbon-aged Anejo with vanilla flavors and spiced undertones. The owner is aging his own Tequila; stop in and ask for a sample.

See an Old Bar In a New Light A reputation can be a difficult thing to change. The Bar at AS220 (115 Empire Street, as220.org) is more than just a hipster-haven for catching a live band and drinking a Pabst; it’s also somewhat of a craft cocktail bar,

Flan Y Ajo

featuring house-infused liquors made with fresh, local fruits and veggies. Some of you may remember Track 84 (84 Kilvert St., Warwick, track84. com) as “that place with the boxing game and peanut shells on the floor.” While both are now gone, the craft beer selection is better than ever, so order a flight and try them all.

Photography: (bottom) Mike Braca (top) Kate Kelley

Get Into a Private Bar or Club Some private bars and clubs are actually open to the public. While you may have bombed your SATs, you can still get into Brown… its grad Center Bar (40 Charlesfield St., students.brown.edu/gsc/static/gcb) that is. The GCB is a members-only, on-campus bar that will let you in for a $5 cover, which pays for itself via the cheap beer. Speaking of beer, the selection is impressive and the vibe is Brooklyn-cool. While walking off brunch at Nicks on Broadway, you may have passed the Italo-American

Club. The club is private, but its restaurant isn’t. Spirito’s (477 Broadway, spiritosrestaurant.com) has been known to offer wine dinners featuring a five-course meal and five wines.

Take a New Look at Sangria There’s something special about sitting outside on a warm day with a pitcher of fruit-filled sangria and a couple of friends. The grande (224 Atwells Ave., thegranderi.com) makes amazing champagne sangria that’s a refreshing spin on the classic. They combine Grandial Champagne, triple sec, Peachtree, St. Germain, orange juice and sliced fruit. Stop in for a late brunch on the weekend (beginning at 2pm) and see for yourself. At Flan y Ajo (225 Westminster St., flanyajo.com) you BYOB; they make the sangria. The tiny tapas restaurant only has four stools, but there are cozy nooks and comfortable window seats.

Take One More Giant Leap TRy A dRink MAdE WiTh ToP-ShElF TEquilA El Rancho Grande (311 Plainfield Pike; elranchogranderestaurant.com). The Cantarino combines tequila with lime and grapefruit soda.

Union Station Brewery

gET inTo A Really PRiVATE CluB Choice Social Club, formerly the

Black Key Club (location unknown, choicesocialclub.com). Just kidding. gET All gEEk-SquAd WiTh youR WinE dRinking Blush Winebar (332 Atwells Ave.; blushri.com). Order a flight of wine after browsing Blush’s high-tech tablet menu.

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Photography: Mike Braca

Drink local with an Uprising cocktail at The American

kay, so you’re out and about most nights of the week. In fact, you’re practically responsible for the popularity of the West Side. Work towards this medal if you want to. Or don’t. After all, you’re not the type who likes being told what to do.

Pitman St., bottlesfinewine.com), you can taste wine while discussing its flavor notes and legs with the person who made it… regardless of where in the world he is. Each wine is listed with its suggested food pairing. Conveniently, Eastside Marketplace is next door.

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You drink flights; you visit breweries; you order beers that your co-workers have never heard of. Is there nothing that you haven’t tried? Murphy’s law (2 George St., Pawtucket. 7245522) has five tables that feature two 360-degree swiveling taps; they work on the gas pump mentality – you pay for what you pour. Each table features Guinness plus either Harp, Smithwick’s, Blue Moon, Narragansett or Harp Shandy. Julians (318 Broadway, juliansprovidence.com) offers beer dinners at which food is paired specifically with craft brews, and special events where brewery reps are on-site. Bob Kaiser of Founders Brewery was on hand in March as they tapped KBS, the rare and in-demand 11% breakfast stout that’s only brewed once per year.

While living in England, I discovered bars that offered flights of vodka; I was in heaven. Here in Rhode Island, that’s much harder to come by. However, lJ’s BBq (727 East Ave., Pawtucket. ljsbbq. com) serves whiskey flights, which works for me. LJ’s Flight of Bourbons is a tasting of four of your choice from a menu including 95 Rye, Makers 46, Bulleit, Blantons, Eagle Rare, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Death’s Door and more. For just $17 you can sip, compare and discover. The owner makes a killer sweet potato pie, which pairs well with a whiskey-laden Manhattan. Stop in on a Saturday for BBQ n Blues night.

Skype with Winemakers Back in the Stone Age (aka prior to 2003), the only way to chat with a Chilean winemaker or an Italian estate owner was to visit their respective countries. Enter Skype. At Bottles Fine Wine (141

Drink Local Booze and Beer You already drink Rhode Island’s own Sons of Liberty Uprising whiskey and Revival Brewing’s Saison. That doesn’t mean I can’t encourage you to drink them more often. The locals (11 Waterman Ave., North Providence. 231-2231) serves a ginger whiskey drink with Uprising, orange bitters and ginger beer. The American (311 Iron Horse Way,

‘The Tini’ with a twist at Tini

311ironhorseway.com) serves Uprising too, along with the best damn Buffalo Pork Wings I’ve ever tasted. If Revival brewmaster Sean Larkin drives you to drink, head to The Avery (18 Luongo Square, averyprovidence.com) and order one of his hoppy creations. dusk (301 Harris Ave., duskprovidence.com) also keeps Revival on tap. Larkin’s Dry Irish Stout is delicious.

Learn the Art of Mixology Maybe you manned the bar at a frat party once upon a time, but mixing gin and juice does not a bartender make. Leave that to Snoop Dogg. Tini (200 Washington St., thetini.com) offers monthly mixology classes that will start up again in September. They’re theme-based and cost $50, which includes food and the four drinks you’ll learn how to make. While you’re there, try a Frozen Tini made with Russian Standard Vodka. The glass is incredibly teeny, making for uber-funny Facebook photos. Go the traditional route

via the Professional School of Bartending (108 Spruce St., probarschool. com). You’ll be mixing cocktails like a pro in no time.

Try a Craft Cocktail with Unusual Ingredients Elevate your cocktailing – yes, it’s a verb. The dorrance (60 Dorrance St., thedorrance.com) just unveiled a new drink menu featuring The Salted Rye, made with Redemption Rye, Amaro Montenegro, Zucca Rhubarbaro, Dolin Blanc, salt and two types of bitters – angostura and orange. Adding salt to the drink changes the taste of the bitters. Cook & Brown Public house (959 Hope St., cookandbrown. com) has a seasonally changing drink menu and features a special cocktail each day. The Taylor Made contains scotch, Jenever, Benedictine, Montenegro, orange bitters, angostura bitters, a barspoon of Laphroaig and a lemon twist. All of this is served over a big rock of hand-carved ice. It’s a thing of beauty.

Go The Distance TRy WhiSkEy PluS hEARTBuRn The Red Fez (49 Peck St., 2721212). Pair a whiskey drink with poutine. Served late, it’s smothered in house-made chourico gravy.

The Avery

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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City Style

AT HOME / SHOP TALK / THE LOOK / BEAUTY / GET FIT About the Homeowner Virginia Levi is a former opera singer and amateur art collector. She works downtown and lives in the Regency Plaza.

Photography: Melissa Stimpson

Artful Living 1. I worked in the dot com bubble in the early 2000s – part of the deal was stock options, and I cashed mine in to buy fine art. This is an original Matisse. It’s the frontispiece of his Jazz series, which is a folio of his cutout work. 2. This is a family painting. I’m from Cincinnati, and I had an aunt who did a lot of oil paintings of Cincinnati scenes. That’s Fountain Square, which is the center of downtown. 3. This is a bronze called The Vagabond. It was done by Voss Finn, a Cincinnati artist. The brass next to it a mobeus, done by another Cincinnati artist, Ed Aub. 4. There’s

an opera score on the piano. I studied music in college, did the whole dot com thing, and then decided to take a couple of years off to sing for the Des Moines Metro Opera - but it was difficult to sustain a reasonable lifestyle. I accepted a job in Providence and moved here in 2003. 5. This antique bookcase dates back roughly to the 1920s. The books inside are my music collection. 6. This carpet was made in Iran, and is very old – from the early 1900s. The whole apartment is a nice meeting of antique items and modern art.

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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City Style |

The Look

Radhames Familia Jr. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach

Tell me about yourself. I am Dominican-American, born in Brooklyn and raised in Providence. I’m an Army war veteran, having served five years and fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005-2006. I am grateful for my service because I have experienced and learned to try so many things, including my current unrelenting passion, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I’m working to become the best fighter on the planet.

I like clothing that will

stand the test of time What do you love most about Jiu-Jitsu? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is everything to me. All of my energy is put into preparing to go against the best in the world. With that said, it’s very important never to forget where the art form comes from; in its original use, it was created for women, children and frail men who could not defend themselves against larger attackers. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has proven to be the most effective form of self-defense. I love this most because being around the world with the Army, I saw first-hand people that were powerless against tyrants. Now I have the opportunity to empower others.

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How does your passion influence what you wear both in and out of the gym? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is action. Growing up watching action movies with characters like James Bond and Steve McQueen, I was inspired by what they wore and I incorporate all of that into my style today. Being the coolest guy in the room such as a Bond – with tailored clothes, an amazing timepiece and awesome shoes – is what I go for. Also, I make sure to not over-do the outfits I choose so I can look cool and casual like McQueen. How would you describe your personal style? My personal style is classic simplicity. I like clothing that will stand the test of time. I can dress today in this outfit, but also get into a time machine and go back to the ‘60s and ‘70s and still be a part of those trends. That being said, I am not limited to just being in garments that are considered classic. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a lifestyle in and of itself and the community behind my art has great fashion. For the summer, we look to tanks and easy fitting items; it has been extremely hot these last few days. Tell me about this look. This look is classic and nothing is overdone. It was very hot that day so I rolled up the pants and sleeves a little bit. The brown wing tip shoes are a cool timeless choice and the timepiece also keeps with that theme. This is a great summer look.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

City Style |

Shop Talk

By Erin Swanson

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

it’s those crunchy granola “holy crap I forgot to shave my armpits again” forms of exercise that I enjoy. As for running, hells-to-the-no is what I’ve always said to that… until I turned 30 and subsequently lost my ability to metabolize food. After Googling the phrase “how to get skinny fast,” I feasted my eyes upon one of those enticing Couch to 5k programs; it promised to turn me from flab to fab in just a few short weeks. Maybe running isn’t so bad after all, I thought. Being the intelligent gal that I am (cough), I phoned some runner friends for footwear recommendations. Those living within 10 miles of the city all pointed me to the same store – Rhode Runner. I drive by it on an almost daily basis, but had never been inside. My buds informed me that it’s the place to go for shoes that will get you from point A to point B sans injury. Apparently, running in the wrong sneakers can cause shin splints, Achilles tendinitis and stress fractures. Who knew? The original Rhode Runner store opened in 2001 on South Main and moved to its current North Main location in March. In addition to retail space, the new larger location provides a community room in which they hold classes, seminars and clinics. Oh, and there’s a running track right smack-dab in the middle of the store’s floor, which allows customers to test out shoes. Marketing Manager Eric Lonergan explains: “We provide every customer with a full gait analysis based on his or

her biomechanics while walking or running. Our staff is trained by footwear developers in how to identify overpronated, neutral or supinated gaits.” Huh? I had to find out for myselfwhat all this runner talk meant. I arrived at the store and was greeted by a very sweet and helpful employee. She instructed me to take off my shoes and walk naturally, up and down the track. After a few passes, she informed that my feet roll inward (overpronation) and that I’d need a certain supportive sole to compensate. I was then given a few pairs to try on for size, pun intended. “Our footwear buyer has extensive knowledge of footwear development and picks only the best shoes from each of our brands,” Lonergan says. “Our staff is Good Form Running Certified and we have three USA Track and Field certified coaches who work regularly at our store.” The staff also includes two footwear developers. I purchased a pair of Mizuno Inspire sneakers, which were much more stylish and affordable than I had expected. (Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.) I was definitely suited up and ready to go. Well, all except for the actual running part. “We invite all levels of runner to join us for our group runs,” Lonergan says. “We hold a Wednesday evening group run at 6pm and a Saturday morning group run at 8am.” Rhode Runner also hosts free running clinics every other Thursday at 6pm. With all this support and guidance, I guess there’s nowhere to go but up… and fast. 657 North Main Street. 831-6346, rhoderunner.net.

Photography: Laurel Mulherin

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With just a few weeks to go before my wedding, I knew my exercise routine needed a good kick in the rear. It’s not that I wasn’t already in good shape, it’s just that knowing I would be squeezing myself into a form-fitting strapless gown was incentive enough for me to want to take my workouts up a notch. I’m talking the kind of high-intensity, heartpumping, calorie-burning workouts that are known to show fast results. In other words: bootcamp. A four-week outdoor session with Ultimate Bootcamp coincided perfectly with my window of time to get wedding day-fit, so I jumped at the chance to join the program. Four times a week for four weeks, I arrived at Memorial South Main Street Park in downtown Providence at 6am to get whipped into shape by Ulti-

FiT DeALs Get your om on outside for a great cause. Body Kneads Yoga in Cranston is offering free Yoga on the square classes each Sunday in August from 4-5pm at the Gazebo in Garden City. There is no cost to participate, though donations to Big Sisters of RI are welcomed. All attendees who donate will receive a goodie bag from the series sponsor, Whole Foods

mate Bootcamp trainers. Now, I’m not a morning person by nature, so there were days I had to ask my fiancée to literally push me out of bed. But knowing how good I would feel after the workout ended, and how much energy I would have for the rest of the day, made it much easier to rise and shine at that early hour. Ultimate Bootcamp started in Boston in 2004 and just began conducting sessions in Providence in May. The outdoors-only program promises fun, creative workouts that include obstacle courses, drills, total body conditioning and partner relays. Our trainers, Vanessa, Christine, Gin and Joe (who would split up so we’d get two of them one day and the other two the next), made sure that our workouts were challenging and effective. They were awesome

Market. No pre-registration necessary; just drop by with your mat. For more information, call Body Kneads Yoga at 6320878. bodykneadsyoga.com Keep your summer workout mojo going throughout August – it’s still bikini season, after all. Each Thursday morning in August at 7am, work out with Josh Bird of CrossFit Providence, who will be leading a complimentary CrossFit-

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about encouraging us every step of the way. Between uphill running drills, sets Providence Media of push-ups, climbing (and re-climbing) Spot ads: 2.125" x 2.875" stairs and doing more burpees than I July 19, 2012 could keep track of, I found that I was feeling and looking stronger every week. I think what I most enjoyed about my sessions, though, were the July friend-17, 2012 Providence Monthly, August Iss ships I made with my fellow boot 1, 2012 East Side Monthly, September August campers. When you work out with the July 18, 2012 Bay Magazine, August issue same people day after day, you bond easily and really feel each other’s pain – even though it’s a good pain. When we showed up each morning, we knew we would be pushed, but we knew that we would get through it together. And thanks to my trainers and my new boot camp friends, that form-fitting strapless wedding gown? It’s a perfect fit. 617-7871224, ultimatebootcamp.com.

inspired Boot Camp class. The class will meet at the Lululemon Athletica’s Wayland Square showroom, at 145 Wayland Avenue in Providence. Participants will then run to Brown Street Park to get the workout started. This free community class is a great way to try something new or to supplement an already intense workout schedule. 521-0976, lululemon.com.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

101 Orange Street Providence, RI 401.808.6777 www.studio101ri.com

Studio 101 launched by Jason Dolan is the newest salon to hit Providence. Jason didn’t become one of New York City’s most sought after colorists by accident. The RI-native and 15-year veteran of the world-class color team at Bergdorf Goodman’s John Barrett Salon has built an impeccable reputation over the course of his career, most recently gaining critical acclaim for his work in cutting-edge color techniques such as ombre and ballyage. Since entering the New York City scene Jason has worked diligently to build his enviable client roster, which includes a who’s who of actors and actresses, models, fashion editors

and media personalities. His talents have brought him from the runways of New York City’s Fashion Week and America’s Next Top Model to the pages of Allure Magazine, and everywhere in between. Several years ago, after closely evaluating the current style landscape in his hometown, Jason made the decision to begin making bi-monthly appearances at a downtown Providence salon. The idea was to bring a bit of New York City flavor to the folks back home. It didn’t take long for the news to spread and Jason began booking weeks and months in advance and made the choice to up his visits to every four weeks. As much as he loved making these appearances, the desire to create something

of his own in the town where he was born and raised intensified. Fast-forward two years and Studio 101 is born -- the preeminent hair salon experience located in the heart of downtown Providence. It only takes one step inside the space to evoke a visceral feeling of chic New York City décor and modern luxury. Offering an array of style and color services, Studio 101 brings an entirely new element to the flourishing downtown scene. Jason and his expert team of stylists and colorists (including several of his New York City peers), look forward to serving you and becoming your new trusted source for all things beauty in Rhode Island.

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

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In the Kitchen

By Stephanie Obodda

New Age Patties

George Panagou on creating the perfect 21st century burger Tell me how you came to start Better Burger Company. We opened in mid-September of 2010. It’s a long story, but basically I always knew the owner of the space who used to be involved with Burger Chefs, a popular chain 30 or 40 years ago. A lot has changed since then – habits, foods, marketing. I was in a career shift when this opportunity came up, and I jumped on it. I knew Thayer Street so I knew this was a great possibility, and I didn’t need much convincing. In a way, we were starting from where they left off and bringing it into the 21st century.

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Has anything changed since you opened? We have kept the core of our food and concept the same, but we’ve focused on constantly improving our quality, service and product. Our goal is completely homemade, good meat, good cheese and quality food. Our challenge is how to deliver that kind of quality but stay within a price range, plus be able to do it at a high volume. It seems like it would be easy because this is a relatively small place, but developing all the different recipes, testing and so on, with the resources of a small place, is quite a project. Another change is that we’ve added a bar – it’s a casual place to have a drink after work.

Photography: Mike Braca

What’s coming up? In the fall, we will be introducing a few new items. We will have ice cream and frozen yogurt made from organic milk. We’re going to offer stir-fried vegetable sides and no-bun burgers. We’re also improving our fish and salmon burgers. We’ll continue to add vegan and glutenfree options. Another development will be our new homemade sauces: smoked tomato aioli with a touch of orange and little bit of chipotle pepper, chipotle aioli, ketchup, mayo, ranch and barbeque with a bit of bourbon whiskey. It would be easy to buy sauces from a supplier, but homemade tastes so much better. What do you think makes a good burger? Personally, I like a burger when it’s cooked in the char broiler. Some people like to cook burgers on a flat top, but I prefer the burner. The quality of the meat, the cut and the seasonings you use are all very important. The bread

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should be real - less sugary and more wholesome – and it should complement the patty. Everything should be fresh and homemade sauces are the best. For cooking temperature, we recommend medium-well (just a little pink), but of course we cook to the customer’s wishes. The perfect burger is a very personal thing. Does your Greek heritage come through on the menu at all? We do have a couple of Greek-inspired items. One is our Farmer’s Lamb Burger. The lamb comes from Hopkins Farm, and it’s 100% grass-fed. We season the patty and top it with breaded eggplant, feta, tzatziki and onions. What are some of the most popular menu items? The Farmer’s Burger is a favorite – it’s our 100% grass-fed beef burger. The lamb burger I mentioned is also a hot seller, and people love our Falafel, our Salmon Burger and our Black Bean

Burger. The mural inside the restaurant is great. What inspired it? We wanted our interior to reflect life in Providence. Thayer Street is a great place to be. It’s a diverse, international crowd. I think it’s the most international area in Providence because of its proximity to Brown University. People come and go with the seasons, but we’ve made a lot of friends from all over the world.

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on the menu

By John Taraborelli

Unadulterated Pleasure

Two misunderstood ingredients get the boutique treatment on Hope Despite what Rachael Ray

Providence Monthly | August 2012

olive del mondo

widely misunderstood and often misrepresented in the market: balsamic vinegar. Again, most of what we’re accustomed to buying and using at home is an inferior approximation of the real thing. The difference between Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (the mass-produced condiment that is likely sitting in your pantry right now) and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (the artisanal, aged grape juice reduction that has been crafted in a single area of Italy since the Middle Ages) is subtle but crucial. The former makes a halfway decent salad dressing, while the latter is damn near drinkable on its own. Again, the Fuccillos will happily illustrate the difference by giving you a taste. Their dark and white balsamic vinegars are PGI (protected geographical indication) certified (as regulated by the European Union) and come in an abundance of flavors like fig, espresso and blueberry (which I kind of wanted to just sip on like brandy). For serious home cooks or people just interested in expanding their palates, Olive del Mondo is a mini-wonderland of complex flavors and carefully sourced ingredients. The passion the Fuccillos have for these products is evident not

just on their shelves, but also in the effort they make to educate people. Customers are encouraged to taste and ask questions, and every Saturday at 6pm the store hosts an Olive Oil 101 and Guided Tasting class for those who want to enhance their appreciation. Stop in and have a taste – you’ll never look at those bottles in your pantry the same way again. Olive del Mondo is open MondaySaturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday, noon5pm. www.olivedelmondo.com HONORING JULIA August 15 would have been culinary legend Julia Child’s 100th birthday, and in honor of that centenary her longtime publisher Alfred A. Knopf has organized Julia Child Restaurant Week. From August 7-15, 100 restaurants around the country will participate by with special menus inspired by the woman who taught so many Americans how to cook. Among those 100 is our own Al Forno (577 South Main St.); proprietors George Germon and Johanne Killeen were personal friends of Child, and contributed recipes to two of her cookbooks. The a la carte menu will include two starters, two entrees, two desserts and a cocktail. Highlights

include George’s Silky Peppers with Burrata, Osso Bucco with Orange and Lemon, and a Triple Citrus Tart. Check out jc100.tumblr.com for info on the 100th birthday festivities. WURST. WINDOW. EVER. The new Wurst Window is open at Chez Pascal (960 Hope St.), taking the place of the restaurant’s hot dog cart that used to be stationed at Lippitt Park across the street. The window will be serving a variety of Chef Matt Gennuso’s house made sausages and charcuterie, along with other goodies. 421-4422. FOURTH TIME’S A CHARM Gracie’s (194 Washington St.) continues its monthly Star Chef Series, this time with world-renowned bread baker and Johnson & Wales instructor Ciril Hitz returning for his fourth appearance. As always, the series pairs the guest chef with Executive Chef Matthew Varga to collaborate on a five-course meal with pairings. This month’s pairings come courtesy of Peter Egelston, founder of New Hampshire’s Smutty Nose Brewery. The dinners are $100 per person and usually sell out. 272-7811, graciesprov.com

Photography: Dawn Temple

may have told you, that slimy, vaguely urinecolored stuff on the shelf above your stove is not truly extra virgin olive oil. Most of the inexpensive versions in supermarkets are adulterated – blended with lesser olive oils or other plant oils, or chemically treated to mask inferiorities – because the real stuff is difficult, time-consuming and expensive to produce; but it’s also easy to doctor. Adulteration is so prevalent, in fact, that in the late ‘90s the EU appointed a task force to crack down on fraudulent product. Journalist Tom Mueller has become a foodie celebrity by delving into these shady practices in his new book, Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil. The International Olive Council regulates production in its 23 member nations, establishing and monitoring rigorous standards of quality and authenticity. However, the United States is not one of those countries, and the results are evident: for example, according to an 2007 article in The New Yorker, 90% of the EVOO sold in Italy itself is not of premium grade. So what does real, honest-to-goodness extra virgin look, smell and taste like? If you want to find out, head over to the new Olive del Mondo (815 Hope Street) in the East Side and where husband and wife team Salvatore and Jennifer Fuccillo will be happy to give you a quick education and, more importantly, a taste. “The single most important lesson we teach our customers is that olive oil is seasonal fruit juice,” Jennifer explains, adding, “Fresher is always better.” At their little shop, housed in the old Garrison Confections store, each oil they sell proudly displays the date the olives were crushed, and they rotate between suppliers in the northern and southern hemispheres to make sure the product is always in season. “We carry the freshest, healthiest oils the world has to offer at any given time of year,” Jennifer says. These aren’t olive oils you just want to absent-mindedly throw in a pan to cook up some Perdue chicken breasts – they’re bold and assertive ingredients for dressings and marinades, or condiments worth tasting on their own. Olive del Mondo also specializes in another product that’s hugely popular,

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

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review

By Linda Beaulieu

Perfectly Romantic Dining

The love story continues as one couple takes over where another left off Foodies in and around Providence

Photography: Tiffany Medrano

have been buzzing about the “new” New Rivers, that precious jewel box of a restaurant created by Bruce and Pat Tillinghast in 1990. (Sadly, Pat passed away in 1999.) After more than two decades of winning local and national accolades, Bruce decided to retire this year, and he quietly sold his much-loved restaurant to Beau Vestal and Elizabeth LaMantia. Beau has been at New Rivers since 2000, quickly working his way up to executive chef, and Elizabeth was hired there as a cook in 2009. I’ve always thought of New Rivers as one of the most romantic restaurants in Providence, so it seems quite right that the love story there continues, from Bruce and Pat to Beau and Elizabeth, who were married in late June. After a honeymoon in California wine country, the young couple is back to work with Beau in the kitchen and Elizabeth serving as the restaurant’s hostess and general manager. History really does have a curious way of repeating itself. If you haven’t been to New Rivers in a while, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with additional changes – a new entrance into a new bar area with expanded seating and a private dining area on the second floor, perfect for what else but engagement parties and small weddings. The entire building is drenched in history dating back to 1793, when it was an iron works warehouse. In sharp contrast, the food is modern bistro cooking at its best: a true celebration of local produce, meats and seafood. I rarely say this, but our recent dinner at New Rivers was perfect, and beautifully

served by our waiter, Nico. It being a Tuesday, I took advantage of the restaurant’s “dollar night” and ordered one each of the four oysters on the half shell. I totally agree with the menu descriptions, starting with the Plum Point oyster, which was petite, delicate and bracing. Both the Duxbury and Wellfleet oysters had that desirable mineral taste; the former was tangy and salty, the latter had a clean finish. My favorite was the Spinney Creek oyster from Maine, sweet and grassy with a coppery finish. The Baby Greens ($10) offered up enough baby lettuces and herbs for two to share, although you’ll want to keep this salad all to yourself with its warm goat cheese toasts and delicate shallot vinaigrette. If I have the chance to go back soon, I’ll try the house-made Lardo ($10) with its slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, ripped basil and aged balsamic vinegar. Lardo is Italian charcuterie at its finest, delicate strips of fatback cured with rosemary and other herbs. For the main course, there are a dozen possibilities ranging from New Rivers’ famous prime sirloin burger on a Portuguese sweet roll served with hand-cut frites ($18) to the Carpetbagger Sirloin decadently showered with tempura oysters and gilded with horseradish butter ($34). Somewhere in the middle we found our humbly named entrees: Bluefish ($26) and Pork Chop ($26), artfully presented so that we ate with our eyes first, and then with our mouths. Conversation at our table ceased while we consumed every bite

House cured lardo with blistered cherry tomatoes and crostino

Slow roasted pork shoulder, sweet corn griddle cakes and grilled peaches

of food placed before us. On a stark white, narrow, oblong dish sat three servings of roasted Rhode Island bluefish garnished with all sorts of local goodies – glazed harukei turnips, bonsai basil and a julienne of crisp snow peas, dappled with a charred tomato vinaigrette, just acidic enough to cut the oiliness of the bluefish. The chef’s use of bonsai basil impressed me. The amazing, aromatic basil with tiny light green leaves is usually grown in a pot. To use it, you must pinch the leaves by hand and you must have a great deal of patience. The chef tells me that the bluefish arrives whole, to be butchered in house, from the Trace and Trust day boat fish program out of Point Judith. This system provides restaurants with the freshest sustainably caught fish. E-mails from the boat detail what species are being landed, and chefs place their order via smart phones for delivery that same day. It doesn’t get any fresher than that. The robust serving of pork, nicely glazed and fork tender, got my full attention, and deservedly so. This dish represents the best of summer on a plate. The organic pork shoulder is rubbed with warm spices and grilled to caramelize the outer surface. Then this hunk of meat is placed in a huge antique cast iron Dutch oven along with molasses, garlic, smoked chilies, smoked pork bones and tomato to cook all day at a very low temperature. The melt-in-your-mouth pork is sweet and spicy, served with house-made bread and butter pickles and shaved cabbage salad. Also on this dinner plate are a small stack of corn griddlecakes and grilled apricots, which put this dish right over the top. Ever since that night at New Rivers I’ve been grilling apricots in my

outdoor kitchen. When we were first seated at our table for two by the window overlooking Steeple Street, I had to ask Nico what that wonderful aroma coming from the kitchen was. “Those are our cookies just coming out of the oven,” he explained. I knew then what I’d be having for dessert, and the eight delicate cookies ($6) brought to our table tasted as dreamy as anticipated. Just as Pat Tillinghast baked her famous cookies for New Rivers back in the 1990s, that tradition continues with Elizabeth creating cookies that will change with the seasons. The Mayan chocolate cookie is always on the menu, in homage to Pat. Beau Vestal is one of the few chefs I follow on Twitter (@newriversbeau), which is the best way to find out what’s new on the menu that changes almost daily. And via Twitter you’ll be among the first to learn the exact date in August when New Rivers will start to offer lunch service and the details on a trip to the prestigious James Beard House in New York in September. Linda Beaulieu is the author of The Providence and Rhode Island Cookbook, available at stores throughout the state. Follow Linda on Twitter @LindaBeaulieu3.

New rivers 7 Steeple Street Providence 751-0350 newriversrestaurant.com

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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Spend Your Day in Splendor

behind the bar

By Cristy Raposo

An Artsy Spot

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What’s it like at The Spot Underground? It’s a live music venue complete with a full kitchen that is open every night until 30 minutes before closing. We have live 12:53 PM Page 1 music and late night bites available five nights a week (Tuesday through Saturday), with the occasional Sunday and Monday performances. The Spot is also an art gallery and special event space. It’s authentic, intimate and one of the few underground bars in Providence.

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What’s on the menu? Pub fare, but everything is freshly made to order. You have to try the Avocado Frites – hand sliced avocado that is then beer battered, rolled in panko crumbs, lightly fried, salted and served with a sweet Thai chili dip. They’re amazing. Describe the art component of The Spot. Every piece was created by a local artist, from the tapestries hanging from the ceiling to the pillows on the window seats and the paintings on the wall. The Spot truly is an artist collaborative. Almost every piece of art is for sale. Which piece of art is your favorite? Medusa, created by local artist Gage Prentiss. She is made out of steel welded together and weighs about 250 pounds. She is truly hypnotizing. Her eyes are cold steel, yet have a lot of expression. It’s amazing how Gage was able to create something that looks so human and realistic out of steel. What led you to The Spot? The Spot was originally located above Kartabar – one of my regular haunts. While enjoying drinks there, I informally met The Spot’s staff members. I was invited upstairs and immediately fell in love. Back then it was a much smaller space and BYOB, however the concept was the same: A venue for artists of all mediums to collaborate and showcase their talents. I loved Creation Tuesdays, which we still do.

bartender renee vallarine

Free Funk Wednesday. Members of different well-known bands collaborate here on stage with a weekly special guest. It’s the best funk, reggae, hip hop and soul party in Providence. I love Knockdown Stand-Up Comedy nights, too. Comedians Dan Curran and TJ Curran bring in top talent from all over the country to perform here. What is your signature drink? Mango Hurricane. It’s made with equal parts rum, coconut rum and mango rum, with splashes of pineapple, orange juice and grenadine.

What is Creation Tuesday? Creation Tuesday is an open mic night. Vocalists, rappers, comedians, spoken word – anyone can perform. Signups begin at 7:30pm. Our house band, Psychedelic Clown Car, also performs.

What do you love most about this space? The regulars. The type of people that we draw – they’re eclectic, career-driven, educated, interesting and artistic. That and I always have a good time here. Nick has a knack for booking really good bands. You will never come across a bad band here.

What other nights stand out to you?

What is a great end-of-summer cock-

tail? The Spot has brought back the spritzer, a refreshing cocktail made with Riesling, a splash of your favorite rum or vodka and topped off with “spritz,” which is the club soda We create so many different variations. My personal creation, Renee on the Rocks, is made with Riesling, peach vodka, and passion fruit club soda. What’s your favorite thing about RI in the summer? Besides the beach? The beach. I would spend every day at the beach if I could.

The Spot underground 15 Elbow Street, Providence 383-7133 thespotprovidence.com

Photography: Mike Braca

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In the drink

By Emily Dietsch

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“Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.” Ogden Nash’s truism, famously quipped by a purple velvetclad Willy Wonka, is at once correct yet short on imagination. Liquor is quicker, yes – but why choose between them? Thanks the advent of liquored-up gummy candies, a new-ish fad and squishy paragon of our maximalist era, we no longer have to. Yes, children, we can have it all. Drunken gummies first made the news last fall when high schoolers in Florida, New York and Nebraska began popping them in class, as a sneaky alternative to, say, swigging beer in the woods. More recently and legally, writers at Serious Eats engineered low- and high-brow versions for an office project, giving an enviable new definition to “drinking on the job.” Tempted by the candies’ tinge of mischief, not to mention their on-the-go potential, I decided to try them at home. In over my head and without a sweet tooth to speak of, I recruited my friend Dan White, who is both a self-professed gummy expert and a crowd-pleasing bartender at The Apartment in the Jewelry District. For his part, Dan quickly staked populist claim on plain vodka and corner-store sweets. For mine, I went the opposite route, and settled on a plan to mimic classic cocktails. We tinkered, tested and came away with true hits and shocking misses. Particulars aside, all DIY boozy gummies involve the same, dead-simple core procedure. Step one, place the candies in a glass and submerge them in booze. Next, steep

for 6-8 hours at room temperature, or 12-24 hours in the fridge. Third, drain the candies when fully plumped but not yet gone to pieces – which we’ll call the late-but-not-final-Elvis-stage. And finally, snack, but with caution. You’re in for a wallop. Beyond those basics, three tips will ensure your optimal, drunken

success. First and foremost, avoid brown liquor. All gambles with it met dreadful ends, whereas most clear spirits performed admirably. Namely, gin, vodka, light rum, light tequila and any sparkling white wines are fair game – but avoid flat wines, which proved too astringent. Tip number two: Use mediocre booze. Dan’s bartending coterie unanimously endorsed using the cheapest liquor available, and they’re right to an extent. Certainly, top-shelf booze should meet better ends. All the same, rotgut’s

junkiness only amplifies once concentrated, no matter how cute and sweet the package. It’s best to find happy ground in the middle. And the final tip: Gummies balloon in booze, and quite shockingly so to anyone who left basic science behind in middle school. (Humbly, I raise my hand on behalf of all arts majors.) Give the gummies more space and more liquor than you expect they’ll need – which, come to think of it, doubles as sound life advice. In the end, Dan was quite pleased with his elemental gummies and offered an ingenious tip: Turn the steeping alcohol into a shooter once it’s strained. My cocktail strivings were spotty at best, but several surprisingly delicious wins emerged: Aviation Bears (gin, maraschino liqueur and lemon gummies), Negroni Bears (gin, Campari and lemon gummies), Tequila Strawberries (silver tequila and strawberry gummies) and Bellini Rings (prosecco and peach gummies). Lacking a DIY streak? A Jersey-based startup by the name of Rebel Gummies will do the dirty work for you. Co-owned by Jillian Stokes and Carl Ziznewski, the company took root last Christmas when Jillian gave Carl, her fiancée, a molecular gastronomy kit – and, rather than toy with foams, Carl trained his attention on semi-solid cocktails. It’s all very playful and kitschy, which will earn sneers in some camps just as surely as it earns grins in others. But forget the sneerers. This summer has been brutal enough without added pessimism; let’s gather our grins as we may.

Illustration: Ashley MacLure

delight your inner child with liquor-infused gummies

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dining Guide

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Mister Sister Erotica under one roof at Asian Bistro. For the freshest flavors in a convenient downtown location, this is the place. LD $-$$$ ASIAN PALACE 1184 North Main St.; 228-7805. All the flavors of Asia are here: from Chinese classics to new Thai favorites to fresh, impeccably prepared sushi. The gorgeous banquet room is available for private functions. LD $-$$$ ASPIRE RESTAURANT 311 Westminster St.; 521-3333. Aspire offers an exquisite fine dining experience with a number of delicious small and large plates, numerous fine wines and full bar – with an emphasis on local ingredients. BBrLD $-$$$

adesso on the Hill 139 Acorn Street; 521-0770. The popular Adesso is back, in a new location. Come in for an elegant Italian dining experience; try a brick oven pizza cooked in the open air kitchen. D $$-$$$

Providence

Photography: Tiffany Medrano

10 PRIME STEAK & SUSHI 55 Pine St.; 453-2333. Located downtown, Ten offers a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere complemented by aged prime steaks, a full sushi menu and creative cocktails. LD $$-$$$ ABYSSINIA 333 Wickenden St.; 4541412. Enjoy the unique experience of Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine, using your fingers (and Ethiopia’s famed flatbread) to sample richly spiced meat, fish and vegetable dishes. (Forks are available, but less fun.) LD $-$$ THE AMERICAN 311 Iron Horse Way;

Key

865-6186. With its swanky circular booths, fireplaces and gilded art, you’ll be swept back in time. The menu, featuring daily specials, is inventive and expertly prepared. LD $$-$$$ ANDREAS 268 Thayer St.; 331-7879. For a taste of Greece, head to Andreas. Their menu includes souvlaki, moussaka and a variety of kabobs, along with specialties like Lemon Oregano Lamb Chops and Spanakopita, an appetizer of spinach and feta in flaky phyllo dough. BrLD $-$$ ASIAN BISTRO 123 Dorrance St.; 383-3551. Chinese, Japanese and Thai, hibachi and sushi – they’re all

B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+

BAKER STREET RUE 75 Baker St.; 490-5025. The Rue De L’Espoir empire expands with this comfortable neighborhood café serving “upscale diner food” with an emphasis on local ingredients. BBrL $ BETTER BURGER COMPANY 217 Thayer Street; 228-7373. With angus beef burgers that are juicy and tasty, this casual spot is a no brainer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious and affordable meal. Serving wholesome veggie, falafel and salmon burgers too. LD $

More Toys than the Devil has Sinners Open Mon 12-8, Tue-Thur 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-5

268 Wickenden Street Providence • 421- 6969

Join Us For oUr

50/27/10/5 Mile Bike-A-Thon Saturday, September 22

Food, Fun, Music and Prizes

BRAVO BRASSERIE 123 Empire St.; 490-5112. Enjoy lunch and dinner at this American bistro with a French flair. Located downtown across from Trinity Rep, it’s the perfect place for a pre-theater dinner or cocktail after the show. LD $$-$$$ BRICKWAY 234 Wickenden St.; 7512477. Breakfast is the specialty at Brickway, a cozy neighborhood eatery known for its extensive menu of comfort foods made with a creative edge. Brunch offered on Sundays. BBrL $ BYBLOS 235 Meeting St.; 4539727. Providence’s original hookah lounge offers more than just a relaxing smoke and chic atmosphere.

For more information, visit our website at WRWC.org

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Now Pre-Leasing!

Feast |

dining Guide

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You can also enjoy classic Lebanese dishes and light cuisine with your cocktail. LD $ CAFé PARAGON 234 Thayer St.; 331-6200. This hip eatery serves sandwiches, pasta, and entrees at prices lower than the chic décor would have you believe. The adjoining Viva lounge is perfect for afterdinner drinks and private parties. BrLD $-$$ CASERTA’S PIZZERIA 121 Spruce St.; 621-9190. This Rhode Island tradition serves big pizzas with generous toppings and thick, rich tomato sauce. The Wimpy Skippy, a spinach pie with cheese and pepperoni, is not to be missed. LD $-$$ CAV 14 Imperial Pl.; 751-9164. The New York Times’ choice as one of Providence’s five best restaurants, CAV’s contemporary award-winning cuisine is available for lunch and dinner daily. They also feature Saturday/Sunday brunch. BrLD $$-$$$ CHEZ PASCAL 960 Hope Street; 421-4422. Chef Matt Gennuso’s East Side kitchen offers French food with a modern twist. Try the Bistro Menu (Tue-Thur), which features three courses for $35 per person. Delicieux! D $-$$$ CRESTA BAR & RISTORANTE 100 Main St.; 722-2151. Enjoy a full menu of classic and innovative Italian dishes in an inviting atmosphere in downtown Pawtucket. For those warm summer nights, eat outside on the gorgeous terrace. LD $-$$

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

and chef), is known for its impressive architecture, hand-crafted cocktails and delicious modern American cuisine. LD $$-$$$ GOURMET HOUSE 787 Hope St.; 8314722. Beautiful murals and decor set the mood for delicious Cambodian and Southeast Asian cuisine, spicy curries and noodle dishes. The tamarind duck is a must. LD $-$$ HARRY’S BURGER & BAR 121 North Main St.; 228-7437. Harry’s features only freshly ground beef, Nathan’s hot dogs, a long list of craft beers and new twists on cocktails. A perfect quick bite or night out. LD $-$$ HARUKI EAST 172 Wayland Ave.; 223-0332. For authentic Japanese dining, try Haruki’s large variety of sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, soba noodles and delicious specialty entrees. Enjoy the chic atmosphere and the freshest sushi around. LD $-$$$ JACKY’S WATERPLACE 200 Exchange St.; 383-5000. Experience sushi, Chinese and Japanese food, noodles and much more in a stunning atmosphere, right in the heart of Waterplace Park. Sip an exotic drink while taking in the spectacular view. LD $-$$$ JULIANS RESTAURANT 318 Broadway; 861-1770. What began in 1994 as a small Federal Hill brunch spot has grown into a popular destination for award-winning brunch, dinner, desserts, craft beer and cocktails. Outdoor seating, vegan options. BBRLD $-$$

DON JOSE TEQUILAS 351 Atwells Ave.; 454-8951. Don Jose’s digs a little deeper than your average Mexican restaurant, with all the basics you love alongside more artfully composed entrees and a wonderful selection of house-made tequilas. LD $$

KARTABAR 284 Thayer St.; 331-8111. This European-style restaurant and lounge offers a full menu of unique dishes with Mediterranean flair and eclectic flavors. They also offer a top-notch wine list and martini menu. LD $-$$

THE DORRANCE 60 Dorrance Street; 521-6000. The Dorrance, a 2012 James Beard Foundation award semi-finalist (best new restaurant

KITCHEN BAR 771 Hope Street; 3314100. Offering contemporary comfort cuisine in an elegant setting, Kitchen Bar features daily specials

Key

B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+

and take-out. Acclaimed Chef Jaime D’Oliveira has been brought on to consult, so expect exciting new options and flavors. LD $-$$ LUXE BURGER BAR 5 Memorial Blvd.; 621-5893. Luxe brings the classic burger to a new level. Their build your own burger list, which includes Kobe and Gold Labeled beef, never ends, with countless combinations. LD $-$$ MILLS TAVERN 101 North Main St., 272-3331. The only restaurant in RI to receive The Mobile Four Star Award for five consecutive years, Mills Tavern provides traditional American cuisine in a warm, friendly setting. D $$-$$$ MUMU 220 Atwells Ave.; 369-7040. A Chinese restaurant with a hip urban feel and friendly, welcoming service. Serving up lunch specials and signature dishes at dinner, this spot is sure to please, seven days a week. LD $-$$ NOT JUST SNACKS 833 Hope St.; 831-1150. Indeed, it’s not just snacks, but rather some of the tastiest, most authentic Indian food around served in a comfortable, homey setting right in the heart of Hope Street. LD $-$$

Island. This is a must-stop for foodies, and caters to gluten-free diners. D $$-$$$ RASOI 727 East Ave., Pawtucket; 728-5500. Rasoi, Hindi for “kitchen,” is the fruition of a dream by Chef Sanjiv Dhar to balance healthy food, personalized service and Indian culture. Featuring a full bar and famous weekend buffet. LD $-$$ RED STRIPE 465 Angell St.; 4376950. It’s classic comfort food with French influences. From their Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup to ten styles of Moules & Frites, Red Stripe’s menu is reasonably priced and made with passion. LD $-$$$ RICK’S ROADHOUSE 370 Richmond St.; 272-7675. With hand-cut, fire kissed steaks, gut busting burgers and fall off the bone ribs, Rick’s brings the best slow-cooked cuisine to the Ocean State. LD $-$$ RUE BIS 95 South St.; 490-9966. This intimate eatery provides breakfast and lunch in a cozy, neighborhood bistro atmosphere – all with the gourmet pedigree of Hope Street dining staple Rue De L’Espoir behind it. BBrL $

OPA 230 Atwells Ave.; 351-8282. Visit Lebanon for dinner. Select from a menu of authentic dishes or let the chef prepare a platter of 12 “mezza” items ranging from salads to seafood to grilled meats. D $$-$$$

RUE DE L’ESPOIR 99 Hope St.; 7518890. In business for over 30 years, the Rue has only gotten better. Beautifully prepared with the freshest ingredients, the innovative, constantly changing menu keeps diners on their toes. Superb brunch. BBrLD $$

PARKSIDE 76 South Main St.; 3310003. Chef/owner Steven Davenport offers innovative and classic foods with eclectic flare. The menu also includes creative pasta dishes and, of course, the signature rotisserie meats for which Parkside is famous. LD $-$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 10 Memorial Blvd. (at the GTECH Center); 272-2271. Come celebrate their fifth year overlooking Waterplace Park by treating yourself to the best USDA Prime steak in Providence. Change your life one bite at a time. D $$$

POTENZA RISTORANTE D’ITALIA 286 Atwells Ave.; 273-2652. Experience the authentic flavors of Chef Walter Potenza, a name long synonymous with Italian food in Rhode

SIENA 238 Atwells Ave.; 521-3311. Federal Hill’s Siena features authentic Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere. The extensive menu includes wood-grilled veal, steak

a place to go, to eat, to see, to hang out

Rue De L’Espoir American Bistro Cooking

open daily breakfast, lunch, dinner 99 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906 info/reservations 751-8890 www.therue.com

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The Children’s Workshop

Are you ready for school? Come see what’s in store! Preview Day August 14th 5 PM Open House at every location

Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Before & After School

Coming to Cranston!

Go to www.childrensworkshop.com

Providence Pawtucket Central Falls Rumford Upscale Authentic Mexican Cuisine on Federal Hill Mon-Thurs

3 Course Dinner Special only$19.95 Serving Brunch

Sat & Sun 10:30am to 2:30pm

Margaritas & Sangria & Sangria Margaritas Excellent Selection of Tequilas Excellent Selection of •Tequilas 351 Atwells Ave. Providence 454-8951 www.donjoseteq.com

351 Atwells Ave. Providence 454-8951 • www.donjosetequilas.com August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Feast |

dining Guide

standup paddleboard and snowboard shop Offering standup paddleboard sales, lessons, rentals, demos and tours Come check out our selection of boards, paddles, balance boards, longboards, apparel & accessories TSnowboarding gear arriving in September T Apple Valley Plaza - 9 Cedar Swamp Road, Smithfield, RI 401-231-4212 • neverboredinc.com

and seafood entrees along with signature pasta and sauté dishes. D $$-$$$ TASTE OF INDIA 230 Wickenden St.; 421-4355. Providence’s first Indian restaurant delivers on its promise of serving real (and really delicious) Indian cuisine, with seafood delicacies and Tandoori specialties, made with authentic Indian spices. LD $-$$ THE ROI 150 Chestnut St.; 272-2161. Located in the charming Jewelry District, Chef Paul Shire’s 21st-century supper club serves up hot food and cool music. Modern day comfort food is always on the menu, as is a sleek bar and casual but hip surroundings. LD $$-$$$

Karen L. McGoldrick, MD FACOG Suzan J. Menihan, CNM MSN

Obstetrics and Gynecology Accepting New Patients

401-751-5111 Bayside Medical Building 235 Plain Street, Providence

Women & Infants Medical Office Building

TRATTORIA ZOOMA 245 Atwells Ave.; 383-2002. Located on historic Federal Hill, Zooma offers award winning Neapolitan cuisine in a beautiful, upscale setting, specializing in house made pasta, local fish, meats, vegetables and authentic wood fired pizza.LD $$-$$$ XO CAFé 125 North Main St.; 2739090. XO Café celebrates fine food, wine and funky art. Featuring a seductive atmosphere, outmatched by playfully composed dishes inspired by natural/local ingredients. BRD $$-$$$

49 South County Commons Way, South Kingstown

Women & Infants Medical Office Building 1050 Main Street, East Greenwich

August 18 & 19 Newport, Rhode Island Hundreds of artworks in multiple mediums Created Saturday - Sold Sunday Make art, See art, Buy art

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Providence Monthly | August 2012

East bay BILLY’S 286 Maple Ave., Barrington; 289-2888. Billy’s creates a warm, inviting family atmosphere and ensures the finest quality ingredients in everything from fresh salads to juicy burgers to pizzas and Italian entrees. Full bar available. D $-$$ LE CENTRAL 483 Hope St., Bristol; 396-9965. Enjoy a variety of classic French staples from Coq au Vin and Croque Monsieur, to North African tajines in an intimate setting. They also offer a gourmet wine list. BrLD $-$$$

Key

South County ELEVEN FORTY NINE RESTAURANT 1149 Division St, (Warwick/East Greenwich line); 884-1149. 965 Fall River Ave., Seekonk; 508-336-1149. Metropolitan chic comes to the suburbs at this super stylish restaurant with a raw bar, outstanding menu, and some of the best cocktails around. LD $$-$$$ SIENA CUCINA 5600 Post Rd., East Greenwich; 885-8850. Siena features authentic Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere, plus over 20 wines by the glass and an Italian “tapas” menu. D $$-$$$

North BLACKIE’S BULL DOG TAVERN 181 George Washington Highway, Smithfield; 231-4777. This tavern specializes in comfort food and features a large selection of beer. Skilled bartenders, drink concoctions and live music make this the perfect happy hour spot. LD $-$$ TRATTORIA ROMANA 3 Wake Robin Road, Lincoln; 333-6700. This Italian restaurant offers fresh, homemade food by Italian-born Chef Luciano Canova in a comfortable atmosphere with moderate pricing. With friendly, attentive staff, you’ll feel just like family. LD $$-$$$

west bay CHAPEL GRILLE 3000 Chapel View Blvd., Cranston; 944-9900. Nestled in the hills of Cranston’s Chapel View complex, this restaurant offers great food and views. Enjoy a Mediterranean inflected menu while admiring the Providence skyline in the distance. LD $$-$$$

B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+

A G E M MA

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To register call or visit (401) 861-HERO (4376) • www.gloriagemma.org

in our lounge.

Join us Monday-Friday, 4-7pm in our lounge to enjoy a premium selection of delicious menu items including Seared Ahi Tuna, Prime Sliders, or New England Lobster Roll with Fries all for only $7.

Providence | 401.272.2271 | 10 Memorial Blvd.

Delicious Thai and Sushi in a Great Atmosphere!

Fine Thai and Sushi Restaurant Wayland Square | 18 South Angell Street, Providence 383-8830 • www.limsri.com

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Summer in the Square Angell Nails

Boston Sports Club

Butterfield

15 South Angell St.

135 Pitman St.

187 Wayland Ave.

351-2449

490-3137

Tuesday Special: Manicure and Pedicure for $30. Walk-ins welcome.

273-3331

Bring this ad in to receive a 1-week pass! Come visit us at our other location at 10 Dorrance Street. www.mysportsclubs.com

Home • Gift • Interior Design Stop by to see our latest furniture arrivals. www.butterfieldprovidence.com

Clad In

McBride’s Pub

Milan Fine Clothiers

497 Angell St.

161 Wayland Ave.

178 Wayland Ave.

454-8442

Storewide Summer Sale 25% Off All Apparel and Shoes www.cladin.com

751-3000

Sit on the patio and cool off with a pint from our large beer selection. Live music on Tuesdays, Saturdays & Sundays.

621-6452

Quality mens clothing, accessories, and mezlan shoes. Custom made clothing and tailoring available.

www.mcbrides-pub.com

Minerva’s Pizza

opt eyewear

Pow! Science!

20 South Angell St.

138a Wayland Ave.

192 Wayland Ave.

Designer eyewear and sunglasses by: Lindberg, Salt, LA Eyeworks, David Yurman, Lafont, Persol, Ray-Ban, Masunaga and more. Buy one complete pair, save 10% off the second. www.opteyewear.com

Science Birthday Parties, Summer Workshops and a Simply Amazing Selection of Educational Kits & Toys!

490-0200

272-2279 Grab a slice, salad, or one of our authentic Lebanese dishes. Great for take out, delivery, or sit on the patio! www.minervapizza.com

432-7040

www.powsciencetoys.com

Reliable Gold

Strands Salon

Wayland Bakery

181 Wayland Ave.

489 Angell St.

138 Wayland Ave

861-1414

421-1975

Luscious rhodolite garnet and diamond ring to grace the finger. Antique or new, your heirlooms can begin here.

Shellac polish on toes including a mini pedicure for $30

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August Special

421-2900

Choose from a wide variety of fruit pies for your Summer party. Patio seating available to enjoy your coffee and pastry! www.waylandbakery.com

Get Out

EVENTS / ART / MUSIC / THEATRE

On the Catwalk

Jonathan Joseph Peters’ runway show from January’s StyleWeek

August 26-September 1: For one glamorous week, a bit of Milan comes to Providence. Some of the best and brightest fashion designers from both near and far will be at The Biltmore for StyleWeek Northeast. Runway shows will take place each night at the hotel, with an Accessory Showcase allowing guests to meet several designers and purchase their wares. Come early and grab a cocktail before the shows begin: Jaclyn

Altieri Murphy will be on hand to bedeck you in a turbie and some fab earrings, while Joseph Aaron Segal will keep you looking hip in one of his cuckoo kitty sweaters. You may even get to meet Providence’s own Project Runway star, Jonathan Joseph Peters or the amazing Jess Abernethy. Part of the fun is seeing what everyone else is wearing, so be sure to dress to impress. styleweekprovidence.com

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Get Out |

Calendar

By Dale Rappaneau

This Month August 1-29 Every Wednesday and Saturday, stock up at the Hope Street Farmers Market. Buy fruits, vegetables, poultry and more while listening to live music. Wednesdays 3-6pm. Saturdays 9am-1pm. Lippitt Park, Hope at Blackstone. hopestreetmarket.com August 1-29 The Steel Yard, an organization offering arts and technical training, offers Free Public Tours every Wednesday to learn about their facilities and programs. 12pm. 25 Sims Avenue. 2737101, thesteelyard.org August 1-31 Experience America’s favorite pastime in a stadium where nosebleed seats are unheard of: Cheer on the Pawtucket Red Sox at McCoy. $5-11. 1 Columbus Avenue, Pawtucket. 7247300, pawsox.com August 2 Celebrating the installation of a new bar, Firehouse 13 invites you to their Bar Party, featuring beer, wine and a barbecue. 5pm. 41 Central Street. 270-1801, fh13.com August 2 The Knight Memorial Library presents a free outdoor screening of the documentary The Last Waltz, directed by Martin Scorsese, featuring the farewell concert of The Band. 8:15pm. 275 Elmwood Avenue. 467-2625, provcomlib.org August 2 & 9 The Rhode Island Historical Society continues its Concerts Under The Elms music series with Pendragon

Providence Monthly | August 2012

and the Greg Abate Jazz Quartet. $10. 6:30pm. 52 Power Street. 3318575, rihs.org August 2-30 Get laughing every Thursday and Saturday night with Improv Jones, featuring special guests. $5. 10pm. 95 Empire Street. improvjones.com August 3-31 Every Friday night, get your mind blown at Hardcore Comedy. 10:30pm. Comedy Connection, 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, ricomedyconnection.com August 4 Get ready for the 2012 International League Hall of Fame Induction of Mike Tamburro and Wade Boggs, featuring an exclusive pre-game VIP all-you-can-eat BBQ. Contact McCoy for tickets. 4-6pm. 1 Columbus Avenue, Pawtucket. 724-7300, milb.com August 4 Back for another bi-monthly showcase of female-fronted bands, Chanteuse returns to Fete Lounge. Musical performances include Arborea, iL Abanico, Kiley Evans and many more. $10. 7:30-11pm. 103 Dike Street. 3831112, fetemusic.com August 4 & 18 The Blackstone Valley Leisurely Bicycle Tours feature an enjoyable four-hour bicycle ride that is appropriate for all fitness levels. $20. 9am. 175 Main Street, Pawtucket. 7242200, cycleblackstone.com August 5-26 On Sundays, set sail on the Black-

Ravi Shavi

The Sound of Awesome August 3-31: The spirit of summer continues at Grant’s Block: In addition to weekly movie nights, there’s now the Downcity Sound Stage, a new free outdoor concert series. Happening at 6pm every Friday through September 7, the lineup includes some of our favorite bands. Those scheduled for August include MOGA (American rock with banjos and piano), Ravi Shavi (doo-wop garage pop punk), Kolour Kult (1980s era synth-pop), Tevellus (Mediterranean gypsy funk) and the Mighty Good Boys (rock and roll). Since all shows are free, you and your buddies will always have a go-to spot for kicking off the weekend. And if your rhythmic head bobbing works up an appetite, snag some food or a drink from the outdoor bar and grill provided by Tazza. If a show is rained out, the band will be rescheduled for a date in September. indowncity.com

check out our new menu

LIKE our Facebook page for more information, special offers and more . . . .!

stone Valley Explorer Riverboat Tour, a 45-minute narrated cruise. $8-10. 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm. Central Falls Landing (at Broad and Madeira), Central Falls. 724-2200, rivertourblackstone.com August 6-12 On a mission to provide opportunities of achievement to women wheelchair users, the Ms. Wheelchair America 2013 competition comes to Rhode Island. Program activities vary per day. 5 Avenue of the Arts. mswheelchairamerica2013.org August 7-28 Soak up the summer sun every Tuesday at the free Summer Concert Series, located at the Crossing at Smithfield. Featured bands include the Top Cats, Jesse Liam Band and Sara and the Tall Boys. 6-8pm. 371 Putnam Pike, Smithfield. 781-7497800, crossingatsmithfield.com August 11 One of our favorite annual music and art binges comes crashing down onto Providence again this month – AS220’s annual Foo Fest, of course. $7. 1pm-1am. 95-115 Empire Street. as220.org August 15 See the zoo in a new light at the Sunset Safari, a guided tour through Roger Williams Park Zoo ending with a personalized s’more. Children under 2 are free. $22-37. 7-9pm. 1000 Elmwood Avenue. 785-3510 x 352, rwpzoo.org August 16 With live

music,

films,

creative

quests and hands-on artmaking, the RISD Museum invites you to Design the Night: Trends, an event that is free and open to the public. 5-10pm. 224 Benefit Street. risdmuseum.org August 16-31 Experience the photographic journey of James Starkman’s Let Go: Moment In Movement, an exhibit showcasing a group of Parkour practitioners. 60 Valley Street #5. 8611535, yellowperilgallery.com August 17 The Met presents the solo acoustic performance of Chris Carrabba, lead singer of Dashboard Confessional. $29-$33. Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 7291005, themetri.com August 17 Accompanied by Twenty One Pilots, Neon Trees come to Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel. $20-23. Doors 7pm, Show 8pm. 79 Washington Street. 331-5876, lupos.com August 18 Spend an evening at Providence’s WaterFire, where music, fire dancers and performers keep the fun overflowing onto the streets. Fires light at dusk. Memorial Boulevard and Exchange Street. waterfire.org August 22 Partnering with the Rogers Williams Park Zoo, The Washington Trust Company presents their 212th Birthday Celebration. Event features zoo mascots and a scavenger hunt. 1000 Elmwood Avenue. 941-4998, rwpzoo.org

Experience the best dining in Providence Parkside Rotisserie & Bar • 401.331.0003

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raffa’S urban Sweat

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massage all Day Everyday

where old world wisdom meets new world self care *no Membership required

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Just 2.3 miles from our previous location. Plenty of parking

for studio schedule, special offers & membership options visit us at Raffayoga.com or call 463-3335

August 2012 | Providence Monthly

Informational Brunch Wednesday, August 8 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Waterman Grille 4 Richmond Square | Providence RI 02906 RSVP by Thursday, August 2

401-272-5280

southwestpassage.net New jewelry has arrived, along with metallic pottery from Mata Ortiz Pueblo!

Join us for a discussion about the NEW Tockwotton on the Waterfront, a senior living community in East Providence scheduled to open December, 2012.

A tradition of excellent care meets waterfront elegance

This discussion is ideal for those exploring assisted living or Alzheimer's care. Meet the team, join the Charter Club Membership and see what everyone is talking about! This is a complimentary brunch and seating is limited. RSVP today by calling Michaela at 401-272-5280!

www.tockwotton.org assisted living • memory care short-term rehabilitation • skilled nursing

ESM/PM* 4.375 x 5.875 4C Magazine August Issue Tockwotton August 8th Info Session ad due 5-July richardf@rhodybeat.com lisab@rhodybeat.com

Native american

Jewelery | Pottery | Fetishes WaylaNd Square

180 Wayland avenue, Providence • 751-7587

Kid Think

EXPLORING HOW MINDS DEVELOP

Take your child to college to major in play! Now registering children ages 2 to 10 for projects on pretending. Find out more at: www.kidthink.org or pckidthink@gmail.com 401-865-2342

Providence Monthly | August 2012

Get Out |

Music

Kelly's Car WasH

By Eric Smith

Family Owned & run for 38 years

Let It Shine This Summer!

200 Charles St, Providence • 831-9199

Count on us for fair, friendly service!

BEAUTIFUL PRE-OWNED JEWELRY

Kolour Kult

Empire Loan 1271 North Main Street Providence, RI 02904

Electro-Crooning

Kolour Kult flaunts flamboyant costumes and dazzling synth-pop Listening to Sentimentality Fails, an ecstatic slice of fine-grade electropop from Providence’s Kolour Kult, it’s easy to imagine its technicolor barrage of bubbling bass and pure ‘80s synth-stabs blasting from every cool shop, car window and tiny dancefloor in the city. It is music made for sweaty summers. The duo, Martin van Etten and Jack Prime, formed at a backyard barbeque of Brendan Britton, ringleader of Triangle Forest, the other Providence dance-electro band that – like Kolour Kult – is doing it the right way. Martin and Jack decided to create what they call “electrocroon” over a mutual love of classic pop like Pet Shop Boys, a-ha and Depeche Mode. Those influences shine through brightly, and the band isn’t shy about flaunting them. On “Lose Control,” the soft synth opening is reminiscent of vintage New Order with its made-for-the-dancefloor boombox beat and gnarly bassline. Indeed, most of the tracks balance nicely the dark underbelly of ‘80s electronic music while also unabashedly retaining the pure flamboyant pop of Duran Duran and Prince. The squiggly keyboards

and funk bass of “Window”, for example, actually sounds like Simon Le Bon fronting a Prince track. But that’s not to say Kolour Kult is merely aping the tried and true sound of ‘80s dance pop; dark musical textures and evocative lyrics are a highlight of their songs. “The songs that I am happiest with are the ones that tell true stories,” Jack explains. “Stories that still have a lot of emotional potency for me. ‘Soft Goodbye’ and ‘Sentimentality Fails’ both document relationship woes I’ve suffered, while ‘Hearts Like Ours’ is a tribute to the DIY art and music culture I grew up in here in Providence in the early 2000s, one that while continually assailed, debased and evicted, refuses to disappear.” Martin describes his role in the group as such: “We have a conceptual direction for each project we undertake, be it an EP or full-length concept album, but Jack basically writes the scripts while I simply build the sets and do the makeup and costumes, if you will.” “Soft Goodbye” is the standout track of the collection. Slower and moodier, it’s built around a simple bass/drum sig-

nature and ghostly synth echoes whose structure is sparse enough to let the superb vocals do the important work. Easily as brilliant as some of the classics of the original synthpop era, the song is made for a late night drive through the city, the lyrics weaving a compelling tale of heartbreak and loss. Their slick-sounding EP was recorded in Martin’s sweltering bedroom last summer, necessitating the stoppage of fans and air conditioners so the mics wouldn’t pick up the sound. “We were quite literally sweating for the art,” he says. “The microphone we used was very sensitive. I even had to remove some honking streetcars.” Though recorded as a duo, the band has had Chase Leonard on drums and Rory Calhoun on guitar for some of their live shows, and they plan on incorporating both drums and guitar while recording their full-length album in the near future. Oh and that record? It’s just going to be an ultradark concept album that takes place in a gritty, dystopian cyberpunk world – no big deal for a great band with lofty ambitions to match some serious high-tech dazzle.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

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Theatre

By Molly Lederer

In His Own Words

Playwright Kevin Broccoli discusses a month of monologues Playwright

Kevin

Broccoli

knows his way around a story, and pens them prolifically. He works by day as the fiction specialist at Johnston’s Marian J. Mohr Public Library, so it’s safe to assume that he’s done his research. His favored format is the monologue, and he writes scores of them with wit, cheek and varying degrees of pathos. His previous monologue shows have played at 2nd Story Theatre and the Artist’s Exchange, and his biggest one to date opens this month at the Zabinski Music Studio at Hope Artiste Village, where he is an artist-in-residence. Titled The Acting Company, it features 150 of his pithy solo pieces – performed by an equal number of local actors. In other words, he’s really outdone himself this time. But Broccoli doesn’t bite off more than he can chew. Last summer, his moving play Charlie’s Funeral showcased 130 of his monologues, revolving around the life story of a single man. This year, he reveals, “I wanted to go a step further and examine a particular place in the same way.” Broccoli frequently contributes to the arts as a performer and director as well, and has been involved in drama since he was a kid. So a theater struck him as an ideal setting, full of possibilities. The resulting play, The Acting Company, offers 150 reflections on a fictional New England theater called the Orpheus. It covers a 50-year span, from early shows in parks and parking lots to the company’s establishment as an institution and its challenges in remaining so. Most of the monologues in The Acting Company are titled after plays from the Orpheus Theater’s past seasons, with clever references and mirrored themes abounding. Members of the cast, crew and others affected

Providence Monthly | August 2012

by the place give their perspectives, often peppered with zingy one-liners (“He could prop an entire production of The Wild Duck out of the trunk of his car”) and ending with dry, deadpan conclusions. Occasionally speaking from beyond the grave, the characters examine the allure and power of theater at its best, as well as the pressures and behind-the-scenes battles at its worst. They delve humorously and, at times, painfully into offstage problems of ambition, adultery, heartache, homophobia, firings, an actual fire and even murder. Throughout it all, the energy of the Orpheus, and of theater in general, reverberates. From a piece called “The Rehearsal” comes this observation on theater people: “We accept the fact that life is dramatic. And you live with it. You live with the insanity. With the intensity of it all. If anything, you thrive on it.” Broccoli hopes that The Acting Company will raise questions about what role American theaters should play today, what they’re doing wrong, and what they’re getting right. He maintains that his characters and situations are not based on any specific people or place. But he adds, “Mainly I want the piece to say that we have to start being more inclusive as a community. You can’t succeed as an artist or as an arts institution if you close yourself off to those around you, and a lot of theaters are doing that right now. They’re not utilizing local talent, they’re not producing work by local authors, and, to add insult to injury, they’re importing talent from other states.” Broccoli continues, “It’s not just critical though. I hope that by the end of each performance, the audience will see that this is really a love letter to a community and profession

Kevin Broccoli

that I care about very much.” To create and direct a show with 150 actors and all the scheduling that entails, he’d have to love it. The mammoth cast includes Broccoli himself, as well as gifted locals like Ashley Hunter Kenner, Frank O’Donnell, Cait Calvo, Sandy Cerel, TJ Curran, Paula Faber, Terry Shea and Alyssa Gorgone. On any given night of The Acting Company, audiences can see 25 different cast members performing 25 different monologues. Each experience is unique, so repeat visits are a treat. As Broccoli notes, “I want people to come see this show and see that

Rhode Island is overflowing with talent.” That’s something to write home about, times 150.

The Acting Company August 3–26 The Zabinski Music Studio at Hope Artiste Village 1005 Main Street Pawtucket TheActingCompanyShow@ yahoo.com

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Calendar

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Seeing Our Name in Lights August 7-12: For a few short days, countless independent filmmakers and legendary actors descend upon the Ocean State for the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF). Presented by the non-profit Flickers, this annual celebration of independent cinema arts showcases over 200 selected documentaries, narratives and short films. Venues all across the state participate in screenings. RIIFF also features a walking tour of film locations in Providence, networking events, the annual ScriptBiz Screenwriting Workshop and the return of the RI Film Forum. Since this year’s event also corresponds with Flickers’ 30th anniversary, special events are scheduled here, there and everywhere. So whether you love supporting independent artists, or want to catch some rising stars before they’re famous, make it a point to make it out. film-festival.org

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Art

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man with great talent and also great vision. Supporting himself entirely through his art, Skorupa is heavily involved with helping grow the arts community here in Providence. “My main priorities are to provide opportunities for emerging artists so that they won’t have to move elsewhere to make a living and to establish a tight knit arts community in the city,” he says with a modest smile, his hands shoved in his pockets. “We need a pack of wolves around here.” Easily, he’s leading the pack: Skorupa is the founder of Owls to Athens, an arts collective and forum for street and contemporary artists. “It’s a design collaborative I founded with my friend Michael Spillane where artists from any media can share ideas and help each other grow,” he says. In May, Owls to Athens held a “pop-up gallery” group art exhibition titled Spring Night Riot at E&O Tap, sponsored by Drift Design Studios. Works by many local artists were hung up on one wall of the bar, while a DJ spun tunes and friends grilled food out back. The name Owls to Athens comes from an old expression used to denote a useless action – carrying owls to Athens. “It’s a bit of a reminder to not take yourself too seriously,” Skorupa explains. “Obviously, I’m extremely passionate about what I do, but still you can’t take yourself too seriously – especially in the art world.” I glance at his collection of

work strewn about the studio; indeed his passion is obvious. My eyes land on a piece featuring not only his signature typography and gilded hand embellishment, but also an owl and a wolf. “[The owl and the wolf] represent the two aspects of me that are strongest,” he says. “Mostly, though, I’m sitting back and observing, just taking things in.” Somehow, I doubt that statement is entirely true: the self-proclaimed insomniac works for 18 hours each day, on average. Last summer, Skorupa completed two huge commissioned murals – one at The McDermott Aquatic Complex in Warwick and the other on a building at 355 Main Street in Pawtucket, as part of the HousEART grant project, which was designed to bring vacant homes and buildings back to life. “[The Pawtucket building] was a couple hundred feet long and took a few weeks. I had a high school student help me, though, as part of the grant’s parameters.” Currently, Skorupa keeps himself busy by turning out one-of-a-kind works for group art exhibitions (most recently, LA Woman at the Groundfloor Gallery in Los Angeles), planning more Owls to Athens shows (including a New Orleansstyle arts festival that will take place in Olneyville in the near future) and traveling around the country in attempt to establish connections between Providence and other cities. “As an artist, you should be able to live here and travel

to other cities to show work, and vice versa. I’ve talked with people from LA, Chicago and Philly. It’s so feasible – it just takes time.” And making a living he is. In terms of media, Skorupa works in “absolutely everything,” saying he’ll tackle anything and any project. “I’m really flexible on price: I just want to get my stuff out there so people can enjoy my work. Whatever you have to share, you should share. If you do well, you should take care of your friends and your customers.” As a trained landscape architect and designer, he employs the same mentality. “It doesn’t take a lot of money to create a beautiful outdoor space. I like to work with homeowners and renters on a sliding scale of what they can pay.” Skorupa enjoys using found objects, such as those leftover from construction sites, in his urban gardens. “If you want to pay me to install it, cool – if you don’t have the money for that, then just help me with the install,” he says. “Everything is completely portable.” Skorupa then points out one of his favorite pieces: Never Sleep Never Die. “If you want to succeed, you have to give everything. As an artist, suffering is part of what you sign up for. If you want your work to live forever,” he says, “you’re going to have to lose some sleep. Sacrifice is necessary. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.” Like Owls to Athens on Facebook to learn of upcoming shows in the city.

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August 2012 | Providence Monthly

The Last Detail

Pedaling Off Into the Sunset Lets say you have friends visiting from out of town. You want to show them Providence, but know that driving them around will not do the city justice. Or perhaps you had a bit too much wine with dinner and need to leave your car at the restaurant. Enter Eco Pedicab, a brand new transportation service 76

Providence Monthly | August 2012

that – unlike a taxi – offers tours of the city, as well as a fun way to get home, at no cost to the environment. Tom Olson, lead cabbie, is happy to offer some PVD history to anyone who wants to learn about the passing sights: Call him to book a historic tour or a brewery tour. ecopedicab.com. –Adam Toobin

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