Celebrate the Season at
The North Main Street
Festivity Weekend Great SavinGS Hors D’oeuvres, Wine and Holiday Fun!
10% Off
All Gift Certificates
20% Off
Hair Products Candles by Trapp Jewelry by local designers
December 9 & 10, 4-7pm December 11, 12-4pm
10% Off
COmplimentary
All Gift Certificates
Make Up Applications
20%-40% Off
20% Off
In Store Merchandise
All Products
Located within Moss Salon
C o n d o m i n i u m s
Wayland/Blackstone. Sunny & spacious 2 bed 2 bath Condo on 2nd floor w/southwest exposure. Completely redone in 2005. New kitchen & baths. Open layout, hardwoods, fireplace. Patio. Garage. Walk to Wayland Sq $389,000.
Wayland Square. 3 level Townhouse Condo. 4 beds, 2 baths. Open floor plan with granite kitchen, dining room, living room w/fireplace. Master w/walk-in closet. Many updates yet original details remain. Garden and garage. $365,000.
College Hill. Welcome to the Treehouse! 1500+ sq ft 2 bed 1 bath Penthouse condo in exquisite late 1800s building close to campus--just a few streets from Thayer. Funky unit w/ hardwoods, loft laundry, parking. Dashing space for those just a little left of center! $335,000.
Fox Point. Urban living at it’s best! Totally renovated 2 bed, 2 bath Condo features custom kitchen with granite, high ceilings, charming details, 2 fireplaces, hardwoods, A/C, deck and private garden. Walk to colleges, restaurants and shops. $299,000.
Fox Point. Wonderful 2 bedroom Condo in great location walking distance to Brown, Wayland Square. Parquet floors, crown molding, beautiful oak fireplace mantel. Stainless steel appliances with gas range and dishwasher; washer/dryer too. $209,000.
Wayland Square. Relax in front of the fireplace in this 824sf Condo convenient to Wayland Sq. 1 bed, 1 bath. Spacious rooms w/hardwoods, tons of natural light, eat-in kitchen w/ breakfast bar. Onsite laundry & parking. $209,500.
Wayland Square. Cute 1 bedroom Condo in restored Victorian building, one block from Wayland Square. Cherry cabinets and stone countertops; hand-painted tile fireplace. Jacuzzi bath with separate shower. Wide-plank wood floors. $169,000.
Wayland Square. Bright and sunny 1 bedroom unit in the heart of Wayland Square. Walk to everything! Newly remodeled kitchen & bath, new windows. $134,900.
Mt. Hope. Stunning and totally renovated Condo! 1st floor unit features 2 bedrooms plus office. Last unit left! $119,900.
140 Wickenden Street, Providence, RI 02903 401.274.6740 • ResidentialProperties.com Barrington • CumBerland • east greenwiCh • narragansett • ProvidenCe • reloCation
The Rhode Island Blood Center in Warwick has moved! 24-year-old grateful for blood donors When Nathan Auger, now 24, began donating blood as a student at Pilgrim High School in Warwick, he was like a lot of high school kids. It got him out of a couple of classes, and sometimes he’d even get a movie pass. But it didn’t taken Nathan long to recognize that there were a lot more reasons to donate than incentives.
my foot … two tendons out and the main artery that goes through the foot. I spent two weeks in the hospital making sure the artery would heal. Once it healed they knew I would pretty much be able to keep my foot.”
He understood the importance of helping others, taking a little time out of your day “to actually save somebody’s life. It’s an easy way of doing some good.” Nathan has been donating regularly since high school.
While in the hospital he underwent “four or five surgeries,” and used three units of red cells. “I’ve given (blood) so much, it sort of makes you feel not too bad,” he said. “I imagine a lot of people that end up getting blood don’t ever think twice about donating.”
Then one morning last spring, while on his way back to his house in the Potowmut section of Warwick, a deer “jumped” in the path of his jeep. “When I swerved to miss him, my jeep rolled over two and a half times. I tore a hole on the inside of
Nathan, as you would suspect, is a strong advocate of blood donation. “The sooner you get into it, you make it part of your life. It’s convenient when you make it part of your regular routine.” you make it part of your regular routine.”
Please visit our NEW location in the Shops at Greenwood Plaza, at
615 Greenwich Avenue, wArwick! We are located in the same plaza as the Stop n’ Shop and Lowe’s stores. We are next to Sleepy’s. The recently remodeled Providence Donor Center!
405 PromenAde Street, Providence (Next to the IHOP and behind the Providence Place Mall)
To make an appointment for either of these centers, please call us at 1-800-283-8385 or 453-8383.
Contents
Photography: A. Cole (left), Kate Kelley (right)
december 2010
32 This Month 32 Our Holiday Guide Where to shop, what to see and how to give back
57 47 City Style Locally sourced warmth 48 Shop Talk 50 Beauty 52 The Look
57 Feast The big city steakhouse experience
Every Month
59 On the Menu 60 Review 62 In the Drink 65 Behind the Bar 66 In the Kitchen 69 Dining Guide
8 Editor’s Note
79 Get Out
10 Feedback
All the holiday fun you can handle 80 Calendar 83 Theatre 84 Art 89 Music 90 Movies
19 Providence Pulse Take a scenic stroll on Benefit
92 The Last Detail
21 City 24 Malcontent 27 Scene in PVD
Bingo: it’s not just for aunts anymore
On the Cover: Photography by Kate Kelley
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
7
Editor’s Note of thinking ahead, I’m already halfway through my Christmas shopping this year, and as of this writing it’s still November. This means several things: primarily, that I’ll have plenty of spare cash to take advantage of the post-holiday clearance sales (because really, the joy of the season is buying yourself a whole new wardrobe on December 26 at half-off); and also, that I won’t spend the three December weeks before the holidays wrapping, shopping and dodging crying, sticky children with gooey candy canes crushed in their tiny hands. That means I can actually enjoy all of the festivities this month (I’m particularly looking forward to A Child’s Christmas in Wales at the Gamm); and also that when someone offers me some spiked eggnog, I can sip with creamy abandon because I won’t have to spend the next six hours trying to get out of the garage at the mall. Moreover, every year I talk about the importance of shopping local, and every year I do it a little my-
22
Want to have a DIY holiday? Check out p. 22
MONTHLY
Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
In the Spirit In a shocking display
Providence
Publishing Director Jeanette St. Pierre
self. But this year I’m fully committed: every gift I’ve purchased so far has been from a local, independent shop, and I really think I can get the rest that way, too. I even donated to charity. All of a sudden I’m socially responsible (but once you hand me a Christmas-inspired martini, all bets are off). Our cover story this month touches on all of this – it’s a holiday guide that helps you do everything: shop locally, enjoy festive events and give back to people in need. Last year was hard for everyone – but this year, things are harder for some and easier for others. Let’s try to use this month to try to help as many other people as we can – because really, there’s no joy in giving your money to Toys R Us.
Editor Julie Tremaine Assistant Editor John Taraborelli Art Director Allison Cole Assistant Art Director Alli Coate Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas Graphic Designers Karli Hendrickson Jessica Yan Account Managers Danielle Claro Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher Nellie Lima Dan Schwartz Elizabeth Riel Jessica Webb Illustrators Ruth Chung Emma Tripp Photographers Jonathan Beller K Harber Photography Laurel Mulherin Mike Braca Dan Schwartz Stacey Doyle Kate Kelley Contributing Writers Stephanie Obodda Linda Beaulieu Cristy Raposo Emily Dietsch Dan Schwartz Scott Duhamel Jen Senecal Dawn Keable Alyssa Smith Molly Lederer Vikki Warner Michael Madden Andrea E. McHugh Interns Lauren Knight Whitney Smith Jennifer Liedke
Contributor Kate Kelley Photographer Our resident food photographer Kate Kelley is a graduate of the Massachusetts College of Art and is a longtime contributor to our sister magazines SO Rhode Island and The Bay. When she isn’t behind the camera, she’s on the mountain: Kate is an avid snowboarder, among other winter sports. Originally from Massachusetts, Kate enjoys the opportunities for exploration that come with being a photographer for our magazines. “It gets me around to see the beauty the area has to offer,” she says, adding, “Getting to try the food isn’t a bad perk either.”
8
Providence Monthly | December 2010
PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PAPER CONTAINS 20-25% POST-CONSUMER CONTENT Providence Monthly, 167 Valley Street Providence, RI 02909 • Fax: 401-521-0024 www.providenceonline.com providencemonthly@providenceonline.com For advertising rates call: 401-521-0023 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 ©2010 by Providence Monthly, All rights reserved. Printed by Gannett Offset. Distributed by Special Delivery.
Feedback
From Our Readers He Went, He Saw, He Conquered
Need Smooth Hair for the Holidays? Keratin Complex Express Blowout • Formaldehyde free • Takes 1 hour • Lasts up to 8 weeks
Salon Rio & Day Spa Spa Treatments • Massage Therapy • Shellac: 14 day manicure For more info or to be part of our team call 831-0330 1561 Hartford Avenue, Johnston • salonrioanddayspa.com
I quite enjoyed your cover story “Go Out and Play” section in the November 2010 issue. There is so much to do in Providence other than your normal collegiate hangouts with guys who look like they just stepped out from a casting of the Jersey Shore – complete with attitude and the ever-popular blowout hairstyle. Being a Providence transplant, I think this is one of the more endearing qualities of this little city with a big heart. It seems like whatever your fancy, Providence is accessible enough to feed it. I believe the section on Pecha Kucha was my favorite. Full disclosure, I now host and coordinate the Providence Pecha Kucha Night, having taken over for Stephanie Gerson who brought Providence this wonderful forum for the gathering of people and sharing of ideas in 2009. I appreciate the attention given to it, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a few key points. Pecha Kucha was in fact founded in Tokyo in 2003. However, it is now in over 365 cities (not 250 as stated in your article) worldwide and growing. I point that out because of one simple fact: Providence is the only – yes, I said only – city to hold a Pecha Kucha Night every month! Tokyo (the mother city) and Leeds hold them every month, with a break in December and January, totaling 10
Pecha Kucha Nights a year. We celebrated our 20th Pecha Kucha Night last month in just 20 short months. Those of you hip to Pecha Kucha know how important that number is: 20 slides… 20 seconds per slide… start time for presentations at 20:20. The creators sent a video (yes, from Tokyo) personalized for Providence to show at our 20th PKN. I urge your readers to come out and check this worldwide phenomenon, right in their backyard. The 21st PKN will be at the Met (at Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main Street in Pawtucket) on December 22. Doors open at 7:20 and presentations start at 8:20. You won’t find a gathering of people so diverse and warm as the Pecha Kucha loyals. Michael Gazdacko pecha-kucha.org
From Our Facebook Friends We asked our FB friends about their favorite holiday traditions. Here is what some of them had to say: The Hope Street Holiday Stroll. It’s on December 4 from 3 to 7 this year. There will be tree lighting and the shops always have great food and gift ideas. -Meg Kafalas West Side caroling! -Mike Ritz Holiday drinks at Starbucks! -Meghan Grady
Got Two Cents? Email providencemonthly@ providenceonline.com or find us on Facebook.
10
Providence Monthly | December 2010
! e r o l a G s ft Gi GIFT GUIDE A HOLIDAY
87 West Natick Rd. ( across from Warwick Mall ) • 738- 4030 • Mon & Wed 10am - 3pm, Tue & Thur 11am - 7pm, Fri & Sat 10 am - 4pm, Sundays 12pm -4pm
Frog and Toad
A special little neighborhood shop with an ever-changing selection of gifts, from lovely and inspiring to odd and incredible, and featuring tons of locally-made goodness. Find out why Frog & Toad was voted Best Gift Shop Statewide by Rhode Island Monthly. 795 Hope St., Providence • 831-3434 • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
MRT Jewelers ALISA, quality Sterling Silver cuffs with diamond accent.
The perfect affordable high fashion accessory can be found this season at M.R.T. Jewelers. With over 7,000 square feet, every style from classic to cutting edge can be found under one roof. 927 Warren Ave., E. Providence • 435-3500 • www.MRTJewelers.com
Bien Ecrit
A collection of classic, elegant and distinctive note cards and stationery accessories. Choose pre-printed designs. Or customize and personalize pieces using unique motifs, monograms and font designs. mary@bienecrit.com • www.bienecrit.com
Kreatalier is an innovative textile product design store, dedicated to offering
colorful, useful, environmentally aware design. Come check out our fabric accessories, organizers, reusable gift wraps, workshops, home interior services, and many more goods from local artists.
804 Hope St., Providence • 432-7995 • Tue - Sat 10am - 6pm Open Sundays Nov 14 - Dec 19 11am - 5 pm • www.kreatelier.com
LUDWIG PHOTOGRAPHY
Becky Brosco Boutique
is a tiny shop full of big treasures. We offer uncommonly cute clothing and accessories for newborns to toddlers. Conveniently located across from Macy’s at the Warwick Mall, we’re sure you’ll find something perfect for that special little one!
Zuzu’s Petals
is a unique, contemporary dress shop focusing on special occasion dressing. Perfect for that special event. They also carry casual dresses, jewelry and seasonal items. Featuring Nicole Miller, Milly, BCBG, Max Azria, Tibi and more! 288 Thayer St., Providence • 331- 9846 • Mon - Sat 11am - 6 pm, Sun 12 pm - 5 pm 1000 Chapel View Boulevard, Ste 104, Cranston • 369 - 7440 • Mon - Sat 11am - 6 pm 165 Main St., East Greenwich • 398 -1199 • Mon - Fri 11am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun 12 pm - 5 pm • www.zuzusri.com • Visit us on Facebook
Norm’s Jewelery Make the holiday season sparkle this year with beautiful
diamond earrings from Norm’s Jewelry, your hometown jeweler. Professional customer service, jewelry and watch repair done on premise. Free layaway and gift wrap. Get a present that shows you really care! 1160 North Main St., Providence • 351- 3398 • Tues - Fri 9:30 am - 5pm, Sat 9:30am - 4pm
Kyureo Looking for something different, something extra special this holiday
season? KYUREO, located in the heart of Wayland Square, has an extraordinary selection of home decor and gifts from around the world. Uniqueness at affordable pricing, KYUREO was voted the #1 shopping experience in Rhode Island. 13 South Angell St., Providence • 437-6677 • www.kyureo.com
Feminine Fancies
Day to evening, inside and out. Fabulous clothing, accessories, footwear, handbags, and luscious lingerie. Feminine Fancies meets all your holiday needs. Treat yourself with our cozy cashmere sweaters, scarfs, and robes in beautiful colors. Shop early for best selection! 281 Thayer St., Providence • 290 County Rd., Barrington • 247-1087 Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm
NAVA
Stop by NAVA on Thayer Street this season to find the perfect holiday cocktail dress and check out their accessories including jewelry, hats, scarves and bags. Vintage cowboy boots and so much more. Perfect gifts for your loved ones this year. 281 Thayer St., Providence • 453 - 6282 • Mon - Thur 11am - 6pm Fri - Sat 11am - 7pm, Sun 12pm - 6pm • www.shopnava.com
Daisy Digins Daisy Digins is your one-stop shop for the gift-giving season.
Get in the holiday spirit with the Thymes Frasier Fir collection of candles and scents. Find a fabulous piece of jewelry for that special woman in your life. Receive a free Trollbeads bracelet with purchase of a decorative clasp. Plus, complimentary gift wrapping! 123 Maple Avenue, Barrington • 245-0580 • www.daisydigins.com
The Perfect Gift that keeps on Giving
Free Bracelet
Clad in
the spirit of the season! Choose from our endlessly interesting designer clothing, shoes and accessories. Now featuring a delightful collection of gift items for women of all ages. 497 Angell St., Wayland Square • 454-8442 • Open everyday www.cladin.com
Caster’s Bicycles Rhode Island’s bike shop since 1919. We feature Trek, Scott Bicycles (Providence only), Specialized (Warwick only), Gary Fisher Bicycles, Haro and Redlines bicycles. Lifetime free tune-ups. Kid’s trade-up program. Bicycle accessories, service, strollers, auto racks and roof top boxes. Be a kid again. Ride a bike. 212 4th St., Providence (behind Festival Ballet) • 274-5300 3480 Post Rd., Warwick • 739-0393 Sun12pm-5pm, Mon 9am-6pm, Tues-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm • www.BikeRI.com
Berk’s Shoes
offers a large selection of Frye classic and contemporary boots. Keep your feet warm and dry with Uggs and Hunter rain boots. In comfort footwear we carry Dansko, Birkenstock, Sperry Top-Siders and many many more! Berk’s – a Rhode Island tradition since 1900. 272 Thayer St., Providence • 831-0174 • Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 11am-7pm
Southwest Passage brings the best southwestern jewelry and crafts directly to
Providence at wonderful prices. We’re the only store in Rhode Island dedicated to Navajo, Zuni and Hopi jewelry, Zuni fetish carvings and pueblo pottery. You’ll find pieces signed by highly regarded artists such as Jonathan Nez and Lillie Lovato, and lovely pieces by emerging artists. Join us for a southwestern holiday celebration with a Native American flair on Saturday, Dec. 4! 180 Wayland Ave, Providence • 751-7587 • Open everyday Thanksgiving
through Christmas
J Marcel With accessories, clothing, gifts and great deals, J. Marcel Shoes is more than a fashionable place to buy shoes! Check out our fabulously affordable costume jewelry and pashmina style scarves, 3 for $25. Gift certificates available.
808 Hope St., Providence • 383-9777 • Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12pm-5pm
special advertising section
The PM List events / promotions / good deeds SEXY SINGLES
Last Call Well, it’s just about that time. You know what we’re talking about: the night is winding down and you’re still looking for that special someone to take home. We are too. We’re still on the hunt for the city’s hottest bachelors and bachelorettes for our annual Most Eligible issue in February, but time is running short. The house lights are coming on, the bartenders are cleaning up, people are grabbing their coats, and you’ve got one last chance to nominate your sexy single before our December 16 deadline. Go to providenceonline.com and click on “Providence Monthly” to find the nomination form, but don’t forget to email a photo to cupid@providenceonline.com.
PM SPONSORED
Need a resolution solution? DoN’t let the ball Drop
Buy Art and Have a Drink On Us
register Now for: acting + Comedy Dance and get on with it at perishable theatre arts school
Join Providence Monthly and the City’s Department of Arts, Culture + Tourism for a reception honoring the artists behind this years BUY ART pins. This successful program encourages shoppers to buy local arts and crafts (including things like theater tickets, not just visual art) during the holiday season with a series of buttons proclaiming “I BUY ART.” Come to the lovely and cozy Duck and Bunny (312 Wickenden Street) on Thursday, December 9 from 5:30-8:30pm to get a look at this year’s designs and meet the artists. Light fare will be provided, and proudly showing off your BUY ART pin from any year will get you a free drink.
Perishable TheaTre 95 empire st. Providence www.perishable.org • 331.2695
WWW.HARUKISUSHI.COM HOLIDAY SHOPPING
B-I-N-G-O! Downcity Providence and Providence Monthly encourage you to add a dash of fun and games to the holiday shopping season this year by playing Holiday Bingo. It’s simple: tear out the bingo card on page 9 of this issue and take it with you as you explore over 20 participating businesses. Shop at any one and get that square stamped on your card. Complete any row of five and be entered to win prizes worth over $1000, including hotel stays, gourmet dinners, theater tickets and shopping sprees. The contest runs November 15 to December 31, with the winners announced on New Year’s Day. indowncity.com
Visit us at the location of your choice...
PM PARTY
There Can Only Be 10 The New Year is just around the corner and as usual, PM will be starting it off with a bang. Join us as we celebrate our January list of The 10 People to Watch, our annual list of the up-and-comers, movers and shakers, and people who might just be doing some big things in the year to come. Get your chance to mix and mingle with them at the Hope Artiste Village (1005 Main Street, Pawtucket) on Wednesday, January 12 from 5:30-8:30pm. There will be food from Russell Morin Fine Catering, music from DJs Live Experiment and Thirsty Sounds, and even a farmer’s market. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased online at providenceonline.com. All proceeds benefit The Hub, a citywide approach to building sustainable, high-quality out-of-school time opportunities for high school-aged youth.
PROVIDENCE
MONTHLY’S
10
to
WATCH
Newly Renovated Haruki Cranston 1210 Oaklawn Ave • Cranston 401.463.8338 Haruki East 172 Wayland Ave • Providence 401.223.0332 Haruki Express 112 Waterman St • Providence 401.421.0754
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
15
FH FEDERAL HILL
FEDERAL HILL World-class dining. Trendy boutiques. Upscale specialty stores. Cutting edge salons. International art galleries. Exclusive nightlife. Old-world quality meets modern sophistication on Federal Hill, the heartbeat of Providence.
Rhode Island’s Italian Grocery Store
Casual Drink, Comfortable Food 142 Atwells Avenue 401.421.0525 bradfordnewsri.com
275 Atwells Avenue 401.421.9105 vendaravioli.com
Ristorante A new chef, new menu, new hours
Authentic Tuscan Cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere
Open for dinner, Thursday through Sunday
Voted “Best Restaurant in RI” 2010 RI Monthly's Reader's Poll
DePasquale Plaza 401.528.1100 vendaravioli.com
238 Atwells Avenue 401.521.3311 sienari.com
Holidays
Enjoy exceptional Neapolitan style cuisine in a rustic Mediterranean atmosphere.
Gourmet gift baskets, prepared foods, catering for all your holiday needs
Voted Best Providence Restaurant in RI Monthly’s 2010 Reader’s Poll
365 Atwells Avenue 401.223.2230 panevino.net
275 Atwells Avenue 401.421.9105 vendaravioli.com providence o y s t e r b a r
A fresh spin on Lunch
ConCept
$1 Oysters, Shrimp Cocktail, Littlenecks & Cherrystones 9.99 Lobster Roll & New Lunch Menu
Celebrating 15 years on Federal Hill Natural Hair Color, Hair Care, Skin & Body Care for Women and Men.
283 Atwells Avenue 401.272.8866 providenceoysterbar.com
90 Spruce Street 401.272.4676 rosebudsalon.com
ROMA
The original Roma is now open please join us and experience a taste of Italy
A cut Above the rest
Catering & Holiday Baskets Available
Featuring our a la carte exclusives: All Your sides Are Inclusive!
310 Atwells Avenue 401.331.5000 romaprov.com
279 Atwells Avenue 401.454.8881 providenceoysterbar.com
federal hill | the heartbeat of providence
SINCE 1924 Angelo's is Still That Kind of Place... Sun 12-9, M-Th 11:30-9, F-S 11:30-10 NOW ACCEPTING MC & VISA
141 Atwells Avenue 401.621.8171 angelosonthehill.com
220 Atwells Avenue 401.369.7040 mumucusine.com
TAMMANY HALL Federal Hill's BEST neighborhood pub
Now serving Traditional Chinese Style Breakfast from 8-3pm 7 days
409 Atwells Avenue 401.831.3180 Find us on facebook
224 Atwells Avenue 401.632.4311
GASBARRO’S WINES
Salon Bianco
RI's AwARd wInnIng wIne stoRe 1,600 wInes In stock specIAlty wIne bAskets stAtewIde delIveRy
Rhode Island’s High Fashion & Editorial Salon
Established 1898
423 Atwells Avenue 401.331.8099 salonbianco.com
361 Atwells Avenue 401.421.4170
Blue Grotto Timeless Italian cuisine with our modern interpretation
A simply sophisticated salon Voted Best New Salon RI Monthly’s Best of RI 2009
210 Atwells Avenue 401.272.9030 bluegrottori.com
239 Atwells Avenue 401.572.3900 msquaredsalonprov.com est. 2001
ROYAL GALLERY P resents : Contemporary masters: a ColleCtion Nov 30, 2010- Jan 9, 2011 Opening Reception: December 9
298 Atwells Avenue 401.831.8831 RoyalGalleryRI.com
first fine art gallery on federal hill 259 Atwells Avenue 401.454.8844 galleryzprov.com
Mobil
Travel Guide 2010
Restaurants
)RXU 6WDU )RRG <RX &DQ $IIRUG
Providence Pulse City / Malcontent / Scene in PVD
Photography: Holly Applegate
Homes for the Holidays It’s important for a city to know how to leverage its most valuable resources. For instance, when your neck of the woods just happens to boast a mile-long stretch of street with the highest concentration of historic houses in the entire country, flaunt it. The Providence Preservation Society has taken this lesson to heart, and that’s why its annual Holiday Festival happens on Benefit Street, ground zero for the city’s picturesque Colonial post-cardiness. This year’s festivities run from 11am-5pm on Saturday, December 4 and in-
clude the traditional tour of historic houses, as well as hayrides, carolers, kids’ activities, a door decorating contest and plenty of seasonally appropriate food and drink. At 5pm, the festivities move downtown for the annual tree lighting at City Hall. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day of. There will also be a Holiday Decorating Seminar and Patrons Reception, both available for separate tickets prices. For more information or to purchase tickets, call PPS at 831-7740 or visit their website, ppsri.org –John Taraborelli
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
19
WEDDING RECEPTIONS • REHEARSAL DINNERS ANNIVERSARIES • BIRTHDAYS • REUNIONS • SHOWERS HOLIDAY PARTIES • COMPANY MEETINGS SPACIOUS, ELEGANT ROOMS FOR UP TO 200 GUESTS
Eastern and American Banquet Available Jacky’s Galaxie Restaurant & Sushi Bar 383 Metacom Ave., Bristol, RI • Tel: 401-253-8818 1764 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI • Tel: 401-333-4700 1449 Mineral Spring Ave., N. Providence, RI • Tel: 401-354-4570
www.jackysgalaxie.com
Thank you for giving. Now and forever. Our generous donors have made it possible for The Rhode Island Foundation to grant more than $240 million to nonprofit organizations in the past decade alone.
▼
Thank you for your continued trust in us. Together, we are dedicated to meeting the needs of the people of Rhode Island. To learn more about how you can work with us, please call Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer Carol Golden at 401 427-4027 The Rhode Island Foundation • www.rifoundation.org • 401 274-4564
20
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Pulse | City
Raise the Woof
Pamper Your Pet
Geekery (In A Good Way)
Roll the Dice Accio, sci-fi geeks! At 7pm on Thursday, December 2, hordes of sci-fi and fantasy nerds will descend on the Rochambeau branch of the Providence Public Library for the fiendishly cleverly named R2-D20: A Night of Sci-Fi Fandom and Fantasy Gaming Geekery. And by the way, if you’re not getting the pun in that event title, don’t bother showing up. Seriously. Local authors Ethan Gilsdorf (Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks) and Tony Pacitti (My Best Friend is a Wookie) will be reading excerpts from their works and participating in a discussion
of God knows what, moderated by artist Michael Townsend (the artist who lived in the Providence Place Mall in 2007 – remember that?). Topping it all off, Draco and the Malfoys – Woonsocket’s premier, nationally acclaimed evil wizard rock group – will give a blistering performance that may just Incendio the roof right off the place. I’m not sure whether Emma Watson is going to show, though I tend to think not. Just imagine if she did, though. I mean, talk about Erecto! 708 Hope Street. 467-2700 x1603. –Michael Madden
Best friendship notwithstanding, you can’t always be with your dog. Like it or not, life all too often intrudes, but that doesn’t mean that Ralph has to languish at home in his crate, develop bad chewing or barking habits out of boredom or just wait patiently for your return, favorite toy in his mouth, craving human contact. Ocean Dog Club is now there for him – and for you. For $24 a day (with discounted packages for extended stays) Ralph can frolic carefree with others of his kind in a posh playroom, getting the kind of exercise, training and supervision you might expect from a high-end preschool. Ocean Dog Club goes beyond that, offering grooming, birthday parties, and rental of their
9,000 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor play space with dogs grouped by temperament, size and play style. “The dogs we’re getting are just wonderful dogs,” says owner Sue Price. “A lot of rescue dogs, too, whose owners really care.” Perhaps the most attractive offering at Ocean Dog Club this December is their 24-hour supervised boarding for your pet. Rather than leaving him at a kennel or with a sitter during your warm-weather vacation this holiday season, you can be confident that Ralph is having a blast in the playrooms all day before he sets down at night for a well-earned snooze. 245 Esten Avenue, Pawtucket. 724-4474, oceandogclub.com –Michael Madden
Holiday Jollies
Burlesque, Not Burl Ives There are many great local holiday traditions: Trinity’s Christmas Carol, the Preservation Society’s Benefit Street Stroll, the tree lighting at City Hall, Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker, spending an hour just trying to get into the parking garage at Providence Place. The problem is so few of them involve risqué puns and scantily-clad women stripping down to pasties. That’s why it is such a pleasure to welcome Perishable Theatre’s sixth annual Jingle Belles and a Few Balls to that pantheon. Congratulations, you’re officially a tradition. The experimental theater’s only big fundraiser of the year is a collection of burlesque, vaudeville, magic, music and, of course, holiday cheer
of the decidedly off-kilter variety. This year the performers have been challenged to incorporate a bit of the supernatural into their act. “So perhaps there will be zombie Rockettes,” speculates Perishable’s Marketing Director, Donna Lee Gennaro, adding, “I believe Burl Ives may be meeting his maker and, of course, I would like to see little Tiny Tim get axed, but hey, call me twisted.” The show runs December 10-12 and almost always sells out, so get your tickets early and embrace a new tradition – but don’t rub up against it too much when you’re embracing it. That’s creepy. 95 Empire Street. 331-2695, perishable.org –John Taraborelli
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
21
A Ve vai nd lab a R le av at iol i
Pulse | City
Staying Healthy Never Tasted So Good! Distributors wanted! No restrictions on buying or selling! No membership fees!
Acaiberri - Elixir of Life www.acaiberri.com 401-497-0740
BEAUTIFUL PRE-OWNED JEWELRY PM Experiment Empire Loan 1271 North Main Street Providence, RI 02904
Unleashing Your Inner Martha
Salon Karizzma Hair • Nails • WaxiNg Pedicures CheCk out what’s NEW
shellac Manicure the 14 day manicure for high gloss shine & zero drying time. no chipping KeraTiN sMOOTHer
REDUCES FRIZZ & CURL. WILL SMOOTH AND SHINE HAIR BraZiliaN BlOW OuT
STRAIGHT SMOOTH SEXY HAIR WITH RADIANT SHINE
HOlidays are cOMiNg!
don’t forget to get gift certificates for your loved ones 1528 Mineral spring ave. North Providence 353-7416 www.salonkarizzma.com
22
Providence Monthly | December 2010
If you’re anything like me, you’ve picked up every holiday issue of Martha Stewart Living for the last century in hopes of mastering the craft of creating your own blow-your-mind holiday cards. And, in turn, you continue to realize that you have no idea what Honeycomb paper is and you still think RickRack is the name of a menu item at Chili’s. Needless to say, you need some help. That’s where Bella Art steps in. Open since 2002, Bella Art is a fullservice rubber and paper art specialty store located in Johnston, which offers a variety of workshops designed to inspire and kindle one’s creative spirit. Super-friendly owners Maryann and Don Antonelli opened the shop at a time when the market wasn’t saturated with such an industry, allowing Maryann to explore her passion and knowledge of rubber stamping. “I love to create things that put a smile on someone’s face, and I especially love teaching and proving that with a little nudge and encouragement, everyone has an ‘inner Martha,’” she says. Say no more! My inner Martha has been confined to the kitchen for far too long, so imagine my excitement when I was invited to sit in
on one of their card-making workshops. I’ll admit I was slightly nervous when I entered the quaint storefront and approached a round-table of fervent crafters on a Saturday morning. I’ve always prided myself on being somewhat of an artist, yet my prior attempts at hand-crafting always ended in frustration and unfinished projects. But an immediate greeting from Maryann and our workshop instructor, Sarah, followed by a warm welcome from the chattering participants put me at ease – as if I was joining friends for a Saturday morning coffee date. After settling in, Sarah began instruction on the first of three cards we would be creating, as the ladies introduced themselves to me and joked among each other. I soon learned that most of these women had been coming to the workshops for quite some time and not only all shared a love for crafting, but all knew how to craft, thanks to these informative sessions. They knew what a stippling brush was, or how to use Krylon, or how to get the best deal on a Cricut (personal die-cutting machine that was apparently a very popular gift from their husbands). This is knowledge I wanted to embrace, as I began
to create my masterpieces. Sarah, with a comforting smile and tone, explained each process clearly as she demonstrated techniques of how to make the perfect stamp impression and how to properly blot ink colors using the stippling brush and where to apply the glossy accents or double-sided tape to create 3D effects. Although I couldn’t quite carry a conversation while focusing, as the other ladies did so effortlessly, I will say that I not only held my own, but, in the end, I made beautiful, one-of-akind handmade cards – cards I couldn’t wait to brag about when I got home. Perhaps the one thing that surprised me most was that, with instruction, it was easy and a whole lot of fun. So much so that I even bought my own supplies from their jam-packed supersupply store to give it a try at home. Maryann and her design team offer a whole variety of inspiring workshops, as well as kids’ birthday parties and DIY wedding invitations. They also recently opened a retail location in the Providence Place Mall. Try a class with some friends or check out their shop and I promise you’ll give Martha a run for her money. 1665 Hartford Avenue, Johnston. 383-0199. bellaartonline.com –Jen Senecal
Illustration: Ruth Chung
One writer ventures into the DIY world
Nom in are ations d Dec ue on emb er 9 !
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
23
Expert Custom Framing
Pulse | The Malcontent
by John Taraborelli
The Camera Werks
766 Hope Street, Providence 401-273-5367 www.thecamerawerks.com M-F 10-5:30 • SAT 10-2:00PM
Passport Photos only $8.95
THe BeST &
Biggest GrinDerS in Town 228-8555 • 68 Hudson Street, Providence Mon-Fri 7am to 7pm, Sat and Sun 9am-3pm HudsonStreetDeli.com
A Pox On Both Your Houses The real results of the 2010 elections Now that the interminable hyperpartisan brinksmanship, grotesque character assassinations, petty, frivolous dustups, and ravenous news cycling of the 2010 election season is safely behind us, we can finally pick up the pieces and move on to the interminable hyper-partisan brinksmanship, grotesque character assassinations, petty, frivolous dustups, and ravenous news cycling of the 2012 election season, which began in earnest on November 3. The dust has begun to settle and we now know the shape of things to come: the oompaloompa-skinned John Boehner will replace the creepy Botox death mask of Nancy Pelosi as speaker of a congressional body that gives new meaning to the term House of Ill Repute; the Senate, still marginally under Democratic control, will continue to be deadlocked by slavish partisanship, pig-headed obstinance, and convoluted parliamentary trickery; the president will continue to lurch towards an election that will be characterized by such lavish spending, senseless spectacle, transparent characters, hackneyed dialogue and rote cliché that he might as well hire Michael Bay to run his campaign; and the American people will wait two more years to once again reshuffle the same deck and deal themselves another lousy hand, like a gambling addict who can still delude himself into thinking that tonight is his night. Watching the results roll in on election night (I must admit, I’m still a sucker for it) as CNN and its dizzying 39 (!) on-air analysts took news cycle overkill to operatic heights, it was more mildly amusing than either inspiring or disheartening, as it was
to the winners and losers (and their legions of supporters) respectively. As I watched incoming Republican leaders puff up their chests and declare victory, losing Democrats either paint on pained smiles or duck and cover, and Tea Party darling Christine O’Donnell – who dabbled in witchcraft, but never her naughty bits – give one of the least graceful concession speeches of all time (it
[Democrats and Republicans] are
which poor little old grandma’s Social Security check will be revoked, abortion will be punishable by public stoning and rich people will not only not have to pay any taxes, but will be permitted to ride poor people around like donkeys, things aren’t really going to change all that much come January. One of the problems with Beltway hysteria is that every new twist of political fates is heralded as The Way Things Are and Ever Shall Be. For Republicans, any victory is readily interpreted as a wholesale endorsement by the American people of extreme conservatism’s every whim, and hard evidence that Americans want their country back, while a defeat is spun into a slap on the wrists to remind Republicans that they’re not being conservative enough. Democrats meanwhile play the quivering, equivocating defensive regardless of their electoral fortunes and simply hope that if they love the American people enough, maybe we’ll eventually love them back. The fact is the silent majority of Americans doesn’t think or vote in terms of sweeping partisan visions. They aren’t true believers in the ideology of either political party, two warring factions engaged in a zero sum war of attrition that has little, if anything, to do with serving the people through effective government. The prevailing attitude in any election seems to be “Throw the bums out,” regardless of what party the current roster of bums happens to represent. In the end it amounts to institutionalized self-interest tarted up to resemble a rich pageant of patriotism and public service. So don’t fret if right now things look ugly – to me they always look the same.
two warring factions engaged in a zero
Your neighborhood yarn shop. Providing quality yarns, knitting and crochet supplies with friendly, knowledgeable service and a smile.
fresh purls
769A Hope St, Providence 270-8220 • www.freshpurls.com
Give the Gift of Life this Holiday Season Providence Donor Center Mon.- Thur. 8 aM - 8 pM Fri. 7:30 aM - 5:30 pM Sat. 7:30 aM - 2:30 pM
1-800-283-8385 www.ribc.org Visit our providence center or call for a more convenient location. Schedule a life saving blood donation today!
24
Providence Monthly | December 2010
sum war of attrition essentially amounted to, “People of Delaware, fear not: I’ve just gotten off the phone with my opponent and I explained to him in no uncertain terms exactly how he should do the job you didn’t hire me for.”), I kept thinking of the following ennui-ridden Lou Reed lyrics: “Give me give me give me some good times/ Or give me give me give me some pain/ Don’t you know things always look ugly?/ To me they always look the same.” Despite conflicting reports that the results of this election either signal the dawn of a new day in America, one in which the size of government will shrink, budgets will be balanced, a socialist menace will be rooted out and “the people” will “take back” their country, or the beginning of a long, dark night in
© 2010 Salon Panache all rights reserved
ur New Extravagant Location O t i s i V
I wonder who’s on
Specializing in Eyebrow & Facial Threading Eyebrow threading is an all natural alternative to waxing and plucking. Especially for people who are on Retin-A and Accutane.
Providence Monthly’s
Ten to Watch list for 2011?
Most Imitated, Never Duplicated 25 Years of Experience Walk in Service Tues & Sat 9 to 6 Wed & Fri 9 to 7 Thurs 9 to 8
for more information and pictures visit
salonpanache.com 1103 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 401.464.4044 December 2010 | Providence Monthly
25
Pulse | Scene in PVD Providence Monthly sponsored the Providence Animal Rescue League’s fundraiser at the Johnson and Wales Culinary Museum, which raised over $40,000 for the charity. Local restaurants and caterers battled it out for the title of “Culinary Top Dog,” with Dave’s Marketplace emerging as the winner. Photography by Mike Braca.
Kristine Carlson, Connie Bolduc, Kim Foeri
The celebrity food judges: Melissa Rector, Herb Mesa, Al Matthews, and Everett Hoag
Cindy Day, James Russell, Jackie Plante
Bacon Brownies with Salted Caramel and Milk shooters from Whole Foods
Sandra Walsh, David Walsh
Rachel Ferreira, Aubrey Messier, James Russell, Dina Maglione, Brendan Bell
26
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Stephanie Georgia, Paul O’Hearn
Scene in PVD
| Pulse
Providence Monthly said “Hi-Neighbor!” to autumn along with Narragansett Beer. We partied at McFadden’s, where we enjoyed burgers, beers and ‘Gansett swag. Photography by Mike Braca.
join us as we celebrate
Providence Monthly’s
to
Mat Madeiros, Wendy Bovis
WATCH Kristen Minsky and the TropiGals
wednesday january 12, 2011 5:30-8:30pm hope artiste village pawtucket
tickets only $10 Narragansett Beer owner Jim Crooks
available at providenceonline.com all proceeds benefit The Hub food by Russell Morin Fine Caterers music by DJ Lively Experiment and Thirsty Sounds
Latsaney Arounlangsy, Lucy DaRosa, Joy Voravong
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
27
Important Safety Information What is the most important information you should know about Dysport? Spread of Toxin Effects: In some cases, the effects of Dysport and all botulinum toxin products may affect areas of the body away from the injection site. These effects can cause symptoms of a serious condition called botulism. Symptoms of botulism can happen hours to weeks after injection and may include swallowing and breathing problems, loss of strength and muscle weakness all over the body, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids, hoarseness or change or loss of voice, trouble saying words clearly, or loss of bladder control. Swallowing and breathing problems can be life threatening and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children and adults treated for muscle spasms, particularly in those patients who have underlying medical conditions that could make these symptoms more likely. The toxic effects have been reported at doses similar to those used to treat muscle spasms in the neck. Lower doses, in both approved and unapproved uses, have also caused toxic effects. This includes treatment of children and adults for muscle spasms. These effects could make it unsafe for you to drive a car, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities.
Do not have Dysport treatment if you: are allergic to Dysport or any of its ingredients (see the end of the Medication Guide for a list of ingredients), are allergic to cow’s milk protein, had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product such as Myobloc® or Botox,® or have a skin infection at the planned injection site. The dose of Dysport is not the same as the dose of any other botulinum toxin product. The dose of Dysport cannot be compared to the dose of any other botulinum toxin product you may have used. Dysport may not be right for you if: you have surgical changes to your face, very weak muscles in the treatment area, your face looks very different from side to side, the injection site is inflamed, you have droopy eyelids or sagging eyelid folds, deep facial scars, thick oily skin, or if your wrinkles can’t be smoothed by spreading them apart. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have: a disease that affects your muscles and nerves (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease], myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome), allergies to any botulinum toxin
product or had any side effect from any botulinum toxin product in the past, a breathing problem (such as asthma or emphysema), swallowing problems, bleeding problems, diabetes, a slow heart beat or other problem with your heart rate or rhythm, plans to have surgery, had surgery on your face, weakness of your forehead muscles (such as trouble raising your eyebrows), drooping eyelids, or any other change in the way your face normally looks. Patients with a disease that affects muscles and nerves who are treated with typical doses of Dysport may have a higher risk of serious side effects, including severe swallowing and breathing problems. Human Albumin This product contains albumin taken from human plasma. Steps taken during donor screening and product manufacturing processes make the risk of spreading viral diseases extremely rare. In theory, there is also an extremely rare risk of contracting Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). No cases of spread of viral diseases or CJD have ever been reported for albumin. Allergic Reaction to Injecting in the Skin It is not known if an allergic reaction can be caused by injecting Dysport into the skin. The safety of treating excessive sweating with Dysport is not known. Common Side Effects The most common side effects are nose and throat irritation, headache, injection site pain, injection site skin reaction, upper respiratory tract infection, eyelid swelling, eyelid drooping, sinus inflammation, and nausea. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins and herbal and other natural products. Using Dysport with certain other medicines may cause serious side effects. Do not start any new medicines while taking Dysport without talking to your doctor first. Especially tell your doctor if you: have received any other botulinum toxin product in the last four months, have received injections of botulinum toxin, such as Myobloc® (rimabotulinumtoxinB) or Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) in the past (be sure your doctor knows exactly which product you received), have recently received an antibiotic by injection, take muscle relaxants, take an allergy or cold medicine, or take a sleep medicine. Use In Specific Populations Dysport should not be used in children or in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ask your doctor if Dysport is right for you.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Dysport Holiday Offer Terms & Conditions The Dysport Holiday Offer is a coupon program that works by providing you a rebate check limited to $50 for one treatment with Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA). This offer is limited to patients over the age of 18 who are treated with Dysport for the temporary improvement in the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). To participate in this offer, you must receive a Dysport treatment between November 1, 2010, and December 31, 2010. Within 30 days after your treatment, you must: (1) sign up for the Dysport Holiday Offer at www.DysportUSA.com and (2) mail your completed rebate redemption form with an itemized receipt for your treatment to the address found on the form. Credit card receipts will not be accepted. Your submission must be postmarked within 30 days after the date of your treatment and no later than January 30, 2011, and must be received by February 28, 2011. If you have any questions about the Dysport Holiday Offer, please call toll-free 866-222-1480. If you would like to check on the status of your rebate check, visit www.rapid-rebates.com. You are eligible for this offer only if you paid for your entire treatment yourself and if no part of your treatment was covered by insurance or another third-party payor. This offer excludes any treatment that is reimbursed by Medicaid, Medicare, or other federal or state benefit programs, including state medical assistance programs. You are not eligible for this offer if your
private insurance, HMO, or other health benefit program paid for all or part of your treatment. If any form of reimbursement is sought from a third-party, you may be required to disclose the value of this rebate to that party. This offer is available only to patients, excluding claims from Medicis employees and their families, or employees of its dealers and distributors. This offer is non-transferable. Offer valid only in the U.S. excluding territories and void where prohibited by law. This offer is limited to one redemption per person and cannot be combined with any other Medicis offer or promotion. If you received a treatment as part of the Dysport Challenge, you may participate in the Dysport Holiday Offer; however, you must wait at least 3 months between treatments. By submitting a rebate request, you agree to all terms and conditions of this offer and acknowledge that, in administering this program, Medicis may track your treatment activity and use your personal information to send correspondence in connection with this offer. Medicis reserves the right to cancel or modify this offer without notice. All rebate requests become the property of Medicis and will not be returned. Medicis assumes no responsibility for lost, late, damaged, misdirected, misaddressed, incomplete or postage-due requests that fail to be properly delivered to the address stated on the rebate redemption form for any reason. Rebate checks will be issued in U.S. dollars only. Rebate checks and coupons are void if not cashed or used within 180 days and cannot be re-issued.
PLEASE SEE MEDICATION GUIDE ON FOLLOWING PAGES.
Time to lose those frown lines? Maximum Frown
Before
After 50 units, Day 14 Individual results may vary.
Be Ready for the Holidays Compliments of Dysport ® save $50 Nov. 1–Dec. 31 Isn’t it time for you to Discover Dysport and save $50? This holiday season, everyone’s talking about Dysport, a botulinum toxin type A prescription injection used to temporarily improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults less than 65 years of age.
To learn more and register, visit www.DysportUSA.com. Go online to get the facts about Dysport, see before and after
E
V A 0 S $5 SEE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION INCLUDING BOXED WARNING TO THE LEFT.
photos, and if you don’t have one, find a doctor. Ask your healthcare professional if Dysport is right for you.
Make your holiday appointment today!
The Dysport trademark is used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. DSP 10-043P 01/30/11
07150166
MEDICATION GUIDE Dysport ® (DIS-port) (abobotulinumtoxinA) Injection
Read the Medication Guide that comes with Dysport before you start using it and each time Dysport is given to you. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. You should share this information with your family members and caregivers. What is the most important information I should know about Dysport ? Dysport may cause serious side effects that can be life threatening. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of these problems after treatment with Dysport : • Problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing. These problems can happen hours to weeks after an injection of Dysport usually because the muscles that you use to breathe and swallow can become weak after the injection. Death can happen as a complication if you have severe problems with swallowing or breathing after treatment with Dysport. • People with certain breathing problems may need to use muscles in their neck to help them breathe. These patients may be at greater risk for serious breathing problems with Dysport. • Swallowing problems may last for several weeks. People who can not swallow well may need a feeding tube to receive food and water. If swallowing problems are severe, food or liquids may go into your lungs. People who already have swallowing or breathing problems before receiving Dysport have the highest risk of getting these problems. • Spread of toxin effects. In some cases, the effect of botulinum toxin may affect areas of the body away
from the injection site and cause symptoms of a serious condition called botulism. The symptoms of botulism include: • loss of strength and muscle weakness all over the body • double vision • blurred vision and drooping eyelids • hoarseness or change or loss of voice (dysphonia) • trouble saying words clearly (dysarthria) • loss of bladder control • trouble breathing • trouble swallowing These symptoms can happen hours to weeks after you receive an injection of Dysport. These problems could make it unsafe for you to drive a car or do other dangerous activities. See “What should I avoid while receiving Dysport ?”. What is Dysport ? Dysport is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used: • to treat the abnormal head position and neck pain that happens with cervical dystonia (CD) in adults • to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults younger than 65 years of age for a short period of time (temporary) CD is caused by muscle spasms in the neck. These spasms cause abnormal position of the head and often neck pain. After Dysport is injected into muscles, those muscles are weakened for up to 12 to 16 weeks or longer. This may help lessen your symptoms. Frown lines (wrinkles) happen because the muscles that control facial expression are used often (muscle tightening over and over). After Dysport is injected into the muscles that control facial expression, the medicine stops the tightening of these muscles for up to 4 months. It is not known whether Dysport is safe or effective in children under 18 years of age.
It is not known whether Dysport is safe or effective for the treatment of other types of muscle spasms. It is not known whether Dysport is safe or effective for the treatment of other wrinkles. Who should not take Dysport ? Do not take Dysport if you: • are allergic to Dysport or any of the ingredients in Dysport. See the end of this Medication Guide for a list of ingredients in Dysport • are allergic to cow’s milk protein • had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product such as Myobloc®* or Botox®* • have a skin infection at the planned injection site What should I tell my doctor before taking Dysport ? Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have: • a disease that affects your muscles and nerves (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease], myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome). See “What is the most important information I should know about Dysport ?” • allergies to any botulinum toxin product • had any side effect from any botulinum toxin product in the past • a breathing problem, such as asthma or emphysema • swallowing problems • bleeding problems • diabetes • a slow heart beat or other problem with your heart rate or rhythm • plans to have surgery • had surgery on your face • weakness of your forehead muscles (such as trouble raising your eyebrows) • drooping eyelids • any other change in the way your face normally looks
Tell your doctor if you: • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Dysport can harm your unborn baby • are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed. It is not known if Dysport passes into breast milk Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins and herbal and other natural products. Using Dysport with certain other medicines may cause serious side effects. Do not start any new medicines while taking Dysport without talking to your doctor first. Especially tell your doctor if you: • have received any other botulinum toxin product in the last four months • have received injections of botulinum toxin, such as Myobloc® (Botulinum Toxin Type B)* or Botox® (Botulinum Toxin Type A)* in the past; be sure your doctor knows exactly which product you received • have recently received an antibiotic by injection • take muscle relaxants • take an allergy or cold medicine • take a sleep medicine Ask your doctor if you are not sure if your medicine is one that is listed above. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of your medicines with you to show your doctor and pharmacist each time you get a new medicine. How should I take Dysport ? • Dysport is an injection that your doctor will give you • Dysport is injected into the affected muscles • Your doctor may give you another dose of Dysport after 12 weeks or longer, if it is needed • If you are being treated for CD, your doctor may change your dose of Dysport, until you and your doctor find the best dose for you
• The dose of Dysport is not the same as the dose of any other botulinum toxin product
report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I avoid while taking Dysport ?
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide.
Dysport may cause loss of strength or general muscle weakness, blurred vision, or drooping eyelids within hours to weeks of taking Dysport. If this happens, do not drive a car, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities. See “What is the most important information I should know about Dysport ?” What are the possible side effects of Dysport ? Dysport can cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about Dysport ?” Other side effects of Dysport include: • dry mouth • injection site discomfort or pain • tiredness • headache • neck pain • muscle pain • eye problems: double vision, blurred vision, decreased eyesight, problems with focusing the eyes (accommodation), drooping eyelids, swelling of the eyelids • allergic reactions. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Dysport may include: itching, rash, red itchy welts, wheezing, asthma symptoms, or dizziness or feeling faint. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you get wheezing or asthma symptoms, or if you get dizzy or faint Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Dysport. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may
General information about Dysport :
This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about Dysport. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about Dysport that is written for healthcare professionals. For more information about Dysport call 877-397-7671 or go to www.Dysport.com or www.DysportUSA.com. What are the ingredients in Dysport ? Active ingredient: (botulinum toxin Type A) Inactive ingredients: human albumin, and lactose. Dysport may contain cow’s milk protein. Issued May 2009 This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Distributed by: Tercica, Inc. a subsidiary of the Ipsen Group Brisbane, CA 94005 and Medicis Aesthetics Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation Scottsdale, AZ 85256 * All trademarks are the property of their respective owners
Where to shop, what to do and how to give back By Julie Tremaine
Nestled close to White Electric Coffee on Westminster Street, Ada Books is a little gem of a used bookstore where you can spend hours browsing, despite its tiny size. Unlike other musty and cluttered local used bookstores, all of Ada’s books are in great condition and well-priced. The store also hosts regular signings and in-store concerts, and has a great selection of chap books (shorter works by emerging talent) and work by local artists and writers. 717 Westminster Street, 432-6222, ada-books.com
Rocket to Mars This super-cool vintage store specializes in retro-kitsch from the middle of the 20th century: think brightly colored phones, mod dresses and retro-futuristic furniture. It’s also a go-to spot for finds from the Roaring ‘20s all the way through the fabulously
32
shoulder-pad-tastic ‘80s. Think of it like Garage Sale 2.0, where everything is clean and good quality, and instead of digging through some stranger’s old stuff to find one thing you want to take home, you want to take home everything in the store. 144 Broadway, 2740905, find them on Facebook as “Rocket to Mars”
Laurel Mulherin
Ada Books
Hall’s Antiques Directly across the street from Rocket to Mars stands Hall’s Antiques, which is newer to the West Side but no less fabulous. Whereas Rocket to Mars is more of a vintage boutique (in my definition, that means bright colors and retro-fabulousness), Hall’s Antiques is the kind of serious collector’s place where you could decorate your whole house with its inventory, like kitchenware, chandeliers and furniture. Or, decorate yourself with estate jewelry and fabulously old-fashioned clothing. The possibilities are endless. 145 Broadway, 272-0000
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Analog Underground The newest store on the West Side will be music to your ears. Housed in the former location of Stairwell Gallery on Broadway, Analog Underground is a record store specializing in the kind of music that you really want to know about, but just don’t know how to discover it. We especially love their collection of really great jazz and little-known ‘60s and ‘70s pop. After a little listening party at Analog, you’ll be sure to find something you love. No record player? No problem. They also sell stereo equipment and CDs for the anti-mp3 faction of society. 504 Broadway, 2744123, find them on Facebook as “Analog Underground”
Giving voice to the kids of Olneyville, The Manton Avenue Project is dedicated to using theater to showcase the importance of self worth and community. It’s also a heck of a lot of fun for everyone involved. Your contributions ensure that this program remains free for every child. 3317007, mantonavenueproject.org
Let the gourmands on Federal Hill do the cooking for you. Venda Ravioli, Roma and Tony’s Colonial have a smorgasbord of prepared foods and antipasto accoutrements. Pre-order dessert
The sight of The Rhode Island Blood Center going about its work is a familiar one to most Rhode Islanders, helping to save lives every day through crucially important blood donations. While the most obvious way to help is by giving blood, the Center also accepts volunteers and sponsors who wish to organize a blood drive. 800-283-8385, ribc.org
from Scialo Brothers or Pastiche.
Art comes in a lot of forms, including t-shirts, jewelry and postcards. But if you’re looking for traditional visual art to display on a mantel or a wall, then you should spend an afternoon browsing the galleries of Atwells Avenue’s Art on the Hill: Gallery Z, which specializes in international art; Royal Gallery, which has a historic, worldly feel; Gallery 17 Peck, focusing on southwestern art; and Chabot Gallery, whose current works include selections from Peter Max and Ringo Starr. While you probably won’t just pick up something on a whim here, this is where you want to be if you’re ready to invest in art that you’ll have for a lifetime. Galleries all along Atwells, artonthe hill.org
4th
Pinata Store & La Tiendita It feels good to shop local and know you’re supporting independent business in Providence – but it feels even better to shop local when the store you’re patronizing helps to support underprivileged people thousands of miles away. The Pinata Store & La Tiendita on Broadway specializes in global goods that are handmade by women in Guatemala. The piñatas themselves are very cool (and much more authentic than what you find at iParty), but the store also sells gifts and accessories that all support a good cause. What better reason do you need to shop? 300 Broadway, 421-5180, pinatacenter. com
Ah, December: that month where your dosage of Christmas would not be complete without a classic Gospel Concert of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” at Rhode Island College’s Roberts Hall. 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue. 4568000, ric.edu/pfa
Then pick up wine from Gasbarro’s to enjoy during all that time you just saved.
Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, Crossroads Rhode Island is there for crisis intervention and working to move individuals out of homelessness. They are continually looking for donations of canned food, new personal care items and home goods to better the transition. 521-2255, crossroadsri.org
A. Cole
Art on the Hill
▲ Signed copy of If ’n Oof by Brian Chippendale, $29.95 at Ada Books
4th
Prepare yourself for a musical twist this season; Firehouse 13 wants you Home for the Skalidays to do some festive skanking to the sounds of local ska bands. 41 Central Street. 270-1801, firehouse13.org
Donating your time and/or money to CityArts! is an investment in the children of Providence. Hundreds of at-risk kids receive professional arts education every year through after school and summer programs that ignite the creative process and stress the value of community. 941-0795, providencecityarts.org -James Pierce
19th
Whether you sound like Nat King Cole or William Hung (made famous from American Idol), you won’t be judged; come spread some holiday cheer and join your fellow crooners in some West Side Caroling, which convenes at Loie Fuller’s at 5pm. 1455 Westminster Street. December 2010 | Providence Monthly
33
As owner Matthew Bird says, “everything deserves curation,” and his Wickenden Street store - which is part kitsch, part modern design home store, part toy shop and part museum – proves his theory. You’ve probably seen people toting the Curatorium’s signature oversize mug and tote with the power plant and “Providence, RI” proudly emblazoned on it. If not, go check it out – and check out the stacking totem of ceramic teacups, or the minimalist sculpture that doubles as a salt and pepper grinder – while you’re at it. 197 Wickenden Street, 453-4080, thecuratorium.com
Simple Pleasures This tiny boutique, located in a historic forge in Richmond Square, is a curiosity shop with an international sensibility. Among the treasures you’ll find there: blankets hand-sewn in India from saris, clever Peruvian ornaments (like the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing), Canadian leather purses, Japanese tableware with cool graphic designs, Parisian scarves
and accessories made by Tibetan refugees in Nepal. Add to that French salted caramels, beautiful letterpress stationery and inhouse gift wrapping that uses fine European papers, and you’ve got your holiday shopping wrapped up. 6 Richmond Square, 331-4120, simplepleasuresprovidence.com
Gallery Belleau In a city as artsy as Providence, the fact that there’s so much one-ofa-kind, handmade art available is easy to take for granted. But Gallery Belleau is the kind of place where you just have to stop, look around and say, wow. The fine art glass gallery on Wickenden showcases both pricey and (surprisingly) affordable works, notably by glass artist/owner Chris Belleau. This is the place to find the gift for that person who’s impossible to impress – trust me, glass sculpture that looks much more expensive than it is will do the trick this year. 424 Wickenden Street, 456-0011, gallerybelleau.com
Frog & Toad The irreverent, whimsical attitude of Frog and Toad makes it the
3rd
Gather your friends and become immersed in The Sounds and Rhythms of the Winter Solstice with musician and bandleader, Paul Winter at the First Baptist Church in America, with dinner and dancing to follow. 75 North Main Street. 454-3418, firstbaptistchurchinamerica.org
34
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Laurel Mulherin
Curatorium
Mignonette Think of it like the boudoir of a very wealthy and very tasteful woman. The recently remodeled Mignonette is all about luxury: Diptyque candles, Bond No. 9 perfume, Erickson Beamon jewelry. Add to that a selection of lingerie from the likes of Christian Lacroix, Badgley Mischka, John Galliano and a new selection of La Perla (that’s right, the preferred lacy underthings of both Fifth Avenue and Hollywood), and Mignonette is probably the closest you’ll ever come to having a beautiful, European-inspired dressing room of your own, so enjoy it. 301 Wickenden Street, 272-4422, mignonette.net
3, 20, 17th
The holidays are just around the corner and Festive Friday soon takes hold of the Wickenden Street area. Starting after Thanksgiving, those trendy little retail shops will now be extending their hours until 8pm on select Fridays. Shopping closer to home just got that much easier.
Contributions and volunteers are crucial at the Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island. Through their volunteer training, you unique skills will go towards providing support for those at the end of their lives and their families. 415-4200, www.hhcri.org
This year, skip gift wrapping altogether. Stores like Frog and Toad, Books on the Square and Simple Pleasures offer free, fabulously creative gift wrapping on your purchases. Step out for a second, treat yourself to a coffee, and come back ▲ Rifle Paper Co. Handmade Recipe Box, $120 and Rifle Paper Co. Recipe Cards, $12 from Simple Pleasures
9-11th
Like the city itself, The Providence Athenaeum doesn’t take itself too seriously. Your membership fee keeps this eclectic library open to the public while giving you great privileges, including the opportunity to participate in quirky events like their legendary Pub Quiz. 421-6970, providenceathenaeum.org
Kyureo Love a vintage aesthetic, but hate the process of finding pieces in dusty antiques barns and having them refurbished? Who has the time (or the money) for that? Check out Wayland Square’s Kyureo, where you’ll find gorgeous, antiqueinspired furniture and home décor. Owner Jay Wayne Luiz is also an interior designer, so you know that the treasures at his store are all perfectly chosen. It’s the kind of place you go when you want a statement piece to decorate a room around – or when you’re looking for the perfect finishing touch. 13 South Angell Street, 4376677, kyureo.com
Whip out your wallet, take your friends and scurry over to North Main street between the First Baptist Church and Roger Williams National Park for their Festivity Weekend. Don’t be shocked by all the discounts, wine or hors d’oeuvres.
A. Cole
kind of place you want to visit every time you’re on Hope Street, because there’s always something new to discover at this fun gift shop. Owner Asher Scofield (who spearheaded the installation of the new public art on the street – you should check it out, though you probably can’t miss it; it’s huge) and his wife Erin have curated the store with everything from picture frames made with old telephone buttons to vintage-inspired posters for different Rhode Island towns. I’m partial to the “You can go to hell, I’m going to Pawtucket,” but hey, that’s just hometown pride. 795 Hope Street, 831-3434, find them on Facebook as “Frog and Toad”
to a pile of tree-ready gifts.
▲ Owl Tea Set from Frog and Toad, $48
The Mount Hope Learning Center provides a safe environment for both children and adults to learn new skills enabling them to achieve their full potential. The Learning Center is volunteer-driven so your financial pledges help them expand their facilities and purchase materials to furtheir class offerings. 4558875, mthopelearningcenter.org –James Pierce
4th
Who says you can’t get that small town feel in the big city? During The Hope Street Winter Stroll you can browse shops and street vendors offering great deals, and even enjoy fresh cookies and cider.
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
35
125 Sockanosset Cross Rd, Cranston RI next to Whole Foods Market in Garden City 401.270.5500 winesandmoreri.com
Happy Holidays Visit us to discover how Wines & More is making your holiday shopping easier! Let Wines & More take the guess work out of what to buy this holiday season. Whether you are shopping for gifts or your holiday celebrations, we have everything you need!
Gift Sets Gift Baskets
Wine, Spirits or Beer
Custom Gift Baskets available by special order
Sale Dates Nov 28th - Dec 11th Dec 12th - Dec 24th Closed Christmas Day!
Dec 26th - Dec 31st
What happens when an interior designer decides to open a home décor store in Downcity? You get the kind of shop that looks nicer than your house. Owner Lisa Newman’s design aesthetic – great lines, lots of black and white, items that have real character – is unique enough to make you wonder what her own house is like. Choose from art, jewelry, lamps, serving platters and unique gifts – like the build your own book kits, where you can rewrite a version of Alice in Wonderland or The Wizard of Oz, starring yourself. 229 Westminster Street, 277-1159, homestyleri.com
Heir This isn’t your average antiques store. Heir Antiques is a carefully chosen selection of curiosities – including vintage taxidermy, reprints of 19th century nautical images, turn-of-the-century artwork and furniture – and it’s not the kind of place where you’ll find stacks of old magazines and jars of buttons. For December, owner Tyler Doran is planning a men’s pop-up shop in the store, focusing on holiday
gifts for the man with a vintage sensibility. But there’s something for the ladies, too: Calico, New Bedford’s super chic clothing boutique, shares part of the store in a sort of permanent loan situation. So if you’re in need of some pythonprint Wayfarer sunglasses and some vintage artwork (as I was as soon as I walked in the door), this is where you’re going to want to go. 231 Westminster Street, 331-5680, heirantiques.com
Craftland Here’s the deal. You like the idea of buying art, but a weekend art event isn’t for you, and you don’t have the time to gallery hop in the hopes of finding something affordable and well-chosen. Luckily, there’s Craftland, which looks and feels just like shopping in a regular boutique, only everything is artsy, handmade and really affordable. Check out their selection of posters and prints, notebooks, clothing, accessories and jewelry – especially the t-shirt that says “Rhode Island, 3% bigger at low tide,” which no true local should be without. 235 Westminster Street, 272-4285, craftlandshop. com
All Month 4th Celebrate the gift of life with family and friends when Trinity presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play as actors create characters and sound effects live. 201 Washington Street. 351-4242, trinityrep.com 38
Laurel Mulherin
Homestyle
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Zop Soap Chances are that you either think too much about your body products, or your don’t think about them at all. In both cases, you need to get to Zop Soap right away. This brand-new store on Union Street specializes in handmade soaps, shampoos, body washes and bubble baths. The problem won’t be whether you find anything you want to take home, but rather, narrowing down your choices. How can you leave without apple/orange, green grass, almond and the enticingly restful sounding pillow soap? What about sage or sandalwood shampoo? Cinnamon, bergamot or banana raspberry conditioner? The possibilities are endless, and fresh soaps get rolled out every week. 186 Union Street, zopsoap.com
Find your inner aesthete as you explore the work of highly trained artists and do some holiday shopping at the RISD Alumni Holiday Art Sale. 1 Sabin Street. 454-6379, www.risd.edu/ alumni_sale.cfm
16th
Discover rock orchestration that will blow you away when The Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour comes to the Dunk for two shows at 4 and 8pm. 1 LaSalle Square. 331-6700, dunkindonutscenter.com
The doctors and staff at the Providence Animal Rescue League care for over 2000 animals a year. Donations help provide medical treatment, adoption services and overall compassion to the loveable dogs and cats that make it to their door. 4211399, parl.org
Think parking downtown is too difficult? Think again. At Grant’s Block (that open space next to Tazza where they show Movies ▲ Bit & Little Bit screenprinted necktie, $22 at Craftland
on the Block in warm weather), you can park for free for two hours if you make any purchase
Downcity got that much more fashionable in October, when Queen of Hearts owner Karen Beebe opened Modern Love next door. The new store complements the established one, selling shoes, boots, hats, bags, tights and all the finishing touches you need for an outfit, while Queen of Hearts offers great clothing and handmade jewelry, representing 50 artists and designers, many of them local. QOH also has its own makeup line. With both stores staying open until at least 8pm on weekends, there’s plenty of time to take everything in – and you’re going to want that extra time to do so. Modern Love: 220 Westminster Street, 421-1475, modernloveshoes. com; QOH: 222 Westminster Street, 421-1471, queenofheartsprovidence.com
17th
DCI Décor Craft Inc. is a local manufacturer of supercool gifts, home goods and accessories. Though the name probably isn’t familiar, you’ve likely seen some of their products – like that ceramic “I am not a paper cup” that looks just like a to-go coffee, only it’s reuseable; their funky iPhone covers; or their “tipsy glasses,” which are wine glasses with rounded bottoms to encourage swirling and movement of the wine. DCI used to have a showroom on Westminster, but it was famously never, ever open. The new DCI store at 275 Westminster promises to offer their collection of fun, whimsical gifts during actual business hours. Stop in for the best stocking stuffers you’ll ever find. 275 Westminster Street, 621-2324, dcigift.com
What could be a better way to rejoice this season than partaking in the Holiday Mixer at the Providence Mariott downtown, where you can enjoy dinner, a DJ for dancing and more. One Orms Street. 553-0400.
restaurants.
A. Cole
Modern Love/ Queen of Hearts
The Rhode Island Foundation is a sort of clearing house for charitable giving, grants and scholarships, working to inspire philanthropy and help its partners in the community – foundations and initiatives like Equity Action and Crossroads – to enact their missions. Through the Foundation, donors can give to any number of funds for different causes. 274-4564, rifoundation.org
from Downcity merchants or
▲ Jill Lauren hand knit twist cowl, $42 at Queen of Hearts
Since 1976, Amos House has been providing direct support to the homeless and poor. Their motto, “helping people help themselves,” is evident in their job training programs. They can’t do it alone. You can donate or volunteer your time in their soup kitchen. 272-0220, amoshouse.com –James Pierce
31st
Before you start making that list of possible New Year’s resolutions, share in one last hurrah with the annual Bright Night celebration, the largest and brightest New Year’s Eve party in Rhode Island. brightnight.org December 2010 | Providence Monthly
39
The scenery and water views at this quaint Cranston hamlet are enough of a draw to make you want to spend the whole day there. That you can easily stroll between shops like Twice Told Tales bookstore, Rivers Edge Flowers and Gifts and Waters Edge Furniture Gallery and Café (notice a theme here?) is just a bonus. Just outside the village proper, Jack’s Snacks and the Cupcakerie share a storefront where you can buy treats and gifts for your pet, and gift yourself with the treat of the Cupcakerie’s Chili Chocolate or Lavender Vanilla confections. Of course, you could try Jack’s Peanut Butter Squirrels, but we don’t recommend it. For village info: pawtuxet.com; Jack’s Snacks & Cupcakerie: 1860 Broad Street, Cranston, 467-2601, jackssnacks.com, thecupcakerie.net
Chapel View & Garden City Only in Cranston could you get two awesome outdoor malls in one place. You probably know the deal with Garden City already: Mel & Me and F. Bianco sell high-end designer clothing, locally-made
chocolates are at Sweenor’s, and the many chain stores still have a quasi-independent feel to them because of how pleasant and well-landscaped the plaza is. But have you been across the street to explore Chapel View? This new development is populated with more independent stores, like Kristina Richards, which sells fabulous clothing, jewelry and bags for the fashion-forward woman, Massage Envy (because holiday shopping is hard work and you deserve a break) and Gents Salon, which is a neo-barber shop where you can get a real shave with a real razor, a facial, a haircut and grooming products for the polished man. chapel-view.com, gardencitycenter.com
Johnston You might not immediately think of Johnston as a shopping destination, but there are some gems tucked in here and there. La Bottega is the go-to place if you have a fancy holiday party to attend this month – their formalwear selection is unmatched. Bella Art sells all the craft supplies you need to have a DIY holiday. The Hope Chest is a beautifully curated consignment store focusing on home furnish-
3-10th
View the unique pieces of talented artists and craftspeople at the Foundry Artists Holiday Sale. Do your part this season by bringing a nonperishable food item for the RI Food Bank. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. foundryshow.com 42
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Rhode Island Antiques Mall
Pawtucket It’s easy to dismiss Pawtucket as that stretch of land that supports 95 North, but if you get off the highway you’ll find a surprising amount of awesomeness there. At Hope Artiste Village, where the Wintertime Farmers’ Market happens every Wednesday and Saturday, you’ll also find Rhody Craft 100, which is a store selling only products hand-made in Rhode Island. On Main Street, Artee Fabrics and Home sells gorgeous textiles for your home, and fabrics if you’re feeling crafty. At the Rhode Island Antiques Mall, get lost for a whole day amongst the antiquarian finds that rage from very affordable to very high-end. Hope Artiste: 999 Main Street, hopeartistevillage.com; Artee: 230 Main Street, 723-2400, arteefabricsandhome.com; RI Antiques, 345 Fountain Street, 475-3400, riantiquesmall.com
4th
Don’t go looking for a haircut at the Ocean State Barbershop Harmony Chorus. Put on a hat instead because they’re coming to entertain for their Holiday Harmony Concert. 1788 Broad Street, Cranston. oceanstatechorus.org
10th
Enjoy an old fashioned Christmas this year at the Elijah Angell House’s Christmas Open House, when the restored 1824 farmhouse will be open with music and refreshments. 101 Putnam Pike, Johnston. 231-3380, johnstonhistorical.org
Laurel Mulherin
Pawtuxet Village
Reaching beyond their offices in Pawtucket, The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation offers information and education to all Rhode Island families affected by this disease. 861-HERO, gloriagemma.org
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Set
The Pawtucket Soup Kitchen moved to the lower room of Saint Joseph’s Church on Walcott Street in Pawtucket in 2007 and they haven’t stopped cooking yet. The best way to help is through financial donations or signing up for a shift. 256-3446
A. Cole
aside an afternoon to window
▲ Necklace, $330 at Kristina Richards in Cranston
shop, have lunch, treat yourself to a little something, and find great gifts for your family. Then you’ve spent a pleasant day ex-
North Providence While largely residential, North Providence has its share of interesting places to shop. Gloss & Glamour is a beauty
boutique and salon on Mineral Spring Avenue that’s worth the visit. Owner Kristen Marrah is an accomplished makeup artist and skincare expert, and you won’t find her selection of cosmetics, hair products and goodies anywhere else. Simply Seasonal is an all-season indoor farmstand that also sells plants, flowers and prepared foods. Nikki’s Liquors has a great selection of rare wines and beers for the connoisseur in your life. Gloss & Glamour: 1006 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence, 644-8808, glossandglamourmakeup.com. Simply Seasonal: 1839 Smith Street, North Providence, 2314766. Nikki’s Liquors, 33 Smithfield Road, 8619006, nikkisliquors.com
11th
ploring, not a miserable one at the mall.
The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and Music School, located in East Providence, serves about 14,500 people each year through lessons, classes, community partnerships and concerts. Donating to this cultural dynamo will keep the music playing. 248-7070, ri-philharmonic.org
Laurel Mulherin
ings. Herbs and Angels, a brand new store, focuses on enlightenment: crystals, candles, aromatherapy. New Agey-ness aside, Herbs and Angels sells lots of little things to help you de-stress. La Bottega: 1310 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, 9433227, labottegari.com; Bella Art: 1665 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, 3830199, bellaartonline.com; The Hope Chest, 2953 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, 949-2333, thehopechest. com; Herbs and Angels, 1989 Plainfield Pike, Johnston, 383-2344
▲ Rhody Craft 100 in the Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket
Be prepared to capture all of what the New Year has to bring with handmade photo albums, baby books, journals and more at Pawtucket’s Rag & Bone Bindery Holiday Open Studio Sale. 728-0762, ragandbonebindery.com
9-15th
Everyo n e needs to laugh once in a while, so see the Ocean State Follies as they present How the Linc Stole Christmas with skits, parodies and song. 1357 Hartford Avenue, Johnston. 861-3850, oceanstatefollies.com
The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre has been committed to producing innovative theater since its founding as Alias Stage in 1984. Your support, no matter the size, will help them continue to bring exceptional stage plays to Pawtucket. 723-4266, gammtheatre.org For more ways to get involved in and around Providence, visit the Volunteer Center at Serve Rhode Island at vcri.org or call 331-2298. -James Pierce
4-12th
Wa n t to see Christmas really come alive? Visit Slater Memorial Park for Winter Wonderland to see 400 Christmas trees, 20 Victorian buildings, a talking snowman, Santa, hay rides, and more. pawtucketri.com December 2010 | Providence Monthly
43
25 Days of Gracious Holiday Giving
30-70% OFF
select merchandise through the Holidays
A Style for Every Man 273-3331 187 Wayland Ave., Providence butterfieldprovidence.com
178 Wayland Ave. Providence • 401-621-6452 Gift CertifiCates available
Happy Holidays to You 461 ANGELL STREET - WAYLAND SQUARE - 401.521.7773
www.jacquelinephilipsalon.com
voted one of the top 100 salons in america
181 Wayland Ave. • 401.861.1414 • www.ReliableGold.com
Arrive in style with the NEW wine purse! Wine Purses Personalized Wine Coasters Holiday Ornaments Many more gifts u n d e r $5 0
Treat Yourself or the Women on your List
Mrs. Robinson Fine Lingerie
A HolidAy Gift trAdition Remember Her With Beautiful Lingerie fine clothing and accessories
467 Angell St., Providence • 273-4250 Mon-SAt 9:30-5:30, Sun 12-4PM
190 Wayland Ave Providence Tel: 401.831.7740
Home FurnisHings gallery interior Design service • WinDoW treatments 13 south angell st. Providence • www.kyureo.com • 401-437-6677
Holiday Open House Southwestern-style December 4th Noon to 7 p.m.
Thursday Nights in December
Join us for wine and cheese every Thursday until Christmas 5-8pm
20% discount on all Yves Delorme products Native American Jewelry, Pottery, Fetishes 401-751-7587 • 180 Wayland Ave • Providence Open 7 Days From Thanksgiving Through Christmas
183 Wayland Ave. Providence, RI 401-455-BEDS(2337) www.wendybrownlinens.com
Give the Gift of he alth this hol iday se ason Gift CertifiCates available
• pilates stiCk
I n do -R
Chair s te
Wi llP
A .T. . .E
e ow
r & Gr a c e
CORE S.W
neW ProGrams • NutritioNal WellNess ( With Body CompositioN aNalysis offered )
ow
MVE P il a
offerinG • No memBership fee • Group fitNess Classes $12
Owner, Denise Chakoian-Olney
Winter Cross traininG Personal Training • CORE Body-Barre • Spinning • Vinyasa Yoga Strength Training • Navy SEAL • Pilates • CORE Central Run Group • MVE • WillPower & Grace • Indo-Row 469 Angell St. Wayland Square • 273.CORE • corefitprov.com
City Style shop talk / beauty / the look
That Warm, Fuzzy Feeling The first snow of
the season has already graced us with its presence (sort of). The question is: are you prepared? That cold, winter chill is quickly setting in and you may find yourself wearing layers upon layers of clothing while squirming for that little extra warmth to help you sleep well through the night. The Rhode Island Sheep Cooperative has the solution to your winter shivers. They are teaming up with local Rhode Island sheep farmers, as well as the Rhode Island Resource Conservation and Development Area Council
and the RIDEMÂ Division of Agriculture to produce Rhody Warm Blankets for your comfort this season. Made from the wool right off of Lambchopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back, these ultra soft, comfy blankets make great gifts for the holidays and will keep your toes from curling. The Rhody Warm Blankets and throws are available in various sizes, including Full, Queen, King, and Lap or Long Throws. For more information on sizes or how to order, call 5782012 or visit their website, www.risheep.org. -Jennifer Liedke
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
47
City Style | Shop Talk
by Andrea McHugh
Not Just for Girls Anymore
Mister Sister maintains a fine tradition of local erotica Armed with
$10,000 of borrowed money, a vision and a boat load of hope, Devioune Mayim-Daviau scurried down to Providence from her Provincetown digs to make her Renaissance City erotica shop a reality. Word had reached her that Miko Exoticwear in Fox Point had gone under, and Mayim-Daviau acted fast. “I came running down here and within two hours, I had the lease signed,” she laughs. “It was time. I haven’t lived here as an adult since the ‘70s, so what a shock to come back and find it’s a cool little city.” It was 2008, and before she had even reopened the doors of Mister Sister on Wickenden Street, MayimDaviau was making new friends – and customers. “There’s a bunch of people on this street from Provincetown, and on Wayland Square too. I wasn’t even open and people were coming over and introducing themselves,” she says with a smile. “It felt like, ‘Oh my God, what a great street.’ It’s a really mixed neighborhood as far as heterosexual and gay, so it’s really nice.” Mayim-Daviau says when she opened Mister Sister, she was aiming to create an erotica shop that appealed to the masses, to every gender and sexual orientation. Even the shop’s name is meant to convey that message. “The name was important. It’s gay enough for gay boys to get it, and lesbians to be ‘That’s all about me,’ and for straight people to figure it’s all about men and women,” she says. “18 to 83,” she says, is her market. Mayim-Daviau makes her point by telling the story of an 83-year-old woman who had come to Mister Sister on her birthday to buy her first vibrator. “She came
48
Providence Monthly | December 2010
in with a bunch of her friends – not one of them under 70 – and they ripped the store up. It was so much fun,” she laughs. “People view sexuality differently they did even ten years ago.” When she owned erotica shops in Provincetown, she discovered a harness-maker that produced a topof-the-line product, and Mayim-Daviau began working with her to create new designs that she could sell in her shops and others, including the now-defunct Miko. “She’s just brilliant,” Mayim-Daviau beams. “Her harnesses make women look feminine, and they are all made of very soft, high quality Napa leather. They are all hand-cut, so there are no blemishes. These are all hand made, and they take time, but the quality shows in the work.” The line has also captured the attention of some major distributors, something that has Mayim-Daviau excited. Spotless, well-decorated and nicely lit, Mister Sister carries an eclectic mix of clothing, adult toys, DVDs, sexual heath aids and erotic and how-to books. Many of the products are imported from Sweden, Germany and the U.K., as providing product not readily available in the U.S., Mayim-Daviau feels, gives the shop a good mix. She also adopts an eco-friendly ethos (she cites the rechargeable vibrators) and carries paraben-free, glycerin-free and phthalate-free product lines. “Each section has grown slowly,” she says. “I just keep adding more and more stuff, and one of these days I’ll have a complete store.” 268 Wickenden Street. 421-6969
Chic & Cheap Check out this month’s best-looking deals LaLaLuxe Salon is now carrying Oribe products. The high-end hair products, that are also available at Bergdorf Goodman and Barney’s, are now available right here in Providence. Check them out for a taste of celebrity style. 139 Elmgrove Avenue. lalaluxesalon.com
Replenish and recondition your hair just before the winter takes hold! Rosebud Salon is now offering a Keratin special for all new guests. Whether you fancy the newly popular Brazilian Blowout, Keratin Express treatment or the Brazilian Keratin Treatment you are guaranteed to walk away one happy customer – one who got $50 off those services. Who can beat that? 90 Spruce Street. 272-4676
The Paul Mitchell School is introducing its new Awapuhi Wild Ginger KeraTriplex Treatment. If you are searching for a solution for your dry and damaged hair, this keratin treatment will do the trick. It’s only $15 from a student technician. Your hair and your wallet will thank you. 379 Atwood Avenue, Cranston. 946-9920
Photography: Laurel Mulherin
Your Friendly Neighborhood Sex Shop
Providence Pin-Up, the vintage dress-up-andbe-photographed service, started a few years ago as a way to make women feel vampy and fabulous for a day. Now, in a new studio on Westminster Street, owner Lulu Locks is offering Jack and Jill photography. It’s a great twist on an engagement photo, but it’s also just a really fun and sexy thing for a couple to do together. Who needs a weekend away when you can break from your routine right at home? providencepinup.com
GIFT WITH PURCHASE NOV. 26 TH â&#x20AC;&#x201C;DEC. 31 ST RECEIVE A PANDORA SLEIGH ORNAMENT WITH YOUR PANDORA PURCHASE OF $100.* *GOOD WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.
PROVIDENCE PLACE 401.272.0101
U.S. P © All rights reserved ANDORA.NET
Give the best of Rhode island. All Chow Fun restaurants are open for gift card sales at 9am. 7 days a week.
chowfunfoodgroup.com
Get the family together for the holidays.
harrysbarburger.com
A Fresh spin on Lunch now o p e n F o r L u n c h * , FeAt u r i n g
$1 Oysters, $1 Littlenecks & Cherrystones, $1 Shrimp Cocktail, $9.95 Lobster Roll, & a brand new lunch menu! providence oyster bAr
Providence oyster Bar 283 Atwells Avenue, Providence · *Tuesday - Saturday 401-272-8866 · ProvidenceOysterBar.com
H a p p y H o l i days
from Atw e
G R s a e Purch $500 in Gift Ce Receive a F r e e $100 rtificates & Gift Certificate Book holiday parties now lls
e s tA u R A n t
Roup
• Private r ooms available
A cut Above the rest
Now Featuring An A La Carte Exclusive… All Your Sides Are Inclusive! Open for Lunch & Dinner
Providence Prime 279 Atwells Avenue, Providence · 401-454-8881
F 20% OicF tures
Framed P & Mirrors es m a r F e d Pre-Ma included es NOT
m Custom fra
e c n e d i v o e r
P
d rY d e n
m a r f re
Pictu
GALLERY
Rte. 95, Exit 24, Branch Ave. (Next to Bennyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Daily 8:30-6:30 â&#x20AC;˘ Sundays 12-5
www.providencepictureframe.com BUY ART in the Creative Capital and receive one of four new advocacy buttons!
Jing Xu
Andrew Moon Bain
Jason Brockert
David Allyn
Collect. Invest. Experience. Give. David N. Cicilline, Mayor PcgO`b^`]dWRS\QS Q][
Look for this city-wide art advocacy campaign at all participating galleries, boutiques, artist-run sales,individual artist sites and performing arts organizations... BuyArtProvidence.com
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
49
Time AfTer Time...
The Saltzman family has been servicing all of Rhode Island’s watch needs for 70 years and three generations.
The Store That Service Built
City Style | Beauty
by Julie Tremaine
The Lap of Luxury
Live the luxe life for just a couple of hours
National service center for Luminox, Mondaine, Versace, and more!
Visit Saltzman’s Watches and More, Inc. on Facebook for upcoming events and specials.
1024 Reservoir Ave. Cranston • 946-0930 53 Old Tower Hill Rd. Wakefield • 789-0065 400 Bald Hill Road, Warwick Mall Warwick, RI • 681-4370
December too busy?
Unless you live Book Your PartY Before DecemBer 15, 2010 anD get a gift certificate for 10% of the final cost of the scheDuleD event! *to Be useD on a future visit, Does not incluDe tax & gratuitY 52 Pine St, Providence • 401.861.1782 • www.McFaddenSProvidence.coM
ALL OF PROVIDENCE’S BEST IS JUST A CLICK AWAY Events calendar
Theatre listings
Nightlife & bars
Restaurant listings
Contests & reviews
& menus
The ultimate guide to the city
The Mill at Shady Lea
Free. Open to the Public. Refreshments.
Sponsored Food & Winter Clothing Drive
Our biggest 2-day event yet! 13th Annual Open Studios December 4 & 5, 12-5pm (Storm date is December 10 & 11)
Shady Lea Mill • 215 Shady Lea Road For more info see www.themillatshadylea.com 50
Providence Monthly | December 2010
an extremely privileged and fancy life (in which case, we aren’t friends), you’ve grown accustomed to living with a certain amount of stress. And when I say “a certain amount,” I mean “too much.” On any given day, you’re dealing with the pressures of your job, family, personal life, finances – and on any given day, you deal with those perfectly well. It’s only when you’re running on empty that those pressures start feeling like a burden and you’re no longer taking things in stride. That’s when you need a time out for adults. That’s when you need a Delicious treatment at Alayne White Day Spa. I had been feeling pretty overwhelmed when I headed into my appointment on a recent Monday evening. (The spa is open seven days – jackpot!) The atmosphere is serene, but filled with Alayne’s bits of spa goddess wisdom – and I have to say, I normally think having quotes peppered everywhere is a little hokey, but here it really helped me to start relaxing, even before the treatment. It seems like Alayne’s philosophy is that believing that you deserve to feel relaxed and good about yourself is part of the process. Jenna brought me into the treatment room and explained the process. The Delicious treatment comprises two parts: a Spassage and a Best Facial. We started with the Spassage, which is basically the most luxurious massage you’ll ever have. I laid face-down on the heated massage table, and Jenna applied warmed jojoba oil on my back, shoulders, neck and arms. I’m not a fan of a rough deep-tissue massage, but this was perfect. Her use of gentle pressure really made me feel relaxed and loose, not like an evil Swedish woman was burying her fists into my
spine. It really was great, and the hour – during which Jenna also used hot stones, massaged my hands, legs and scalp, and used a papaya scrub on my back and feet – went by way too quickly. Luckily, there was another hour to enjoy – this one, a Best Facial. I like the clever naming trick (think: “I had the best facial at Alayne White” sounds exactly the same as “I had the Best Facial at Alayne White”), but I’d be saying that anyway, because this was probably the best facial I’ve ever had. Facials are a bit like children, in that they’re all special in their own way, but the way my skin looked and felt after this one was the best it ever has. Jenna used all Dermalogica products on my face, but she applied so many potions to me (and I was in such a blissful spa haze) that I can’t even remember all of them now. I know there was a Precleanse oil that removed my makeup, an Essential Cleanser to purify the skin, a Multivitamin Power Peel to exfoliate, a Multivitamin Mask with Botanical Mixer to brighten and hydrate, and a Clinical Colloidal Oatmeal Mask (which had to set for quite a while, so she passed the time with scalp and foot massage… I could get used to that). Jenna even managed to extract those nasty under-the-skin zits I get that never surface and never go away. After two-and-a-half hours, it was time to go, but I could have stayed a lot longer. Walking out, I felt like I was on a cloud, and I really couldn’t have been any happier with the service. It isn’t cheap, but it’s a lot less expensive than therapy, and probably just as conducive to a healthy state of mind. Next time I’m feeling like everything is too much, I’ll be back. To escape to the lap of luxury, visit alaynewhite.com.
Illustration: Karli Hendrikson
Book your holiday party in January!
Happy Holidays from luminous!
Holiday Gift Cards are now available! purchase a Gift Card for them & get a retail gift for you $50 Gift Card & receive a $5 retail gift voucher* $100 Gift Card & receive a $15 retail gift voucher* $150 Gift Card & receive a $25 retail gift voucher* $200 Gift Card & receive a $35 retail gift voucher*
LUMINOUS S A L O N
&
S P A
401-228-7008 â&#x20AC;˘ 133 Pitman Street, Providence www.LuminousSalonandSpa.com * Vouchers valid from 1/18/11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3/31/11. Vouchers can be used only for retail purchases & cannot be exchanged for cash. Limited one voucher per visit. Cannot be combined with any other retail offers.
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
51
GIFTof STYLE The holidays are a celebration of light, life, and love. Indulge yourself and loved ones in the best of the season, with sparkling accessories, luxurious styles and elegant gifts that give a glamorous glow to every occasion.
holiday ‘10
MUST-HAVES MY WISH LIST:
Sweater coat Cashmere turtleneck Sequin top Studded bag Suede boots Leather jacket Cozy pj’s Cashmere robe Velvet leggings Mesh chain jewelry Sparkle jeans Complimentary gift wrapping Gift certificates
A specialty boutique
Holiday hours: Mon-Fri 10-5 Saturday 10-6 Sunday 12-5
The Village CenTer 290 County road, Barrington 247-1087
Contemporary women’s apparel, lingerie, shoes and accessories
52
Providence Monthly | December 2010
City Style | The Look Frankie DaSilva Floor installer/Sneakerhead
by Caitlin Quinn
It’s how you want to represent yourself; that’s style.
I hear you have an impressive shoe collection. I have at least 80 pairs of Air Jordans, but now I’m doing the LeBron James series. I’m up to 14 pairs. It’s not really worth buying Jordans anymore. They keep re-releasing pairs I have. It takes the fun out of it, and devalues my collection. When did you start collecting? I wear sneakers. I don’t collect them. I’m a sneakerhead. “Collectors” just buy Jordans and don’t wear them. They let them sit in the closet forever. Then you have the true sneakerheads who buy two pairs of the same shoe: one pair to collect and one to wear. Ok, so when did you start your…hobby? Yeah, it’s a hobby. That is what it is. I got my first pair in junior high as a birthday gift from my sister. They were Air Jordan IVs: black, white and cement – gray with black speckles. I still have at least two pairs from junior high. My feet outgrew them, but I still have them. Then over time, every new kind that came out I had to have. Name your favorite pair. It’s hard to say. I guess the ones I wear the most are my IVs and XIs. I was just in a wedding as the best man and I wore patent leather XIs with a tuxedo. I don’t wear the same sneakers more than twice a week. So what’s your style beyond sneakers? A lot of my style comes from what I feel comfortable in: jeans and t-shirts, and a hoodie on some days. Weekend attire is a button-down shirt and nice jeans, with a fresh pair of Js. I have lots of clothes with the Jumpman (the Air Jordan logo) on them. Both my ankles are tattooed with the Jumpman logo. I also look at what celebrities are wearing and how they rock it. Drake wears lots of Jordans right now, but with military pants. I like Kanye West’s style – again, lots of Jordans. Tell me about this outfit. This is pretty much me, but more what I would wear in summer. My winter style is jeans, v-neck sweaters, fitted thermals and bubble vests. No white sneakers in the wintertime. If you get anything into the net of the sneaker you will never get that clean. You want to know the secret? Magic erasers. When it snows I wear all black leather sneakers. I see accessories. Have to have a watch. My wrist is never empty. I have a diamond-embezzled watch, a JOJO, and an everyday watch, which is another JOJO but with less diamonds. Then there’s the diamond bracelet, which is more for the weekend. A hat is the cherry on the cake.
Photography: Krzystyna Harber Photography
the
Prov Monthly_Dec:9 X 5.875
11/18/10
9:22 AM
Page 1
tis’ the season to get chubby. fa la la la la...
Come in for special holiday rates and get a head start on your resolution.
boston sports clubs there’s a million reasons to join.® 10 Dorrance St, Providence 131 Pitman St, Riverview Place West, Providence
• •
401.278.4950 401.351.2449
MySportsClubs.com
Official Health Club of The Red Sox
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
53
Best catch in Providence The Bluefin Grille is a hideaway of casual elegance located in the Providence Marriott Downtown. The cuisine is globally inspired, utilizing fresh local ingredients with an emphasis on responsibly caught seafood. Come see our new look and explore our updated menu. "It was the Bluefin Signature Pan Chowder on a second visit that turned heads... the subtle flavors were magical together."
– Michael Janusonis, Providence Journal
Bluefingrille Providence Marriott downtown • one orMs street marriottprovidence.com • Bluefin_grille@marriottprovidence.com Reservations: 401-272-5852 • Free parking Braised Bacon-Wrapped Monkfish
2010 Holiday Art Sale Dec 4 & 5 and 11 & 12 Saturday and Sunday -11am-4pm
401-419-2821
At the Providence Art Club 9 Thomas St. Providence
Anthony Tomaselli Bold • Passionate • Paintings
54
Providence Monthly | December 2010
AnthonyTomaselli.com
7
Best Bets for Breakfast & Brunch
Aspire
Cav 14 Imperial Place, Providence. 401-7519164, cavrestaurant.com. Cav’s sophisticated lofted atmosphere offers a contemporary bistro lunch and gourmet dinner menu with international influences. SAT/SUN brunch menu includes delicious dishes with exquisit flair such as pistachio encrusted Maryland Blue Crab cake with a poached egg. W $-$$
1149 Located in Warwick, 401-884-1149, and in Seekonk, 508-336-1149, elevenfortyninerestaurant.com. Offering an omelet station of every imaginable ingredient, seasonal fruit, pasta and salad stations, fresh squeezed juice and more, Sunday brunch couldn’t get any better. The huge buffet will be sure to keep you full for hours. S $$-$$$
LJ’S BBQ 272 East Avenue, Pawtucket. 401-305-5255, LJsBBQ.com. Southern spins on traditional favorites include award-winning benedicts, sweet potato pancakes, crab cakes, and buttermilk bacon crumble corncakes. Brunch redefined, LJ’s style. W $-$$
Louis Family Restaurant
Tazza 250 Westminster Street, Providence. 401-421-3300, tazzacaffe.com. The best coffee makes tazza’s brunch even better! Stellar coffees & espresso, eclectic cocktails & an array of delectable brunch specialties. Mon-Fri 8am-11:30am Sat & Sun 8am-2:30pm. Full brunch served 7 days per week! D $-$$
311 Westminster Street, Providence. 401-521-3333, aspirerestaurant.com. Sleeping in; warm breezes; summer sunshine; fresh fruits and juices; hot coffee; time with friends; crossword puzzles; newspaper stories; lazy mornings, hangover munchies, alfresco dining; live music. D $-$$
286 Brook Street, Providence. 401-861-5225, louisrestaurant.org. Featured on Diners, Driveins and Dives, Louis’s homestyle cooking has impressed everyone from the locals to the Food Network. Oversized omelettes, huevos rancheros and legendary pancakes. Open everyday at 5am! D $
COMING SOON
D = daily, W = weekend, S = Sunday $ = under 10, $$ = 10-20, $$$ = 20+
Thorton’s Grille
145 Spruce Street, Providence. 401-270-5444. Thorton’s knows how to do breakfast right. They make everything from waffles to eggs Benedict to scrambled and poached. The Texas round omelet is a favorite of many. D $
For menus, maps and more info visit:
TheProvidenceLife.com December 2010 | Providence Monthly
55
WHAT ARE THE
BUILDING BLOCKS OF A GOOD LIFE?
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Earned Income Tax Credit (VITA/EITC) Initiative The VITA/EITC initiative ensures that working Rhode Islanders, earning less than $49,000 annually, can access free tax services in order to receive the money they are due in refunds and tax credits. This initiative includes raising public awareness and financial literacy workshops, covering topics such as general banking, housing issues, debt issues, predatory lending, savings accounts, higher education loans, and life insurance.
A woman signs off on her tax return after being assisted by a volunteer tax preparer at a VITA site. Made possible by the generous support of:
Please LIVE UNITED by investing in United Way of Rhode Island’s Community Impact Fund. Every dollar counts. YOU can make a difference in the lives of all Rhode Islanders. For more information, visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.
LIVE UNITED
™
56
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Feast
IN THE KITCHEN / on the menu / behind the bar / review / in the drink
Photography: Kate Kelley
60
REVIEW Providence Prime
Bone-in Filet Mingnon with Roasted Garlic
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
57
Creating memorable experiences, all in one package...
Celebrate the Holidays at Wildfire Book Your Holiday Party The perfect spot for an intimate gathering – we can accommodate parties of 10 to 40
Open Christmas Eve
Prix Fix Menu with two seatings – 5:00 and 7:30 Now accepting reservations
Gift Card Special Get a $25 gift card for you when you purchase $125 in gift cards
HERE, IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU. THE PERFECT GIFT.
Here, it’s all about you. Eleven Forty Nine
Eleven Forty Nine East
1149 Division St. Warwick, RI
965 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA
401-884-1149
508-336-1149
To make a reservation or for more information, call 401.884.1149 www.elevenfortyninerestaurant.com
58
Providence Monthly | December 2010
1874 Mineral Spring Ave, North Providence 353-7110 • www.wildfirenp.com New Hours: Open Everyday! Sunday 12-9pm, Monday 4-10pm Tuesday-Friday 11:30-10pm Saturday 4-10pm
Feast | On The Menu
by John Taraborelli
Eat, Drink and Be Merry Four chances to drink in some holiday cheer
Jocelyn Dube of Three Sisters
In a holiday season full of unpleasant social obligations – office Christmas parties, visits to those relatives, kicking and screaming mall trips – it’s important to do something you actually want to do. Julian’s (318 Broadway) gives you two chances to avoid going to Chelo’s with your grandparents. (You can’t pick up a phone though?) First up is the Third Annual Stouts and Porters Beer Dinner on Sunday, December 12 from 6-9pm. It’s an eight course meal (two of which are option courses) paired with carefully chosen craft brews. Call 861-1170 for reservations and more info. Then on Tuesday, December 21 from 7-10pm, Julian’s hosts the Second Annual Longest Night of the Year Party. As of press time, details were still being finalized, but there will obviously be food (last year it was a pig roast; this year might be wild boar or bison); music from Brown Bird, Detroit Rebellion, and Chris and Diego; and 20 taps pouring vintage, rare and seasonal brews. Call for more info, or check the restaurant’s Facebook page for updates. For those who can’t quite call it the holidays without a frothy glass of eggnog, head to Slater Memorial Park in Pawtucket on Tuesday, December 28 from 6-9pm for Nogfest 2010. This is the fifth year of self-proclaimed “nogalicious debauchery” to raise money for the Tomorrow Fund. This year, in addition to the traditional eggnog-drinking contest, there will be a special ladiesonly competition for the title Queen of
the Nog, as well as live music and a closing awards ceremony. Tickets are only $6. Check the Nogfest Facebook page or contact Chris Masse at cmasse2113@ yahoo.com for more details. Finally, add a very special anniversary to Christmas, Hannukkah, Christmukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus, Winter Solstice, Saturnalia and Emily Dickinson’s birthday on the long list of reasons to celebrate this month: Narragansett Beer turns a spry 120 years old on Wednesday, December 29 (but doesn’t look a day over 110). Join them at the Met in the Hope Artiste Village (1005 Main Street, Pawtucket) from 7-11:30pm for a night of live music courtesy of Steve Smith and the Naked, Sharks Come Cruisin’ and more, plus a ‘Gansett Girl photo booth, calendars, t-shirts, pint glasses and, oh, probably an ice cold can of ‘Gansett or two. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased in advance at themetri.com. Cheers. ROCK THE VOTE >> Three Sisters (1074 Hope Street) has carried on a fine tradition of creative, locally made ice cream on the East Side. (In Rhode Island parlance, it’s known as the place where Maximillian’s used to be.) Their original, homemade ice cream has made them very popular – and rightfully so with unique flavors like Dirty Garden Mint and the Middle Eastern inflected Khulfi (cinnamon, pistachio, cardamom). However, as Joceyln Dube, one of the partners behind Three Sisters, notes, “Since we have been making ice cream for over four years, our
creativity is starting to… repeat itself.” For that reason, Jocelyn is seeking your suggestions for new flavors. Yes, you. Starting after Thanksgiving, patrons of Three Sisters will be able to come up with their own ice cream flavors, and Jocelyn will make them. Simply submit your recipe, along with preferred name and ingredients, and the staff will vote on which ones to actually make and sell. Don’t be scared to come up with something crazy either. “One of the things that makes us unique,” Jocelyn says, “is the ability to make potentially every flavor you can think of.” Once your flavor goes into production, customers will be able to vote on their favorite. The future Ben and/or Jerry behind the winning flavor will get a free pint of their creation, a free t-shirt and, of course, the pride that comes with having a namesake ice cream. The first round of flavors will be voted on the first week of December, and Joceyln says they’re likely to keep doing it “as long as it works out and no one fights dirty” – adding, “Vote for something that matters: ice cream flavors.” NEWS AND NOTES >> Congratulations go out to one-man institution Walter Potenza who last month was awarded the title “Maestro di Cucina” (master chef) by the Association of Professional Italian Chefs. The event was held in Florence, Italy in November, and honors chefs who have “made a notable contribution in promoting the authentic mes-
sage of Italian Culinary and Hospitality philosophy” and have at least 30 years of experience in the industry. Due to popular demand, the Wintertime Farmer’s Market at the Hope Artiste Village has expanded to Wednesday nights from 4-7pm. In addition to the usual bounty of local foods and products, there will be dinner options from Hewtin’s Dog Mobile, Bravo, Friendship Café and Tina’s Caribbean. Meanwhile, lunchtime diners and downtown denizens will have a great new option on Tuesdays: the aforementioned Hewtin’s (the Chez Pascal food truck) and the cupcake-peddling Sugarush Truck will both be parked at Grant’s Block (corner of Weybosset Street and Union Avenue) from 11am-2pm. Now you can get bacon-wrapped pork meatloaf and salted caramel cupcakes in one quick stop. You might want to walk back to the office after that though – quite frankly you could use the exercise. Sadly, another Providence restaurant has been done in by the bad economy: The Everyman (311 Iron Horse Way). This “Rhode Island bistro” was owner Leah Reynolds’ worthy successor to her still dearly missed downtown watering hole, the Custom House Tavern. Their menu featured Little Rhody staples like saugies and beans, and they provided a venue for a lot of local musicians and artists. Sad to see them go. Got food news? Send it to onthemenu@providenceonline.com.
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
59
Feast | Review
by Linda Beaulieu
Prime Cuts Still one of the best steaks in town steakhouses in the city, Providence Prime is the most intimate. I left my car at the curb with the valet, and just a few steps later I was inside this Federal Hill restaurant. A long bar takes up the entire left side, centered with an eye-level fireplace that is a warm welcome this time of year. Formally set tables extend from the front to the rear of the dining area. With one glance, you can take in the entire restaurant. The rich brown and deep red color scheme is sophisticated and bigcity cool. You could easily be in mighty Manhattan, not petite Providence. Providence Prime is part of the Atwells Restaurant Group, which also includes the Providence Oyster Bar right next door, Wildfire in North Providence, and Spring House Hotel on Block Island. All the dishes you’d expect to see on a steakhouse menu are available, as well as some interesting surprises, starting with Prime’s Signature Applewood Bacon appetizer ($12.95). The menu failed to adequately describe
this first course, but our polished and well-trained waitress described it so well, I couldn’t resist trying it. Four thick slices of bacon were broiled, then topped with sliced tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese and balsamic dressing. It is not for the faint of heart – the meat was a bit difficult to cut into bitesize pieces, and it was chewy – but the salty bacon, juicy tomatoes, tangy blue cheese, and sweet balsamic combined to make a wild taste profile. A more conventional appetizer was the Lobster Bisque ($7.95), much appreciated on a cold autumn night. The creamy soup offered up the strong scent of sherry wine and plenty of small chunks of lobster meat. This was all just foreplay leading up to real reason we go to a steakhouse: for really great steaks. I selected the most expensive steak on the menu, the Cadillac of cuts, the 20-ounce Porterhouse ($43). This was a prime, aged, bone-in cut of meat, with a filet mignon on one side of the bone and sirloin on the other. When-
Prime’s Signature Applewood Bacon
60
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Ribeye Steak Sandwich ever I enjoy this particular cut, I always dig into the filet first. The filet mignon is more tender, but the sirloin is more flavorful and worth all the extra chewing. Such was the case at Prime, where our dinners were served with a flourish. Brian was happy to see one of his favorite steaks, Filet Mignon au Poivre ($25.99), on the menu. Six ounces of incredibly tender beef were served with a whiskey-peppercorn sauce and a sautéed mix of wild mushrooms. All the steaks and chops include a choice of one side dish, and at Prime, these dishes are large enough for two to share. With that in mind, I ordered a starch – the Sweet Potato Hash – and Brian asked for a vegetable – the Creamed Spinach, a classic steakhouse accompaniment. I am a great lover of hash and always eager to try new variations. I was not disappointed with this sweet and slightly savory combination. The creamy spinach was probably more decadent than healthy, but decidedly delicious. Other side dishes include potatoes that are fried, whipped, baked or twice baked, fried onion strings, peas and bacon with pearl onions, and roasted mushrooms. For an additional $2, there are more side dishes, including macaroni and cheese, sautéed broccoli rabe, and grilled or steamed asparagus. Options abound at Prime with a further choice in the preparation of your steak. Whether you have the New York strip steak or the Kansas City cut, it can be served with hollandaise or béarnaise sauce, or encrusted with blue cheese or horseradish. Other possibilities are the 18-ounce Cowboy cut, a well-marbled rib eye steak known for
its added flavor; Steak Tips Diane in a brandy-wine sauce; and variations on a theme: Surf and Turf, Steak and Tail (lobster, that is), and Steak and Crab. For those interested in strictly seafood, there’s plenty for your consideration, including Block Island swordfish, Atlantic salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, yellowfin tuna, seared sea scallops, lobster by the pound, and a lobster sauté with pappardelle pasta. Rack of lamb, veal porterhouse and chicken Milanese are also offered. As we dined in quiet elegance, the lights in the dining area were dimmed and the bar filled up with what appeared to be regulars in search of after-work martinis and relaxation. You can eat at the bar at Prime, and the bar menu of burgers and sandwiches is tempting, not to mention very affordable ($10 to $14). Dinner ended on a very sweet note with a couple of desserts ($8 each). A slice of creamy cheesecake was topped with a single strawberry, and a small wedge of summery key lime pie helped chase away the cold. Linda Beaulieu is the author of The Providence and Rhode Island Cookbook, available at stores throughout the state.
Providence Prime
279 Atwells Avenue 454-8881 providenceoysterbar.com
Photography: Kate Kelley
Of all the
New Year’s Eve
Masquerade Ball at Providence Byblos
ABOVE ALL ROOFING “Always On Top with Price, Time & Quality”
Come ready for fun and we’ll provide the masks!
• • • • •
ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DECKS GUTTERS
HOME IMPROVEMENT SPECIALISTS
Celebrate the New Year with us Mediterranean style $60 Per CouPLe inCLuDeS A FuLL Dinner, A Premium HookAH AnD CHAmPAgne ToAST ($35 For inDiviDuAL TiCkeTS) CALL To reServe your SPoT AS SeATing iS LimiTeD
★ All Work is 100% Guaranteed ★ ★ Free Inspections & Estimates ★ ★
Quality Work at Affordable Prices ★ We Do Call You Back
Fully Licensed & Insured
888-ROOF-113 ( 8 8 8 - 7 6 6 - 3 1 1 3 ) 401-769-5151 www.aboveallroofinginc.com
Serving RI & Mass
Member Member Rhode Island Rhode Island
Providence’s Original Hookah Bar Chic Bar • Premium Hookahs Traditional Lebanese Lounge • Appetizers
235 Meeting Street Providence 453-9727 • ProvidenceByblos.com Sunday-Thursday 3pm-1am • Friday-Saturday 3pm-2am Check Facebook for Daily Specials
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
61
Delighting palettes with award winning cuisine for over 20 years
Feast | In the Drink
by Emily Dietsch
The Anti-Cocktail 751-0350 7 Steeple St., Providence
Invest in you . . .
Life Coaching Your key to a better life
Dream! Dare! Do! Steven M. Kane, Ph.D. Providence, RI 401-454-5700 kanesmk@verizon.net Inquiries invited
The Focus Is On Results Facials • Waxing • Makeup
By Appointment Only 194 Waterman St., 3rd Floor Providence • 401-835-4327 www.saracraftskincare.com
62
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Bar fads operate in curious ways, popping up and disappearing as swiftly and inexplicably as the newest Twitter meme. Case in point, whiskey with a beer chaser is suddenly, seemingly everywhere. This au courant pairing is not to be confused with its inverse, beer with a whiskey chaser, nor the horribly-named Irish Car Bomb, which dunks a shot of whiskey in a pint for quick chugging. To be sure, both those alternatives have dedicated fan bases, yet what’s gained currency among the bar set is quite specific: whiskey on the rocks, sipped slowly, and paired with an icy beer for one’s thirst-quenching needs. Rather atypically for a fad, whiskey-and-beer seems to enjoy a wideranging, boundary-flattening demographic. Witness the combination ordered pervasively in sports bars, where the whiskey is Jack Daniels and the beer an Anheuser-Busch product. Witness it equally in urban dive bars, whether the establishment’s dive-iness is authentic or painted on. In legitimately grimy dives, the order likely involves rail whiskey and cheap pilsner. A customer at a bar in dive drag, by contrast, might order something more fashionable yet still rugged: American rye whiskey, maybe, to signal a preference for offbeat, “local” ingredients over mass-produced and imported ones. And Pabst Blue Ribbon, the onetime blue-collar special turned definitive hipster beer, is likely the whiskey’s iconically ironic chaser. In Rhode Island, drinkers also have Narragansett as PBR’s local alternative. Extra points awarded for drinking from the can in either case. How often is it that patrons in, say, McFadden’s milieu might call out the same order as those right next door in the Red Fez’s decidedly different crowd? Yet I imagine that these bars, typically separated by tastes that
would have them on separate planets rather than the same city block, now serve pints alongside whiskey glasses in equal measure. That America’s right and left sects share common drinking ground, or at least drinking fare, may surprise in these hyper-partisan times. Yet the union of whiskey and beer has long formed a symbolic bridge between these factions. (Think of the fauxbipartisan, cross-cultural billing of Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert on Com-
edy Central, which the network analogizes as whiskey followed by a beer chaser.) Furthermore, in our recession era, conspicuous consumption is either unaffordable or distasteful. It’s good to be, and drink like, the common man. This conceit is by no means new to the drinking scene. Whiskey with a beer chaser has long been a choice order among working-class men in working-class bars. Poured under various monikers such as “beer back” and “boilermaker,” the anti-cocktail is and always has been sturdy and utilitarian – but with a bit of a spit shine. In bringing the two together, their whole is truly greater than the sum of its parts:
Ordering only cheap, draft beer is de rigueur for the blue-collar man, while ordering only whiskey signals either a desire for solitude, or elitism, or both. Beer and whiskey together, however, fosters drunkenness and sociability, crudity plus a modicum of good taste, all on a dime. Yet the degree to which whiskeyand-beer has spread beyond bluecollar watering holes is something altogether new. From a drink enthusiast’s perspective, this contemporary resurgence of the workman’s classic speaks as much to mixology’s growing tedium as it does to hard socioeconomic times. In brief, decades of vulgarity followed Prohibition’s repeal and reached a fever pitch in the 1980s and 1990s, to which a cocktail renaissance responded by rejecting all manner of shoddily crafted and mixed spirits. Enemies were made of the glittery and gaudy, the corporate-owned and careless, as the antitheses of elegance and integrity in a glass. Alas, in some ways this renaissance has itself grown precious, and abandoned its back-to-basics ethos. Considered within such a turnabout, whiskey-and-beer raps the knuckles of bartenders and drinkers gone astray. All sensible developments, certainly – even if I don’t foresee this particular bandwagon sweeping me away. Easily distracted, I prefer not to divide my drinking attention; one glass at a time, please. (I take exception to that rule at weddings and funerals, in which I’d like the glasses stacked deep and kept coming.) This is not to deny a certain, winsome quality to whiskey-and-beer’s unabashed homeliness, as if it’s liquid testimony against concern for what others think. To that spirit, I’ll toast – albeit with a glassful of something more “me.”
Illustration: Emma Tripp
NEW RIVERS
A working man’s classic goes trendy
Wishing you the very best This Holiday Season Southern New Englands ONLY Michael Bublé Act!
Last Minute Party? Call 401.516.0571 and Book Tony Cerbo for all your Holiday Entertainment needs!
Public Holiday Schedule: Friday december 3rd
Graziano’s 501 Cafe’
501 Park Ave, Portsmouth RI, 6PM Friday december 10th
Uncle Ronnies Red Tavern (Reservations a MUST!) 8:30 PM
Home For Christmas Dinner Show
thursday december 16th 7Pm
Post Office cafe’ Tickets $49 per person
Artini’s on Federal Hill WINE TASTING & SHOW
Tix $25 per person • $40 per couple Saturday December 18th 7PM
www.tonycerbo.com
Demand Authentic BBQ! All of our meats are cooked low and sloooow in our hickory smoker Succulent St. Louis cut Pork Ribs, Beef Ribs, Chicken, Pulled Pork and Beef Brisket
AND ONE FOR YOU!
Vegetarian options too!
GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
5 08.336.6676 1 4 7 9 Fa l l River Avenue, On R oute 6 in Seek onk, M A w w w. T r a n q u i l W at e r s S pa S a l o n . c o m
Open Tues thru Sun 11am – 11pm s Closed Mondays 146 Ives St. Providence 751-9000 s www.unitedbbq.com
UNITED BBQ DELIVERS!
751-9000
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
63
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
C74 18664BC 2>;;42C8>= >5
C74 2>>;4BC >A=0<4=CB Flames of Hope : A Celebration of Life Weekend â&#x201E;˘
E>C43 14BC 685C B7>? A8 <>=C7;H A4034AB ?>;;
IPQF TUSFFU â&#x20AC;˘ QSPWJEFODF â&#x20AC;˘
PQFO FWFSZ EBZ
signature style Your special occasion deserves nothing but the best. Inspired cuisine. Exquisite service. Not a single detail left to chance. Memorable events call for caterers of distinction. For generations of revelers, Russell Morin Fine Catering has been the caterer of choice, and our signature style has set the standard of excellence throughout southern New England.
WWW.MORINS.COM | 888 552 7822 Find us on Facebook
64
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Feast | Behind the Bar
by Cristy Raposo
Mood Lighting Dusk sets on Harris Ave; Alex Kollar serves the drinks Tell me about Dusk. Dusk is a unique lounge in Providence – no matter what time you get there, you will hear great music: DJs spinning live; we play DVD concerts on the projection screen hanging on the back wall; we’ve had 8-10 piece live bands play here, most recently an incredible band named Funkdapuss. Music is the central theme to the environment of Dusk. Different genres are always coming out of the speakers.
We Buy, Sell & Trade New + Used Commercial Restaurant Equipment Custom Metal Fabrication Exhaust Hood Design & Installation From ranges to smallwares, we have it all!
What is your signature drink? My favorite drink to make and serve is a margarita. I love to drink them, so I put plenty of TLC into making them. It’s all about the ingredients you use and in what quantities. My margaritas are smooth and refreshing. It’s the best tasting margarita you will find in the city! Besides the constant variety of music, what sets Dusk apart from other Providence bars? It starts with the owners wanting to provide the best customer experience possible. We offer a warm, friendly environment that’s unparalleled in Providence. The location is neat. Unlike Atwells Avenue, where the street is lined with bars, there are no other bars around Dusk. Dusk is a destination spot with plenty of parking available. The décor and atmosphere are unique – chandeliers hanging over a one-piece bar made of concrete. Dusk has a warm inviting staff that is great. We serve delicious flatbread pizza until 10pm. We’re currently developing a more extensive appetizer menu.
Photography: Mike Braca
How did you get into bartending? It’s a great job that accommodated my schedule during the day while I was in college. The first place I bartended was a tavern where we had live music all the time. What do you do when you’re not behind the bar? I’ve been a Physical Education and Health Education teacher in the Providence School system for the past eight years. I’m a golf instructor at Harmon Golf and Fitness Club in Rockland, Massachusetts as well. I’m a very
221 Admiral Street Providence, RI • 421-7030 (open to the public)
Authentic Indian Cuisine Right on Federal Hill! proud PGA Professional and love to teach the game I love.
and helping to provide a great experience for them.
Mon-Wed Open for Dinner 4:30pm Thurs-Sun 11:30am - 10:30pm Sat & Sun Lunch Buffet
What’s the best drink to bring out on the golf course? A cold beer.
What do you dislike most about bartending? When it’s a busy night, I’m filling a drink order and people are yelling in my ear what they want. There’s an order that bartenders serve drinks in – first come first served. I understand why they do it though; it’s busy and they want to be noticed.
145 Dean St. (Off Atwells Ave) Providence 273-6363
In all your years of bartending, which experience sticks out the most? At my first bartending job, this guy came in pretty much every weekend, our busiest time. He always ordered Pabst Blue Ribbon in a can. The beer was $2 and he gave me $7. As a naïve college bartender, I was taken back when he gave me a $5 tip for a $2 beer. I quickly realized why he tipped me so generously, because I never forgot him and no matter how busy I was, I always grabbed his beer when he walked in. The more you take care of your bartenders, the more you get taken care of. What do you enjoy most about bartending? I enjoy interacting with the customers
What other passions do you have? I’m addicted to music. I love going to see live music everywhere and anywhere. My all time favorite band is Cheap Trick from Rockford, Illinois – where I’m originally from.
Dusk 301 Harris Avenue 714-0444
bombayclubri.com Convenient free parking in back
DeLuise Bakery Traditional Italian Baking for more than 70 years Pastries • Mini Pastries Zuppa Inglese Cakes • Decorated Cakes Homestyle Pies • Pizza • Calzones Spinach Pies • Italian Cookies
Delivery Service Available
1251 Chalkstone Ave. Providence
401-351-5826
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
65
Feast | In the Kitchen
by Stephanie Obodda
Speciality Food productS
Gluten Free • Organic • Diabetic Lactose Free • Kosher • Vegan by CInDereLLA
SweeTS
Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 10:30 aM to 4:00 PM COme enjOy
Ring Tings, 7-Layer Chocolate Cake, Raspberry & Apricot Rolls, Sponge Cake & Eclairs All products available for purchase at this sampling event.
80 Main Road, Tiverton • (401) 816-5844 www.healthyhavenRI.com
• Fine Custom Upholstery and Slip Covers • Custom Window Treatments • Blinds and Shades • Area Rugs and Wall To Wall Carpeting • Paint Selection and Wallpaper • Decorative Consultation 231-1660
2179 Mineral Spring Ave, No. Providence
www.bobfrances.com
1860 Broad Street • Cranston www.thecupcakerie.net • 467-2601 Kristin@thecupcakerie.net Mention Ad for 1 Free Day of dAycAre!
The Dog house - Doggie Day Care - Overnight Boarding - Dog Walking Service - Behavior Training
401-455-DOGS 1255 North Main Street, Providence JeD Sheckley, Certified trainer
66
Providence Monthly | December 2010
The Young Gun
Chef Lawrence Brown heads for the hills Los Andes is a Bolivian/Peruvian restaurant run by two Bolivian brothers who both know their way around the kitchen. How did you become the chef? I met Omar Curi, one of the owners, at an event where both of our restaurants were featured. I was at the DeWolf Tavern in Bristol at the time. He told me about Los Andes, I tried it out, and I fell in love with the place. Omar introduced me to his brother Cesin and we got to talking about food and the industry. I loved Cesin’s passion. We knew that if we teamed up, we could take over Rhode Island with something new and exciting. We are a natural fit and are attempting things that I never thought I would be doing so early in my career. This is my first posting as executive chef and I’m thankful to have an owner who trusts my vision and will back me in whatever I do. I’m only 22 years old, so I tend to want to take chances with menu items – and Cesin and Omar are all for it. How do you enjoy working with the Curi brothers? I really appreciate that they are owners with kitchen experience. There is a good understanding between us. They know how things should work in the kitchen. While they do care about the financial aspects of the restaurant, they try their hardest to not let it interfere with the creative aspects of the kitchen. Since they grew up in the region on which the menu is focused, I also use them as a reference tool. I can ask them about ingredients and methods of cooking, and they are my official taste testers. What are some ingredients and preparation methods that are unique to Peruvian and Bolivian food? First, I want to express that we are an Andean restaurant with Andean cuisine, not just Peruvian or Bolivian food. You will see a lot of “crazy cool” ingredients like purple potatoes, purple corn, chuño (dehydrated potatoes), all types and kinds of peppers, choclo (large corn) – that’s just to name a few. There are many preparation methods, but we mostly focus on marinating, brining and dehydration.
What dish do you recommend that people try on their first visit, that’s very typical of the cuisine? Our menu encompasses many traditional items found in Andean cuisine, but if I had to choose one I’d say our anticucho de corazon appetizer. It’s a popular street food, like getting a hot dog when you’re walking around New York. In this region, you’d be getting these skewered meats instead. We make ours with beef heart that is brined with Aji Panca (a Peruvian pepper), red wine vinegar and seasonings. Then it’s put on a grill and brushed with the brine, causing the fire to hug and love the meat. We present it with a sauce made from black mint, roasted potatoes and cream. Trust me and give it a try – you will fall in love with it. What dish do you recommend for more adventurous eaters? Well, first off, I want to thank the adventurous eaters out there. I respect people who will try things first before lending judgment. Our menu has a nice selection of dishes that will satisfy anyone willing to try. Some examples are the stewed beef tongue, honeycomb tripe, and a nice selection of fish.
Who are your biggest food influences? Four people: my mother, my high school culinary arts teacher, my previous boss, Chef Sai, and Chef Tre Wilcox from season three of Top Chef. My mother because she is my foundation. She cooked every day no matter what, and I would always be in there with her. My culinary arts teacher helped me develop and brought out my creative instincts. Chef Sai from DeWolf really showed me how to succeed, not only with kitchen skills, but also in the restaurant business and life. Chef Tre Wilcox is my idol. I watched him on Top Chef, and he is from Dallas, like me. I like his style – he’s cool. When you’re not at Los Andes, what are some of your favorite places to eat in the Providence area? DeWolf Tavern, Blue Fin Grille, Siena – and Taco Bell. All of them have comfort food I enjoy.
Los Andes 903 Chalkstone Ave 649-4911 losandesri.com
Photography: Mike Braca
SAmPLInG eVenT
As seen in Hollywood and on the cat walk. The "Flower Magdalena" necklace. The latest collection from Virgins, Saints & Angels. Available at Just Elizabeth where the perfect gifts for ladies, gentlemen and the home await . . .
Just Elizabeth fine things
490-0321 â&#x20AC;˘ 141 Elmgrove Ave, Providence www.justelizabeth.com â&#x20AC;˘ Elizabeth Rainone & Richard Angelone
Join us for a
Holiday Open House Thursday, December 9th from 6pm - 8pm Featuring Special Guest
Joan Bradley Reedy Daughter of
& Trunk Show Exchange your gently used handbag and receive a 20% discount on your holiday purchase. Used handbags will be donated to Warde-robe at the McAuley Ministries.
So much more than a candy store! 5707 Post Road, East Greenwich, RI 02818 401-885-7579 sweettwist.com
Happy Holidays from our Doctors and Staff at Mansolilo Dental Logo and Web Design by Rouge-Gorge Graphics
Call us for a FREE Consultation
Dr. Arthur Mansolillo F Dr. Joseph Mansolillo F Dr. Jeffrey Mansolillo 1347 Hartford Avenue, Johnston F 861-1080 F 861-7643 mansolillodental.com
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
67
Flu ShOtS AvAilAble
Open Sundays 9am-4pm
Wellness Screenings on Weekends
401.949.4849 • 19 Sanderson Rd. Smithfield • FlauntBoutiqueRI.com
Do You Know the Catering Gourmet ? Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin Stuffed with Corn Bread and Sun-Dried Cherries
Also Offering • Spicy Tuna Rolls for Your Cocktail Party • Sandwich Platters for Any Occasion • Chicken Wings and Brats for Game Day • Chicken Parm & Pasta for Your Child’s Birthday
The Catering Gourmet Imagine the Possibilities!
401.751.0355 • Open Mon-Sun • Open Late 357 hope street, providence, ri 02906 • www.thepizzagourmet.net
68
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Now Booking Holiday Parties! Best in live music Fridays and Saturdays! Let us plan your PRIVATE PARTY (401) 751-1200 108 North Main Street, Providence
For party booking and entertainment schedule, visit www.olivesri.com
Feast | Dining Guide
paid advertising
Federal Hill, and one taste of their old world classics and contemporary Italian will remind you why. LD $$-$$$ BOMBAY CLUB 145 Dean St.; 2736363. Taste authentic North Indian cuisine in the cozy atmosphere of Bombay Club. The extensive menu includes Indian specialties such as lamb, seafood, vegetables and more. Weekends offer a lunch buffet. LD $-$$ BYBLOS 235 Meeting St.; 453-9727. Providence’s original hookah lounge offers more than just a relaxing smoke and chic atmosphere. You can also enjoy classic Lebanese dishes and light cuisine with your cocktail. LD $ CARLITTO’S CUCINA AT OLIVES 108 North Main Street; 751-1200. Thursday through Saturday nights, enjoy dinner and drinks at one of downtown’s best nightspots. With grilled pizzas and Italian classics, you can make it a great night out at Olives. D $-$$
For lease: Eastside commons, top floor corner unit 2-3 beds, 2 baths, w/d, elevator, jacuzzi, deeded indoor parking. $2,700 Mth. AvAilAble now! 508-336-4000 x22 • daubin@aubincorp.com
www.aubincorp.com
Professional Bartending Perfect Holidays Sophisticated bartending at your home, work function, on your boat or anywhere.
The C Bar, T
LLC
thecbaronline.com thecbaronline@gmail.com • 401.787.0630
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 after-dinner drinks and private parties. BrLD $-$$
Providence Andreas 268 Thayer St.; 331-7879. For a taste of Greece, head to Andreas. Their menu includes souvlaki, moussaka and a variety of kabobs, along with specialties like Lemon Oregano Lamb Chops and Spanakopita, an appetizer of spinach and feta in flaky phyllo dough. BrLD $-$$
Photography: Kate Kelley
ASIAN BISTRO 123 Dorrance St.; 3833551. Chinese, Japanese and Thai, hibachi and sushi – they’re all under one roof at Asian Bistro. For the freshest flavors in a convenient downtown location, this is the place. LD $-$$$ ASIAN PALACE 1184 North Main St.; 228-7805. All the flavors of Asia are here: from Chinese classics to new Thai favorites to fresh, impeccably
Key
prepared sushi. The gorgeous banquet room is available for private functions. LD $-$$$ 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 $-$$$ BLUEFIN GRILLE 1 Orms St. (Providence Marriott); 272-5852. The Bluefin Grille is a hideaway of casual elegance with a nautical atmosphere. The cuisine is globally inspired, utilizing fresh, local ingredients with an emphasis on responsibly caught seafood. LD $$$$$ BLUE GROTTO 210 Atwells Ave.; 2729030. “An old friend with a new attitude,” the Blue Grotto is an icon of
Br Brunch B breakfast L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
CASERTA’S PIZZERIA 121 Spruce St.; 621-9190. This Rhode Island tradition serves big pizzas with generous toppings and thick, rich tomato sauce. The Wimpy Skippy, a spinach pie with cheese and pepperoni, is not to be missed. LD $-$$ CAV 14 Imperial Pl.; 751-9164. The New York Times’ choice as one of Providence’s five best restaurants, CAV’s contemporary upscale cuisine is available al fresco for lunch and dinner daily. They also feature weekend brunch. BrLD $$-$$$ 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 $$ EBISU 38 Pontiac Ave.; 270-7500. Ebisu serves Japanese classics like Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and Shabu-Shabu (hot pot style meats and vegetables) in a fun, relaxing atmosphere. Their full bar features many Asian specialty drinks. LD $-$$ GOURMET HOUSE 787 Hope St.; 8314722. Beautiful murals and decor set
• Custom Résumé Writing • Career Coaching and Assessments • Interview Training • Dress for Interview Success
WALLY KEENAN
Certified Résumé Writer/Career Coach
1020 Park Ave, Suite 106 Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 461-8899 www.the-resume-connection.com
Taste of India Authentic Indian Cuisine
“Where The Taste Says It All” Everyday Lunch Buffet
FULL BAR 230 Wickenden St, Providence 421-4355 • 453-2288 www.tasteofindiaprovri.com
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
69
MADE IN ITALY
Find your LA Look Five Minutes East of Providence
Exclusively at Mignonette
â&#x20AC;˘
MRTjewelers.com 401.435.3500 927 Warren Ave. East Providence, RI
��� Wickenden St., Providence â&#x20AC;˘ ���-����
cheers!
The Residence of Choice for Seniors
Assisted Living on the East Side /NE "UTLER !VE s 0ROVIDENCE 2)
401-275-0682
Senior Living on Blackstone Boulevard "LACKSTONE "LVD s 0ROVIDENCE 2)
401-273-6565
w w w. e p o c h s l . c o m 70
Providence Monthly | December 2010
76 South Main Street â&#x20AC;˘ Providence, Rhode Island 401.331.0003 â&#x20AC;˘ www.parksideprovidence.com
Parkside Gift Cards â&#x20AC;˘ Seasonal Drinks â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday Parties â&#x20AC;˘ New Year's Eve Celebration
EPOCH of Providence would like wish you and your family a joyous and happy holiday.
E xit 8 From rt. 195 east
Feast | Dining Guide the mood for delicious Cambodian and Southeast Asian cuisine, spicy curries and noodle dishes. The tamarind duck is a must. LD $-$$ HARUKI EAST 172 Wayland Ave.; 2230332. For authentic Japanese dining, try Haruki’s large variety of sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, soba noodles and delicious specialty entrees. Enjoy the chic atmosphere and the freshest sushi around. LD $-$$$ HEMENWAY’S 121 South Main St.; 351-8570. A true Providence classic, Hemenway’s has been serving topnotch seafood for 20 years. Their oyster bar features everything from the famed Prince Edward Island variety to the local favorite, Poppasquash Point. LD $$-$$$ HUDSON STREET DELICATESSEN 68 Hudson St.; 228-8555. For a true neighborhood deli, head to the West Side. Try one of their delicious specialty sandwiches, using only quality Boar’s Head meats, including the biggest and best grinder in town. BLD $ Kartabar 284 Thayer St.; 331-8111 This European-style restaurant and lounge offers a full menu of unique dishes such as Champagne Sea Bass and Gorgonzola-stuffed Filet Mignon. They also offer a gourmet wine list and martini menu. LD $-$$ McFADDEN’S RESTAURANT AND SALOON 52 Pine St.; 861-1782. Looking for a great sports bar that also offers top-notch dining? Look no further. For game night, a quality lunch or dinner, or a great after-work cocktail, stop by McFadden’s. LD $-$$ 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. LD $$-$$$ MU MU CUISINE 220 Atwells Ave.; 369-7040. Get a true taste of China in the heart of Federal Hill. Mu Mu mixes the best of familiar stateside favorites with a selection of authentic Chinese specialties. LD $-$$ NEW RIVERS 7 Steeple St.; 751-0350. Long considered one of Providence’s finest restaurants, the James Beard Award-nominated New Rivers serves
Key
creative New American cuisine with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting. D $$-$$$ PARKSIDE 76 South Main St.; 3310003. Chef/owner Steven Davenport’s Parkside offers innovative foods ranging from spicy crab cakes to grilled tenderloin and Portobello salad. The menu also includes creative pasta dishes and Parkside’s signature rotisserie meat. LD $-$$ Pizza Gourmet 357 Hope St.; 7510355. Toppings like sirloin steak and shallots justify this pizza shop’s name. Also available are specialty pasta entrees and sandwiches. Their delicious white and wheat pizzas are also available in take-and-bake versions. LD $-$$ Pizzico Ristorante 762 Hope St.; 421-4114. Pizzico sets the standard for Italian cuisine on the East Side, with award-winning food, a wide variety of wine and a rustic yet eclectic atmosphere. LD $$-$$$ PROVIDENCE OYSTER BAR 283 Atwells Ave.; 272-8866. Oyster Bar welcomes you to be spoiled by impeccable service and an innovative, seasonal menu. From traditional New England to international specialties to their impeccable raw bar, you won’t be disappointed. LD $$-$$$
Pashminas • iPhone Gloves • Tokyo Milk beauty products
401. 383.9777 808 Hope Street, Providence
discount shoe boutique
Gift CertifiCates – Perfect for the holidays
Offering ■ Mat Classes Only $10 Per Drop-In Class! ■
Equipment Sessions
■
Power Pilates Teacher Trainings
Call or Email for Schedule w: providencepilatescenter.com | e: provpilates@aol.com t: 401-480-0193 | 545 Pawtucket Ave, Pawtucket – On the Prov/Pawt. Line
PROVIDENCE PRIME 279 Atwells Ave.; 454-8881. Providence Prime combines the world’s finest beef with first class service in an upscale Manhattan-like atmosphere. It’s one of Providence’s premier steakhouses, bringing you the best USDA Prime beef. D $$-$$$
Red Stripe 465 Angell St.; 437-6950. It’s classic comfort food with French influences. From their Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup to ten styles of Moules & Frites, Red Stripe’s menu is reasonably priced and made with passion. LD $-$$$ 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 $$-$$$ Siena 238 Atwells Ave.; 521-3311. Federal Hill’s Siena features authentic
Br Brunch B breakfast L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
ing If you’re not e’Sa,t CASERTA you’re not eating pizza!
1. OFF
$ 00
A DELICIOUS 12-PIECE PIZZA
The ORIGINAL
CASERTA PIZZERIA
A Rhode Island Tradition for over 50 years
There’s Only One Caserta 121 Spruce St., Providence (On the Hill) Parking Available
Take out 272-3618 or 621-3618 or 621-9190
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
71
600 George Washington Hwy, Lincoln 401-333-0366
www.ennri.com
ENN
JA PA NE SE CU
AR IB H S ISINE & SU
Great Holiday SpecialS! 20% off holiday parties and catering $100 gift card for $70 • $50 gift card for $40
Give the gift of Relaxation.. Spa Gift CertifiCateS from faCinG thayer
Facing Thayer Beauty Spa offers: Facials, Body Services, Waxing, Nail Services, Makeup Artistry & Eyelash Extentions, as well as a Beauty Boutique with over 30 lines of perfume, body & skin care products, cosmetics and beauty accessories.
Gift wrapping and free shipping is always available! MONDAY Kids under 8 eat free with adult purchase TUESDAY 2 for $39.99* Includes a bottle of wine or sake, 2 soups, 2 salads, 2 entrees and 1 dessert WEDNESDAY $5 Top shelf cocktails all night!!! THURSDAY 1/2 price wine and sake bottles. All wine and sake included in this special FRIDAY Acoustic keyboard 7-10pm, Bar Specials
the Garden Grille proudly presents
pure pleasure
juice farmacy
Visit us online at www.facingthayer.com or on thayer St. in providence's east Side Voted 2010 BEST Spa in Providence by RI Monthly Magazine
297 THAYER ST, PROVIDENCE • 331.4777
Fa La La La Love Your Hair
live food
opening december
oribe, available only at Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys New York, defines luxury hair in hair care. available at La La Luxe.
La La Luxe Salon 727 East Avenue, Pawtucket RI
72
w w w. L a L a L u x e S a l o n . c o m
wildf lour veganbaker ycafe.com
383-3797 • 139 ElmgrovE AvE, ProvidEncE
(two doors up from Garden Grille)
La La Love Your Hair.
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Feast | Dining Guide Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere. The extensive menu includes wood-grilled veal, steak 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 $-$$ Tazza Caffe 250 Westminster St.; 421-3300. One of downtown’s hottest spots for lunch, dinner, coffee or drinks, Tazza’s outstanding panini and burgers are the perfect accompaniment to their outdoor seating and live entertainment. LD $-$$ TEMPLE DOWNTOWN 120 Francis St.; 919-5050. This stylish restaurant in the historic Masonic Temple building features a variety of flavors from across the Mediterranean including pastas, kabobs, mezze, tagines, salads seafoods and more. D $$-$$$ 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 $$-$$$ Twist on Angell 500 Angell St.; 831-4500. Get casual fine dining with a “twist” at this popular Wayland Square restaurant. With creative takes on classic comfort food and inventive appetizers and entrees, it’s a successful combination of food and flair. D $$ United BBQ 146 Ives Street, 7519000. Barbecue is an art form here. Feed the inner man with a classic rack of ribs (sold in half or whole racks) or make it light with a “Tofurkey” kielbasa sandwich from the menu’s Weird Stuff section. They deliver. LD $-$$ WALTER’S 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 Island. This is a must-stop for foodies and caters to gluten-free diners. D $$-$$$
Key
WATERMAN GRILLE 4 Richmond Square; 521-9229. An exquisite waterfront dining experience, Waterman Grille offers a plethora of delectable dishes including grille and seafood plates with a focus on seasonal flavors and local offerings. BrD $-$$$ Waterplace Restaurant & Lounge One Financial Way; 2721040. With its gorgeous views of Waterplace Park, this stylish eatery is guaranteed to please. The chic and sensible menu offers award-winning cuisine that is always fresh and seasonal. LD $$-$$$
East Bay Boneyard Barbecue and Saloon 540 Central Ave., Seekonk; 508761-6855. From tender, juicy pulled pork to full and half racks of ribs to chicken wings with over 30 sauces to choose from, Boneyard will satisfy your appetite for food and fun. LD $-$$ BUCA DI BEPPO 353 Highland Ave., Seekonk; 508-336-4204. Dine with family and friends while enjoying the Italian traditions of food, friendship and hospitality. Buca di Beppo’s dishes are served family style and are meant to be shared. LD $-$$ DEWOLF TAVERN 259 Thames St., Bristol; 254-2005. Set in a historic stone warehouse, DeWolf Tavern offers casual dining and drinks on its outdoor patio. An elegant upstairs dining area serves contemporary American cuisine by acclaimed Chef Sai. D $$-$$$ HORTON’S SEAFOOD 809 Broadway, East Providence; 434-3116. Enjoy the finest of fresh seafood at this family-owned-and-operated restaurant. Horton’s is famous for their fried clams and fish and chips, and offers takeout. LD $-$$
Bradford design, inc. renovate restore rejuvenate
Upscale design & Fine woodworking 401-231-0099 Info@bradforddesign.Com www,BradforddesIgnrI.Com
Chef Sai’s Spanish/Tapas Wine Dinner suNDAy, 12/19 $50 per person plus tax & gratuity Reservations Required
OPEN ChristmAs EvE & DAy OPEN NEw yEAr’s EvE & DAy
“One of the Top 20 New Restaurants in the U.S.”– Esquire Magazine
Contemporary American Cuisine in an historic waterfront setting DeWolf Tavern at Thames Street Landing 259 Thames Street, Bristol www.DeWolftavern.com • 254-2005 www.bristolharborinn.com • 254-1444
Open 7 Days a Week
Come in and do your laundry with our new state of the art equipment. Enjoy our 4 plasma televisions and FREE wireless internet while you wait!!
• Dry Cleaning Available • Credit Cards accepted! • Now Offering Wash, Dry & Fold Service
Ichigo Ichie 5 Catamore Blvd., East Providence; 435-5511. The name roughly translates as “one encounter in a lifetime,” but you’ll want to visit again and again for the enchanting Japanese décor, and of course, the sushi and hibachi menus. LD $$ JACKIE’S GALAXIE 338 Metacom Ave., Bristol; 253-8818. Jackie’s offers
Br Brunch B breakfast L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
Freeway Laundry 453.0000 • 135 Broadway, Providence
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
73
Gourmet House Affiliated with
Apsara Palace 15% off for all pre-ordered meals for Thanksgiving Eve and Christmas Eve. One dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice required.
Crispy Salmon w/ Ginger & Scallion
Drunken Noodles
BYOB 787 Hope Street, Providence â&#x20AC;˘ 401-831-3400 Sun - Thurs 10am - 9:30pm, Fri - Sat 10am -10pm gourmethouseri.com â&#x20AC;˘ New owner Kim Te of Apsara
+23( 675((7 :,17(5 6752// eat. shop. play. KRSH VWUHHW
=i\\ i\]i\j_d\ekj j\im\[ Yp d\iZ_Xekj
6DWXUGD\ 'HFHPEHU WK
+ROLGD\ 6DOHV 7UHH /LJKWLQJ &DUROHUV $QG 0RUH 0HUFKDQWV ZLOO EH DFFHSWLQJ FDQQHG JRRG GRQDWLRQV
YLVLW ZZZ KRSHVWUHHWSURY FRP IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ 74
Providence Monthly | December 2010
h
5t
Feast | Dining Guide Leader’s in Eye Care Since 1927
an eclectic taste of Asia, including Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Cambodian and Vietnamese. Enjoy traditional recipes combined with modern technique and flair for a unique dining experience. LD $-$$$
South County BISTRO 9 1646 Division St., East Greenwich; 884-5656. Overlooking the East Greenwich Golf Course, Bistro 9 serves up American and Italian cuisine seven days a week, year round. Enjoy steak, seafood, pasta and a full service bar. LD $-$$ CHELO’S WATERFRONT 1 Masthead Dr., Warwick; 884-3000. Everybody’s favorite chain of Rhode Island family restaurants also provides great waterfront dining overlooking Greenwich Bay. Enjoy all the classics, plus deck and lawn seating, fire pits and live entertainment. LD $-$$ COAST GUARD HOUSE 40 Ocean Rd., Narragansett; 789-0700. This beachfront institution serves classic New England seafood, plus pasta, steak and a raw bar, all in the shadow of the iconic Narragansett Towers. Outdoor bars offer more casual fare. LD $-$$$ 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 $$-$$$ FLARE BRICK OVEN BISTRO 577 Tiogue Ave., Coventry; 615-8577. Flare serves a wide variety of pizzas fresh from their brick oven, including a “build your own” option. Also, choose from sophisticated steak, pasta, seafood and chicken dishes. LD $-$$ KON ASIAN BISTRO 553 Main St., East Greenwich; 886-9200. This innovative bistro sets the standard for Asian food in southern RI, featuring a variety of sushi and sashimi, classic rolls, hibachi combos, and delicious sushi entrées. LD $-$$$
Key
LILIANA’S 3009 Tower Hill Rd., South Kingstown; 789-4200. Serving authentic Italian at affordable prices, Liliana’s offers great service in a family atmosphere. Owner Dino Passeretta brings over 15 years of experience Boston, New York and Miami to South County. LD $$-$$$ RHODY JOE’S SALOON 515 Kingstown Rd., South Kingstown; 3126500. Rhody Joe is a legendary Rhode Islander and his namesake saloon does right by his good name, serving up mammoth burgers, grilled pizzas and lots of classic pub fare. LD $-$$ SIENA CUCINA 5600 Post Rd., East Greenwich; 885-8850. Siena features authentic Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere, plus over 20 wines by the glass and an Italian “tapas” menu. D $$-$$$ TAVERN BY THE SEA 16 West Main St., North Kingstown; 294-5771. Located in historic Wickford, Tavern by the Sea offers a relaxed yet romantic atmosphere and an array of dishes like seafood, burgers and a complete kids’ menu. LD $$
North ENN JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR 600 George Washington Hghwy, Lincoln; 333-0366. Enn serves authentic Japanese cuisine with the freshest ingredients possible. You’ll find classics like tempura and teriyaki mixed with eclectic innovations like Spicy Tuna Tostadas and Tuna Tartar a la Korean. LD $-$$ VINTAGE RESTAURANT 2 South Main St., Woonsocket; 765-1234. In the heart of Woonsocket, Vintage offers top notch cuisine without the top notch prices. Enjoy classics with creative twists in a casual but sophisticated setting. LD $-$$ WILDFIRE 1874 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence; 353-7110. This brick oven pizzeria and bar offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere for dining out with family, friends or colleagues. Enjoy an extensive menu featuring sandwiches, salads, burgers, panini and pasta. LD $-$$
Dr. David A. Vito Dr. John D. Corrow Dr. Carl D. Corrow • Emergencies Seen Immediately • Same Day Appointments Often Available • Evening and Weekend Hours Available • Glaucoma • Macular Degeneration • Cataract • Diabetic Eye Disease • Designer Glasses • Specialty Contact Lenses
331-2020 • www.AdvancedEyeCareRI.com 780 North Main Street, Providence Official Eye Care Provider of the Providence Bruins
Tuesday special: Manicure and Pedicure for $28! *Now Offering Shellac Manicure Pink & White • Acrylic Nails • Nail Overlay • Gel Nails Sculptured Nails • Manicure • Pedicure • Nail Art Air Brush Design • Waxing • Extra Massage Available Walk-Ins Welcome • Gift Certificates Available
Professional Nail Care for Ladies & Gentleman
401-861-8500 • 783 Hope Street, Providence
Monday-Friday 9am-7:30pm • Saturday 9am-6pm / Sunday 10am-5pm
THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMING! gift certificates from "The Rue" always the right color always the right size
Rue De L’Espoir American Bistro Cooking
open daily breakfast, lunch, dinner 99 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906 info/reservations 751-8890 www.therue.com
SAVING UP TO 70% OFF RETAIL PRICE We have been supplying new, refurbished and scratch & dent resistant appliances for over 5 years Stainless Refrigerators • Ranges • Dishwashers • Front-Load Washing Machines • Built-In Refrigeration • Cooktops & Wall Ovens
416 Roosevelt Ave. • Central Falls, RI 401.723.0500 • www.kitchenguys.com
Br Brunch B breakfast L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
75
Upscale Authentic Mexican Cuisine on Federal Hill Mon-Thurs
3 Course Dinner Special
only
$19.95
Spice your life with the Best Mexican Cuisine in Providence
Gift Certificates Available All major credit cards accepted
Margaritas & Sangria Excellent Selection of Tequilas
351 Atwells Ave. Providence 454-8951 • www.donjosetequilas.com
Frankly Scallop, I Don’t Give A Clam!
0 gif4t 5 5 $ uy a ly $
B n for o ember 24th card Dec
Dine In / Take Out Lounge • Catering
401.383.3551
ugh thro Now
123 Dorrance Street, Providence A Family Tradition Since 1945
Fried Clams • Baked Dinners • Chowder/Clam Cakes 809 Broadway, East Providence • 434-3116 www.hortonsseafood.com • Wed. Thur. Sat. 11-8, Fri. 10-9 l ia ree ec t F e p n e S e in ’s R on F e h i ov nt at M Mo plic rst Ap Fi No
One City – Two Great Restaurants
Live in the Square!
Monday thru Thursday 11am-10:30pm Friday 11am-11:30pm • Saturday 12pm-11:30pm
www.asianbistrodining.com Hibachi • Japanese • Chinese Thai Cuisine • Sushi
Studios,One, Two & Three Bedroom Apartments All Utilities & Parking Included
Cafes & Boutiques right outside your door
24 Hour Fitness Center 24 Hour Concierge 24 Hour Emergency Service Twist on Angell Restaurant Tailor Shop on Site Femme Fatale Salon
20% Off
With College ID!
• • • • • • • • • • •
500 Angell Street, Providence • 751-7700 www.waylandmanor.com
Banquet Room w/ 250 Person Capacity
Appetizers Soups Vegetables Beef Chicken Seafood Fried Rice Lo Mein Chow Foon Chow Mein Fun Chinese & Japanese Lunch Specials • Bento Lunch Boxes • Asian Palace Entrees • Combination Platters
401.228.7805 1190 North Main Street, Providence
www.asianpalacedining.com 76
Providence Monthly | December 2010
BUY ART,
Buy Art Holiday Party
HAVE A DRINK
5:30 – 8:30 PM Thursday, December 9
join us for your next event
WEAR YoUR BUY ART BUTToN AND REcEIVE A FREE DRINK !
Duck & Bunny 312 Wickenden St. Providence www.BuyArtProvidence.com
AT WAT E R M A N
Meet this year’s artists • Mingle with the arts community Celebrate the Buy Art season • Sample light fare
SPONSOrED By the
&
duck
bunny a snuggery
buyartprovidence.com
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
77
Join us
View complete list of events at www.ric.edu/pfa T I C K E T S W W W. R I C . E D U / P FA O R ( 4 0 1 ) 45 6 - 8 1 4 4
Sunday, December 12 2 : 3 0 P. M . | T H E A U D I TO R I U M I N RO B E RT S H A L L
Toxic Audio a holiday concert
78
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Get Out
Events / art / music / MOVIES / theatre
Countdown to Midnight Back in the day,
folks genuinely used to help each other. Barn raising anyone? Today, if someone had the nerve to ask you to spend all of your precious weekend spare time hammering, sawing and cutting, you’d probably suggest they check into Butler. Luckily, there are still spots where the concept of a kinder, gentler community remains. Take Bright Night, for instance. Back in 2003, when your old standby First Night Providence went belly up due to lack of finances,
the artists themselves stepped in to save the day (and you from going all pathetic and staying home with Dick Clark). Thanks to their quick reaction and continued dedication, live music, magic, comedy and art have never stopped filling the streets of downtown on New Year’s Eve. Volunteering might be a nice gesture of thanks. Guaranteed no one will ask you to pick up a power tool. Noon-midnight. $10 until December 25, $15 after. brightnight.org. –Dawn Keable
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
79
Buying or Selling? When buying or selling a home, expect: • Exemplary Service • Superb Results!
Get Out | Calendar
by Dawn Keable
This Month December 4, 5, 11, 12 Make your list and check it twice because St. Nick himself will be posing for photos at Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Santa’s Visit. rogerwilliamsparkzoo.org.
Call me today & let me do the work for you!
December 4 Celebrate a state rivalry that makes Caprio versus Obama look sleepy, as PC Men’s Basketball hosts URI at the Dunk. friars. com. December 5 Dash through the snow during the Downtown Jingle Bell 5K, starting at the Convention Center. downtownjinglebell5k.com. December 5 Understand that Searching for New Drugs in the Sea at the downtown library branch isn’t a lecture about the DEA. provlib. org. December 7 Recap by Evaluating the 2010 Elections, with Policy and Pinot at the Providence Athenaeum. providenceathenaeum.org.
Ellen O’Donnell-Forte
a.k.a. “Elle Forte”, Realtor® cell: 401.524.0563 office: 401.521.9490 EODonnell5@cox.net
December 9-12 Wag your tail in anticipation of the Bay Colony Dog Show, one of the oldest and largest in the country, at the Convention Center. baycolonydogshow.com. December 10 Pose with Santa and dance to Brass Attack at Twin River’s Big Little Holiday Party in a lavishly decorated hall. twinriver.com.
Butterman & Kryston 749 East Avenue Pawtucket, RI 02860 80
Providence Monthly | December 2010
December 15 Hook up your fashion jewelry stash during Wine, Women and Jewels at Walter’s Ristorante. chefwalter. com.
Holidays on Pointe December 17-19: Right about now Rhode Island state troopers are posted along all major routes to and from New York City (read: I-95, because we all know the only way you travel is on the highway, via car). Their orders? To stop the casual Christmas tourist from journeying into the Big Apple, and back again, in an effort to prevent the interstate transport of bed bugs back to Providence. Okay, not really. But if it takes such a grandiose lie for you to experience some of your own magnificent holiday traditions, so be it. Start with Festival Ballet’s always magical version of The Nutcracker, performed on stage inside a restored art deco theatre, with big city costumes and choreography that won’t make you feel like you are settling for second best. $23-$98. Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street. 353-1129, ppac.org. December 16 Bring a pre-wrapped gift for a girl or boy to the Second Annual Christmas Drive at Ladder 133 and enjoy some free food and music while helping Rhode Island Hospital. ladder133.com
December 29 Be envious of the smokin’ indoor track at the Providence Career and Technical Academy as it hosts the RI Classic Track and Field Invitational. riclassic.com.
Instant Gift Certificates Holiday Gift Cards On-line Appointments
149 Elmgrove Ave, Providence 401.272.1772
259 Thames Street Bristol 401.254.1772
PROVIDENCE ART CLUB Little Pictures 2010
Original Art $250 or less Cash & Carr y: paintings, prints, glass, mixed media and more
Opening Reception Sunday, November 21, 12-4pm Exhibition Dates November 21 - December 24 Extended Galler y Hours Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Wednesday, Friday 12-5pm Thursday 12-6pm Weekends 12-4pm
11 Thomas St, Providence, RI 02903 401.331.1114 www.providenceartclub.org
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
81
Get Fit & Have the BEST Holiday Ever!
Big Little Holiday Party We provide the party...You bring the guests... SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2010 • 6:30PM–1:00AM Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres. *.'$Ã7.'$pm in the Lounge Full Service Dinner. 7.'$Ã9.$$pm in the Banquet Room
Sign Up NOW for our New Year 12 Week Weight Loss Challenge Starting January 24! offeRIng oveR 28 ClAsses weekly InCludIng: Zumba® (daily) • Pilates • spin • yoga • Drop in classes $10
STAGE DOOR RESTAURANT & LOUNGE ,4, Park Avenue • Cranston RI $&9&$
T he Menu: House Salad Entrée Choice: NY Strip Sirloin with garlic mashed potatoes & seasonal vegetables Chicken Marsala with garlic mashed potatoes & seasonal vegetables Holiday dessert stations including a Chocolate Fountain Co ee station with cordials
Personal Training • gifT CerTifiCaTes available
bodycompletefitness.com Best of RI fitness Center, Providence County
Body ComPlete
Fitness Center for Women
Helping women reach their goals for over 26 years
ĶŁ5ĴŞœŠĴŞœŠšŝŜ Advance seating only – Space is limited so reserve early!
**A PHOTOGRAPHER WILL BE ON SITE TO TAKE HOLIDAY PICTURES OF YOUR GROUP**
1375 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 946-0378
Plastic Surgery
es at fic ! rti ble Ce ila ft a Gi Av
Holiday
Cash Bar Available
Dancing downstairs with DJ Fred Da Great spinning old school hip hop and R & B!
FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO MAKE RESERVATIONS
call Maria at 401-499-0796
aneventtoremember@coxǚnet
Home entertainment made simple I’ve been doing this for 25 years right here in Providence
Special
Schedule a consultation in December or January and receive 25% off the surgical fee* for your cosmetic procedure if you book it before March 30, 2011! As A bonus receive A free treAtment of botox (1 AreA)
Caroline J. Plamondon, md CosmetiC and ReConstRuCtive PlastiC suRgeRy
simple - I design easy to use home entertainment systems with in-home service and expert installation. savings - I choose equipment that fits your needs and you’ll pay the same or less than at BestBuy. stylish - every system blends in with your decor. For superb home theater systems, music systems, HDTV’s, and multi-room systems, call Jon Bell for a free in-home consultation.
One Randall Square, Suite 408, Providence www. plasticsurgery.org/md/cplamondon.htm (401)272-6602 *Offer not applicable to hospital or anesthesia fees*
www.simplysas.com 82
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Jbell@simplysas.com
401.383.4102
Get Out | Theatre
by Molly Lederer
A Child’s Christmas in Wales
Season’s Greetings from a Great Poet Dylan Thomas takes you away on holiday “Years and years ago, when I was a boy, when there were wolves in Wales, and birds the color of redflannel petticoats whisked past the harp-shaped hills, when we sang and wallowed all night and day....” A Child’s Christmas in Wales, a prose poem by the late great Dylan Thomas, transports the reader to holidays past. The lush language rolls along romantically, a heady mix of earthy and otherworldly imagery. Within those “harp-shaped hills,” tipsy aunts sing and stuffed uncles snooze. For every useful gift received, there’s also a delightfully useless one. A turkey lies on the table, a fiddler plays by the fireplace and the snow falls endlessly outside. Furthermore, should you have the good fortune to spot a cat, you must pelt it with snowballs immediately. This month, the Gamm Theatre of Pawtucket stages a new adaptation of Thomas’ classic holiday story. Written and directed by artistic director Tony Estrella, the Gamm’s version begins with an older Thomas alone in a New York City hotel room. The year is 1950, and the poet’s reading tour has kept him away from home on Christmas. When he hears carolers singing a Welsh tune outside his window, he conjures up his family and the holidays of 30 years prior. The Gamm first produced A Child’s Christmas back in 2003, with a different script. Aside from the structural similarity of placing Thomas at a hotel, this Christmas is a whole new show. Estrella’s adaptation incorporates elements of Thomas’ other poems, stories and letters, including the short story “Patricia, Edith and Arnold” and the famous villanelle “Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night.” The production also features live, traditional Welsh folk music. The ensemble cast creates sound effects and even makes snow throughout the show. And, while an authentic Welsh dialect would be nearly incomprehensible to American audiences, the actors still tackle Welsh in song. In doing research for the play, Estrella found that Thomas wrote a great deal about his childhood. He
wrote with fondness and nostalgia, but also with what Estrella calls a “gimlet eye.” He recognized the roughand-tumble side of youth, and the sadness there, too. “It’s not all shucks and golly gee,” Estrella explains of Thomas’ take. He “manages to poeticize all that stuff about childhood that sometimes our parents would rather forget about. Getting in fights, constant mischief, breaking things, smoking… It’s got that messy fabric of life, and yet the language still manages to soar.” In penning the adaptation, Estrella could not avoid “a bit of literary ventriloquism” at times. But he tried not to take too many creative liberties, or to attempt to match the poet’s style. To maintain the spirit, rhythm and humor of the original piece, he used Thomas’ own voice whenever possible and let the language speak for itself. He notes, “The energy of the language is the energy of a child. It’s exuberant. It’s unpredictable. It’s never maudlin or cliché. It’s surprising, constantly. And I think that’s why it’s so funny.” The story of A Child’s Christmas strikes a universal chord because it harkens back further than a past holiday, or a specific Welsh one in Thomas’ memory. It recalls a past sense of magic once associated with the holidays. As Estrella puts it, “It celebrates that need we have to inform our current celebrations with the intensity of feeling that we can probably only have as children – when our imaginations where raw and free. I think, as adults, life sometimes conspires to dull our imagination. Stories like this are how we rekindle it.”
A Child’s Christmas in Wales December 9-26 The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre, 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket 723-4266 gammtheatre.org
On Stage See what’s going up this month by Dawn Keable
You Pick the Date Invite 20 of your closest pals, suggest an $18 donation to cover tickets, pizza and beer, then transform your living room into a stage for Theater of Thought’s production of Matt and Ben, to easily win the title of Most Amazing Holiday Party Ever. theaterofthought.com.
December 2-5 Poor Kaspar. The German youth showed up on the scene in the 1800s telling tales that didn’t quite mesh, and inspired a play that questions everything from language to socialization. Brown University, Leeds Theatre, 77 Waterman Street. 8632838, brown.edu.
December 3-January 2 No doubt It’s A Wonderful Life this holiday season at Trinity Rep as six actors create 50 characters in a new live radio play downstairs, with A Christmas Carol above. Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street. 351-4242, trinityrep.com.
December 10-12 Been thinking lately that Santa at the mall could use a quick lap dance? Jingle Belles and A Few Balls, an evening of burlesque and camp, may be the only place to carry out your impulse. Perishable Theatre, 95 Empire Street. 331-2695, perishable.org.
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
83
Get Out | Art
by Vikki Warner
Exhibits Get inspired at this month’s artsy events by Dawn Keable
Contemporary Work, Traditional Techniques Keeseh Studio is not your grandfather’s wood shop Remember the dowdy old woodworking shop in your grandfather’s basement? It seemed sort of cool, with its intoxicating sawdust aroma, and its humble scraps and tools efficiently arranged. You sort of wanted to tinker with it, but then you thought, “Run, before it gets you, too!” Something about the image of the suburbanite working out his creative tensions on wood scraps, producing charmingly off-kilter products for his friends and slightly annoyed family, just scared you off. But you have another, infinitely more exciting chance at woodworking, and it’s called Keeseh Studio. Located in the historic Hope Artiste Village mill complex in Pawtucket, Keeseh Studio is a creative, collaborative and contemporary woodworking studio. Founded by Asher Dunn in 2008, the studio offers classes for the beginner or experienced woodworker – from the use of basic hand tools all the way up to planing, molds, castings and inlays – and even electric guitar building. A variety of basic and sophisticated machinery is available, and students in Keeseh’s classes often choose to extend their access to the facilities by joining the twice-weekly Open Studio or becoming full-time members; both options include access to professional woodworkers who can provide advice on projects in development. Collaboration is a major benefit to membership: problems that seem insurmountable in the insular home woodshop can be overcome using the varied knowledge of the woodcraft mavens on hand on any given day. So what’s Keeseh Studio turning out? Beautiful, modern, well-designed objects of art and furniture, the afore84
Providence Monthly | December 2010
mentioned guitars – even the odd kayak. Dunn says the spirit of experimentation runs deep at Keeseh, and that means its craftspeople are trying out concepts without knowing exactly how they’ll turn out. Many of the Studio’s projects are fashioned using a variety of reclaimed woods and other materials. Dunn has launched his own home furnishings line, Studio Dunn, from within Keeseh’s four walls, and his sleek, progressive Rhode Island Collection echoes the rugged, sandswept beachiness of the state. A 2008 RISD Industrial Design grad, Dunn won the Best New Designer award at this year’s International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York with this nascent collection, started only last year. He’s working to expand the line, which utilizes a small-batch, in-house production line as well as a local network of manufacturers and artisans. Keeseh’s growing as well: with six full-time and 22 part-time members, the studio is getting a bit tight. Dunn says he’s looking for more space to accommodate more members and an expanded roster of class offerings. The local woodworking community, once relegated to the basement, has taken its rightful place above ground, among the fine arts – and Keeseh is its new ambassador. Keeseh Studio is located in the Hope Artiste Village, 999 Main Street, Suite 701 in Pawtucket and is now enrolling students for introductory and advanced woodworking courses; visit www.keeseh.com or call (248) 877-4425 for details. Visit www.studiodunn.com for more information on founder Asher Dunn’s Rhode Island Collection.
Through December 31 Once the handmade inventory of the Craftland Show is gone, you’re out of luck. Check out the opening party, on the December 2 from 5-9pm for first dibs and goodie bags to the first 300 shoppers. Craftland, 235 Westminster Street. 2724285, craftlandshow.com.
December 2-12 Confound those irritating gift shakers who always insist on guessing before unwrapping with a one-of-a-kind piece from the Foundry Holiday Show Sale that’ll guarantee a safe Santa secret. Pawtucket Armory, 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. foundryshow.com.
December 4 There’s a good chance that an artist or two at the RISD Alumni Holiday Sale started off as a canvas-carrying kid struggling to maneuver College Hill. Who’s laughing at whom now? Rhode Island Convention Center, One Sabin Street. 454-6379, risd.edu.
December 11-12 Dancing reindeer and tapping elves? Jump! Dance Company covers that with Scenes from the Polar Express – even before you start hitting the eggnog. Classical High School, 770 Westminster Street. 529-4391, jumpdancecompanynews.blogspot.com.
December 21-22 Twas The Night Before Christmas, and all through the stage, Providence Ballet was substituting the sugarplums dancing with fancy human footwork, based on the classic poem. Rhode Island College, The Nazarian Center, 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue. 8614842, providenceballet.org.
aking r t w o N fo tions a v r e res oliday H r u yo s. partie
Enjoy Award Winning Neapolitan cuisine served in a luxurious setting with two fireplaces.
Private Room Available for up to 30 people.
Open Daily For Lunch & Dinner 245 Atwells Ave., Providence www.trattoriazooma.com 383.2002
401.949.4849 • 19 Sanderson Rd. Smithfield
earn extra Money For Holiday SHoPPing!
Broadcasting intelligent, thought-provoking radio from South County up to where Almacs used to be.
giFt CertiFiCate SaVingS Buy $100, get an extra $25 free • Buy $200, get an extra $50 free • Buy $300 get an extra $75 free Buy $400, get an extra $100 free
Perfect gift for Show goers
RHODE ISLAND’S OWN NPR.
1290 AM 102.7 FM 7h[ oek b_ij[d_d]5
Free Valet Parking
123 Empire Street • Downtown Providence • 401- 490 - 5112 www.bravobrasserie.com
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
85
Give Your Dogs the Treat They Will Never Forget! Fill your dogs full with holiday cheer and best food, Locallythe Owned anddog Operated supplements, treats, and toys this holiday season. Stop by our North Kingstown Warehouse to see all we have in store. With the Best Prices, Service, and Products you can’t go wrong.
Bring this Ad and Save 5% OFF Your Order
338 Compass Circle Unit D-3, North Kingstown, RI • 401-667-0110 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3, Online 24/7
Christmas at Blithewold Tiffany, Tinsel and Toys lled is fi h wit
THE ART OF A HAPPY NEW YEAR...
November 26th - January 2nd Mansion Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Gingerbread Wonderland
December 10th - December 19th
Children’s Story Time
Wednesdays and Thursdays 4 p.m.
Afternoon Teas
Tuesdays - Fridays 1:30 & 3 p.m.
Musical Performances
Thursdays & Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. Sundays at 3 p.m.
Come see Blithewold transformed into a dazzling display celebrating the magic & wonder of Christmas. 101 Ferry Road (Rt. 114) Bristol, RI 02809 401.253.2707 www.blithewold.org
86
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Friday December 31, 2010 beginning at 5:00pm
New Year’s Eve
Aspire, well known for our inventive preparations of local ingredients, is once again offering up a lavish New Years Eve Menu. Dine on our chef prepared 5-course Pre Fixe meal for $65 per person, stay for a complimentary champagne toast at midnight! Attending Mamma Mia at the Providence Performing Arts Center? Enjoy our three-course Theater Menu when seated in our Tilden Thurber Ballroom! Please call for details.
At Aspire, we think that’s just the art of a happy new year! 401.521.3333 ASPIRERESTAURANT.COM 311 WESTMINSTER STREET PROVIDENCE, RI 02903
Get Out | Calendar
Holiday Magic Where All The Top Designers Hang Out 50% Off Winter Sale Gucci Coach St. John Louis Vuitton Ferragamo Prada Chanel Armani Valentino Escada Versace ting CeleBrA 14 yeArs
vis-á-vis hair design
Career • Casual • Accessories elegant Formal • Fabulous Furs CA$H for your Designer Bags
377 Broadway Providence, RI 421-0123 • visavishairdesign.com
7300 Post Road North Kingstown • 295.7179
Appointments helpful but not always necessary
Everyone is Merry and Gay December 1, 4 and 5: Think for a second of all of your amazing talents that you offer up to the world for the bubble. Mmm-hmm. Exactly. You’ve got nothing. Your day gig comes with a weekly paycheck, thank you very much. And sadly, all the other stuff – like creating the most perfect hospital corners on the guest bed – no one really cares about. That’s exactly what makes the Providence Gay Men’s Chorus so special. For fifteen years, these men have lent their bass, baritones and tenors, both low and high, simply for the love of it, committing to a weekly rehearsal and four concerts a year, while ignoring the beckons of Broadway. The PGMC continues their mission of “harmonizing diversity in song” during their annual Christmas Show, The Holly Jolly Follies, where their powerful pipes are blended together with – what else – a fabulous kickline. 7pm. $15. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street. 455-4698, provgmc.org.
Tues-Sat 10-5
one perfect gift one great deal! Purchase gift tickets for our 2011 season before December 17, 2010 and receive $5 off each gift ticket. Use code giftdeal.
May not be applied to prior purchases. Offer expires 12/17/10.
gift certificates and 2011 season subscriptions available call us at (401) 782-tkts (8587) or visit us at www.theatrebythesea.com all shows produced by ocean state theatre company, inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
87
AUNT SOPHIA
COUSIN VINNY UNCLE JOE
Bring
the W hole Family
OPEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EVE
SEEKONK | ()'(,!.$ !6%.5% s bucadibeppo.com
Celebrate the Season Come check out our NEW Fall/Winter menu Three course Prix fix dinner menu for $18.88 Sunday thru Thrusday $1 Raw Bar shrimp, oysters, and clams in our bar and lounge Monday thru Friday 4-7pm Friday & Saturday entertainment in our lounge; 9 to 1 am Friday - Phil Pinto Duo & on Saturday sing along with Billy Musto on the piano In The Anchor lounge Top 40's on Friday and Saturday 70's and 80's
2010 Best Waterfront Dining Statewide 2010 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pick Best Piano Guy
Taking holiday party reservations Gift certificates available
789-0700 â&#x20AC;˘ 40 Ocean Road, Narragansett â&#x20AC;˘ www.thecoastguardhouse.com
88
Providence Monthly | December 2010
Get Out | Music
by Alyssa Smith
Concerts Check out this month’s awesome shows by Dawn Keable
DJ Donnie B (front row, second from left) with KIX 106 staff and listeners on a trip to Jamaica in 1990 caption
Kicking It Old School The classic sounds of KIX 106 return for one night only DJ Donnie B was
a staple in the hip-hop and R&B scene from the mid-‘80s until 2004. In addition to being a well-known club DJ, until 1992 he was always spinning the hottest music for his listeners on the radio station KIX 106, which later became HOT 106. Hustling his way up from being a 15-year-old record carrier to intern to nationally acclaimed DJ, Donnie’s career spanned nearly two decades. Six years ago, Donnie went off into DJ retirement after years of remixing, touring the country and being an on-air personality for the station, trading in his turntables for a real estate license. What Donnie didn’t know was that his listeners would beckon him back, putting the DJ bug back in his bones and inspiring him to put together a KIX 106 Old School Reunion Party. Though Donnie’s main business ventures went from DJing to selling houses, he still dabbled in promotion for clubs. While having a business meeting with a couple of club owners, Donnie said he was recognized by several waiters for his work on KIX 106, telling him he should go back on-air. “I was out
to dinner trying to put a deal together and I had a few waiters recognize me,” he recalls. “We started reminiscing about the good times DJing and we started talking about the idea of a reunion show.” With Donnie’s gumption and the demand from enough people, the show quickly snowballed from a fun idea to a full-blown, old school themed KIX 106 Reunion Party on December 17. With his connections, the Hi-Hat offered the space and Donnie threw the details of the party up on Facebook, unaware that he’d get such an overwhelming response. “Everyone asked ‘Where are the tickets?’” he exclaims. “Then things evolved and now it’s most likely going to be a sell-out show.” Donnie promises the party won’t be some lame nostalgia trip either, but rather a night where his remixes are abundant and the “low end base shakes the clothes off your body.” The night will offer a lot to entertain the crowd, including a Secret Santa scavenger hunt, a sexy singles contest, a Toys for Tots donation drive, and a special “New Year’s Kountdown Pre-Par-
ty” at midnight. There will also be a special performance from budding local talent Brandy Stafford, as well as ‘70s music and a heavy dose of ‘80s. Though the party is a classic KIX 106 theme, Donnie reminds party-goers that Hammer pants are optional, noting the night is less about adhering to a throwback aesthetic and more about celebrating the music lovers who made the station so great at the time. Since he launched the event, Donnie claims he’s noticed that five different old school nights have popped up in the clubs, leading him to think this is something the people really want. “I take it as a compliment,” he says. “The songs we’ll be playing are fun songs that people don’t get to hear a lot anymore.” Tickets are going fast, so if you want to hear some old school joints and party with DJ Donnie B, call him direct at 269-9615 or email donnie@donnieb.com. Tickets are $25. The party is Friday, December 17 from 7:30pm to 2am. The Hi Hat is located at 3 Davol Square.
Through December 12 When Mahalia Sings, you’ll hear about her journey in gospel, from growing up in New Orleans, through the civil rights movement and her relationships with Louis Armstrong, JFK and MLK. Mixed Magic Theatre, 171 Main Street, Pawtucket. 305-7333, mixedmagicri.com.
December 3 Stop whining about the shortest night of the year, and celebrate The Sounds and Rhythms of the Winter Solstice, with saxophonist Paul Winter, and his perfect name. First Baptist Church of America, 75 North Main Street. 331-3465, artleagueri.org.
December 4 You gotta come Home for the Ska-lidays, ‘cause a new toy gets you in for free to see bands like Steady Habits, Threat Level Burgundy and Llama Tsunami. Firehouse 13, 41 Central Street. 270-1801, firehouse13.org.
December 12 Toxic Audio won’t be poison to your ears, unless you’re the sort of freak with a beef against a cappella groups once featured at Disney’s MGM studios. Rhode Island College, Roberts Hall Auditorium, 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue. 456-8144, ric.edu.
December 16 If there’s one thing Christmas was always missing, it was orchestral prog-rock. Thankfully, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra has been sorting that out with their popular nationwide tours. Dunkin’ Donuts Center, 1 LaSalle Square. 331-6700, dunkindonutscenter.com.
December 2010 | Providence Monthly
89
Get Out | Movies
by Scott Duhamel
It’s Still a Complex World A local cult classic gets an overdue DVD release Twenty years ago Providence was abuzz in the wake of the release of Complex World, a sly homegrown satire with a dose of rock and roll set at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel, featuring songs and acting contributed by the likes of Roomful of Blues, NRBQ, and one-time kings of the downtown scene, The Young Adults. Cowritten and directed by Jim Wolpaw, who had already managed to grab a vaunted Oscar nomination in 1985 for Best Documentary Short Subject for his droll and insightful Keats and His Nightingale: A Blind Date, the movie and its attendant screenings at the Cable Car sent a whole lot of the downcity artists and hipsters into a collective tizzy. The movie was funny and original, and all signs pointed toward eminent national success. It didn’t exactly go down that way, but Wolpaw survived the experience, completing the equally incisive Loaded Gun: Life and Death and Dickinson in 2002, and is currently ushering out a newly released DVD of Complex World, which has long been unavailable. We recently met and talked at Nicka-Nee’s, wherein (only in La Prov) a stranger, overhearing our conversation, promptly began a long and thoroughly unsolicited recititation of H.P. Lovecraft’s work. What prompted the new DVD release of Complex World? A lot of people have asked about the movie and its availability over the years. It was never really available, although copies have been floating around here and there. With the 20-year anniversary happening it seemed like the right time.
90
Any major changes? Did you know there were originally two versions? After showing it in New York it got a good deal of buzz, but no one knew what to do with it. Eventually the US Film festival, which is now Sundance, called us up and wanted to screen it, even though their entry period was closed. The upshot was that we decided to do some reediting and we got involved with Jeff Dowd, whose claim to fame at the time was association with the Coen Brothers’ Blood Simple. He and I ended up in this long distance, six-month business relationship where he tried to push me more towards making a so-called traditional film and I think that ultimately, the end result was better in a lot of ways. At the same time there were a lot of good scenes in the original version, so in some ways maybe that version is better. Both versions are on the DVD. There is one more Young Adults song, one more Stanley Matis song, and a scene set at a biker’s birthday party in the parking lot with an exploding birthday cake.
including New York and LA. It opened in two strong potential markets, Boston and Austin, with very little support. If you looked in the papers that day you couldn’t find where it was playing unless you read the reviews, which were generally positive. If I remember correctly, more than one reviewer likened it to a purposefully crafted “midnight movie.”
Tell me about the circumstances of the original release. Well, we showed it at the Cable Car. At one point we got a call from Warner Brothers and we sent them a print; of course, they didn’t know what to do with it. Then John Daly from Hemdale contacted us, and while it was playing at the Cable Car we were negotiating a deal which we signed probably in early 1991. It took about a year and it was released in a dozen major markets,
When you look at Complex World now, do you think you filmed what you set out to achieve? Do you consider it a successful film? (Laughs) WeIl, I’m not sure what I set out to do. I have mixed feelings: there are parts of it I find hard to watch, but there are certain things I’m very proud of. I have a love-hate relationship with it. We had these expectations that it was going to break big, and for a while it really looked like it might.
Providence Monthly | December 2010
What are your current projects? I just completed one for PBS, basically about the image of George Washington on the dollar bill, an image created by Rhode Island’s own Gilbert Stuart. It really centers around the idea that these two were almost exact opposites: Stuart being a something of a wild man and Washington being a man of extreme control – you know, the whole idea of these two men in the same room responsible for this iconic image. I am currently working on a film about H.P. Lovecraft, along with Cat Hainfeld, which is kind of a documentary/fantasy. I am also working on another film about the history of the Ladd Center.
Film Here’s what’s showing on the local big screen. by Dawn Keable
December 3 Return to a time before hunky leading men were overrun by pretty boys with Humphrey Bogart in 1937’s Marked Woman and 1939’s Roaring Twenties, with James Cagney. Production One, 135 Thayer Street. 863-2853, brown.edu/Departments/MCM/.
December 3 Go on the ultimate treasure hunt with The Gleaners and I, voted best documentary in 2001 by the National Society of Film Critics, which follows hardcore gatherers in the country and big city. The Meeting House, 3850 Main Road, Tiverton. tivertonfourcorners.com.
December 19 No disrespect, Vincent Price, but if you had been the Last Man on Earth, the blood thirsty vampires that you’re hunting down would have given up more easily. Providence Public Library, Auditorium Theatre, 3rd fl, 150 Empire Street. 455-8057, provlib.org.
December 22 The Rhode Island International Film Festival Best of Fest Encore brings you closer to that point of flick devotion, when you can recite so many lines it’s almost like you had a stolen script. Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street. 8614445, film-festival.org.
December 2 Film debut of Robert Duvall? As Arthur ‘Boo’ Radley in To Kill A Mockingbird. If only your first real job had provided you with so much opportunity, instead of fierce paper cuts. Barrington Public Library, 281 County Road, Barrington. 247-1920, barringtonlibrary.org.
TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY
Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors
Celebrating 41 Years We service and repair ALL foreign and domestic models Toyota • Kia • Nissan • Chrysler Audi • Lexus • Infinity • Ford Volkswagen • Honda • BMW Chevy • Isuzu • Mercedes • Mini Prosche • Ford • General Motors Mazda • Saab • Volvo • Hyundai Saturn • Subaru • Mitsubishi
ASE Certified RI inspection and repair station #27b
Tiffany Peay Jewelry
401-723-1111
3851 Main Road Tiverton Four Corners, RI 02878 www.tiffanypeay.com 888.808.0201
729 East Avenue
Tiverton Four Corners is a Sales Tax Free Arts District.
Make the Trip to
Christmas Limited Edition
Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Top of the East Side, next door to Rite Aid
Mister Sister Erotica
Only 77 boxes / 6ea
Danu, Inc Since 2010
Call us Visit our website or just step in our shop and Put your name on waiting list
More Toys than the Devil has Sinners Open Monday 12pm-8pm Thanksgiving thru New Year's! Open Tue-Thur 11-9 Fri-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-5 268 Wickenden Street Providence • 421- 6969
www.cupnrol.com 401.228.6866 262 Atwells Ave. Providence December 2010 | Providence Monthly
91
The Last Detail
Holiday Shopping that is All Fun and Games Finally, a game of Bingo that doesn’t require you to sport a fanny pack (unless, of course, you’re into that sort of thing). InDowncity and Providence Monthly present a much more spry and joyous version: Holiday Bingo. The concept is simple: tear out the Bingo card (see pg 9) and bring it with you as you shop and eat in the fashionably fun Downcity district. With a purchase in any of the participating stores or restaurants, you get a stamp. Five stamps in a row and BINGO! You’re now eligible to win some amazing prizes: first place is $1000 in gift certificates for hotel stays, gourmet dinners, theater tickets and shopping sprees, with sec92
Providence Monthly | December 2010
ond and third places receiving a similar package worth $300. If the ambiance of delicately strung white lights dancing above the street, aromas of freshly cooked food or beautiful storefront displays aren’t enough reason to peruse Downcity, all of the upcoming holiday events certainly are: Saturday visits from Santa, the City Hall tree lighting, the annual holiday window competition, latenight store openings to accommodate last minute shopping, and, perhaps the greatest gift of all, complimentary two-hour parking from member shops. What better way to spread holiday cheer? InDowncity.com/news -Jen Senecal
Bring a Change of Clothes.
hr t e w till n e p o s Bar i
ou u o ow y
t
one stop shopping. good friend your boss someone you hardly know the in-laws PRE-MADE GIFT- BASKET selections on-line! wine advice. wine gadgets. wine baskets. gourmet food baskets. entertaining gifts. & 667 Kingstown Rd Wakefield R.I. 401.783.4555 www.wakefieldliquors.com we deliver (also to the block island ferry)
A Gift for You! Purchase a $50 Gift Certificate and get a $10 Gift Card Reserve Your Holiday Party in Philippe’s Room
2 8 4
T H A Y E R
ST R E E T ,
PR O V i D E N C E
•
3 3 1 - 8 1 1 1
•
k A R T A B A R . C O m
Now Accepting Reservations for Private Holiday Parties Open Christmas Eve until 5pm and on Christmas Day Starting at 5pm Come Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Us Greek Style! We Will Also Have a Special New Year’s Day Brunch.
2 6 8 T H AY E R S T. P R O V i D E N C E • 3 3 1 . 7 8 7 9 O R 3 3 1 . 7 8 8 2 • A N D R E A S R i . C O m
Happy Holidays From All of us at Paragon/Viva Lounge! Reserve Your Holiday Party with Us Today Become a Fan Join our Text Club by Texting Paragon to 411669 Viva Lounge Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday DJ After 10pm
2 3 4 T H AY E R S T R E E T P R O V i D E N C E • 3 3 1 . 6 2 0 0 • PA R A G O N A N D V i VA . C O m