EXPERIENCE: Cozy

Classy on the Coast

Cozy American cuisine gets an elevated twist at an East Greenwich hot spot

Monday is Trivia Night at Union & Main, East Greenwich’s coastal-classy hot spot for lively events (like Drag Brunch) and fancy yet cozy bites. When my friend and I arrived, the DJ was still warming up patrons with a mix of pop songs from the ‘80s through the early aughts before kicking off the evening with a round of questions.

Even on an ordinary night, the atmosphere is upbeat and communal, with a sweeping bar featuring three TVs (great for catching the game this season), and on the opposite side a collection of old black-and-white photos of bay life scenes. It wouldn’t be an East Greenwich dining experience without a coastal motif or two, and Union & Main is backdropped by a cheery mural of sailboats (and a surfer) riding abundant blue waves.

Jac, our host and waiter, was friendly and jovial to fit the restaurant’s vibe and offered an array of great suggestions. I started with a fun and flavorful drink: It Takes Two to Mango. Sweet and spicy, this fruit-forward bevvie came with tropical flair from the

mango, lime, peach schnapps, fresh mint, and mint simple syrup, while the ghost tequila gave it a nice kick.

My friend and I happily tucked into two appetizers. The Maple Buffaque Wings were delightfully crispy and seasoned with a mix of buffalo and barbecue sauce and a hint of maple, served over a bed of microgreens and scallions. The house-made Herbed Focaccia was a nice complement to the wings – ideal for soaking up the buffaque sauce – and also wholly satisfying on its own or with the EVOO that accompanies it. The fresh bread offered a delicate crunch from the cheesy herb exterior, with a fluffy warm center.

For entrees, we elected to try two warm and hearty dishes to beat the winter chill.

CUISINE: Elevated cozy American dining PRICES: $9-$30 ATMOSPHERE: Lively coastal eatery Photos by Tori Coulter, courtesy of Union & Main

Must-Try Items

Pumpkin Ravioli ($23)

Brandy cream sauce, spiced pepita, exotic mushroom, crumbled almond biscotti

Grilled Scallops ($30)

Seasoned grilled butternut squash risotto, roasted root vegetables, apple cider reduction The Grilled Scallops takes advantage of seasonal root vegetables with a lovely herbal aroma. The sweet potato was my favorite part of this dish, adding depth and enhancing the flavors of both the scallops and risotto. My friend’s favorite was the Pumpkin Ravioli, served in a brandy cream sauce that paired nicely with crumbled biscotti, pumpkin seeds, and mushrooms.

We still had room for dessert – and I’m glad we did. The Eggnog Cheesecake was perfectly spiced, topped with whipped cream, and not just a holiday treat – this cheery special will remain on the menu throughout winter. I’m a sucker for co ee and therefore loved the Espresso Brûlée. The bitter-sweet, creamy custard contrasted beautifully with the caramelized espresso.

I want to give an honorable mention to the French Fries. They were served hot and crispy with just the right amount of salt – we couldn’t get enough.

Union & Main

445 Main Street, East Greenwich • 289-1191 UnionAndMainRI.com Photo by Tori Coulter, courtesy of Union & Main