SO Rhode Island May 2024

Life

Photo courtesy of Natalia Paiva Neves

Photo by Jen Tanner

Photo courtesy of Junk & Java

SCOOP

Creature Double Feature

Tourism council commissions Danish artist to create a pair of attractions in Charlestown

By Ken Abrams

Get ready to welcome a pair of unusual creatures who will be taking up residence in South County this summer: two giant forest trolls. Designed by renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo, and built completely from recycled materials, the sculptures will make Ninigret Park in Charlestown their permanent home beginning in May. Dambo is the world’s leading recycle artist, with installations in more than 20 countries on five continents, and over 125 trolls scattered around the world, including sites in Maine and New Jersey.

The long-term plan is to create an attraction that places the mythical creatures at locations around the state. “We hope to have a few more trolls in the future to form a Rhode Island ‘troll trail’,” says South County Tourism Council president Louise Bishop.

Photo courtesy of SCTC

Christiania, Denmark

Dambo has an extensive history as an artist and musician, which began when he was a child growing up in Denmark. “My first big art endeavor was as a hip-hop musician; I made nine albums in six years and played a couple of hundred shows,” says Dambo. “I created all the album artwork, the posters, the stickers, all the music videos; I was running the whole band. That taught me a lot.”

He also practiced creating street graffiti, which included tagging and other demonstrations deemed illegal by local authorities. He began creating and placing birdhouses wherever he could to avoid ending up on the wrong side of the law. “The birdhouses were all made from

recycled materials,” he explains, “and unlike the street graffiti art, which are two-dimensional paintings, the birdhouses are sculptures.”

In 2011, Dambo was able to quit his job to become a mission-based artist with an MO of “waste no more.” Based on a 55-acre farm in Denmark, he employs about two dozen artists and production assistants, hosts a YouTube series called Trash Talk , and is recognized as a leading environmentalist. “With the trolls, I’ve found my little/big niche,” he jokes. When the Charlestown trolls are complete, Dambo says he will have installed 130 around the world.

Dambo is committed to repairing the

environment and uses his talent to promote environmental awareness. He’s developed a narrative, telling the troll’s stories through poetry and fairy tales. “My poems are an important part of my art. They set the scene and are the whole backbone of my installation,” he says. “I try to tell a story that has relevance in the area, under the umbrella of a larger story. My bigger story is that trolls are basically the animals and the plants – my trolls are nature, you could say. My stories are about the clash between humanity and nature. My trolls are the unspoken warriors of the plants and the animals that can’t speak. That’s the symbolism of my stories.”

Photo courtesy of South County Tourism Council

Coastal Maine Botanical Garden

Dambo works directly with local communities, assembling his sculptures with the help of volunteers of all ages. “It’s a little bit of school and a lot of fun,” he says. “We learn how to build something big. It’s always nice to meet local people; they invite us for a barbeque or tell us the best places to go.”

“The purpose of my art is to show how we can be better humans,” says Dambo. “I think we should be less wasteful and more mindful of the resources we have. We should try and preserve those resources and not contaminate the natural environment. We are super wasteful in the way we use and discard things, so I try to educate through stories, sculpture, art talks, and my poems.” Learn more at ThomasDambo.com and SouthCountyRI.com.

Culebra, Puerto Rico

Roskilde, Denmark

Photo courtesy of South County Tourism Council

Domestic and Imported gifts, stoneware & much more (401) 364-1060

THE GENERAL STORE

A mix of humor, magic and rock ‘n roll

FRILLS GALLERY

Treasures for the Funky Soul 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s

THE PURPLE SHELL

Authentic Eastern Native Trading Post. Featuring WAMPUM, Native hand Crafted Jewelry and other hand crafted items (401) 364-8088

MARIA’S HENNA AND BODY ART (SEASONAL)

Also glitter tattoo’s and hair feathers (860) 917-5304

BEE SUITE

(NEW IN FALL 2023)

A Country Store featuring-Candy from around the world, RI Products of all kinds and supporting Small Family owned Businesses

LIL’ RHODY TOYS

(OPENING SPRING 2024)

Toys and Fun for everyone

BLOCK PRINTS GRAPHICS

Local RI T-Shirt Designs, Stickers, Fun Jewelry at the Shack by the Fountain

THE RUSTIC GARDENS (NEW IN 2023)

carry a mix vintage garden decor and a wide variety of planters. We are known for our special selections of Annuals, perennials, Tropicals & succulents. Check out our do it yourself potting bar.

RIPTA Staves Of Service Cuts – For Now

In partnership with The Public’s Radio

• ThePublicsRadio.org

•

By Olivia Ebertz

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) announced [today] it will postpone implementing unpopular bus service cuts that had originally been planned for early spring. The agency, which planned the cuts because of a driver shortage, said in a statement that the postponement would give more time for RIPTA to attract new drivers.

RIPTA said in January it planned to eliminate or reduce service on dozens of routes across the state on April 6. The proposal was sharply criticized by riders and transit advocates at public meetings and on social media.

Then, in a meeting in late February that

followed negotiations with RIPTA union officials, RIPTA’s board voted to increase starting wages for drivers, and increase wages for more seasoned drivers. At the time, RIPTA Chief Executive Officer Scott Avedisian said he hoped the new starting wage would allow the agency to “aggressively” recruit. RIPTA is now paying new bus drivers $25.33 per hour, a 16.7% increase from $21.71 per hour.

RIPTA now has until mid-June to continue to ponder service cuts and recruit drivers. In a press release, Avedisian wrote RIPTA riders’ concerns have not gone unnoticed.

“We have listened to the concerns of our riders and the community,” said Avedisian. “The

decision to postpone service cuts reflects our commitment to providing reliable and accessible public transit services. We will use this time to make informed decisions as we continue to build our workforce to meet the needs of our passengers.”

Besides a lack of drivers, RIPTA is also battling a $10 million deficit that the agency says could lead to further cuts, though there are several bills under consideration in the state legislature that could help RIPTA make up some of the funding it lacks.

This article was originally posted on March 14, 2024. Olivia Ebertz can be reached at OEbertz@RIPR.org

RIPTA has announced it will postpone implementing bus service cuts while it tries to attract more bus drivers.

Photo courtesy of The Public’s Radio

Rhody Pets of the Month

By Karen Kalunian

Celebrate National Pet Week (May 5-11) by welcoming a new furry friend into your home. Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here’s a trio ready to meet you, or reach out to local shelters to learn about more adoptees.

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

Little Debbie

BREED: Domestic Shorthair Tuxedo

AGE: 2

GENDER: Female

Little Debbie is a sweet cat with beautiful eyes that seem to glisten. Her coat is oh-so soft and she purrs when given gentle pets. This bi-color feline is looking for a quiet home where she can be your one and only pet. She’s FIV positive (feline immunodeficiency virus) but is currently a happy and healthy girl who hopes someone will fall for her loveable heart and gorgeous face.

EGAPL HEART OF RI

401-467-3670

HeartOfRI.org

Yuki

BREED: Akita

AGE: 6

GENDER: Female

Attention big dog lovers: Yuki is here! This gorgeous Akita is seeking a home with an experienced adult and might even like another doggie pal (male). Akitas are known for being profoundly loyal, courageous, and dignified. Yuki is the type of girl that wants to spend time getting to know you, and once she does, she will give you her whole heart.

WARWICK ANIMAL SHELTER

401-468-4377

Petfinder.com (Warwick Animal Shelter)

Little Debbie Yuki

Photos (left to right) courtesy of EGAPL Heart of RI, courtesy of Warwick Animal Shelter, by Lisa Kirshenbaum

BREED: Shih Tzu Mixed Breed

AGE: 2.5

GENDER: Male

Meet Zeus! This adorable little guy with the mighty name has much to offer, but needs a very specific type of home. Poor Zeus has had some trauma in his past so an adult-only home with patient people who will give him the time to feel comfortable and loved is a must. Also, a quieter home with a fenced-in yard is preferred so he can run and play. He is currently in a foster home and doing well.

FRIENDS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS RI

Lisa.foha@yahoo.com FOHARI.org

Charlestown • (877) 788-4325 BeachwoodRI.org

Zeus

T e Must List

The Children’s Festival comes to Matunuck

May 19: The 3rd Annual Children’s Festival takes place at a new location, the Matunuck Community Association Field House, with the Toe Jam Puppet Band, face painting, petting zoo, pony rides, food, and much more! Matunuck, WakefieldRotary.org

Through May 18: Predictor is the compelling story of Margaret Crane, who in 1967 invented the first home pregnancy test. This show is a fast-paced, fun, and thoughtful look at one of the forgotten women of history. Wakefield, ContemporaryTheaterCompany.com

May 9: Local artisans, raffle prizes, live music, and more are all part of the fun while patronizing the shops and eateries along Matunuck Beach Road at this year’s Village of Matunuck Spring Stroll . South Kingstown, Facebook: The Village of Matunuck Spring Stroll

May 10: Wickford Harbor Lights returns as Wickford Harbor Fire , a series of evenings filled with food trucks, live music, shops open late, and the harbor aglow with fire floats that compete with the colorful sunset. North Kingstown, @wickfordharborfire

May 10-12: Misquamicut Springfest is back with a family-friendly weekend of events including an outdoor carnival and amusements, a food truck rodeo, a classic car show, and a beer and wine tent from Grey Sail. Westerly, Misquamicut.org

May 11: The United Alt Comedy Fest Regional Showcase is a day of improv and comedy with workshops, youth programming, and an evening show with party-rock band The Sloppy Boys and LA-based comedy troupe Bug Grande. Westerly, UnitedTheatre.org

May 22: The Summer Author Series , moderated by author Deborah Goodrich Royce, hosts New York Times bestsellers, mother/ son duo Elliot Ackerman and Joanna Leedom-Ackerman discussing The Far Side of the Desert and Halcyon Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com

May 24: Percussionist Sidy Maiga , who began drumming as a teen in Mali, has become a familiar figure in local music circles. Check out the award-winning musician and educator along with his band Afrimanding. South Kingstown, PumphouseMusicWorks.com

May 27 - June 8: Music on the Hill kicks off its summer chamber festival with We’re Bach! on Memorial Day at First Baptist Church followed by a series of additional classical music concerts featuring local performers at various venues. East Greenwich, MusicOnTheHillRI.org

May 29 - June 22: Theatre by the Sea returns from winter hibernation with A Chorus Line . The award-winning story follows 17 dancers competing for a few coveted spots in the chorus of a Broadway musical. Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com

Photo courtesy of Wakefield Rotary

Robert

Dyer MD, MPH Nancy Kate Staley PA-C Vincent D. Criscione, MD Katie Sliney MSPAS, PA-C Meighan Dingle Blanco, FNP-BC Tori Jedson MSPAS, PA-C Jennifer Johnson, APRN, NP-BC

Garden Party

Flowers, fanfare, and fancy hats are all part of a new annual event in Kingston

By Cheikh Higgs

“If a couple walks through the moon gate, they shall live happily ever after!” says Northup’s mother Betty Faella.

In the heart of the sleepy village of Kingston, a botanical haven is poised to unfold its vibrant petals this Mother’s Day. Nurtured by four generations of horticulturists and nature enthusiasts, Kinney Azalea Garden welcomes all to its first Annual Garden Stroll on Sunday, May 12. This event offers the surrounding community a tapestry of festivities, from the inauguration of a new pavilion to a first-ever fancy garden hat contest, plus live music, and an extensive selection of potted plants for sale.

Kinney Azalea Gardens first took root in the 1920s when Lorenzo Kinney Sr., the University of Rhode Island’s first botany professor, began planting conifers on his son’s newly acquired land. Over time, the gardens have flourished into a sprawling 16-acre spectacle. Today, over 1,000 cultivars and species of rhododendrons, azaleas, native and exotic trees, shrubs, and wildflowers invite visitors

Photos courtesy of Kinney Azalea Gardens

Azaleas in bloom

to traverse natural paths, showcasing the intersection of art and nature.

Helen Faella Northup, executive director of the Friends of Kinney Faella Gardens (and granddaughter of the illustrious Lorenzo Kinney Sr.), relays her excitement about the upcoming fete. “We’re excited for the public to come into the garden and experience our breathtaking flowers, explore the fun paths and bridges, and view our iconic moon gate,” she shares. “The azalea’s peak bloom is typically in the middle of May. Since our pavilion construction is complete and it will be available for this season, it seemed like a good time for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.”

To add a playful interactive element, garden manager Dr. Susan Gordon conceived the idea of a fancy hat contest. Says Northup, “Since the weather can be quite temperamental in May, we wanted something that would be festive and fun for all ages, but also

FIRST ANNUAL GARDEN STROLL

Sunday, May 12, 2-5pm, rain or shine

Kinney Azalea Gardens

2391 Kingstown Road, Kingston KinneyAzaleaGardens.com

allow our visitors to wear appropriate garb for a spring day in the garden.”

The pavilion was built by Tony Faella for his wife, Betty Kinney Faella, and honors four women influential to the gardens. A brief ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark its opening, accompanied by a coffee, tea, and a pastry food truck from Bru RI Coffee Bar, as well as live music. Beyond the activities, the springtime salutation aims to foster

environmental education and an appreciation for nature. Sandwich boards scattered throughout the gardens will help visitors identify plants, with QR codes providing additional information; staff and volunteers will also be on hand to answer questions and direct visitors. A map brochure with a scavenger hunt is sure to keep visitors busy. The event is rain or shine so consider wearing boots along with fancy hats.

Photo courtesy of Kinney Azalea Gardens

A place to sit along the garden path

Enjoy your favorite seafood dish on our spacious deck overlooking Galilee Harbor while sipping an amazing cocktail. Shop at our local seafood market for the best & freshest seafood available. OFFERING PRIVATE FUNCTIONS IN THE OFF SEASON – CALL FOR DETAILS FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD. ALL THE TIME.

Monica L. Gross, MD, MPH

Maria A. Como, APRN, CNP Accepting New Primary Care Patients & Walk Ins

Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm t (401) 789-1086 | f (401) 789-5344

Into the Woods

Protected land in North Kingstown means healthier ecosystems for wildlife and humans

By Abbie Lahmers

Arecent walk on a chilly spring day around Congdon Wood in North Kingstown offered a glimpse of the important natural habitats and wildlife uses protected on the 300-acre parcel, which contains a sizable stretch of the Saugatucket River. The swath of forested land is home to trees over 100 years old. “This time of year, a lot of birds are migrating north, so they need places like this to rest as they’re heading up to the Arctic, for example. These woodlands are very important for that,” explains Scott Ruhren, senior director of conservation at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island (ASRI).

Thanks to a generous donor, the recently acquired wildlife refuge will be spared from future development and fills in a piece of the puzzle in a larger conservation greenway of land that ASRI protects. Ruhren notes that “there are some species that want a lot of land,” so for forest specialist birds like wood thrushes, veeries, pileated woodpeckers, and others, the large tract of land connected by the new refuge is significant.

There’s no public access point at Congdon Wood, so it isn’t open for visitors, but the lack of human disturbance presents its own benefits for research and management. Ruhren shares that the first step is taking a baseline of what’s living on the property, to serve as a point of comparison years from now. “Our goal is to keep it intact,” he says.

When we came to the headwaters of the Saugatucket River, a babbling section of stream that meandered and cut winding paths through the scenery, Ruhren pointed out that there’s very likely native brook trout that overwinter in deep pools in these banks. “If you sat here quietly, you would probably see mink, too, which love to fish the streams like this.” Pointing to log crossings over the stream, he explained, “even when the logs fall in the water, they create what we call debris dams, and those are actually breeding grounds for all the

MORE WAYS TO HELP

Volunteer opportunities with the Audubon Society of RI range from trail maintenance to helping survey species and monitoring vernal pools. Volunteer crew days take place once a month. Learn more at ASRI.org/ v olunteer

Photo by Scott Ruhren, courtesy of ASRI

The Saugatucket River in the summer

SPRING BIRDING

Guided bird walks take place almost every day in May during spring migration, and beginners are welcome, at sites including Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge in Exeter, Marion Eppley Wildlife Refuge in West Kingston, and other locations.

invertebrates, which then feed the fish, so the mayflies, beetles, crustaceans.” The presence of certain species of mayflies and stoneflies are also indicators of clean water.

Further south, the river opens up into a wide floodplain, and snowmelt and rain can make it run high. “If this were all developed, this river would flow faster, muddier, carry a lot of pollutants in it, and downstream would really flood even worse than it does,” Ruhren emphasized. Healthy wetlands, he explains, are the kidneys of a thriving ecosystem because of their role in filtering out pollutants. “We’re interested in keeping clean waters for wildlife as well as people.”

Along the walk, Ruhren, a botanist, identified the trees we passed and shared clues to deciphering the land’s past uses. Noticing a red oak, for instance, with wide, sweeping branches, he shared, “You can tell this had been a farm field because you’ll find a big oak like that. If you’re out in a field, red oaks grow really wide versus in the forest, they are naked all the way up and then have branches up at the top because they’re competing for light.”

There were also indicators of its current inhabitants, from coyote scat on the ground to the presence of vernal pools, or temporary ponds in

Pileated

the woods with no fish, where amphibians like the spotted salamander and wood frogs can safely lay their eggs. Ruhren mimics the call of barred owls, which live in these woods – “who cooks for you, who cooks for you all.”

Though the wildlife activity in Congdon Wood unfolds largely outside of human observation, ASRI executive director Jeff Hall emphasizes the importance of land donations to preserve wild open spaces. “Every piece of land has its own story and history to tell through the people donating it, and every acre of land is critical to help Audubon protect the natural biodiversity of the state.”

Photo by Mary Ann Cofrin, courtesy of ASRI

woodpeckers are one of many species inhabiting Congdon Wood

Think Global, Eat Local

EXPERIENCE FLAVORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD, RIGHT HERE IN RHODE ISLAND

By Jenny Shand

Are you familiar with the Global Scavenger Hunt? It’s an annual travel competition where teams of two embark on culturally oriented treasure hunts in 10 surprise countries, all hoping to be named the World’s Greatest Travelers. While most of us aren’t likely to circumnavigate the globe on such an adventure, Rhode Island is full of culinary destinations that will make you feel as though you have – with no passport required. We’ve planned our own hunt within the state, finding representative restaurants from every continent. We hope this gastronomic guide can introduce you to just a few of the many options there are in this small but mighty state. Take the adventure and try a new cuisine!

If we missed your favorite, let us know at Marketing@heyrhody.com.

CONTINENTAL COMBOS

EATERIES SERVING UP FANTASTIC FUSIONS OF CULTURAL CUISINES:

ASIAN + LATIN = Dos Mundos Restaurant in Cranston

CHINESE + PERUVIAN = Brasa & Chifa in Providence (opening soon)

DOMINICAN + JAPANESE = Helado Taiyaki in Providence

GUATEMALAN + PORTUGUESE = Aguardente in Providence

ITALIAN + NEW ENGLAND = Pizzico Oyster Bar in Providence

ITALIAN + ASIAN = Mr. R Fusion in Newport

KOREAN + CAJUN = Hanju Kitchen (inside The Royal Bobcat) in Providence

P hoto courtesy of India Restaurant

Helado Taiyaki

La Arepa

India Restaurant

PhotographybyNick DelGiu d ice

Phot o courtesyofLa Arep a

Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana

Photo courtesyofHeladoTaiyaki

FRANCE NEWPORT

STONEACRE BRASSERIE

28 WASHINGTON S Q UARE

Originally inspired by French wines and the foods that were paired with them, Stoneacre Brasserie offers casual cafe vibes by day and elevated dining by night. From the patterned floor tiling to the flying buttresses, the French-inspired architecture will make you feel as though you’ve just left the Eiffel Tower.

CLASSIC CUISINE: French classics are given a contemporary American twist. For example, Duck Confit with pan jus, a traditionally rich dish, is paired with a light polenta and a salad of locally sourced produce. Or sample French-style scallops, prepared traditionally, but instead of a cheesy sauce, it’s served with apple and pear puree. Pro-tip: try one of their weekly specials.

RECOMMENDATION FOR NEWCOMERS:

Gooey cheese and homemade croutons make French Onion Soup a staple for this country’s cuisine and a well-loved comfort food. The Croque Monsieur is also a good option, which is essentially a fancy grilled cheese sandwich, upgraded with Gruyere, parmesan, and ham. And don’t forget to ask the team about wine pairings. White Burgundies are a great place to start this season.

E U R O P E

ITALY WAKEFIELD PASQUALE’S PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

THE VILLAGE AT SOUTH COUNTY COMMONS

Originally from Naples, owner Pasquale Illiano has assembled a savory menu of pizza (more on that below), salads, piatti (sharing platters), sandwiches, antipasto, and sfizi – a bit of this and that – including cozy faves like Pasta e Faglio soup, and Pasta e Patate (pasta with potatoes and cheeses).

CLASSIC CUISINE: The Neapolitan Pizza, or Naples-style pizza, is from the birthplace of pizza itself. Pasquale’s pizza has achieved a prestigious VPN status, meaning it is considered Verace Pizza Napoletana (“true Neapolitan pizza”). These pizzas have a thin bubbly crust and are made with the freshest ingredients, including tomatoes from the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Unlike American-style pizza, these aren’t pre-sliced. They are cooked the Italian way, in a special oven, and have earned a spot in the Top 50 Pizzas USA.

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS:

Margherita, the “basic” pizza, is made with San Marzano tomatoes, basil leaves, fior di latte mozzarella (although it’s worth upgrading to the Buffalo mozzarella). In Italy, you can gauge how good a pizzeria is by their Margherita pie. Let this be the standard you hold all other pizzas to.

(top) by Lily McCarthy, courtesy of Stoneacre Brasserie, (bottom) by Nick DelGiudice

House sauces bring fresh flavors to sandwiches

TO MARKET, TO MARKET

BRING GLOBAL SPICES AND DELICACIES HOME WITH THESE SPECIALTY GROCERS

By Patty J

Spice up your home entertaining with imported oils and authentic kielbasa from international markets and emporiums boasting prepared foods, specialty pantry items, and hard-to-find brands. A culinary adventure taking you to regions all over the world is only as far away as these must-try grocers.

BUBBIE’S MARKET + DELI

The first day Bubbie’s opened their doors on Hope Street, they sold out of bagels (and lox) within hours. Neighbors and out-of-towners alike enjoy shopping for candies from Israel, pre-packaged foods, and a kosher deli menu of corned beef, pastrami, pickles, potato salad, and more. 727 Hope Street, Pro v idence

EUROPEAN FOOD MARKET

This shop in Rolfe Square is all about Eastern European staples and delicacies. Grab everything from Russian dolls and collectibles to cookies and jarred borscht. You can also shop frozen goods and locally cooked Polish, Ukrainian, and Bulgarian eats like burek (flaky pastry filled with meat). Friendly and helpful staff make exploring all the more fun. 102 Rolfe Square, Cranston

ISTANBUL GOURMET MARKET

This family-owned micro-grocery on Mineral Spring Avenue stocks a variety of tempting Turkish teas, coffee, and spices, along with freshly made falafel and gyros, hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves from the kiosk area. Regulars also sing praises of their imported candies (Turkish delights, anyone?) and unexpected flavors of soda. 1706 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Pro v idence

LEO’S MARKET + RESTAURANT

This no-frills Mexican kitchen-meets-grocery is where those in the City by the Sea go for authentic Latin food, along with a treasure trove of international goodies. In search of a nice bottle of Lizano, a sweet and spicy sauce popular in Costa Rica? How about a can or two of Tiky, a pineapple-flavored Guatemalan soda? Then it’s Leo’s for the win! 162 Broadway, Newport

MAIN STREET MARKET, INC.

Open since 1987, Main Street is a one-stop shop for Cape Verdean (they pride themselves on stocking a variety of corn products popular there), West African, and Hispanic goods. Their inventory of prepackaged foods is also full of brands you probably won’t find

anywhere else in Lil’ Rhody. Don’t leave without bringing home some pastelitos, a Cuban puff pastry with sweet or savory fillings. 919 Main Street, Pawtucket

MI RAE MARKET

This small market has been delighting shoppers for years with its vast assortment of Korean and Japanese products, especially those deemed hard to get. They stock everything you could ever want for at-home sushi making (including sushi rice, pickled ginger, and bottled sauces), not to mention frozen dumplings and meats, canned goods, veggies, coffee, soda, and snacks. 602 Reservoir Avenue, Cranston

NEAPOLIS FOOD EMPORIUM

Who says you can only go to Atwells Avenue to experience an authentic Italian market? Opened by the award-winning chef behind Pasquale’s Pizzeria (see main article), Neapolis has locals ecstatic over their homemade pasta, gelato, and tiramisu, as well as a selection of imported coffee, olives, and more. Shopping there is the closest you’ll get to being on holiday in Roma in South County. 60 S County Commons Way, South Kingstown

POLONIA MARKET

Folks travel from all over New England just to bring home a taste of Poland from this Pawtucket market. Whether you’re craving pierogies, kielbasa (yes, you can sample), or chocolates, Polonia is the place to find the best of the best. Complete the immersive experience by browsing imported sundries like greeting cards, magazines, and grooming products, too. 736 Broadway, Pawtucket

SONIA’S NEAR EAST MARKET + DELI

A popular lunch spot, Cranstonians cite their falafel wraps, chicken gyros, and hummus as perennial faves. Their market area is equally terrific and has devoted fans flocking to their selection of Middle Eastern spices, nuts, dried fruit, canned goods, honey, baklava, and fresh Syrian bread made daily, plus plenty of vegan prepared dishes to choose from. 816 Park Avenue, Cranston

VENEZUELAN STYLE

SURF-AND-TURF:

Arepa stuffed with griddle-cooked shrimp, accompanied by avocado salad, black beans, and fried sweet plantains

VENEZUELA PAWTUCKET

LA AREPA

582 SMITHFIELD AVENUE

Owned by Nohemí Rodriguez, La Arepa is the perfect place to enjoy Venezuelan flavors, ambiance, and traditional music. If the restaurant came with a mood, the joyful atmosphere here says it all. In addition to traditional fare, you’ll find a selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making this a perfect spot for diners of all kinds.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Along with the Cachapas, Tequeños, and Empanadas, try the Pabellón Criollo – a traditional Venezuelan dish served with white rice and black beans, ripped meat called carne mechada, sweet fried plantain, avocado, and white cheese.

RECOMMENDATION FOR NEWCOMERS: The arepa! Arepas are a staple in Venezuela that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Made from white cornmeal (and therefore gluten free), cooked or fried in oil, and stuffed with a wide variety of fillings, Venezuelan arepas are unique because they can be filled with almost anything: cheese, jam, avocado, marinated meat, beans, shrimp – whatever your heart desires.

COLOMBIA CENTRAL FALLS

LA CASONA 768 BROAD STREET

La Casona first opened just down the street from its present location in May 2006, and has been in its current spot for 13 years. “When people visit this restaurant, we want them to feel like they are visiting Colombia, like they are experiencing a little bit of Colombian tradition,” says Esteban, one of the bartenders. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant is filled with families, couples, friends, birthdays, laughter, and celebrations. La Casona’s bustling bakery just next door offers the freshest buñuelos and pasteles, so be sure to take some home!

CLASSIC CUISINE: The Plato Montañero is a large, ovalshaped platter filled with rice and beans, chorizo, chicharrón (fried pork belly/rind), sweet plantain, a corn arepa, a fried egg, and your choice of beef, pork, chicken, or ground beef. Come hungry! The hefty portion recalls the dish’s origins as a meal to fuel people’s work day, and the combination of indigenous and Spanish ingredients makes this a classic mestizo dish. La Casona takes its cue primarily from Medellín, the capital of Colombia’s Antioquia department.

RECOMMENDATION FOR NEWCOMERS: Empanadas. Although this staple may be familiar in other types of Spanish or Latin American cuisine, these savory empanadas – a half-moon filled with your choice of beef or chicken – are made with corn flour, deep fried to a perfect crisp, and served with a cup of ají for dipping. If salsa and chimichurri had a baby, it would be ají: thin in consistency, herby, with a little spice from the ají pepper.

Photo (top) courtesy of La Arepa, (bottom) courtesy of La Casoa

CHINA PEACE DALE JAYD BUN

1202 KINGSTOWN ROAD

This Chinese take-out window in South Kingstown is creating quite a stir, earning the #1 spot on Yelp’s “Best 100 Places to Eat in New England” and appearing on the news because owners Annie and Joe Parisi have been donating meals to families in need. There’s no question that this is the place to go for authentic Chinese comfort food.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Jianbing, the “Chinese walking street pancake.” Annie grew up eating this every day in Tianjin (north of Beijing). Made from ground mung bean powder, it is filled with egg, scallions, crispy wheat crackers, sesame seeds, turkey dog (optional), sriracha mayo, and sweet bean sauce. Eaten like a burrito, this dish has all the tastes and textures you could want: crunchy, crispy, sweet, and spicy.

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS: The buns. These perfectly pan-fried buns are their trademark, made fresh daily with your choice of pork, chicken, or vegetable filling – moist, crispy, and full of flavor, you can’t go wrong.

A S I A

INDIA PROVIDENCE INDIA

1060 HOPE STREET

For nearly 30 years, this restaurant has been serving Indian food on Hope Street in Providence. As trailblazers, they required a spirit of adaptability in the early days, offering fusion items such as ravioli with masala sauce in order to appeal to more people. With the surge of cosmopolitan travelers and food lovers, however, they’ve been able to recreate their menu – especially with the arrival of chef Baldev Signh in 2017. With an expanded vegetarian and vegan menu, weekly specials, and new recipes, if you haven’t visited in a few years, it’s time to return and experience the authentic flavors of northern India.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Tandoori Chicken. Named for the clay oven in which it’s baked, this dish is hard to replicate at home. Each half-bird is double marinated – first in citrus and then in a tandoori marinade consisting of yogurt and spices – for a total of 48 hours, then slow-cooked on a grill, resulting in a crispy exterior that holds a succulent, juicy, and flavorful smoked meat. Enjoy it with a side of naan – a soft, flat bread – and zesty potatoes.

RECOMMENDATION FOR NEWCOMERS:

For those who are wary of too much spice, kabobs are a great option: your choice of meat (anything from sirloin to swordfish) or paneer (a type of cheese) marinated and grilled, served on a skewer with veggies. Other popular classic dishes include chicken tikka masala and saag paneer.

(top) courtesy of Jayd Bun, (bottom) courtesy of India Restaurant

The Thali feast sampler

A F R I C A

An assortment of dishes

THE VILLAGE

200 MAIN STREET, PAWTUCKET; 100 FOUNTAIN STREET, PROVIDENCE

For 15 years, The Village in Pawtucket has been serving West African cuisine, and just a few years ago, a second location opened in Providence, owned and operated by URI college student Olubunmi Olatunji, who grew up working alongside her mother in Pawtucket. “By the time I was 12 years old, I did everything: washing dishes, cooking, serving – both me and my siblings,” she says. Although sharing food is important to Olatunji, what really drove her to want to open another location is the desire to create a space for community, particularly as a Black-owned business. While take-out is available, sitting and savoring is encouraged.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Ayamase (pronounced “ah-mah-shay”) roughly translates to “designer stew.” It’s made with all different cuts of cow – beef, liver, kidney, tripe, skin, leg – cooked into a green pepper-based sauce and smoked palm oil. This menu item is served with a boiled egg, white rice, and plantains. Iyan is a pounded yam, mashed into a gummy, chewy, soft consistency, similar to a rice cake. It’s best enjoyed alongside a stew, such as the Egusi Riro (made with African melon seed) or Efo Riro (literally spinach stew or vegetable stew).

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS: Jollof Rice is another staple food in West African cuisine. The Nigerian version is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and an array of spices.

CAPE VERDE PAWTUCKET

10 ROCKS TAPAS BAR & RESTAURANT

1091 MAIN STREET

Just over the Providence line in Pawtucket, 10 Rocks has been serving customers Cape Verdean culture since 2015 via inventive tapas (octopus over arugula!), cocktails, and atmosphere that can include live music in the genres of traditional Cape Verdean, reggae, R&B, and open mic jazz.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Cachupa can be found on the brunch menu as The Hungry Cape Verdean. Cachupa is the country’s national dish, a stew made of corn, beans, vegetables, and a protein – meat or fish, depending on what is available in that region. When served as a breakfast item, the liquid is reduced and it’s pan-fried, acting as a base for fried eggs with linguiça (sausage) on the side.

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS: The Fried Goat Cheese. Anyone can get behind fried cheese. This goat cheese is tossed in panko breading, fried, and topped with honey and a side of guava paste. The Pastel Cabo Verde –traditional Cape Verdean empanadas that are flaky on the outside and filled with tuna, served with house sauces – is also a great choice.

featuring authentic Nigerian cuisine

RHODY RESOURCES

MORE INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS TO EXPLORE

AROUND THE STATE:

BRAZIL: Fogo De Chão, Pro v idence

CAMBODIA: Apsara, Pro v idence

CAPE VERDE:

Cantinho Bar & Grill, Pawtucket

CHINA: Chengdu Taste, Pro v idence

CHINA: Y Noodle & Bar, Pro v idence

CHINA & JAPAN:

Yagi Noodles, Newport

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC:

El Valle Restaurant, Pro v idence

FRANCE: Ellie’s, Pro v idence

FRANCE: Le Bec Sucré, Middletown

FRANCE:

Plouf Plouf Gastronomie, Tiverton

FRENCH POLYNESIA:

The Kitchen at The Surf Shack, Narragansett

GREECE: Andrea’s, Pro v idence

GREECE: Estiatorio Fili, Pro v idence

GREECE: YiaYia’s Cafe, Middletown

GUATEMALA: Maya Bakery, Pro v idence

GUATEMALA: Mi Ranchito, Pro v idence

INTERNATIONAL:

Guytanno’s International Cuisine, Westerly

IRELAND: Kelley’s Deli, Westerly

IRELAND:

O’Rourke’s Bar and Grill, Warwick

ITALY: Al Forno, Pro v idence

ITALY: Bottega Bocconi, Middletown

ITALY: Galleria Dolce, Narragansett

ITALY:

Mirabella’s Italian Cucuina, Warwick

ITALY: Perella’s Ristorante: Bristol

ITALY:

Roberto’s Restaurant & Cafe, Bristol

JAPAN: Sakura, Pro v idence

KOREA: Den Den Cafe Asiana, Pro v idence

KOREA: Mokbon, Pro v idence

KOREA:

Sun and Moon Restaurant, East Pro v idence

MEXICO CENTRAL FALLS

TUXPAN TAQUERIA

355 BROAD STREET

This humble, family-owned Mexican kitchen made history this year by becoming the first restaurant in Central Falls to be named semifinalist for a James Beard Award. This prestigious national award recognized Tuxpan Taqueria as one of the 2024 Best New Restaurants. Despite all of the attention, the Alcantars are determined to not let it get to their heads. “It doesn’t end there,” Eddi Alcantar says. “We want to keep putting good food out there and make people happy.”

CLASSIC CUISINE: Named for the Túxpan Michoacan region, this is a take-out restaurant inspired by street food, and the most classic option is the taco. Served on a freshly made tortilla with your choice of meat, these soft tacos are served warm with onion and cilantro.

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS:

The Gordita. This isn’t your typical Taco Bell variety – handmade daily, this Mexican empanada is served in a giant crisp shell and filled with your choice of meat, refried beans, shredded cabbage, cotija cheese, sour cream and guacamole. It’s one of the most popular menu items, and Eddi’s personal favorite is the Al Pastor.

A plate of Al Pastor Gorditas

P hotos courtesy of Tuxpan Taqueria

KOREA: Wok & Pot, Pro v idence

MEXICO:

Caliente Mexican Grille, Pro v idence

MEXICO:

Casa Azul Taquería, Pro v idence

MEXICO: Don El Diablo, Smithfield

MEXICO:

La Herradura Taqueria Mexicana, Central Falls

MEXICO:

La Piñata Mexican Bar & Grill, Pro v idence

MEXICO: Maiz, Wakefield

MEXICO:

Viva Mexico Cantina Grill, Pro v idence

MEXICO & PERU:

Pisco & Tequila, Bristol

MIDDLE EAST:

Prince Ali’s Kebab, Barrington

MIDDLE EAST: Gansett Wraps

PAN-ASIA: Tiger Fish, Block Island

PORTUGAL: Beirao, Central Falls

PORTUGAL: Campino’s, East Pro v idence

PORTUGAL:

DJP Churrascaria Marques, Cumberland

PORTUGAL:

Galito Restaurant, Pawtucket

PORTUGAL:

O Dinis Restaurant, East Pro v idence

PORTUGAL:

The Portuguese Pantry, Cranston

PORTUGAL:

Serra De Estrela, Cumberland

PORTUGAL:

Tugas Restaurant and Catering, Pawtucket

PUERTO RICO: Little Sister, Pro v idence

SPAIN:

Madrid European Bakery & Patisserie, Pro v idence

SPAIN/MEDITERRANEAN:

Spain Restaurant, Cranston & Narragansett

SWEDEN: Cafe Choklad, Pro v idence

SYRIA: Aleppo Sweets, Pro v idence

THAILAND:

Heng Thai & Rotisserie, Pro v idence

THAILAND: Noodle Revolution, Westerly

VIETNAM: Pho Horn’s, Pawtucket

JAMAICA NEWPORT HUMMING BIRD

104 BROADWAY

Named after Jamaica’s national bird, Humming Bird is owned by chef Dezna Bowen and her husband Abraham Parkes, who have been serving up traditional recipes since 2018. Locals know their breakfast is not to be missed and a hidden secret around town.

CLASSIC CUISINE: Signature entrees include savory dishes like slow-braised oxtail with Jamaican herbs and spices, Jamaican Mutton, and Whole Snapper. To cool things down, don’t miss the Mango Passionfruit Smoothie, made fresh and best enjoyed with eyes closed for optimal vacation vibes.

RECOMMENDED FOR NEWCOMERS: The Jerk

Chicken is served with rice and beans, cabbage salad, and fried sweet plantains. It gives first-timers a taste of the Caribbean, specifically Jamaica. The mix of flavors is a true reflection of the culture: heartwarming with a kick of spice and a hint of sweetness to balance the entire meal.

P hotography by Ron Cowie

The Whole Snapper entree

AUSTRALIA PROVIDENCE

SYDNEY CAFE

400 EXCHANGE STREET & 300 THAYER STREET

There’s more to the Land Down Under than kangaroos and koalas. According to general manager Hanna Dennett, Sydney Cafe is where Australian inspiration meets local ingredients and a passion for quality – not to mention, all of their food and drinks are genuine eye candy. Recently, their all-day cafe began transforming into an after-dark boutique espresso martini bar on the weekends, with plans to expand in the future.

CLASSIC CUISINE:

Their signature, housemade Lamington is a twist on the classic Australian dessert made of a butter sponge cake coated with an outer layer of chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut flakes. It tastes similar to a Samoa cookie.

RECOMMENDATION FOR NEWCOMERS:

The Avocado Smash! This isn’t just a millennial dish, although you’ll definitely want to take a photo before you eat it. Thick-cut country toast is covered in smashed avocado, seasoned with lemon zest, salt and pepper, and topped with feta, heirloom tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, and microgreens. You can add prosciutto, smoked salmon, or a local fried egg. Their specialty drinks also should not be missed! Try an iced rose matcha latte or an Aussie-inspired flat white: three espresso shots with steamed milk.

WORLD SHOWCASE

Federal Hill has long been known as Providence’s Little Italy, with mainstay establishments including Angelo’s Restaurant , Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen Italian Restaurant , Cassarino’s , and many others. Today, a walk along Atwells Avenue not only reveals some of the best Italian restaurants and markets in the state, but also a range of multi-cultural cuisine, from Japanese sushi at Nami to Middle Eastern fare at Opa , and others. For a full list, visit FederalHillPro v.com.

A U S T R A L I A

Federal Hill’s DePasquale Fountain

P hotos (top) by Hanna Dennett, (bottom) courtesy of Providence Warwick CVB

Two for $75 “Diapers2” with code IYRS SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & TRADES NEWPORT, RI Accredited, hands-on career training in the marine trades & modern manufacturing since 1993 www.iyrs.edu

Tickets: $50 each

LIFE & STYLE

Azorean Oasis

A chef carves out space to bring the colors of childhood to her Barrington backyard

By Andrea E. McHugh

As owner of O Dinis, the East Providence eatery serving traditional Portuguese dishes, Natalia Paiva-Neves is a natural entertainer, and she extends that same hospitality, clearly woven into her DNA, at home in Barrington as well. This time of year, she begins the process of transitioning to outdoor living. She’s revamped her backyard into an al fresco oasis with an aesthetic inspired by her native Azores (or “Açores,” in Portuguese), an archipelago of nine islands nearly 1,000 miles off the Portuguese mainland. There, she says, outdoor living and dining is just part of the lifestyle, and one she mimics here in Rhode Island as soon as the temperatures start to rise. Once warm enough, she says the moment she leaves the restaurant, she heads home to enjoy the spoils of the season.

P hotos courtesy of Natalia Paiva-Neves

Last summer, Paiva-Neves was impatiently waiting to have an outdoor grill built in her backyard. She was tired of store-bought grills deteriorating year after year and sought a more permanent solution. In Portugal, outdoor grills are commonplace, even in compact spaces, as grilling is a standard way to cook traditional dishes – especially seafood. “It could be a very small space, but you all make it happen with your little grill outside and have your meals outside almost every night if you can,” she explains. “I had a vision, and couldn’t get guys to come out here and build it for me because they’re all so busy in the summertime” – so she decided to

do it herself. Simply constructed with cinder blocks and a grill grate, the project has paid off in spades, with Paiva-Neves cooking on it regularly ever since. A natural pool is the centerpiece of the outdoor space. “It creates this beautiful blue that you can’t get anywhere, and in the Azores, everything is very green and lush, so I didn’t want my backyard to look turquoise because that doesn’t work for me, because we have a lot of greenery,” says Paiva-Neves. Spruce trees, bamboo, annuals, perennials, and multiple gathering spaces extend the verdant hue emanating from the pool. She painted the wood fence a midnight blue to complement the landscape, which she says seamlessly

LEFT: Natalia Paiva-Neves’ apron features her logo, fittingly a square of Portuguese azulejo (tile)

ABOVE: A buffet keeps things unfussy; the food and wine make gatherings unforgettable

courtesy of Natalia Paiva-Neves

Shelves and hooks keep counter space available for food prep while showcasing pottery from Portugal

blooms from spring to summer. “It goes through the seasons. Soon I’ll have the peonies, then hydrangeas bloom, which we have all over the yard because that’s the flower of the Azores. It’s also my wedding flower.”

While Paiva-Neves thrives in this outdoor space, you never know when she’ll be inspired to tackle another project. She says, “Listen, every year when I travel to the Azores, I come home and my poor husband has one more thing to do because I’m filled with ideas!” She would also like to state for the record that before tinned fish and charcuterie boards were trending on menus far and wide, she was offering these starters on the regular. “I know it’s very fashionable to be Portuguese now, but we’ve been doing this for 100 years!” she laughs.

Get Rhody Style

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

Stocking Up

Paiva-Neves recently traveled to Spain where she learned how to make a “proper paella.” Arguably the best-known dish in Spanish cuisine, paella is named for the traditional cookware the dish is prepared in: a large, wide, round, shallow pan with slanting sides. Find paella pans at Stock Culinary Goods in Providence; Wickford Appliance in Cranston, Cumberland, Middletown, North Kingstown, Pawtucket, and Westerly; and similar pans at Peter Pots Pottery in West Kingston.

Fresh Picks

Paiva-Neves has a backyard garden where she keeps herbs and more at the ready. When she’s looking for seasonal inspiration, she heads to local farmers markets and farm stands, like Four Town Farm in Seekonk. “I’ll go two to three times a week, and instantly my mind will be changed because I’ll see what’s in season.” Visit FarmFreshRI. org to find a farmers market near you.

Close to Home

While much of Paiva-Neves’ cookware and serving platters come from Portugal, she enjoys visits to Portugalia Marketplace in Fall River for new pieces.

“A one-pan meal is always a crowd pleaser,” says Paiva-Neves of this paella topped with grilled lobster that serves 12

P hotos courtesy of Natalia Paiva-Neves

Discover a wellspring of debuts, new work from favorites, and upcoming author events

By Robin Kall

Rhody Reads T

he lovely month of May has arrived and it’s not just the buds that are in bloom! Spring books are appearing in all their glorious splendor. As a #bookfluencer, sharing the books I’m excited about is almost as much fun as reading them. This roundup includes something for everyone, from novels and debuts to young adult, memoir, and non-fiction.

I tore through an early copy of Ann Hood’s latest novel, The Stolen Child , last summer and the story has stayed with me. Available on May 7, this un-put-downable novel is set in 1970s Rhode Island and France during World War I. An unlikely duo of cantankerous Nick and college dropout Jenny set out on a journey that takes them to France and Italy to solve a haunting mystery before Nick is out of time.

If You Can’t Take the Heat is the first YA novel by Hood’s husband Michael Ruhlman, a James Beard-award winning author. Available June 18, this coming-of-age story set in 1980s Cleveland is about high school football star Theo Claverback, who finds himself sidelined after a broken leg, quickly followed by a broken heart. Forced to pivot after his college plans are thwarted, Theo finds himself as a prep cook in an upscale French restaurant.

Just in time for the luscious summer reads we dream about all year is Pink Whales (June 4). Debut novelist and RI resident Sara Shukla has written a touching and fun zinger of a book. Charlie is already feeling disconnected when she and her family relocate to a coastal New England town; enter the power moms, mix in adult beverages, and settle in for a story that takes a sharp turn when you least expect it.

Adrienne Brodeur’s novel Little Monsters was one of my favorite summer ‘23 books, and I’m thrilled to share it again as it becomes available in paperback May 7. This story has memorable characters, dysfunctional family dynamics, a gorgeous Cape Cod setting, and mysterious happenings. Ken and Abby Gardner’s mother died when they were young and they were raised by their father, the brilliant oceanographer, Adam. The siblings’ relationship continues to unfold as adults and the complications become more apparent. If you haven’t read Brodeur’s memoir, Wild Game , add it to your list.

Another debut out now is The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time . In her memoir, Jane Bertch shares the story of how she went from an American banker transferred to Paris – with a lingering grudge against the city from a graduation trip 10 years earlier – to embracing the “City of Light” and deciding to open the cooking school, La Cuisine Paris. I had the pleasure of taking a pastry class last May and I can still smell the butter!

When Women Ran Fifth Avenue: Glamour and Power at the Dawn of American Fashion by Julie Satow hits the shelves on June 4. The journalist/author expertly weaves together the stories of three dynamic trailblazers instrumental in directing the course of the department stores we came to know and love (and now miss): Hortense Odlum of Bonwit Teller, Dorothy Shaver of Lord & Taylor, and Geraldine Stutz of Henri Bendel.

ABOUT ROBIN KALL

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

READING WITH ROBIN EVENTS

Join Kall for lively conversations with authors, some of whom have books in this list. Ticket price generally includes one autographed/personalized copy of the author’s latest title and light bites and sips, with occasional suggested fun prompts (wear fuschia to the Hilderbrand event).

May 2: Books and Blooms with Ann Napolitano at Wicked Tulips Flower Farm, Johnston

May 4: Author Talk* with Ann Hood & Sally Hepworth at Providence Public Library

June 10: Author Talk with Elin Hilderbrand at The Savory Grape, East Greenwich

June 11: 10th Annual Summer With Robin: Program includes signings with Essie Chambers, New York Times bestseller Lisa Wingate, and Julie Satow, at Warwick Country Club.

July 11: Author Talk* with Liv Constantine at Jamestown Art Center

Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases

For more information and registration, visit RobinKall.com/events-interviews

*RWR x Curiosity Store

Patterns of Behavior

Providence-based writer/photographer on latest book about the beauty of Portugal –plus personal picks for experiencing the vibrant culture at home and abroad

By Christine Chitnis

While writing my book, Patterns of Portugal , I embarked on a three-year journey, traversing the diverse landscapes of Portugal to research the ways in which color and pattern intricately weave into the country’s culture, history, architecture, and traditions. As a photographer, I was drawn to the unique palette and intrigued by how the same hues seem to echo throughout the country. The blue-and-white azulejos (tiles) are reflected in the sunbaked beaches and enchanting blue water of the Atlantic coast. The fuchsia and gold of bougainvillea in bloom are mirrored, though timeworn and softened, in the colorfully painted facades of pastel homes. It is my hope that every image in the book will invite readers to delve deeper into Portugal’s spirit and beauty.

QUINTESSENTIAL DESTINATIONS

My recommendation is to venture into the Alentejo region. Here, the essence of Portugal’s allure unfolds seamlessly, blending history with warm hospitality. The landscape shimmers with golden light that dances off olive groves and gnarled, ancient cork trees. The region, though arid, is fertile, renowned for its wine, olive oil, cork, wheat, and heritage livestock breeds, and Roman and Moorish ruins lie scattered throughout the bucolic countryside. Exploring the Alentejo is a journey through time and craftsmanship. It is easy to drive from one picturesque town to another, discovering hidden gems like tiny olarias (pottery studios), centuries-old textile mills, and enchanting villages steeped in the legacy of traditional Portuguese crafts. Évora stands as a

Hand-painted terra cotta at a pottery workshop in São Pedro do Corval

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Photo by Luisa Bravo, courtesy of Christine Chitnis

Christine Chitnis at her book release party in Lisbon

Michael Lancia

PITCHER

WATERCOLOR TILE PRINT BMonte

“FISHY” PILLOW/FABRIC

ORI CORK BOWL BentandBree.com, Seekonk

“I lo v e this cork bowl, which feels very Portuguese”

Photos courtesy of Christine Chitnis

SEA SALT & ORANGE SOAP Portugalia, Fall River

Designs, Etsy

Oliveira Textiles, Bristol

Portugalia, Fall River

“Casa Cubista is my favorite ceramic brand”

testament to history, housing treasures like the Chapel of the Bones, Évora Cathedral, and remnants of ancient Roman and Moorish civilizations. Nearby, the town of Arraiolos unfolds its rich tapestry of hand-embroidered rugs dating back to the 16th century, while Monsaraz enchants with its medieval hilltop allure. Corval emerges as a vibrant pottery hub, embodying the artistry and heritage of Portuguese ceramics.

SHOULDER SEASON

The warm reception from the people I met shaped my travels. Hospitality seems steeped into the very core of what it means to be Portuguese, adding an extra layer of warmth to every experience. If you are planning your visit, be aware of the high travel times. Late May through early September tend to be the high season in terms of tourism and prices reflect the demand. I love going in the shoulder seasons: late April, early May, and end of September through October. The weather is still beautiful, Mediterranean feeling, and especially in the Alentejo region, you’ll feel as though you have the place to yourself.

TASTES OF PORTUGAL

If a trip to Portugal isn’t feasible, you can still immerse yourself in the Portuguese spirit closer to home. Aguardente in Providence is a favorite of our family. Known for its creative Portuguese fusion flavors, the patio on a warm summer evening feels like a little slice of Lisbon. Portugalia Marketplace in Fall River, MA offers a treasure trove of ingredients and specialties, and they have been the most generous supporters of my book. Their wine selection alone is worth the drive, and you can find my absolute favorite cheery striped ceramic line there, Casa Cubista. O Dinis in East Providence ensures a taste of tradition in every bite. If you can find a seat on a Monday night, you are in for a real treat. Their Music Mondays feature mainly traditional Portuguese singers and musicians who play a variety of “musica popular” and Fado music.

Follow along @christine.chitnis or visit ChristineChitnis.com

Photos courtesy of Christine Chitnis

Every transformation begins with a single act. And when it comes to saving energy, money and the

Let’s make waves.

Meet Laura Afonso & Sascha Roberts

How two Providence pals turned a shared love of small biz and content creation into sweet success

By Elyse Major

How did Honey Buns Social come to be?

Laura Afonso: We worked on a couple of freelance projects together, and it just clicked – so why not do this for real? We started getting inquiries before we even officially launched, and it felt like we were making the right call.

Sascha Roberts: We met a long time ago and we’ve always been in touch. Over COVID her hubby Justin sold us our dream house, and started our new closer friendship. I’ve always been a huge fan of Buns and Bites.

Your company offers content creation, social media management, and photography. Who does what?

Roberts: We do a bit of everything. I think my strength is enthusiasm for this work, and Laura is the queen of reels! Our photographer Jesse Dufault has quickly become our go-to: his style and personality fit really seamlessly with our aesthetic, and most importantly, he always makes our unhinged ideas a reality. We’re so lucky to work with other talented creatives like Devin Zuba, and Bunny, our Sony a7 IV. Social media has become a full-time job and most business owners do not have time to do everything, and we have the ability to deliver high-quality content that they feel confident posting. Usually if we are shooting at a restaurant, by the end we, the owner, and the staff are sitting at the table talking and enjoying the dishes we shot and just having a great time!

When it’s time to unplug, what do the Honeys like to do most?

Afonso: As a major Rhode Island fan girl, I love just hopping around the state eating, drinking, and shopping – spending a weekend afternoon on Hope Street at J Marcel, downtown at Bobbles and Lace, and getting snacks and coffee in between. My husband and I also make it a weekend activity to drive somewhere “far” for coffee that is outside of our normal caffeine hangouts, for an excuse to get out and about. For sweets, head to Pawtucket for the famous pastel de nata at Matos Bakery.

Roberts: We both love going out, but my fave activity is going on adventures and hopping on a flight to some new city. I love to shop. Find me stopping by NAVA on Wickenden Street for a new outfit or Stock Culinary Goods on Hope Street for some cutesy kitchenware.

What is the perfect night out for the Honey Buns?

Roberts: When we have a night out together, all bets are off! We love a little cocktail and snack in PVD; The Eddy, Gift Horse, and Tiny Bar are some of our go-tos. It probably comes as no surprise that we spend our off-hours in restaurants, too. We both love a good glass of wine, or an espresso martini.

Photo by Jesse Dufault, courtesy of Honey Buns Social

Mrs. Robinson

Fine Lingerie

We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. Email or tag us on social media using #RhodyGem to suggest yours, and we might just feature it!

What it is:

An upscale women’s lingerie shop featuring bra-fitting services.

Where

to find it:

On the section of Wayland Avenue between Medway and Waterman Streets, look for the green awning. Mrs. Robinson’s is sandwiched between Feed the Cheeks and Milan Clothiers.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

For decades, Wayland Square has been a destination for specialty shopping, and a mainstay in that classic mix is Mrs. Robinson. Since purchasing the women-owned business named for the Simon & Garfunkel tune in the 1980s, Melanie Elman has continued to ofer pajamas, nightgowns, and more, along with bra fitting, no appointment necessary. The boutique carries both European and domestic brands and is an exclusive local provider for some of the best names in the industry. Getting married or know someone who is? Mrs. Robinson has a unique selection of peignoir sets and bridal accessories. Spring lines include slip dress chemises and colorful robes. Whether you’re coming in for your first bra or a longtime wearer tired of grabbing ill-fitting models of the rack at big box stores, Elman’s mission is to make you feel confident, comfortable, and experience the luxury of shopping for fine lingerie. “Thank you to our generations of customers. We love being a part of your lives,” says Elman. “And, to anyone who hasn’t been in yet, we can’t wait to meet you soon!”

Mrs. Robinson

180 Wayland Avenue, Providence

ShopMrsRobinson.com

@mrsrobinsonfinelingerie

Facebook: Mrs. Robinson Fine Lingerie

Photo courtesy of Thea’s

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FEATURE

It Takes a Village

Food businesses, from makers to restaurateurs, find their stride with support from a Wakefield commissary kitchen

By Ruthie Wood

There’s an umbrella term for those who bond over the discovery of a good meal: “foodie.” These days, everyone seems to be a foodie –and many would-be chefs and restaurateurs have a culinary concept or recipe they want to share with the world. But to cut their teeth in an industry saturated with new and innovative dining, food makers must not only be the best of the best at what they do, but also need to acutely know the taste buds of their hungry market.

That’s where Town Made comes in. Lowering the risk that comes with taking a chance on an idea, the commissary kitchen in South County enables aspiring food-makers to start small, providing resources, support, and, most importantly, commercial kitchen space for rent. “For a lot of makers, this is a project that they’re turning into a dream, which they want to turn into a business,” says Rachael LaPorte, food and beverage director of Town Made.

Photo courtesy of Town Made

FEATURE

Under RI law, members are required to obtain their Food Safety Manager Certification to work out of Town Made, and once they do, they can take advantage of two industrial spaces: the Main Street Kitchen, the larger of the two spaces, which is geared toward baking needs with a 35-quart mixer, freezer, proof box, grill, fryer, ten-burner stove, and two convection ovens; and the Columbia Street Kitchen, with a smaller footprint, is made for food production and designed with efficiency in mind. The spaces are open 24/7 for makers to operate whenever they have the time, and with many entrepreneurs juggling multiple priorities – between day jobs and families – flexibility is critical.

But what makes Town Made unique compared to similar spaces and services available, LaPorte explains, “is that we have our retail space connected to the building.” Makers can use this “front of house” aspect as their “testing ground,” says LaPorte. “It’s where they can really test their products, get a feel for their market, and generate some type of buzz.” Renting a full-service kitchen space combined with the bonus of marketing and sales support creates a safety net for burgeoning entrepreneurs, along with the opportunity to collect community feedback. This lets makers be slow and methodical in perfecting their recipes and firming up business plans.

Brenda Horvath of Brenny’s Tropical Bake Shop

William Fritz of W’s Mobile Wood Fired Pizza Oven

Photos courtesy of (bottom) W’s Mobile Wood Fired Pizza, (top) Town Made

Fritz uses Town Made as a prep station for his mobile pizza business

Since opening just under two years ago, Town Made already has a host of success stories. Gansett Craft Chocolate now sells their retail products at Greenline Apothecary and other stores and markets; La Belle Peche Coffee Roasters is opening a brick-and-mortar space in Cranston; and 401 Sauce Company distributes their condiments in locations across the state. Currently, 22 members rent out the space, some of whom are in the initial trial stages, while others fully operate their businesses from the Town Made “home base.”

Space is what William Fritz, owner of W’s Mobile Wood Fired Pizza Oven, needs. The Johnson & Wales graduate opened his business four years ago during the height of the pandemic, and he operates out of a trailer equipped with a wood-fired oven. “We go there [to Town Made] to make our own dough. We proof it, we ball it all, and we also cook our sausage, our steak; we slice a lot of our vegetables – onions, peppers, mushrooms – it’s just really a nice prep area.” He currently uses the space once a week,

but as the busy season approaches with farmers markets, brewery pop-ups, and private outdoor events on his schedule, he will spend two or three days a week at Town Made preparing the components for his gourmet pizzas. Fritz offers 15-20 signature pies, but customer favorites are his chicken, bacon, and ranch pizza, and his fig, arugula, goat cheese, and honey combo.

Brenda Horvath, on the other hand, uses the Town Made community and business support to help navigate the trials of entrepreneurship. Under the moniker Brenny’s Tropical Bake Shop, her specialties are frozen custard treats with graham cracker crusts and finished with dipped white chocolate shells. A third-generation baker, Horvath has made pastries her entire life, from baking wedding cakes for wineries in Napa, California to key lime pies for Blue Heaven Restaurant in Key West, Florida. When she moved back to Rhode Island, she says, “I wanted to bring a taste of the Keys back with me,” and introduced her key lime popsicle to Matunuck Oyster Bar – still her

TALK OF THE TOWN

The following plucky entrepreneurs operating out of Town Made are at various stages of their foodie business dreams. To learn more about each, find them on social media, and follow @townmadekitchens. Visit the retail space at 203 Main Street, Wakefield, and online at TownMade.com.

401 SAUCE COMPANY

BACK RHODE FLOWER FARM

BEACH TOWN BEVERAGE COMPANY

BEE’S SWEETS

BRENNY’S TROPICAL BAKE SHOP

EAST LANDING RI

FIG & FROMAGE CHARCUTERIE

GANSETT CRAFT CHOCOLATE

HANNA LANGE’S SPREADS

IRON ROSE COTTAGE

JOVIAL FOODS

LITTLE FIRE NOMAGE

OCEAN STATE JUICE

ORGANIC WORLD FARM

RHODY RAW BAR

RHODY WILD SEA GARDENS

SAUNDERSTOWN

GARLIC FARM

SEA AND SMOKE CATERING

TOIL AND BOIL

W’S MOBILE WOOD FIRED PIZZA OVEN

WILD DOGS

Photo courtesy of Town Made

Friday 5/3 7:30-10:00pm

SEAN CHAMBERS & THE SAVOY BROWN RHYTHM SECTION

Friday 5/4 7:30-10:00pm

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN TRIBUTE SAINTS IN THE CITY

Friday 5/10 7:30-9:30pm

BEN POLOM & FRIENDS KIM ARUNDEL, ROBBIE CAVACO & MORE

Saturday 5/11 7:30-10:00pm

VAN MORRISON - MOONDANCE

Friday 5/17 7:30-10:00pm

JONI MITCHELL - THE JONI PROJECT

Saturday 5/18 7:00-10:00pm

BEACH BOYS - THE DRIFTWOODS

Saturday 5/25 7:30-10:00pm

TRAILER PARK GIRLS - DRAG SHOW

Friday 5/31 7:30-2:00am

DAVID HULL & THE DIRTY ANGELS

Saturday 6/1 8:00-11:00pm

KISS FOREVER - KISS, POISON & BLACK SABBATH

3481 Kingstown Road, West Kingston 401-782-1018 • CourthouseArts.org

501C3 non profit providing free children’s programs in

top buyer – while she waited tables there.

food economy and community,” LaPorte says.

Horvath has been making the popsicles for 10 years and joined Town Made last year to learn how to launch and market her product. “They’ve been right there for me,” she notes, giving the examples of Town Made helping her with the Department of Health paperwork and creating her business card and logo. “It’s really a learning experience, and it’s been great. It’s never too late in your life to try something new,” she asserts. With Town Made by her side, Horvath is ramping up production and packaging and hopes to expand her business. She has set her eyes on Westerly – specifically the Watch Hill area (“I’d love to get one of my popsicles into Taylor Swift’s hands!”) – along with selling at Fisherman’s Memorial Park Farmers Market in Narragansett, and even making her popsicles for private events, like weddings.

The Town Made vision of community supporting community stems from founders Ken and Christina Procaccianti, owners of Greenline Apothecary. The kitchen is located in their original Wakefield pharmacy. They kept the space after relocating in the same town, and turned the space into a co-op kitchen. “They have a love of local food and for wanting to support our local

Town Made teamed up with the USDA to create the A.C.T.I.O.N. Scholarship, a grant that supports local food producers by covering portions of commercial kitchen time and membership if they are committed to using local produce. It’s a way to not only support the local food and farming communities, but also a way “to close our food loop and the amount of miles we put on our local food,” says LaPorte.

James English runs two businesses at Town Made: Toil and Boil and Sea and Smoke Catering – the latter was a recipient of the scholarship. Catering for private events, Sea and Smoke is “a fusion of barbeque and New England cuisine,” English explains. He offers an array of food from Texas-style brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs to a “shellfish feast cooked over the coals.” His open-fire cooking concept uses all locally sourced ingredients – vegetables and meat – and “the seafood is coming right off Point Judith or New Bedford.”

As the success of Town Made and its makers grows, more opportunities will arise for Rhode Islanders to choose local businesses, eat farm-grown food, and maybe even follow their own foodie dream.

James English’s Sea and Smoke Catering

Photo courtesy of Sea and Smoke Catering

Raise a Glass

Wakefield’s legacy liquor store is ready to assist with recs for the home cook, host, or guest

By Abbie Lahmers

What may seem like your standard liquor store on the outside, inside Wakefield Liquors is a staff of wine enthusiasts and hosting gurus ready to match customers with the perfect bottle for their entertaining needs, from new-release liquors to elevated lowABV or non-alcoholic sips. The family-owned shop is customer-service oriented and puts care into curating the products they stock, with their clientele in mind.

Wakefield Liquors also has staying power. “In 1952 the Costanza family built what is known as the Dale Carlia Shopping Center. They owned the Community Oil Service for many years. After retiring in 1967, Edward and Mollie Costanza opened Wakefield Liquors. It grew quickly and in 1993, the business was passed on to their daughter, Jane Costanza,” explains store manager Jeff Baran. Since then, they’ve only grown, expanding their selection of beer, wine, and liquor and attracting more customers. “The footprint of the store changed and Wakefield Liquors presently fills the whole of what once was a four-store, mid-century modern building.”

Photography by Nick DelGiudice

With the unofficial start to summer on the horizon, Baran says, “We look forward to giving recommendations for meal pairings and party planning, especially as we get into the warmer months.” He explains that this time of year is when a lot of exciting new releases are hitting the shelves, and anticipates the continued popularity of tequilas and mezcals for summer sipping, along with new cans from local craft breweries like Shaidzon and Grey Sail. When it comes to outdoor gatherings, Baran says, “We love the simplicity of readyto-drink canned cocktails.”

For toasting moms on Mother’s Day, Baran

suggests “something pink.” “From the Languedoc region in southern France, Gerard Bertrand’s Cote des Roses is a delicious dry rosé made from Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault grapes,” he explains. “It offers harmonious notes of fresh strawberries and watermelon with crisp acidity on the finish – and there is a rose etched into the bottom of the bottle.”

Wakefield Liquors enjoys giving patrons a taste of the world in their wine selection, especially France, Italy, and Portugal. “One of our new favorites is Famille Perrin Les Cornuds from the Vinsobres appellation of the Southern Rhone Valley in France. It is a blend

of Syrah and Grenache that carries notes of blackberries, violets, and herbal spice,” recommends Baran. “It would pair great with a simple burger on the grill or a backyard firepit on a cool evening.”

No matter the occasion you’re raising a glass to this season, Wakefield Liquors likely has something bubbly or smooth, sweet or dry – and at any price point – to make it extra special. Says Baran, “What once was a local, neighborhood package store has become destination shopping for the wine, artisanal liquor, and microbrew lover in the state.” 667 Kingstown Road, WakefieldLiquors.com

Store manager Jeff Baran helms the wine-savvy staff

Photography by Nick DelGiudice

Coastal Gets Continental

A gastronomic tour of Narragansett’s highly anticipated new seaside restaurant

By Andrea E. McHugh

Celeste wears the crown of being Narragansett’s most anticipated restaurant opening this spring. Fortunately, eager diners didn’t have to wait too long for Newport Restaurant Group to elegantly reinvent the space formerly home to Trio Kitchen + Bar, trading its upscale tavern concept for a “coastal European” approach to both design and dishes.

As in the past, dining is spread out across multiple spaces, with the substantial rectangular bar anchoring the interior and an open kitchen lending a peek at the energetic pace behind the line – but that’s where any hint of the past concept stops. Light and airy, Celeste’s interior seamlessly blends into its seaside environs, with natural light pouring through ample windows, Mediterranean-inspired tilework, shiplapped walls, natural textures like woven rattan chandeliers, and wallpaper with a nod to Botticelli’s famed “Birth of Venus” painting featuring the

goddess perched atop a scallop shell (more than a handful of friends who’ve already visited commented about that fabulous wallpaper).

This time of year, the eager anticipation for the opening of the completely reconfigured patio and outdoor bar with water views is palpable. The outdoor space extends the main bar’s Mediterranean vibes, only with the salty air drifting throughout. With the diversity of dining nooks all under one roof that also includes cozy banquettes and casual hightops, Celeste is perfect for everything from date night or GNO (girls night out, to the uninitiated) to a family outing. Speaking of, kudos to ownership for offering a multi-course kids menu that includes the expected – cheese pizza, crispy chicken strips, penne pasta, a cheeseburger, and grilled chicken – but also, pan-roasted cod, plus a hummus and carrots starter, dessert and drink.

Under the command of executive chef Andrew Gould, the menu inspiration straddles the

Must-Try Items

SPICY CUCUMBER AND CARROT ( $8 ) Peri peri sauce, almonds, radish, and chervil

COUSCOUS AVEC FRUIT

DE MER ( $32 ) Clams, mussels, cod, calamari, fregola, and tomato fennel broth

Atmosphere:

Breezy seaside eatery

Cuisine:

Coastal European with international and local nods

P hotos by Erin McGinn, courtesy of Celeste

Inside new restaurant, Celeste, in Narragansett

intersection of coastal European delights and Rhode Island culinary trademarks. Raw bar aficionados won’t be disappointed as they’ll find both local oysters and wild Rhode Island clams here, as well as a Sicilian-style tuna crudo with capers, Castelvetrano olives, and anchovy, as well as Jonah crab with Calabrian chili vinaigrette.

Nearly a dozen shared plates encourage diners to create a veritable customized smörgåsbord of international flavors and textures. The Moules Mariniere in a white wine and mustard-shallot broth is a take on the classic coastal French favorite, the Saffron Arancini with melty Grana Padano served atop a swath of almond romesco sauce is a nod to both Italy and Spain (the sauce), and both the Whipped Feta and Lamb Meatballs bring Mediterranean flavors to the conversation.

The dark horse on the shared plates menu

is easily the Spicy Cucumber and Carrot dish, which includes radish, served with a light sprinkle of almonds and chervil (an herb best described as parsley-meets-tarragon). While heartier dishes like the Calamari Fritto Misto might be attention grabbers, this artfully presented light veggie dish perched in a peri peri sauce is not only a light, fresh, palate cleanser, it’s interesting and insanely Instagrammable with its bold pink, green and orange hues.

In a town where the population swells by the thousands in the summer months, Celeste is tasked with balancing that well-known space of being a stalwart for locals but also offering a diverse menu for vacationers and seasonal residents alike. While the menu could stand alone without a pizza menu offering more than half a dozen varieties, it’s a bonus that it’s there.

Executive chef Andrew Gould

Couscous Avec Fruit de Mer

P hotos by Erin McGinn, courtesy of Celeste

On my visit, the Margherita, Spicy Calabrese, and the Fig and Prosciutto all jockeyed for attention, but Gould recommended the Potato and Rosemary Pie with Narragansett Creamery mozzarella, mascarpone, preserved lemon, roasted onion, Grana Padano, and chives, and one bite proved he didn’t steer me wrong.

For lighter fare, the menu also has an impressive lineup of sandwiches, salads, and soup, but main dishes here are showstoppers. It shines a spotlight on seafood with dishes like Romesco Cod with

crispy potatoes, roasted garlicky broccolini, and almond peri peri sauce; Couscous Avec Fruit de Mer with clams, mussels, cod, calamari, fregola, and tomato fennel broth; and a Whole Roasted Fish. But there’s nearly the same amount of selection for landlubbers, including Chicken Milanese, Pasta Genovese, and a burger with beef from Rhode Island’s own Blackbird Farms.

Lastly, don’t skip on the Berry Clafoutis, a French country classic that’s both subtly sweet and delicate. Celeste’s version is made with lemon

curd and fresh berries and is worth saving room for as your dining experience’s grand finale.

A substantial restaurant with 156 seats indoors and 64 seats on the expanded patio and new outdoor bar, Celeste is open for dinner Monday through Friday but also serves lunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Celeste

15 Kingstown Road, Narragansett 792-4333 • CelesteRI.com P hotos by Erin

McGinn, courtesy of Celeste

A selection of Celeste dishes, including (center) the Spicy Cucumber and Carrot

Fiesta in a Bowl

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a Mexican-inspired shrimp and rice dish

By Jen Tanner

This colorful Mexican-inspired dish takes you on a flavorful journey of herbs and spices for Cinco de Mayo and beyond. The smoky heat of chili powder, earthy tones of cumin, and the fresh zing of cilantro bring vibrant aromatics to the mouthwatering shrimp and rice. Get ready to turn up the heat with this shrimp dish that’s equal parts festive and healthy.

Jen Tanner is the co-founder of Fern Farm, a microgreens farm and delivery service based in Warwick. Learn more at FernFarm.net.

CELEBRATE LOCAL

Make your Cinco de Mayo reservations early at authentic Mexican restaurants in South County.

AMIGOS TAQUERIA Y TEQUILA, Westerly

EL TAPATIO MEXICAN RESTAURANT, North Kingstown

MAIZ, Wakefield

SURF CANTINA, Westerly

SHOP SPICES

For seasonings with a kick, try these local brands and shops:

BACK TO BASICS NATURAL FOODS, East Greenwich

HERBWISE NATURALS, Westerly

PEPPER JUNCTION, Richmond

OCEAN STATE PEPPER CO.

Mexican-Inspired Shrimp and Rice

SHRIMP

• 2 lbs shrimp peeled and deveined

• 3 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 Tbsp cumin

• 1 Tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced

• 1 lime

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped, plus additional for serving

YELLOW RICE

• 6 Tbsp butter

• 2 cups long-grain white rice

• 2 tsp fresh minced garlic

• 2 tsp dried minced onion

• 2 tsp ground turmeric

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 tsp salt

• Ground black pepper to taste

• 4 Tbsp fresh cilantro chopped

STEPS

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp and dry spices together. Keep in refrigerator for at least 1 hour to marinate.

2. Once shrimp is finished marinating, begin preparing the rice. Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir until it begins to slightly brown. Add garlic, onion powder, and turmeric and stir.

3. Slowly stir in chicken broth and raise heat to medium high. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mix to a boil, and then turn the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.

4. In a separate large skillet, add the marinated shrimp, red pepper, and jalapeño and saute on medium high heat just until the shrimp is pink and fully cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Squeeze juice from half of the lime over shrimp mixture. Toss with cilantro.

6. When the rice is ready, remove from heat, add cilantro, and fluff with a fork.

7. Serve the shrimp on top of yellow rice. Garnish with lime slices and cilantro, and enjoy!

Photo by Jen Tanner

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

All Favorites Cafe

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

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

Casa Azul

890 Allens Ave, PVD | 401-414-7799

CasaAzulri.com |

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

CAV Restaurant

14 Imperial Place, Providence | 401 751-9164

CavRestaurant.com |

Bistro style Brunch and Lunch. Fine Dining Dinner.

Chelo’s

8 locations across RI!

Chelos.com |

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

The Coast Guard House Restaurant

40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett | 401-789-0700

thecoastguardhouse.com |

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

Dave’s Fresh Marketplace

Ten Locations throughout Rhode Island 401-558-0190 |

davesmarketplace.com/WeeklySpecials

Made fresh daily in our kitchens - 60+

Take Out Options!

MainStreet Cofee

137 Main Street, East Greenwich

401-885-8787 |

MainStreet-Cofee.com

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

Marcelino’s Boutique Bar

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

marcelinosboutiquebar.com |

Craft cocktail bar serving Mid-Terranean

Fusion Mezze and World-Class Craft Cocktails | #ItsMarcelinos

Twin Willows

865 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett

401-789-8153 | TwinWillowsRI.com |

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

Hometown Bar & Grille

Gone Fishin’

Chef Josh Berman doesn’t flounder when it comes to feeding the best bites to eager customers

By Ann Martini

Growing up in Elmira, New York, Josh Berman wasn’t your typical seven-year-old kid – he loved eating raw oysters. Suffice it to say his enthusiasm for food was established at a young age, and a career soon followed suit, beginning with earning a degree in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University, a stint cooking in Italy, and then, every chef’s dream – working the line at a Michelin-starred restaurant. It was there, at New York City’s Del Posto, that he met his wife, Nancy Martinez, also a talented chef.

After relocating permanently to Rhode Island and having two children, Berman worked at Restaurant Bouchard and the Revolving Door in Newport, and Gracie’s in Providence. But like so many in the hospitality industry, Berman had a change of perspective after COVID. “I learned that I

liked cooking in peoples’ homes, in a more intimate and personal setting,” he says. So, in 2020, Berman and Martinez started their own business – JB Cuisine Personal Chef Services, and then opened Little Fish, a food truck serving tacos, ceviche, spicy lobster rolls and other locally sourced handhelds.

Everything is made from scratch by the couple and their team, right down to the salsa verde and the tortillas, with an emphasis on sustainability. “I focus on fish that aren’t meeting their quotas, such as scup, flounder, ocean perch, and yellowtail sole,” Berman says, listing varieties that aren’t overfished. Little Fish frequents farmers markets and other outdoor events, and you’ll often find Berman there perusing the farm-fresh ingredients, finding recipe inspiration at every turn.

When not working the food truck circuit,

Little Fish has popped up at breweries like Tilted Barn in Exeter, and JB Cuisine’s catering range includes South County. Follow @littlefishri on Instagram or Facebook for weekly schedules, and book JB Cuisine for your event by visiting JBCuisine.com

Photos courtesy of Josh Berman

Chef-couple Josh Berman and Nancy Martinez

Jamestown - Commercial

14 Narragansett Avenue ~ $1,875,000. This commercial property in the village ofers versatility to bring your dreams into reality! The building features a high-end commercial kitchen, outdoor patio, and bar area with a professional-grade pizza oven. Upstairs is a large room with Newport Bridge views, an outdoor seating deck, and a flexible room that could be o

Jamestown

53 Conanicus Avenue, Unit 6B ~ $2,675,000. Magnificent penthouse with unobstructed views of Narragansett Bay. This recently renovated village condo includes a formal dining room, a living room with a fireplace, and a covered porch. There is an additional room that could be an ofce, den, library or extra bedroom. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of events on the village green below. 2BD/2BA.

• Non-Surgical

• Post-Surgical

• Sports-Related

• Joint Replacements

• Joint Reconstructions

Picture yourself here.

46 HOLLEY STREET, WAKEFIELD 401-284-0770 • ANCHORPTRI.COM Rhode

2022

Berman is feeding customers in their homes, at intimate parties and events. On a recent warm summer night last season, for instance, JB Cuisine set up at a client’s home for an outdoor soiree. His website makes it easy for potential patrons to envision their event; you can choose from themes such as a Japanese izakaya-style menu of small plates, brunch spread, cocktail party, or the whole fish menu centered around the stuffed seasonal catch. “I love doing parties for 50-100 people,” says Berman. “It’s fun and fluid, and there’s an element of fine dining to it, but without the pretense and the sky-high prices.”

Berman loves cooking good, fresh food, and wants to make it more accessible. “I’ve worked in a lot of fine-dining restaurants, but I eventually got frustrated because my friends couldn’t afford to come and eat my food,” he

says. “Food is about community. You want to be able to give people great, fresh, local food at a price they can afford.” At home, Berman focuses on the same ideas. “I’ll get some beautiful stuff at the farmers market, and my whole focus is getting it on the grill with some protein.”

Berman and Martinez’s ventures are a huge hit with customers, and they were able to pay off their loan on the Little Fish food truck in a couple of years. Occasionally, Berman feels nostalgia for his restaurant days, cooking for hours alongside other chefs at a fierce pace. He left his most recent gig as chef de cuisine at Gracie’s on excellent terms and with much admiration for owner Ellen Gracyalny and her team. “Every once in a while I’ll go back for a guest stint in the kitchen,” he explains. “You know, just to make sure I’ve still got it.”

Little Fish’s seafood fare

Photos courtesy of Josh Berman

Food Trends: Mother’s Day Best Bets

Pamper the moms in your life with diner-style breakfast, authentic Indian fare, or water views

By Abbie Lahmers

Make lunch special with authentic Indian cuisine in EG

Patrons of Rasa often leave having discovered a new favorite food by ordering from the Chef’s Set Price Lunch Menu on weekdays, so it’s no surprise they pull out all the stops for occasions like Mother’s Day. Says owner Sanjiv Dhar, “our vision is rooted in creating an inviting and tranquil dining environment where every guest feels cherished.” Along with a focus on exceptional service, dishes emphasize fresh, healthy ingredients, which extends to their cocktail and mocktail program, “where we use house-infused ingredients to craft bever -

ages that are both refreshing and unique.”

Mother’s Day specials will be available throughout the weekend, with details and reservations going live closer to the date. “Last year, our guests were delighted by an exquisite grilled cauliflower appetizer, alongside a savory salmon special, a spring Vegetable Kofta, and a special dessert and cocktail,” shares Dhar. “This year, our chefs are back at the drawing board concocting new culinary delights to honor this special occasion.”

East Greenwich, RasaRestaurantRI.com

Cozy breakfast with the family in Westerly

If it’s classic diner-style breakfast that mom’s craving, look no further than The Pantry. Now under the ownership of Justin and Kristen Morgan, a pair passionate about creating an inviting and delicious experience, “The Pantry is a place where good people come to eat good food and have good times,” says Justin of the breakfast-allday community mainstay. “It’s a perfect place for families, and we want everyone to feel welcome, both locals and tourists alike!”

“Our house-made Corned Beef Hash is a top seller, along with our custom omelets, burgers, and other breakfast classics,” he says. There’s also the Spicy Italian or Sweet Potato hashes, which all come with two eggs, homefries, and toast. For sweeter fare, don’t miss out on the Banana Boat or Stuffed French Toast, filled with your choice of fresh berries, mascarpone, Nutella, and other decadent options. Mother’s Day choices are still in the works, but Justin assures, “We will absolutely be cooking up something special!” Westerly, ThePantryWesterly.com

Nothing says “treat yourself” quite like brunch and mimosas with a water view – and it’s the motherly figures in your life you’ll be treating come May 12 with a visit to Wickford on the Water. “It’s a relaxed vacation type of atmosphere here,” says owner John Brito. “We are known for great food, fun drinks, and service” – and on Mother’s Day, brunch takes the spotlight. Brito also owns JB on the Water in Jamestown, and both will be serving specials for the occasion.

Whether it’s caffeine or cocktails that fuel your morning of luxury, Brito explains that along with fresh fruit-puree mimosas, moms can choose from Nuts and Berries Iced Coffee or a Loaded Bloody Mary. For the main course, “Moms” Benedict is an open-face grilled English muffin topped with two poached eggs, pesto hollandaise, bruschetta tomatoes, and arugula with balsamic glaze drizzle. There will also be a Lobster Frittata and Monte Cristo Bake. Reservations are always encouraged, so book online early. WickfordOnTheWater.com

Mimosas and Mom’s Benedict with a view in Wickford P

hoto courtesy of Rasa

SOUTH COUNTY SCENES SOUTH COUNTY

A walk out to the North Light on Block Island is always worth the trip!

ABOUT LINDA @lll_images

Based in Westerly, I was born and raised in Newport. Photography has been a favorite hobby of mine since high school. I love to be outdoors, and over the past few years, I have developed an interest in photographing the natural beauty of our area.