Alicia grew up spending summers in Green Hill, giving her a lifelong connection to the Ocean State. Now based in Barrington, she brings that same coastal perspective to buyers and sellers across Rhode Island.
Whether you’re searching for a weekend getaway or a new place to put down roots, Alicia’s local knowledge and market insight can help you find your perfect home, wherever in Rhode Island it may be.
HERE ARE SOME OF MY RHODY MUST-DOS FOR SUMMER:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Lobster roll from Dune Brothers East Side of Providence
Farmer’s market on Blackstone Boulevard East Side of Providence
Picnic + live music on Blackstone Boulevard East Side of Providence
Clamcakes and chowder at Monahan’s Narragansett & Charlestown
Dusk cruise around Newport Harbor, then dinner Newport
Licensed in RI, MA, & CT 401.835.2605 areynolds@residentialproperties.com @aliciareynoldsrealtor
Prop Props
Cracking open RI’s role as the 1975 shark thriller turns 50 NEWS & CULTURE A3
A vet advises on common questions, adoptable pets, and more SPECIAL SECTION 19
Rhody Pets
Fashion Forecast
Local designers, makers, and buyers share what’s hot now COVER STORY
57 Create Calm Ideas re-setting during stressful times FEATURE
Photo courtesy of Lindquist
News & Culture
11 Block Island vendor market gets a creative refresh
16 RHODY GEM: Shop nautical in Narragansett
17 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style
A17 HOME: How a Newport couple makes the most of 700 square feet
A26 RHODY READS: Eight new page-turners from local lit-fluencer
A28 INFLUENCER: Meet the designer behind artful clutches made in Pawtucket
A30 WELLNESS: Tips for protecting your skin this summer
Food & Drink
65 EXPERIENCE: French classics served with style in Newport
72 IN THE KITCHEN: The West End’s IYKYK spot for speciality morning joe
76 ROUND-UP: Eight atmospheric cafes around the state
78 RECIPE: PVD cookbook author’s dessert showcases berry time
Hey Rhody Photos
80 A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram
Photo courtesy of Audette
Photo by Elyse Major
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books
CONTRIBUTORS
KEN ABRAMS
If you see longtime contributor and staff editor Ken Abrams out and about, wish him congratulations in his new role as managing editor. Abrams brings “Kenergy” to all he does, whether covering local music or theater, writing, or taking concert photos. Listen to his roots/ folk/rock radio show, The Kingston Coffeehouse , Tuesdays from 6-9 pm on WRIU 90.3FM.
POLINA CHESNAKOVA
In Food & Drink, Providence cookbook author Polina Chesnakova, shares a recipe that makes the most of berry season (page 78). Her forthcoming cookbook, Chesnok: Cooking from My Corner of the Diaspora: Recipes from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia , will be out in September 2025.
ASHLEY ERLING
The fashionable co-host of the new show Spotlight New England , Ashley Erling puts her interviewing skills to good use chatting with handbag designer Kent Stetson. Check out this month’s Influencer (page A28), and follow Erling on her many media adventures by downloading WPRI 12+ to your smart TV.
PATTY J
Stylish Cranston-based content creator Patty Jeffrey is a lifelong Rhode Islander who shares our mission of spotlighting the best of everything the state has to offer. If you enjoy a cafe’s unique atmosphere as much as its coffee and food offereings, you’re sure to enjoy her list of eight in “Savoring Rhody” on page 72.
Tahshayooôk & Neetôpáwak (Family & Friends) Days
July & August 2025
Families with children of all ages are invited to join us for Friends & Family Days—fun-filled days of art-making, exposure to traditional lifeways and fun! Museum members will enjoy exclusive in-person activities where materials are provided to encourage hands-on creativity and Pequot cultural learning opportunities.
For more information, visit pequotmuseum.org
PUBLISHERS
Barry Fain
Richard Fleischer John Howell
EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com
ADVERTISING DESIGN DIRECTOR Layheang Meas
Shelley Cavoli
GENERAL MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com
MANAGING EDITOR Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com
SENIOR DESIGNER Taylor Buttie
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Jenna Kaplan Jenna@HeyRhody.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
SENIOR EDITORIAL DESIGNER Abigail Brown
Central RI & New Business Shelley@HeyRhody.com
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich East Bay & MA Louann@HeyRhody.com
Ann Gallagher South County Ann@HeyRhody.com
Kristine Mangan Olf South County & Aquidneck Island Kristine@HeyRhody.com
Chris Revill Providence Chris@HeyRhody.com
Interested in advertising?
Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charity Burggraaf
Jean Carlson
Mike Cevoli
John Hasselbarth
Alex Joachim
Jaimee K. Photography
Karen Kalunian
Franklin Littlefield
Mark Lohman
Josiah Patterson
Danielle Putier
Erin X. Smithers
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexandra Ashe
James Baumgartner
Polina Chesnakova
Ashley Erling Patty Jeffrey
Robin Kall
Karen Kalunian Abbie Lahmers
Andrea E. McHugh Fifi O’Neill
Interested in writing?
Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com
INTERNS
Caitlyn Bailey
Interested in an internship? Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com
Distribution Services Special Delivery Subscribe Today! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou
On an island famous for its windswept bluffs, serene beaches, and effortless charm, one woman is quietly sparking a cultural revival. Meet Martha Andrew: metalsmith, owner of MarMar Boutique, vintage devotee, and now the vibrant force behind Empire Emporium, a summer pop-up-meets-gallery housed inside the historic Empire Theatre on Block Island.
Andrew’s connection to the island runs deep. “I was introduced to Block Island in seventh grade by a childhood friend,” she recalls. “Her family had purchased a home in the ’80s, and we would come romp around the island during school vacations and long weekends.” What began as a youthful getaway evolved into a lifelong love. She met her husband, married him on the island, and raised their children with days steeped in salt air and ferry horns. “My children have spent all of their summers on the island – starting as infants stowed under my checkout counter to now working behind my checkout counters,” says the entrepreneur.
Block Island | Lore | Rhody Gem | Calendar
Photo courtesy of Martha Andrew
That deep-seated connection fuels her latest venture. Empire Emporium launched in 2020, when Empire Theatre owner Gary Pollard converted the cinema into a retail space during the height of pandemic restrictions. “In a quick pivot, he removed the side wing aisles of chairs and filled shelves with the work of local artists and vintage clothing vendors,” Andrew says. The community responded with enthusiasm, and when Pollard looked for someone to take the reins, she seized the opportunity. “I’ll never not want to be on the island during the summer!”
The space – once a 19th-century roller skating rink – features tall ceilings, original woodwork, and a cool reprieve from the island sun. “It’s a sweet refuge,” she says. “Plus, it has the only stage on the island that’s not inside a bar.” Andrew plans to revive that stage with weekend open-mic nights and, eventually, live performances, bringing new life to a beloved local venue.
Inside the Emporium, Andrew curates goods from over 50 vendors across New England. “I’m trying to veer away from painted seashells and typical seaside motif crafts,” she says.
“With RISD students and alums in our backyard, why not aim for more design-conscious, updated elements?” Expect punch-needled denim jackets by Eloise Mahoney, gyotaku fish prints from Alexis Wheyway (aka The Spicy Monger), upcycled lobster trap bags, and gluten-free delights from Iron Crumble Cookie Company. “It’s going to be hard for me not to fill my closet with ‘new’ pieces!”
Of course, managing artists who ferry their goods to the island isn’t easy. “Coordinating over 50 different artists and vendors from all
One of the few remaining historic theaters in the US
Photo courtesy of Empire Emporium
over New England is a challenge to say the least,” she says. “I’m lucky to have anything on the shelves!”
Still, Andrew feels energized by the possibilities. “I’m hoping the Emporium becomes more of a creative destination rather than just a shopping venue,” she says. Her advice for others looking to start something meaningful in a small community? “If it feels good, you should,” she says, echoing a beloved saying from her grandmother that is now a guiding light for Empire Emporium.
Empire Emporium is a one-minute walk from Andrew’s MarMar Boutique
Crush It Like Gansett
Learn how the Providence brewery became part of Hollywood history
By Ken Abrams
“
Narragansett’s cameo in Jaws isn’t just a cool trivia fact – it’s a badge of honor,” says Narragansett Beer CEO Mark Hellendrung. “That can-crushing moment connected us with generations of movie lovers and beer drinkers. Fifty years later, we’re still proud to be part of the legacy of a film that changed cinema – and summer – forever. This celebration is our way of saying thanks. So, let’s crush some cans, swap some stories, and party like it’s 1975!” The brewery is hosting several events this season centered around reintroducing their limited-edition 1975 throwback can, featuring the same design seen in the film.
Long before product placement was routine in feature films, there it was – unintentionally – in Jaws . Moviegoers witnessed a vintage can of Narragansett Beer, crushed deliberately in one hand by the sea-hardened Captain Quint, played flawlessly by the English actor Robert Shaw.
The now-classic movie, filmed mainly on Martha’s Vineyard and released on the first day of summer in 1975, was a launching pad for director Steven Spielberg, and includes that unforgettable can-crushing scene.
Much local lore has emerged as to how the can ended up in Quint’s grip. According to Narragansett Beer’s vice president of sales, Jim Crooks, who heard stories from company sales veterans in the early 2000s, in an attempt to be as authentic as possible, a prop master on the film set sent crew members on a reconnaissance mission to discover what local fishermen were drinking. “And lucky for us, they found some guys drinking Narragansett, and that’s how they decided which beer to use,” says Crooks.
Their then-distributor, Colonial Liquors, sent over 10 cases for the movie, and according to legend, a few weeks later, they had to send out 10 more, allegedly because Shaw and crew had finished up the first batch. “There may be a little bit of embellishment to that story, but it could have been true; there were so many delays, because of the [mechanical] shark being
Listen to a conversation with Mark Hellendrung on Episode 20 of the Hey Rhody Podcast.
broken and that sort of stuff,” adds Crooks. Wherever the truth lies, the tale is what you might expect from the shark-obsessed captain of the ill-fated ship, who was at the center of one of the most memorable scenes in film history. Less remembered – a few 12-ounce ‘Gansett’s are seen in a riveting moment later in the film, when the boat tilts and beer cans begin rolling along the deck as Quint is being devoured by the shark.
BLOCKBUSTER GIVEAWAY
Summertime means the release of special Jaws -inspired cases with the 1975 retro cans inside, mimicking the famous can from Jaws This year, there are 100 specially marked retro cans out there, waiting for consumers. Find a stickered can to become a qualifier for the grand prize which includes a private Jaws tour on Martha’s Vineyard complete with ferry ride from Woods Hole, and a threenight stay in Edgartown. You’ll never be an islander, but you can feel like one for a few days. Learn more at NarragansettBeer.com
Ride the mechanical shark at Narragansett Beer
SHARK SIGHTINGS AROUND THE STATE
JULY 12: Jaws at 50: A Conversation with Wendy Benchley: The UNITED, in partnership with Living Sharks Museum and Mystic Aquarium present an evening of conversation with Wendy Benchley, a global voice for protecting sharks, on her work and the legacy of the film. A screening of the new documentary Jaws @ 50 follows. Westerly, UnitedTheatre.org
JULY 14-20: Narragansett Shark Week: The annual Jaws -centric fest includes a lookalike contest with prizes, movie marathon, a screening at dusk, a mechanical shark ride, and oyster roast with Aquidneck Oyster Company. Providence, NarragansettBeer.com
MOVIE SCREENINGS
July 21: Ocean Mist South Kingstown, OceanMist.net
July 30: Mews Tavern South Kingstown, MewsTavern.com
August 2: Misquamicut Drive-In Westerly, MBADriveIn.com
Narragansett Beer’s connection to Jaws has become part of the brewery’s legacy. First established in 1890, and later sold to a New York company, the company returned to brewing beer in Rhode Island when it was purchased by Mark Hellendrung in 2004. “At the time, there were around 1,000 craft breweries in the United States,” Crooks notes. “We were the second one in Rhode Island; now there are around 40, and over 10,000 in the US.” Each year they celebrate the movie with their signature Narragansett Shark Week. Held July 14-20, fans are sure to revel in a host of themed activities (see sidebar). Providence, NarragansettBeer.com
EXHIBIT SCHEDULE
Nauti Girl Boutique
Coastal goods, gifts, and apparel
What it is:
A store outfitted with everything for home, boat, or self – all anchored with nods to the nearby sea.
Where to find it:
Across from Narragansett Town Beach, Nauti Girl is located at the Pier Marketplace. Look for the hanging blue sign with a red anchor, or a mannequin out-front dressed in summer style.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Seaside vibes abound in this store owned by Sandra Metcalfe, who showcases her love for the ocean, boating, and “anything nautical,” via a vast array of merchandise. A longtime retailer who took a pause to raise her family, she opened Nauti Girl in 2023. Shoppers will find appealing organized displays of local jewelry, nautical-themed dog collars and accessories, and an extensive line of bar and dinnerware. “There is a little bit of something for everyone,” says Metcalfe, who also carries candles, fragrances, and great gifts, for boat, beach house, and home. “My absolute passion has always been putting together outfits as well as decorating and designing any space that needs that extra touch. I mainly source imported fair trade organic products, and take great pride in working with my customers.” Metcalfe carries Sea Bag products, and adds that jeans are her specialty, so don’t miss the back room for denim, branded apparel, and more.
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
P hoto by Elyse Major
The Must List
10 essential events this month
July 6-19: Savor two weeks of participating area restaurants featuring deals and specials for lunch and dinner, with some offering prix fixe menus, breakfast, signature cocktails, and more during Providence Restaurant Weeks . GoProvidence.com/rw
July 10: The Teeny Tiny Show features over 50 works that are three inches or less in size from current and former Collaborative member artists. The opening reception includes teeny tiny martinis and other refreshments. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org
July 12-13: Wickford Art Festival returns to Wilson Park for its 62nd year of a weekend filled with over 200 artists, crafters, and vendors from throughout the region working in a variety of mediums. No sales tax on fine art sales! Wickford, WickfordArt.org
For a statewide listing of events visit us online! HeyRhody.com
July 11: The FirstWorks Summer Beats Concerts return to Roger Williams Park with the William Cepeda & Elio Villafranca Sextet presenting Merging Roots, a vibrant exploration of shared African influences connecting Cuba, Puerto Rico, and New Orleans. FirstWorks.org
July 13-26: The Wilbury Theatre presents FRINGEPVD , featuring dozens of cutting-edge theatrical performances at venues around the city, including the Steel Yard, Teatro Ecas, Buttonwoods Brewery, and WaterFire Arts Center. Providence, FringePVD.org
July 17: Music on Main is the theme for this month’s stroll, where on third Thursdays, boutiques along East Greenwich’s Main Street plan special shopping experiences. Look for deals, snacks and sips, and music! EastGreenwichChamber.com
July 19-20: Gardening with the Masters is your opportunity to explore 20 private and public gardens at the University of Rhode Island while learning about environmentally friendly practices, including composting, drip irrigation. Kingston, Web.URI.Edu
July 19-20: Grab a map and plot your course on this self-guided Open Studio Tour of Little Compton and Tiverton, and Dartmouth and Westport, MA. Enjoy peeks at studios and chat with artists of various mediums. Repeats August 16-17. SouthCoastArtists.org
July 24-26: The Blessing of the Fleet Celebration is a three-day fete, boasting attendance of over 30,000 people, with live music, a beer tent, games, rides, a 10-mile road race, a boat decoration contest, and, of course, the blessing. NarragansettLionsClub.org
July 25-27: The historic Newport Folk Festival returns to Fort Adams State Park with an A-list of stars, including Kenny Loggins, Lucius, Luke Combs, and Maren Morris, along with local artists Tyler James Kelly and Nova One. Newport, NewportFolk.org
Photo by
RHODY PETS
Care | Adopt | Ask a Vet
New Leash on Life
A chance dog-sitting gig inspires a career pivot for a Rumford photographer
By Alexandra Ashe
For years, Rhode Island native Diana Pozzi spent her days behind the lens, capturing weddings, portraits, and life’s most intimate moments as a full-time photographer. But over time, the magic started to fade out of focus. Feeling burnt out and creatively drained, she knew she needed a change, something that would reignite the spark she once felt every time she picked up a camera.
RHODY RESOURCES
Places around the state that provide a range of pet care services.
LUCKY PAWS RI
Newport | LuckyPawsRI.com
PONGO’S PALS PET SERVICES
North Kingstown | PongosPals.com
RUFFIN’ WRANGLERS
Providence | RuffinWranglers.com
TAILS N’ TRAILS
Newport | TailsNTrailsPets.com
In February 2018, a neighbor asked Pozzi to watch their dogs for a long weekend. What started as a casual favor quickly became a turning point. “I absolutely loved it,” says Pozzi of spending time with the furry friends. “I needed a part-time job while I figured out my next move, and after that weekend, my then-boyfriend (now husband) said, ‘you’ve always wanted to open a doggie daycare. How about you do something with dogs?’”
Pozzi took the suggestion to heart and hit the ground running. Within weeks, she built a website, consulted a lawyer to set up the business properly, got certified in pet First Aid and CPR, and officially launched Woof! Dog Walking
& Pet Sitting on April 1, 2018. Next came the marketing: posting in Facebook groups, handing out business cards, and taping flyers on every bulletin board in town. Slowly but surely, the hard work paid off and within months, she had a steady group of regular clients – and a whole new lease on life. “It fulfilled me in a way photography never did,” says Pozzi. “I was finally doing something that made me happy.”
Today, Woof! provides professional dog walking, pet sitting, house sitting, and pet escort services throughout the greater Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts area. Based in Rumford, Pozzi and her team care for
animals within a five- to 10-mile radius, whether their humans are out of town, working that 40-hour work schedule, or just taking a day trip. And though Pozzi left photography behind professionally, it still plays a crucial role in her work: each visit comes with adorable cell phone snapshots that reassure pet parents their animals are safe, happy, and well cared for. Each day begins bright and early for Pozzi and her manager, Amy LoSasso. They handle scheduling and last-minute client needs before hitting the road at 9am, providing visits that range from 15 minutes to a full hour. Every stop is filled with tail wags, belly rubs, and slobbery
Diana Pozzi
smooches. “You can be having the worst day, and the second the dog sees you, their excitement just breathes new life into you,” says Pozzi. “They’re magic. We really don’t deserve them.”
At home, Pozzi is just as surrounded by pets as she is on the job. She and her husband share their lives with two dogs, Dash and Chloe, and two free-roaming bunnies, Burt and Bethany, who’ve become unexpected internet stars. “People love them,” she laughs. “I post videos of them eating breakfast and they have quite the following!”
Now, with a thriving business and a 13-monthold son, Pozzi’s days are full, but never overwhelming. Her goals for Woof!’s future are still
POCKET PETS
evolving, and while new projects and services are on the horizon, she’s happy to grow at a pace that fits her life. What matters most is doing work that brings her joy.
“It’s hard for me to even describe how much I love what we do,” says Pozzi. “It doesn’t feel like work. I can honestly say I have my dream job and wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. We’re a crew of like-minded people who’d rather be outside with dogs than sitting in a cubicle all day. They’re like family,” she says of her team. “What we’ve built together is really special. I get very emotional thinking about how far we’ve come.” Learn more at WoofRI.com
Woof! services include visits with guinea pigs, turtles, bearded dragons, and bunnies!
A furry Jaws fan
Rhody Pets of the Month
By Karen Kalunian
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters across the Ocean State have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are a trio of sweet faces ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.
If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
BREED: Pitbull-Mix
AGE: 1
GENDER: Male
Looking for a fun-loving active boy who will steal your heart? Meet BamBam! This young, handsome fellow loves to play fetch and brings smiles to everyone’s face wherever he goes. BamBam is in search of a home with a fenced-in yard where he can run around to his heart’s content. If you already have a dog and are in search of a friend for your current pup, BamBam may be the boy for you. When you see him in person, you’ll smile too!
CRANSTON ANIMAL SHELTER
401-464-8700
BREED: Domestic Shorthair
AGE: 1
GENDER: Male
ME-WOW!! Meet Gilbert, a sweet boy with a coat as smooth as silk and eyes that sparkle with excitement. He is a young kitten with a zest for life, who loves playing with his toys and has a loud purr when he gets his head scratched. Gilbert, AKA Silly Gilly or Mr. Gilbert, would be great in a home with a doggie friend.
RHODE ISLAND FELINE RESCUE Apply@RIFelineRescue.org
Gilbert
BamBam
Gilbert
Photo (L) by Jean Carlson, (center) courtesy of RI Feline Rescue
BamBam
Shirl Shirl
BREED: Micro Bully
AGE: 12
GENDER: Female
This sweetheart hasn’t had the best life, and we are here to hopefully turn that around for her. She’s a short stack full of love, even after all she’s been through. Shirl Shirl is looking for a home where she will be the center of your world, with no other pets in the home. She’s a senior gal who wants all of her remaining years to be golden.
Shirl Shirl
Safety First
Pet health myths debunked, plus tips for having an emergency plan
By Abbie Lahmers
Though pet families hope they’ll never have to face an emergency situation, being prepared before a crisis happens might just save your furbaby’s life. Christie D’Andrea, DVM, founder and CEO of Veterinary Urgent Care Center (VUCC), with locations throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, demystifies common misconceptions about pet health, and shares tips for making an emergency plan.
Dr. D’Andrea, as an emergency vet clinic, what are some of the key services you provide?
We see a variety of different cases – from giving vaccines to treating ear infections and urinary tract problems – and our goal is to be a resource for anything that a pet owner may need help with. In some cases, we offer surgical services for uterine infections and foreign bodies that pets like to eat but cannot pass. We are equipped with a radiology suite for imaging and can run several diagnostics, including blood and urine, in-house. We also have point-of-care ultrasound in our office to help our team give a thorough examination and guide therapeutic intervention. Our teams diagnose, answer your questions, and help triage pets to emergency medical centers if they need critical care, since our hospitals are not open 24 hours a day.
RHODE ISLAND LOCATIONS:
NEW: 91 Point Judith Road, Narragansett
73 Highland Avenue, East Providence
Learn more and find additional MA locations at VetUrgentCare.com
MYTH V. FACT
Dr. D’Andrea explains common perceptions about pets.
MYTH: Pets eat grass because they’re sick. FACT: Many pets, especially dogs, eat grass out of boredom or habit. While it can occasionally indicate digestive upset, it’s not always a sign of illness.
What are a few ways people can be ready for a pet health emergency should it arise?
Being prepared for a pet emergency is a key part of keeping your pet safe and healthy. Every pet owner should have a basic pet first aid kit at home, know how to recognize signs of distress, and be aware of the nearest veterinary clinic’s location and contact information. Learning simple first aid steps and discussing emergency plans with your veterinarian can make a big difference in a crisis. Preparation can save valuable time – and potentially your pet’s life – when every second counts.
During your tenure as a vet, what is the most surprising or uplifting thing you’ve learned or experienced while on the job?
While historically the most rewarding part of my job as a veterinarian was making pets feel better, my role has changed as this company has grown. I am incredibly proud of the work environment at VUCC and the positive impact we have had on the lives of veterinarians and veterinary support teams in the communities we serve. Veterinary medicine is not always easy, and I think we take it to heart more than clients understand – we take enormous pride in providing a space where people feel respected, heard, and valued. That, in turn, leads to quality, caring veterinary teams ready to help pets and clients in need. Learn more at VetUrgentCare.com
Dr. Christine D’Andrea attends to a patient with care
MYTH: Dry noses mean a pet is sick. FACT: A pet’s nose can vary in moisture throughout the day. A dry nose alone is not a reliable indicator of illness.
MYTH: Indoor pets don’t need vaccinations or parasite prevention.
FACT: Core vaccines and preventatives are still important. Even if they only live inside, pets can still be exposed to diseases and parasites through open windows, shoes, other pets, and even houseplants. Animals can also develop cancer, heart disease, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, urinary tract health problems, and more in the same way people can, which means regular veterinary care is essential.
MYTH: Garlic is good for repelling fleas. FACT: Garlic is toxic to dogs and cats and should never be used as a flea preventative. Safe, vet-recommended products are the only reliable choice.
MYTH: A wagging tail always means a dog is happy.
FACT: Tail wagging can also signal anxiety, agitation, or even aggression, depending on speed, position, and body language context.
MYTH: Cats always land on their feet. FACT: While cats have good reflexes, they can still be seriously injured in falls – especially from high places.
MYTH: Pets will let you know when they’re in pain.
FACT: Many animals hide pain instinctively. Subtle changes in behavior or appetite often signal discomfort and shouldn’t be ignored.
MYTH: It’s okay to skip dental care for pets. FACT: Dental disease is common in pets and can lead to serious health issues. Regular dental cleanings and at-home care are important.
Photo courtesy of Vet Urgent Care
Nadia Rudman PA-C Physician Assistant
FASHION FORECAST
BY ELYSE MAJOR
Rhode Island designers, makers, and buyers on essential summer looks – natural fibers, soft neutrals, and more top the list
For the smallest state, Little Rhody punches well about its weight when it comes to style. With a serendipitous mix of in-state degree programs ranging from fashion merchandising to apparel design, coupled with lingering resources and mill spaces from our manufacturing heyday, one doesn’t need to look far to find a designer with a studio/showroom tucked along a waterway. Adding to this climate are the state’s numerous main streets which derive their charms from the highly curated boutiques hanging their shingles on historic buildings. To get a sense of what makers are making and sellers are selling, we queried founders, designers, buyers, and owners around the state. Along with reporting on what’s trending, discover brands you may not have known existed – outfitting fashionistas everywhere – right here in Rhode Island.
Coco Goose
Alashan Cashmere
Tigris Handmade
Stalise
Therapy Boutique
DESIGNERS/MAKERS
ALASHAN CASHMERE: Apparel
Don Fox was on a path to work at the CIA or NSA, “but I ended up a fashion designer,” he says with a chuckle. “Life will take you down paths you least expect.” As an early cashmere apprentice in Woonsocket, Fox immersed himself in every aspect of the business, learning about fiber dying characteristics and touring the spinning and weaving mills of the USA, Europe, Japan, and Korea. Today, Alashan is known for its extensive color palette of pure cashmere and other natural blends, carried at boutiques and furnishing rooms at places like the Ocean House in Watch Hill. “Our customers say that we own the rainbow!” says Fox.
WHAT’S HOT: “A combination of gray and neutrals/tan shades, and blues, continues to do well for us.”
WHAT’S AHEAD: “For fall 2025, we are obsessed with the jam and jelly colors, as well as rich and earthy chocolate colors.” Alashan Cashmere, Mapleville
LINDQUIST: Handbags
Simple shapes, elegant vibrant hues, and a single round brass piece to close are among the signature elements that make Lindy McDonough’s soft leather bags instantly recognizable. McDonough studied Industrial Design at RISD, followed by a post-grad job in NYC retail, but it was shadowing a master craftsman in a Connecticut leather factory that cemented her career path. “I’ve been designing and pattern making and building bags ever since.”
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter and chocolate, and not just because those are two of the most delicious foods. Soft yellow and deep brown is absolutely having a moment – we ran an edition in our deep Chaga brown for the holidays and it sold out instantly.”
FAVE LOOK: “One of my favorite combinations to wear this season has been my Cordera navy track pants with a classic red stripe paired with a KasMaria dark vintage floral patterned corduroy jacket.” Lindquist, Rumford
The quiet luxury of a cashmere mesh hoodie
(two bottom right) by John Hasselbarth, (bottom left) by Josiah Patterson, courtesy of Linquist Object
Beautiful colors transend trends
THE
LOVE SHACK BY LOLA: Jewelry
Lilith Guerrera had been creating jewelry for years, but it was while vacationing in Spain that pendants caught her eye. “One piece really inspired me and got me thinking about how special it would be to wear a pendant with true meaning. As an experienced entrepreneur, I tapped into my creative side and began designing my own jewelry. That’s how LOLA, Love one, love all, was born.” Founded in 2015, Guerrera’s line is offered in more than 250 retail stores nationwide, with two brick-and-mortars, one right in Newport.
WHAT’S HOT: “We saw a lot of blue at NY Now (wholesale trade event) this year, and recently came out with a new blue that’s been extremely popular for spring/summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “We love when people get messy and layer up all different textures, colors, and sizes. It’s a lot of fun and there are no rules.” The Love Shack by LOLA, Newport
DESIGNERS/MAKERS
“Performance meets presence”
ROAM LOUD: Apparel
Providence born-and-raised Toyin Omisore founded ROAM LOUD in 2020 and has been busy ever since. “I’m building an activewear brand rooted in representation and movement, and I also work as a digital content strategist, so storytelling, aesthetics, and intention are always top of mind for me,” says the Wanderer-in-Chief. Her premium brand of activewear and athleisure apparel is available in an appealing palette and received national attention when her Yanta bra and legging set was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2023.
WHAT’S HOT: “Lighter shades of green and ivory are beautiful and perfect for spring.”
“I absolutely love how women have moved into a combination of loose and form-fitting clothing. Seeing heels, loose jeans, a fitted shirt, and a blazer feels like we are leaning into styles and looks that we love, look good in, and feel comfortable in.” Roam Loud, Providence
Photos (top and middle) courtesy of Roam Load, (bottom) by Alex Joachim, courtesy of Roam Loud
Oprah’s fave: the Yanta set
THREE ISLANDS: Apparel
“A little sunshine for your closet” is the M.O. for this clothing brand made from hand-printed colorful Balinese batik. Westerly’s Justin Goff was living in Bali, surfing and making clothing for himself and his friends, when he met Tika, and the rest is “wear happy” history. The couple’s light-filled seasonal flagship in Watch Hill is the place to view their entire line. “We want people to put down their phones and live life, not just ‘like’ it on Instagram,” says Justin.
WHAT’S HOT: “We have some beautiful greens worked into this summer’s line that we love. We have always loved our cottons. They wash well, are great to wear, and last long. Nothing beats the natural weave!”
FAVE LOOK: “A Three Islands batik shirt with old khaki shorts or a dress with an old pair of flip-flops says ‘let’s have a fun summer day.’” Three Islands, Watch Hill
“Put a little sunshine in your closet”
TIGRIS HANDMADE: Shoes
Every pair of Tigris Handmade shoes is made one at a time, by hand, using traditional Turkish techniques. “As an artist, I view each pair of shoes as a canvas where ancestral knowledge meets contemporary design,” says founder Selahattin Şep, who describes fashion as a form of storytelling. “I love that it can hold memory, place, identity, and it’s a living thread between generations.” Inside their showroom, find an assortment of colors, styles, and sizes.
WHAT’S HOT: “Earthy reds and terracotta tones are having a big moment. They feel grounded, warm, and bold all at once –like something ancient but totally fresh at the same time.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a relaxed linen suit paired with handmade leather shoes. It’s effortless but still put-together. There’s something so timeless about it.” Tigris Handmade, Bristol
Photos (L) courtesy of Tigris Handmade, (R) courtesy of Three Islands
The Sardinia dress
THE MUST LIST
21 cool colors and goods to add to your summer wardrobe:
• Belts
• Boho looks
• Butter yellow
• Chokers
• Craftsmanship
• Contrasting colors
• Gold
• In-store shopping
• Kicks in candy-colors
• Lace
• Mocha mousse
• Natural fibers
• Nautical
• Navy
• Nostalgic prints
• Scarves
• Seashell jewelry
• Sheer fabrics
• Stacked bracelets
• Vintage florals
• White
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
CARMEN & GINGER VINTAGE GOODS
Christine Francis loves the history behind fashion, especially the elements that have affected trends over time, from scarcity of materials to youth culture. Since opening her first space in the Arcade Providence in 2013, followed by a move to Tiverton, and then to Warren, Francis’ eye for everything from cowboy boots to costume jewelry has made her shop the go-to for those seeking unique pieces made to last.
WHAT’S HOT: “Chunky 1970s and 1980s gold necklaces are very in. Makers like Napier, Monet, and Trifari (the latter two made in RI) created high-quality plated pieces that look as good today as they did 40-50 years ago.”
FAVE LOOK: “Victorian and Edwardian authentic and revival styles are very popular again. Even Victorian revival items popular in both the 1940s and 1970s are having a resurgence in today’s market with their intricate engravings and classic styles.” Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods, Warren
Photos courtesy of Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods
Find on Child Street, Warren
COCO GOOSE: Apparel
In March of 2023, Mary Lou Baraw brought full-service women’s clothing boutique Coco Goose to Wayland Square. “I adore our customers," begins shop stylist Liz Atkins. “They are the best part of the job. Life can be heavy, but fashion doesn’t have to be.” Shoppers can expect to find premium denim, cashmere, and more from over 300 brands and labels.
WHAT’S HOT: “It’s fun to see the butter yellow right now, and the beautiful strong greens from Ulla Johnson. Navy and white are always fantastic in spring and summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “A modern blazer or tailored vest, a fun pair of barrel-leg pants, and a maxi, boho dress styled with Frye Campus boots. Belts are back, too, and I’m loving the resurgence of the scarf. So many options there.” Coco Goose, Providence
“Denim-on-denim is definitely making its way back”
RELENTLESS BOUTIQUE: Apparel
“Based on my experience and research, I think people are starting to shop smarter, meaning buying more essential pieces rather than trends. People are also starting to pay attention to what the clothes are made of,” says Relentless Boutique LLC owner Sara-Nicole Dattoli. That means natural fibers like 100 percent linen and cotton. Her Main Street shop, which just celebrated its fourth year in business, is ready to outfit women from head to toe in styles that are comfy, pretty, and classic.
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter yellow – it just screams spring. It looks good on everyone, and it’s a very happy color. Also, gingham – its timeless charm makes it a favored choice for those seeking classic patterns with a modern twist.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a light-wash straight leg with a pair of loafers and a cardigan. It looks so chic.” Relentless Boutique, LLC, East Greenwich
Stylist Liz Atkins
STALISE: Apparel
Stacey Downing and Lisa Hurd were working together in a high-end Newport store when they decided to open a shop that caters to the “everyday woman.” The duo’s shared goal is to make a woman look and feel her best in an environment that is friendly and relaxing. A combo of their first names, Stalise carries everything from jeans and T’s to special occasion dresses. “Looking your best gives you a confidence boost that can motivate you in every aspect of life,” says Downing.
WHAT’S HOT: “The color of the moment is mocha mousse; it’s an easy color to wear and pairs nicely with all neutrals in your closet. Also, wider pants and jeans, classic structured dresses, and feminine lacey tops.”
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
“We’ve got your look covered”
Apparel
While raising their kids, friends Candace Brown and Lauren Wells were trying to figure out their next career steps. They wanted to work for themselves, and were both armed with past retail experience in buying, management, and merchandising. “We came up with a business plan for a boutique that was different from what South County had to offer,” says Brown. “We truly believe that fashion and shopping is a form of therapy.” Today the pair own and operate Therapy Boutique at two coastal locations.
WHAT’S HOT: “Yellows, pinks, and soft pastels look beautiful with earthy tones like mocha. All shades of blue are always popular in Southern Rhode Island. Our advice is if you like a trending color but it doesn’t suit you, add it to your wardrobe as an accessory.”
FAVE LOOK: “Day dresses that, with a switch of shoes and accessories, become a going-out look.” Therapy Boutique, Wakefield & Wickford
Photos (top) courtesy of Stalise, (bottom) by Abigail Brown
Boutique “therapist” Candace Brown at work
WILDFLOWER KIDS: Apparel
Tara Barkovitz started embroidering sweatshirts as a creative outlet and selling them online. When a retail space in downtown Westerly became available, the former art teacher and stay-at-home mom took a chance and opened Wildflower Kids. It wasn’t long before her store outgrew the space and moved to a larger one across the street. “Children’s fashion is really such a fun and joyful industry. There’s nothing better than a smiling kid coming out of the fitting room feeling good or the joy that oozes out of a first-time mom or grandma shopping for a new baby!” says Barkovitz.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pastels for babies, muted brights for girls, and bright T’s in candy colors for boys.”
FAVE LOOK: “Gone are the days of stiff fabrics and fitted outfits. Kids want to be comfortable, and fabrics like muslin, cotton, and bamboo are all the rage!” Wildflower Kids, Westerly
Elevate an outfit with a jacket
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
Downtown Westerly
WOODEES A BOUTIQUE: Apparel
Growing up, Anna Maria Lenihan spent a lot of time at Woodmansee’s, a gift shop and boutique established in 1904, owned by her mom and grandmother. All the while the wheels were turning in Lehinan’s mind to open her own shop. Enter woodees, a charming addition to Westerly since 2012, with clothing and accessories for men and women. Breezy dresses, seashell earrings, hats, and even outerwear are all available.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pink, and everything very girlie, feminine, and sweet. Florals, boho prints, and linens for spring and summer, plus lots of nautical/fisherman vibe stuff, and red!”
FAVE LOOK: “I will always love a good pair of fitted jeans with a simple but elevated basic top. Bonus if you add a jacket. It just works, always, no matter your mood.” woodees a boutique, Westerly
Photos courtesy of woodees a boutique
COLORFUL ATTITUDE
When asked, “who gets to name the colors in your line?” Don Fox, owner of Alashan Cashmere explains, “our design team presents them to me, but I get final say,” adding that he knows from institutional knowledge what resonates with customers. Here are some favorite names from the designer/makers featured in this article.
ALASHAN CASHMERE:
Artichoke, Fruit Punch, Mineral, Windswept
LINDQUIST: Carrot, Kelp, Otter, Persimmon
ROAM LOUD:
Cocao, Dark Roast, Green-ish, Plum
THREE ISLANDS:
Dawn Hours, Golden Hour, Orange Pagoda, Rum Jungle Pink
TIGRIS HANDMADE:
Bougainvillea, Damascus Camel, Dandelion, Euphrates Blue
Photo by Elyse Major
Alashan Cashmere swatches
HOME & STYLE
Home | Rhody Reads | Influencer | Wellness
Compact Chic
A 700-square-foot horse stable is transformed into a stylish tiny home
By Fifi O’Neill
Bernadette Heydt personifies the saying “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Her late grandfather was a prominent contractor in New York City and one of the main contributors to building several of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks. Her admiration for those accomplishments, combined with growing up alongside her father’s love of restoring unique properties, led her to her passion. “I knew interior design was what I wanted to pursue after years of witnessing my father’s appreciation for how architectural design can be both beautiful and functional,” she says. But it wasn’t until she was nineteen and living in Italy that she decided to pursue her passion and enroll at the acclaimed Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, where she received her bachelor’s degree in interior design.
Fast-forward to 2013 when Heydt and her Italian-born husband Andrea Pietrangeli, a videographer, moved back to the States to pursue their careers. Shortly after they settled in Newport, they purchased a property composed of three buildings dating back to the early 1800s. Throughout the years the complex has served various functions, but it was originally used as horse stables and storage for their carriages. Today, craftsmen, painters, sculptors, and photographers call the lovingly renovated compound home.
Despite its compact size the mood of the living room is one of serenity, uncluttered simplicity, and cohesiveness. Built-in niches and shelving allow for tidy displays. Heydt chose bamboo shades for the windows for texture and privacy but also to bring a coastal vibe into the space. Beautiful raw materials like the original beams and wide plank pine floor speak of the loft’s historic charm and character.
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
A pair of pedestals signals the entrance to the master bedroom
Despite its tiny footprint, the loft Heydt and Pietrangeli designed and share with their young children, lives large and well. Built on a foundation of white, the space feels luminous, light, and airy. And though the floor plan is wide open it emanates an intimate vibe. “After many years of living in Europe, a large home didn’t seem like a necessity,” Heydt explains.
“Considering the space is only 700 square feet, the key goal was to keep the layout open and only add walls where it was absolutely necessary while keeping functionality, balance, proportion, and scale in mind.”
Inspired by her years abroad, Heydt wanted to incorporate the crisp white stucco look seen in the homes of southern Italy. “We had
to be strategic with the layout and maximize the use of space, so we built shelving into the walls to add storage, and in doing so we were able to achieve the Mediterranean feel we were after,” she says. Her creativity comes through in her European minimalist-yet-cozy approach, the neutral backdrop, and by relying on natural materials like wood and leather
Gray linens adds contrast to the all-white bedding
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi
O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
A 15-foot plank bridge links second floor spaces; the trek can be daunting for the uninitiated
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
to add texture and warmth. “I love mixing modern clean lines with vintage or worldly items,” says Heydt. “The marriage between the two aesthetics brings out an authenticity that is both elegant and unique.”
The idea of living in a tiny home can be intimidating, but when everything you own serves a purpose and is used on a daily basis, and when it means you display only
meaningful pieces, the tradeoff is worth it.
“Designing a tiny home requires thoughtful solutions in order to fit all the utilities that a modern home demands,” Heydt concludes. “Yet there is nothing we lack that a 2500-square-foot home has, maybe just fewer rooms to vacuum!”
Find more in Shades of White: Serene Spaces for Effortless Living by Fifi O’Neill, photography by Mark Lohman, CICO Books.
The original Dutch door was refurbished by Pietrangeli
HOME & STYLE
High above the main living areas, the couple set up two small rooms where they can pursue work and hobbies. White walls bounce the light harnessed by several skylights. Wood beams add definition and warmth.
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Local Accents
Bernadette Heydt shares that she always gravitates toward shops with a curated soul. “For art, I adore Jessica Hagen Fine Art + Design in Newport, she has a beautifully discerning eye for contemporary work that still feels timeless,” says Heydt.
Coastal Essentials
“The Lawn at Castle Hill is a classic,” offers Heydt. “Sunday brunch at The White Horse Tavern is also a must.” Crossing the state, she notes that a stop at Sandy’s Fine Food Emporium in Westerly is always a treat, “whether I’m grabbing beach snacks, a cold drink, or something special for a picnic, it’s one of those charming spots that makes everyday moments feel elevated.”
Fresh Approach
“I believe homes, like summers, should feel effortless, inviting, and full of life,” says Heydt. More at HeydtHome.com
Next Chapter
Find author and stylist Fifi O’Neill’s latest release French Flair: Creating a home inspired by French style at all good booksellers. CICO Books
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
Rhody Reads
Eight summertime releases and an author event
By Robin Kall
This season promises to be one for the books, especially with this slew of summertime releases. Whether you’re beach-bound, hammock-ready, or curled up inside with the AC blasting, here are eight standout books to add a twist to your TBR pile, plus an upcoming opportunity to listen to four of their authors.
Tina Knowles opens up about her extraordinary journey, from growing up in 1950s Galveston to becoming the powerhouse behind three of the most iconic names in music (Beyoncé, Solange, and Kelly Rowland). But Matriarch isn’t just a celebrity memoir, it’s a heartfelt story about motherhood, identity, resilience, and the strength passed from one generation of women to the next. Knowles’s voice is intimate, wise, and full of heart.
Hannah Pittard delves into themes of identity, memory, and artistic ownership in If You Love It, Let It Kill You , a novel as sharp as it is surreal. When a writer discovers her ex-husband’s
BOOK IT: JULY 16
The Cardigan Connection, Rhody’s original author series returns with Hannah Pittard, Amber Oliver, Laney Katz Becker, and Kate Russo, all discussing their books and more. Books available from Symposium Books. Begins at 6:30pm. Alchemy, 171 Chestnut Street, Providence. RobinKall.com
Indicates author is part of The Cardigan Connection event
debut novel is based on her, she spirals into a bizarre midlife crisis, complete with a talking cat and brutal self-examination. Pittard doesn’t hold back, resulting in a read that is funny, biting, and emotionally unfiltered.
In All the Men I’ve Loved Again , Christine Pride introduces Cora Belle, a woman caught between her past and present in the most personal way. Spanning decades, this beautifully told story inspired by real events, explores love, heartbreak, and the chance to make a different choice the second time around. It’s tender, thoughtful, and filled with characters you’ll want to root for. Out July 8.
Set in early 1960s suburbia, In the Family Way invites readers behind closed doors to witness the quiet courage of women confronting impossible choices. Laney Katz Becker skillfully reveals secrets – from hidden pregnancies to subtle acts of defiance – all unfolding amid weekly games of Canasta. The novel is moving, empathetic, and a vivid reminder of social progress alongside ongoing struggles.
Amber Oliver’s debut, When the Music Hits , vibrantly captures the highs and lows of New York’s ruthless music industry. Billie Grand lands her dream position at a record label but quickly encounters office politics, subtle
racism, and moral compromises. Tested on all sides, Billie finds renewed purpose in an artist who rekindles her passion for music. This story is smart, soulful, and honest about ambition and authenticity.
Against the backdrop of 1981 South London, Jamaica Road centers on Daphne, the only Black girl in her class, striving to stay under the radar. Everything changes when she meets Connie Small, a bold and magnetic Jamaican immigrant. Lisa Smith’s debut is rich with emotional depth, depicting the complexities of race, class, first love, and family secrets amid a city in transition. Tender, tense, and beautifully crafted.
Beck Dorey-Stein’s Spectacular Things delves into the complicated love between sisters Mia and Cricket Lowe, tight as kids but drifting apart as adulthood takes hold. Cricket is chasing a soccer career, and Mia’s left trying to figure out where she
fits in. What follows is a story about ambition, identity, and the quiet heartbreak that comes when the people we love grow in directions we didn’t expect. Dorey-Stein writes with warmth and insight, capturing the messiness of family with grace and bite.
In her second novel Until Alison , Kate Russo delivers a chilling literary thriller set in a small Maine town where buried secrets refuse to stay hidden. After Alison’s murder, her former rival Rachel Nardelli is drawn into a tangled investigation marked by guilt, class divides, and simmering resentments. Russo’s sharp prose and layered characters create a gripping, quietly unsettling story you won’t soon forget.
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases.
ABOUT ROBIN KALL
Robin Kall is a literary influencer and head of books at Rohm Feifer Entertainment, with a knack for bringing book lovers together. For over two decades, she’s built a devoted and passionate following, whether in her home state of Rhode Island, online, or anywhere readers gather. As the host of Reading With Robin, Kall has interviewed some of the biggest names in literature. She’s also the mastermind behind countless author events, including her signature Summer With Robin, and the newly minted The Cardigan Connection, which she co-hosts with her daughter, Emily Homonoff. Most recently, Kall co-hosted Former First Lady of Iceland Eliza Reid with Rhode Island First Lady Sue McKee at the Rhode Island State House to celebrate the release of Reid’s Death on the Island . When she’s not championing books and authors, Kall enjoys life in the Ocean State with her husband, and their corgi, Benny. Follow her bookish adventures on Instagram, Facebook, and (occasionally) TikTok. Learn more at RobinKall.com
Meet Kent Stetson
A glimpse into the Kenterprise behind those artful handbags made in Pawtucket
By Ashley Erling
What drew you to creating handbags?
I was showing artwork in galleries and cafés in town, but in the meantime, while I was at Brown and after graduation, I worked at a shoe store in Wayland Square. The store had a few brands of artistic handbags which I was pretty good at selling. I inspected the pieces and realized that I could put my own handmade and fashion-forward spin on what those bags offered. The first pieces I made sold immediately and I continued to make and sell the bags at the store. Interestingly, my small company has lasted longer than any of these other brands, which are all now defunct. I liked the freedom that bags gave me to lean into the fun aspects of creating something.
You’re always creating new concepts. Where does your inspiration come from?
Inspiration has always stemmed from the practical reality that we have to make a living. I have a well-defined commercial product that has sustained itself because it can be translated infinitely. As long as there are things that people care about, I will have a business focused on channeling those things into a dressy fashion accent. That said, I am an artist at the core of this enterprise. Because of my need to create and surprise, I play on the side with things that challenge conceptions, like my runway shows at StyleWeek, which have earned a reputation for being a little bonkers.
Rhode Island themes often make an appearance in your work, does the state play a role in your design process?
We inherently identify with the David vs. Goliath story, being from the smallest state. Rhode Island cheers on the things that land us recognition beyond our borders. That has and always will be what gives me an edge in the gauntlet of making my work successful. Listen, The Real Housewives of Rhode Island is coming, a show that often challenges this idea of being “ladylike” and behaving. While I don’t like the thought of people being exploited for their personal tragedies, I do think this franchise presents a huge opportunity for a lens to show what makes our state deliciously scrappy.
What do you like to do during your downtime?
When I’m not dialed in, I enjoy being at home and puttering in the yard, spinning my legs on the bike until I forget what I was thinking about, and cooking fabulous meals with my very understanding and loving husband, Luis. That said, Pretty Snake on Brooke Street is a glimpse into the brilliant and zany mind of Joe Segal, a Rhode Island treasure of a designer who has a billion-dollar vision in a very modest farm-to-table version of Urban Outfitters. Track 15 is the latest dining sensation where the old guard and new kids on the block show off in a culinary casserole of options. For a moment of zen, Swan Point Cemetery is my go-to; I love everybody there, LOL! It’s also a reminder that we are here for our time, which isn’t forever. Learn more at KentStetson.com
Photos courtesy of Kent Stetson
Increase Your Screen Time
Summer sun protection
made simple with tips from a local dermatologist
By Elyse Major
There’s nothing like that first day back at the beach. But while the sun feels good on our faces, it’s actually not so good for our skin. Pink cheeks can be a sign of sun damage and give way to premature aging and skin cancer. So what’s a sun-worshipper to do? We checked in with Alyssa Findley, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a double board-certified dermatologist and fellowshiptrained Mohs surgeon specializing in skin cancer detection and treatment, from her office in East Providence. Our takeaway: start each day – not just beach days – with sun protection.
“Sun damage, like wrinkles and skin cancer, will occur over time, not only due to the intensity of exposure to the sun, but also the accumulation. You are exposed to harmful UV rays even on cloudy days, and exposure happens through car and house windows,” says Dr. Findley. “I recommend applying a moisturizer with SPF as part of your morning routine –especially to the face, sides, and back of the neck, and exposed chest,” begins Dr. Findley. SPF stands for sun protection factor; as the value increases, sunburn protection increases; however, it doesn’t reflect time in the sun. For example, SPF 30 doesn’t mean 30 minutes or hours of protection, but is a relative measure of the amount of sunburn protection provided by the sunscreen. “Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30+ helps prevent sun damage, premature aging, and lowers your risk of skin cancer. Reapply every two hours, and if you swim or sweat, use a water-resistant formula. Remember: water-resistant isn’t waterproof!” And for people with sensitive skin, Dr. Findley often recommends mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Dr. Findley also reminds folks to cover easyto-miss spots like ears, tops of the feet and hands, and the back of the neck with sunscreen,
RHODY-MADE SKIN CARE
Raw Elements is a sunscreen brand founded by Brian Guadagno, a career lifeguard at Narragansett Town Beach. Among its attributes, it is “reef safe” which means the sunscreen contains no ingredients that will cause harm to the reefs or any other marine life. Learn more and find stockists at RawElementsUSA.com
Dr. Findley
CUTE COVERAGE
Sun protection gets stylish with brands like Cabana Life, made with UPF 50+ fabrics. Find select styles at Gingy’s in Newport.
and apply lip balm with SPF. She offers that an easy way to protect skin is by wearing a widebrimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) sun-protective clothing. Think: swim shirts with sleeves for lotion-averse kids building drip castles for hours, and stylish apparel for daytime jaunts, dining al fresco, even outdoor ceremonies. Staying hydrated helps, too. “Drinking water helps maintain your skin’s natural barrier and keeps your skin looking healthier. Stick to water over sugary or alcoholic drinks, especially on hot days to avoid dehydration,” says Dr. Findley.
While most of us have had a fair amount of sun exposure in our youth, Dr. Findley says that the good news is that skin cancer is generally very treatable when caught early. “And remember, skin cancer does not discriminate – it can occur on younger and darker-skinned people, so it’s important for everyone to get a skin exam.” Worried about a mole? Dr. Findley says that any mole that changes in size, shape, or color – or looks different from others – should be checked. “Itching, bleeding, or new spots that will not heal are also red flags. I always stress early detection.” Learn more at FindleyDerm.com
FEATURE
Create Calm
Strategies and activities to manage summer stress so it doesn’t steal your sunshine
By Andrea E. McHugh
In a world where the hustle is real, overscheduled is an understatement, the news is a potpourri of heartbreak, global unrest, and rising geopolitical tensions, and your Apple Watch will literally send you a notification reminding you to breathe (read this with the intro to Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” in your head for peak accuracy), it seems harder than ever to find a sense of calm. The good news is, it’s there… perhaps buried underneath the Google calendar or lost in the gridlock of the Route 6/10 Connector, but calmness is attainable, and there are a number of Rhode Island resources that can help us recalibrate, realign, and reawaken this summer and beyond.
Get your hands dirty at Mudstone Studios
Photography by Mike Cevoli
STRETCH
“Movement is a beautiful way to find your calm because it gets your mind onto your body and out of your head all the time,” says Laura Nave, a classically trained and certified Pilates instructor with more than a decade of experience in the professional health and fitness fields. Ten years ago, Nave opened Rare
Form Pilates, a group fitness studio in Providence’s Jewelry District. Here, clients of all ages, fitness levels, and experience use Pilates apparatus to do flow-based, core-centered exercises focused on building strength. “The workout is built on the principle of centering and control, breathwork and flow,” explains Nave. “The intention of the work is to keep
your body functioning, well, and free of pain, and that ideology never gets old. My eldest client here right now is 90.”
Inner calm, explains Nave, is part and parcel to the practice of Pilates. “If you come in and you have to focus on different movement patterns and you give yourself the space to focus on your body for an hour, trust me, you
Comforting vibes at Rare Form Pilates
Photos by John Hasselbarth, courtesy of Rare Form Pilates
Ninigret Park Summer Events
walk out of the room much calmer than you walk in.” Pilates is meeting your body exactly where it is, adds Nave, which means anyone can get started at any time. “Spoiler alert: there is no perfect way to come to the body. You just have to do it,” she says, adding that many people get caught up in the pressures of perfection when it comes to wellness and fitness. Sometimes just a 30-minute walk can reframe your perspective, she says.
Photo (top) by John Hasselbarth, courtesy of Rare Form Pilates, (bottom)
Photography by Mike Cevoli
Act Out
In the heart of Rolfe Square in Cranston, discover multiple art studios, a ceramics studio, gallery, and theater at the Artists’ Exchange. Programs include all-level art classes, summer camps, school programs, performances and events in art, theater, music, and ceramics. The in-house Black Box Theatre is an integrated theater company composed of actors with and without disabilities. Learn more at Artists-Exchange.org
CREATE
Ellen Blomgren also finds inner calm in her practice, but it’s a practice of a different kind. The professional ceramic sculptor and artist educator founded Mudstone Studios clay studios at Cutler Mill in Warren nearly two decades ago so that she not only had a place to create, but also to teach others how to develop breathtaking artistic expressions. In 2022, she opened a second studio in Pawtucket at Lorraine Mills, and just last summer added a third location in Wareham, MA. “Any medium takes years to hone. Sculpting just came more naturally to me and I have been evolving over the years, stretching further with every new project,” says Blomgren. Born out of a desire to support artists across the South Coast and now, around the Capital City, Blackstone Valley, and the Cape, Mudstone Studios serves as a communal workspace for artists and novices working in ceramics. She’s committed to creating an affordable and nurturing environment for all levels, for both adults and mature teens.
The craft is one that lets her detach from life’s demands. “Sculpting takes me to a meditative space where I lose all track of time and the busy stuff that makes up the rest of my life,” she says. “The work lets me express how I see the world, and how I hope others can see it. It’s almost a vacation from the real world.”
Blomgren’s inspiration is the natural world, and she often sculpts animals and wildlife in engaging poses, which also gives her a sense of calm. “I love the outdoors and how sunshine feels, even on the coldest days,” she says. Whether in her yard or out in the woods, walking the East Bay Bike Path, wandering down to the beach with her dogs, or exploring the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, Blomgren finds a serenity in the outdoors that translates seamlessly into her work. “I’m so lucky to live so close to all of this natural space.”
REFRESH
For others, finding a true sense of calm involves very little physical activity. Spa visits are often considered the pinnacle of indulgent luxury and frou-frou pampering, and while not entirely untrue, treatments can legitimately help soothe both mind and body. Inspire Medical Spa and Wellness Center in Narragansett offers BroadBand Light (BBL™) technology, which uses intense pulsed light therapy to treat different skin conditions. “BBL is a photothermal energy that will reduce the amount of fine vessels and unwanted melanin that produces pigmented lesions and redness,” explains Pamela Lutes, Inspire’s owner. “What’s really cool about that is that the device that we have here, they used in a 12-year Stanford University study, and it proved actual RNA and DNA change. So when you change the gene expression of the skin to that of younger skin, your skin doesn’t just look younger, it is younger. It is
protective, it goes down deep, and it eradicates damage before it can turn into anything.”
More than just beauty-driven, Lutes says the spa has doubled in size to accommodate growing demand and expand wellness services. IV therapy, for example, is an increasingly popular wellness trend that Inspire offers in which a high dose of minerals and vitamins are administered directly into a client’s bloodstream. “You can choose your cocktail of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and amino acids. We’re looking to strengthen immunity, and people feel more energetic. You can recover from a workout – or a night out – rehydrating, replenishing your body… people always tell me they just feel so much better after that,” says Lutes. She adds that the spa is seeing more appointments by men than ever before. “They’re just as stressed; it’s just different kinds of stressors,” Lutes explains.
THINGS TO TRY THIS SUMMER
LEARN A SKILL
• Artists’ Exchange, Cranston
• AS220, Providence
• Blackstone River Glass Center, Cumberland
• East Bay Music Studio, Warren
• Gather Glass, Providence
• Get Poppin Art, Westerly
• Portsmouth Art Guild, Portsmouth
• Providence Perfume Co., Pawtucket
• Stitch Supply, Barrington
• Weirdgirl Creations, Riverside
GET STARTED
• Bend Yoga Studio, Charlestown & Kingston
• Bristol Total Fitness, Bristol
• Hammer & Stain, Wickford
• Hometown Yoga, North Kingstown
• Island Heron Yoga, Jamestown
• Lil Rhody Pickleball, North Kingstown
• Nanaquaket Yoga Studio, Tiverton
• Newport Pilates & Company, Newport
• Providence Tennis Academy, Providence
• RI Fencing Academy & Club, East Providence
• SoCo Cycle, Narragansett & North Kingstown
TRY A NEW DO
• Ananda Hair Designs, Warren
• Aqua Hair Salon, North Kingstown
• Drybar, Cranston & Providence
• Dynamic Men’s Grooming, East Greenwich
• Hair Crew, South Kingstown
• Hair Garden, Cranston
• Hair Heart & Soul, Bristol
• Maura’s Hair Salon, Narragansett
• Skip’s Barber Shop, Providence
• Tiffany’s Salon & Spa, Barrington
ENJOY A TREATMENT
• Bodhi Spa, Newpor &, Providence
• Breathe Massage, Westerly
• Findley Dermatology, East Providence
• Harbour Direct Primary Care, Jamestown
• Pure Eco Spa, Westerly
• Radiant Esthetics, Newport
• Skyla Rain Day Spa, Peace Dale
• Shepherd’s Run, South Kingstown
• Spa at Castle Hill Inn, Newport
• Spa Inspire, Narragansett
• Sun Star Healing & Myofascial Release, South Kingstown
• Wells Fountain, Westerly
Pamela Lutes FNP-C and team ready to Inspire
Photo courtesy of Inspire Medical Spa
FOOD & DRINK
Experience | In the Kitchen | Round Up | Recipe
French Kiss
Beloved restaurateurs bring Parisian tastes to Thames Street
By Andrea E. McHugh
n announcement came in springtime that the long legacy of an elevated dining experience at 505 Thames Street in Newport would continue, but with a fresh, modern concept. Shortly after, the doors of Audette opened and the impression it’s made since is magnifique. For more than three decades, chef/owner Albert Bouchard and his wife Sarah worked tirelessly to garner a coveted reputation for their eponymous restaurant’s fine French cuisine. Bouchard Inn & Restaurant became a downtown Newport – and frankly, a Rhode Island – icon; the kind of place where reservations were required and a dress code was taken seriously. Myriad awards and accolades poured in over the years, but when the time came to pass the baton, the family-run team behind much loved local restaurants TSK and Mission, and kitchen goods shop Utility (plus retired restaurants Winner Winner and Nomi Park) rose to the occasion.
Photo by Franklin Littlefield, courtesy of
Savory delights including the Poulet en Croûte
Anna Burnley, Tyler Burnley, Chad Hoffer, along with Carmen Ratoi, who was part of Bouchard’s front of house for more than 15 years, are ushering the restaurant into its new chapter. Audette takes fine French dining and merges it with a contemporary point of view. While the outside of the restaurant on bustling Thames Street hasn’t changed, the
inside has been completely reimagined with a swanky bar and modern interior while continuing the tradition of perfectly set tables draped in crisp white linens.
“The new bar opened the whole place up a little bit and made it a little more light, so it ties it in and it gives the room a lot more energy, whereas before, it was very quiet,” explains
Hoffer. “Now you hear the cocktails shaking and the banter at the bar. It just kind of made the whole place a bit more new.”
Hoffer, a lauded chef who hails from the Midwest and whose resume includes cooking at David Burke’s BLT Prime in New York City, where he met fellow chef Tyler Burnley, credits Anna and Carmen with being the vision behind
Linens and comfortable seating in the dining room
Photos by Franklin Littlefield, courtesy of Audette
Must-Try Items
RHODE ISLAND RED CONSOMME ($15):
An upscale take on chowder with clams, crispy potato, and pickled fennel.
POULET EN CROÛTE ($38): A chicken pot pie of puff pastry, truffle, and pomme puree.
GRAND MARNIER SOUFFLE (11.50):
The classic dessert served with creme Anglais
Cuisine: Classic French Atmosphere: Parisian elegance
the whole aesthetic of the space, creating a French Provence meets au courant vibe.
As one might expect, the drink menu starts with apéritifs – cocktails served before the meal to whet the appetite – in proper French fashion. You’ll find a host of temptations, including the French martini, Hugo Spritz, Kir Royale, and the Gentian
OCEAN FRONT DINING
Caeser salad topped with crunchy breadcrumbs
Spark, a blend of Lillet, Salers, absinthe, and sparkling wine. A carefully curated selection of beer and wine rounds out the list of libations, while classic caviar service, a nod to the traditions of haute French cuisine, and charcuterie top the dinner menu.
Longtime Bouchard diners will be relieved to find a few familiar hors d’oeuvres, like the mushroom vol au vent with wild mushrooms
in porcini béchamel nestled in a flaky puff pastry. “We’ve changed it up a little bit, but it’s very recognizable and familiar from what it was before,” says Hoffer. Escargot, beef tartare, and seared foie gras are also starters, as is an homage to the Ocean State: Rhode Island Red Consomme with clams, crispy potato, and pickled fennel. Main dishes, or “plats principaux,” are seasonally driven, while
Hoffer looks forward to some dishes earning permanent residency. “We’re hoping to have some things that sort of become classics on our end,” he says, adding that overall, diners can expect changes every few weeks. “But not drastic changes,” he adds. Hoffer, who can sometimes also be found behind the line in the open kitchen at neighboring TSK, is a proponent of sourcing locally. Big Black Dog
Flourishes by nearby Shore Creative
Photos by Franklin Littlefield, courtesy of Audette
Carmen Ratoi attending to details
Chad Hoffer, Carmen Ratoi, Tyler Burnley, and Anna Burnley
Dessert wines and libations complement dessert options
server, remains a fixture. Speaking of, so do two of Bouchard’s longtime servers, the crème de la crème themselves. Dan Sylvester and Max Putier both have more than a decade of experience in the dining room and have seamlessly adopted Audette’s approach.
Though Audette is a fine dining experience, the team here also wants it to be approachable; a high-end experience that remains warm, welcoming, and down-to-earth. Yes, ideal for
special occasions and romantic nights out, but also for diners who crave next-level dining sans pretense any night of the week.
For an alfresco amuse bouche of Auduette, the beloved tiny bar between TSK and Audette, traditionally referred to as “Sarah’s Bar” and now dubbed the “Mid Bar” as it’s midway between the two eateries, is open with a new menu crafted by Hoffer and Burnley. “It’s a snack menu with things like mushroom pâté, or
mortadella mousse, or stracciatella with pesto,” says Hoffer, who you may even find behind the bar at times (it’s a magical little spot, admittedly). As one might expect, there’s plenty of champagne as well, which is fitting as Audette has much to raise a glass to looking ahead.
Mismatched china evokes a Parisian brocante atmosphere
Night and Day
An East Greenwich coffee house rebuilds with a bold new blend: espresso martinis after dark
By Andrea E. McHugh
Two years ago, business partners Steve Mignanelli and Sarah Grillo watched their hard work literally go up in flames when Drip Coffee House in East Greenwich suffered a devastating fire. In the year and a half since re-opening, the coffeehouse in the Frenchtown neighborhood of East Greenwich had built a community – a shared collective of java junkies from busy moms to work-from-home latte lovers to espresso enthusiasts – who love to take a moment to linger with their steaming hot mug of love. Where others may have packed it in, Mignanelli and Grillo were undeterred and set their sights on reopening, which they did in early 2024. Their rise from the ashes brought with it not just a new perspective, but new offerings and exciting community partnerships
that tap into the talents of local food and drink artisans. The result has been new faces and longtime supporters becoming regulars.
“We’re extremely happy with the turnout this time around, especially after the fire and renovating,” says Mignanelli. If the name rings a bell, it’s because the Mignanelli family is well known for two East Greenwich institutions: Richard’s Pub and the Ritrovo Pub & Grille. Coffee, of course, is the cornerstone of Drip, and they don’t mess around, serving Rhode Island’s own Richard Alan Specialty Coffees. For more than four decades, the family-run micro-roaster has crafted premium coffee blends and espressos from their Johnston headquarters. Roaster Richard Rotondi personally selects the beans, roasts, blends, and flavors for the line. “They always have new flavors coming
The popular acai bowl
out,” says Mignanelli, adding that seasonal flavors are favorites among customers.
But coffee isn’t the only thing giving Drip’s customers a buzz these days. “This time around, we had the opportunity to open the bar, and because we have a full liquor license, we’ve had that open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, and it’s been going really well.” The partners secured the license when they first opened Drip Coffee House on South County Trail, planning to introduce cocktails down the line until the fire diverted those plans. The downtime, however, gave them space to develop a thoughtful bar program that includes an extensive martini list, full bar with specialty cocktails, and a curated wine and beer list. “It
turns into a nice, comfortable atmosphere to relax and enjoy a cocktail,” says Mignanelli.
As one might expect in a coffee house with cocktails, their espresso martini is the star of the show. “Of course!” laughs Mignanelli. “We use real espresso, that’s what makes all the difference, and we have a really good product. We get a lot of compliments on the espresso martinis.”
Open at 6 am seven days a week, the pastry case at Drip is loaded with fresh bagels, muffins, danish, croissants, and cinnamon buns baked in-house. But the donuts, they leave to the pros. “We are partnered with a very popular donut company called RI Guys, which have certainly grown over the past few years themselves,” notes Mignanelli. “They provide
all the donut cakes to Dave’s Fresh Marketplace and we’re their only supplier in East Greenwich, so we’re able to sell their donuts out of our storefront.” Other daytime noshes include acai bowls, made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, overnight oats, yogurt parfaits, and a selection of gluten-free options.
For Drip’s Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening lounging, guests can order from Supreme Pizza & Subs right across the street. “You can order from a QR code, and they deliver it,” says Mignanelli. “You can get their full menu; pizza, sandwiches, whatever they have, delivered to our place. It just works very well for us, and as our next-door business neighbor, we wanted to work with those we could. As soon as the
Comfy surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere
Photo (L) by Kerri Stowik Photography, (R+L) courtesy of Drip Coffee House & Lounge
Mignanelli says he and Grillo like that Drip has become a welcoming spot for everyone. “For meeting with friends, family, or whoever it may be, and then, at night, we dim the lights a little bit, and it turns into a nice little lounge atmosphere.” With live music, trivia, and sometimes even comedy, Drip Coffee House has become a magnet for locals to relax and unwind, and whether it’s sunrise or last call, they always have something brewing.
Drip Coffee House 2725 South County Trail, East Greenwich DripCoffeeHouseRI.com
Savoring Rhody
From a log cabin to a carriage house, eight unique cafes to linger over coffee
By Patty J
Make grabbing java and a nosh way more stylish at these eight lovely cafes around the state. Whether you choose to post about lingering over a latte or put the phone down and just be present, these snazzy destinations, each with its own ambience, are perfect for your next coffee break, morning meal, or midday catch-up with your best pal.
Cafe Ava
Inspired by the married owners’ Guatemalan and Dominican roots, the cafe named for their daughter has brought much pizzazz to the Rolfe Square neighborhood in Cranston since opening in 2022. Go for their tres leches lattes, scrumptious homemade pastries, and Cuban sandwiches; stay for the beautiful mural, swing (a great photo opportunity), and sweet details. Cranston
Café Zara Coffee House
This sun-filled spot on Taunton Avenue brings a taste of Portugal to EP. Feel like you’re on vacay with items like the beautifully plated Lisbon Morning, a warm baguette with cheese and fruit, or the popular tosta mista, a Luzo take on grilled cheese. Regulars love their fanciful flavored lattes, iced coffees, and egg sammies. Pro-tip: grab the window seat – a hanging basket chair. East Providence
Photo by Trisha Kelley Photography, courtesy of Patty J
Kaffeology
Photo courtesy of Kaffeology
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
Groundswell Cafe + Bakery
Groundswell Cafe + Bakery
Encompassing a corner of Tiverton Four Corners, Groundswell effortlessly blends Parisian flair (flowers on every table and adorning some dishes) with small town comforts, like their wraparound porch, where you can plant yourself year-round. In addition to baked goods and artfully presented bowls, find French offerings like croque monsieur, leek and gruyère quiche, croissants, and even wines by the glass. Tchin tchin! Tiverton
Kaffeology
“Beautiful and delicious” appears on the window of the recently opened Garden City location of this chain of three. Like Cranston, Portsmouth had a recent glow-up, now boasting a southwest look inspired by owner Andreea Marin’s trip to Arizona. While soaking in the aesthetic, sip a specialty matcha or coffee drink, tuck into brunch all-day faves like the smoked salmon platter, or nibble warm banana bread. Cranston, Newport, and Portsmouth
Presto Strange O
Stop by on your way to Rocky Point State Park (or Morris Farm for corn!) for a Vietnamese iced coffee and a sweet or savory treat at this Warwick Neck haunt. The vibes are a little bit goth (Heathcliff might be a barista here if he lived in the 2020’s) with some cheeky accents thrown in for good measure. Regulars go gaga over their brekkie sandwiches, cookies, avocado toast, and cold brew, which are all easy to make disappear. Warwick
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
This cafe on a quiet side street off Route 44 near the State House, is steeped in history and charm. Order an incredible latte (pretty and tasty) while taking in the cobbler theme – an homage to the carriage house’s use in the 1950s, as well as the owner’s great-grandfather’s vocation. Details include a shoeshine stand built to replicate one from the old PVD train station. Photo ops galore. Providence
Stick + Fin
Surf’s up at these colorful digs on the water in downtown Westerly. You can’t miss the Cali-influence courtesy of rad owners Brian and Chiyoko Samuelson. Take in surf and skateboard culture when you pop in for a coffee, cold-pressed juice, smoothie bowl, avo toast, or baked goods. Don’t miss the patio, adjacent to the Pawcatuck River, an awesome oasis for an al fresco bite. Westerly
Wild Harvest Cafe
Less than 10 minutes from bustling Main Street in East Greenwich, discover this cozy log cabin cafe set back from the road on South County Trail. Head over for a coffee and a muffin, a casual breakfast with a friend, or lunch al fresco on the front porch or side patio. Don’t sleep on the house-made potato chips! Bonus points for signature coffee ice cubes. There’s really nowhere else like it in Lil’ Rhody. East Greenwich
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
Summer Berry Buckle with Crunchy Sugar
A PVD-based cookbook author shares an updated family fave
By Polina Chesnakova
This recipe was originally published in Gourmet magazine in 2000. My mom saved a clipping of the recipe, and I’m glad she did because 20 years later, it’s still one of our favorite summer cakes. I’ve since adapted it, adding a crackly sugar topping and reducing the quantity of berries. Don’t worry, though, it’s still bursting with fruit. So much so that I’ve dubbed it a buckle, from the way the batter buckles under the weight of the berries. It’s highly snackable and travels well, so pack it up for a picnic, the beach, or a summer barbecue. The “snowy” sugar topping doesn’t dissolve into the batter and adds a fun effect to the surface as well as a welcome crunch to each bite.
BERRY SEASON
Add fresh flavor to your recipe by visiting a nearby farmstand to grab or pick-your-own berries. Provided below is a general guideline, which can vary due to weather conditions. Find a current list at VisitRhodeIsland.com
STRAWBERRIES: June, July
SUMMER RASPBERRIES: July, August
BLUEBERRIES: July, August
BLACKBERRIES: July-September
AUTUMN RASPBERRIES: August, September
Makes 12 servings
INGREDIENTS
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
• 4 ½ cups (about 18 ounces) mixed fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries*
• 2 ½ cups (300 g) cake flour, sifted, or 1 ¾ cups (245 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for tossing (see note)
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar, divided
• Finely grated zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice or water
• Ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
*When using frozen berries, be mindful that the batter will be a bit harder to spread, but the baking time should be the same.
Using cake flour will make the cake airier and more tender; in a pinch, all-purpose flour will work.
Find recipes and more at PolinaChesnakova.com, and follow kitchen forays and upcoming book news on Instagram @polina.chesnkova.
STEPS
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch pan. If you’re not planning to serve the cake from the pan, line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the butter and heavy cream over low heat until the butter melts. Set aside to cool. In a medium bowl, toss the berries with 2 teaspoons of flour to lightly coat.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs and 1 cup (200 g) of the sugar on high speed until thick ribbons form, 6 to 8 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and add the lemon zest, baking powder, vanilla, and salt; mix to combine.
4. Pause the mixer and add half of the flour and half of the cooled butter. Mix on low speed until incorporated, scraping down the bottom and sides of the bowl as needed. Add the remaining flour and butter mixture and beat on medium speed until the batter is thick and sticky, 30 to 45 seconds. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold in the berries until just combined.
5. Dollop the batter evenly into the prepared pan and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to carefully smooth out in an even layer without crushing the berries too much. Put the remaining ½ cup (100 g) sugar into one small bowl and the lemon juice into a second. Dip your fingertips into the lemon juice and work them through the sugar to make it clump slightly, like snow (you might have to dip your fingers one or two more times). Evenly top the cake with the snowy sugar.
6. Bake until the top is golden, the berries begin to bubble slightly, and a tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, 45 to 55 minutes. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and serve the cake warm or at room temperature with ice cream or slightly sweetened whipped cream. This cake keeps well wrapped at room temperature for three to four days.
RHODY SNAPSHOTS
@rhodytravels
@itsmattei
@stoneacrebrasserie
From Festivals to Farms, Scenic Trails and Pick-YourOwn; 100+ Ways To Explore Rhode Island During the Fall Season!
