LINCOLN MEET OUR AGENTS Combining local market expertise with a world renowned brand.
Jacob Rochefort 401.688.3000
Sara Chaffee 401.834.4569
CUMBERLAND
Robert Rutley 401.601.0446
JOHNSTON
30 Thomas Leighton Boulevard $639,000 44 Atwells Avenue Susan Kostas 401.487.4781 Robert Rutley
PROVIDENCE
$1,350,000 401.864.8286
JOHNSTON
$629,900 22 Golden View Drive 401.601.0446 Jacob Rochefort
$675,000 401.688.3000
CUMBERLAND CO N D O
200 Exchange Street, #1112 Jennifer Boland mottandchace.com
42 East Lantern Road Sweeney Advisory Group
CO NDO
$715,000 601 Hunting Hill Drive 401.413.2597 Sweeney Advisory Group
$595,000 401.864.8286 Each office is independently owned and operated.
Summer is fading but your next chapter is waiting.
Ready to start writing your new story?
Call me today, I’ll get you moving. CONSISTENTLY RANKED THE INDIVIDUAL AGENT
TOP
IN RHODE ISLAND
IN SALES & LISTINGS FOR 10 YEARS. Sources: 2025 MLS, 2024 Public Record, & 2025 MLS PIN
Jim DeRentis Sales Associate
(401) 529-2188 JDeRentis@ResidentialProperties.com
ThePVD The PVDRealEstateGuy RealEstateGuy.com .com
P ublic Re sults. Personal S trategie s. Every home is unique. Every seller has different goals. Your strategy should reflect both. No two listings on the East Side get the same playbook. Pricing, presentation, and marketing are built around your home and your goals, not a template.
Thinking about selling? Let’s talk confidentially, no obligation.
I’m honored to have been recognized by RealTrends as the #1 Agent in Providence. My Portfolio of Results SOLD as PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE
PENDING
156 Blackstone Blvd, East Side $2 ,000,000
265 Freeman Pkwy, East Side $1,650,000
PENDING
PENDING
160 Taber Ave, East Side $1,145,000
229 6th St, East Side $889,000
KIRA GREENE 401.339.5621 kira.greene@compass.com Kira Greene is a real estate agent with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice.
CONTENTS
News & Culture 11 EDUCATION: Setting the tone for school days
16 OP-ED: Fain and Triedman share their views on city issues 18 RHODY GEM: Vintage goods on Knight Street
20 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Paolino on re-shaping downtown
22 TIMEHOP: A daughter records her father’s fond recollections of the city 26 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s 28 NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Hyper local news and contact listings
Home & Style
30
Photo by Zach Pona
65 HOME: A West End townhouse-
Destination: PVD
turned-grand dame
Our 4th annual city guide for locals and tourists
68 SHOP: Stylish finds for September 70 FASHION: Meet local designers reshaping apparel
74 DECOR: Shell-seeking simplified at seasonal pop-up
Feature 79 A Growth Industry: The challenge of running a small farm in Rhode Island
Food & Drink 89 IN THE KITCHEN: The not-sosecret ingredients in cafe’s new ice cream offering
65
Photo by Liz Daly Photography courtesy of Lindsey Bouley
94 DESIGN: Creating Caribbean vibes on Westminster Street
98 OLNEYVILLE: Popular chicken and waffles truck sets up shop
102 ROUND-UP: Eight places to soak up “local’s summer” 104 PIC OF PVD
95 ON THE COVER: Our fair city. Photo by Zach Pona
Photo by Jesse Dufault, courtesy of Michelle Lee Designs
59
Photo courtesy of RIBBA
SWEENEYADVISORY.COM
Expect Exceptional
M i c h a e l J. Sweeney Real Estate Salesperson Fo u n d e r, T h e S w e e n e y A d v i s o r y # 1 S m a l l Te a m i n P r o v i d e n c e 401.864.8286
251 GEORGE STREET PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND Architecturally distinctive Carriage House Offered at $3,995,000
Each office is independently owned and operated. ThisinformationisbasedinwholeorinpartondatasuppliedbytheMultipleListingService.TheMLSdoesnotguaranteeandisnotinanywayresponsibleforitsaccuracy. Thesepropertiesmayhavebeensoldbyotherrealestatecompanies.DatamaintainedbytheMLSmaynotreflectallrealestateactivityinthemarket.Dataisbasedon information from StateWide Multiple Listing Service, Inc. for Providence listings for the period of 1/1/2026 through 7/27/2026.
MONTHLY PUBLISHERS Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
GENERAL MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com
MANAGING EDITOR Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com
EDITOR Ann Martini Martini@HeyRhody.com
ADVERTISING DESIGN DIRECTOR Layheang Meas
SENIOR DESIGNER Taylor Buttie
SENIOR EDITORIAL DESIGNER Abigail Burnham
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Riana Ouellette DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Jenna Kaplan Jenna@heyrhody.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa S. Carrington. . . . . . . . . . .South County & East Bay . . . . . . . . Theresa@HeyRhody.com Shelley Cavoli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Central RI & New Business . . . . . . . . . Shelley@HeyRhody.com Louann DiMuccio-Darwich . . . . . East Bay, Providence, & MA . . . . . . . . .Louann@HeyRhody.com Ann Gallagher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ann@HeyRhody.com Chris Revill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Providence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chris@HeyRhody.com Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Fall is for fresh starts. From pricing strategy to presentation, Joe brings strategic market insight and the instincts of a lifelong Rhode Islander. He knows what makes homes shine and how to help you move forward with confidence.
Joe Roch Broker Associate 401.440.7483 jroch@residentialproperties.com @joeroch
Jen Bonin Liz Daly Photography Angie DiMeo Stacey Doyle Jesse Dufault
Erin McGinn Jacquelina Paiva Zach Pona Maisie Snyder Jason Wessel
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ian Donnis Emily Homonoff
Patty Jeffrey Britt Machado
Interested in writing? Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com INTERN Gabriella Cos Interested in an internship? Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com Distribution Services Special Delivery
Subscribe Today! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou
Looking for copies? Visit our offices at Beacon Communications: 1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, Mon-Fri, 9-5pm Presented by Hey Rhody Media Co. (Formerly Providence Media), publishers of The Bay, So Rhode Island, and Hey Rhody 1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 401-305-3391 • Mail@HeyRhody.com HeyRhody.com Copyright ©2026 by Hey Rhody Media Co. All rights reserved. Proud member of the Rhode Island Press Association.
Joe Roch is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.
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SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Your Home. Center Stage. September marks opening night for the fall market. As the summer curtain closes, a fresh season of opportunity takes center stage. Whether you’re ready to debut your home to motivated buyers or set the scene for your own next move, let’s direct a strategy built for a standing ovation.
AC T I V E
AC T I V E
5 9 WA R R E N S T R E E T # 2 Providence - Warren Row Condos $495,000 3 BD Townhome
SOLD
Stephen Gaskin 508.991.0151 StephenJGaskin.com @therealtorstephen
217 A N G E L L S T R E E T, U N I T 3 G $2,050,000 Providence 3 BD 2 BA Signature Residences
7 5 6 -7 5 8 H O P E S T R E E T Providence - Two Buildings Sold: $1,825,000
Stephen Gaskin is a licensed real estate sales associate and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.
BARRINGTON
CUMBERLAND
EAST GREENWICH
PROVIDENCE
SOUTH COUNTY
WATCH HILL
JAMESTOWN
NEWPORT
WEST SIDE PVD
WESTPORT
CONTRIBUTORS GABRIELLA COS A juried sale of alumni and student work Saturday, October 10 10 am–4 pm Benefit Street, Providence
We knew our star editorial intern would do a fabulous job with a fashion assignment. “Reshaping the Industry” (page 70) takes a look at local designers making signature marks. Gabriella Cos, a rising senior at Bryant University majoring in digital communication with a concentration in marketing , also contributes to the monthly mustdo’s and has written several Rhody Gems.
EMILY HOMONOFF
CHRISTINA SAVAS BFA 05 APPAREL DESIGN
ZACKARY KAMEN BFA 09 INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
LUKE TOWNE BFA 19 JEWELRY & METALSMITHING
Native Rhode Islander Emily Homonoff contributes two articles in this issue. “Burt’s Eye View” ( page 22) takes us on a jaunt through the city with her dad, as he reflects on what’s changed. In this month’s feature “A Growth Industr y,” she reports on what it’s like to be a small farmer right now. Homonoff is the founder of Little Lion Creative and co -creator of RI’s original author series, The Cardigan Connection.
JENNA KAPLAN Our digital media specialist Jenna Kaplan wrangled all that is wonderful about our Creative Capital in the “Destination: PVD” cover story, starting on page 30. From award-winning restaurants to dive bars, bike shops to vintage boutiques, she directs us to the places and people who bring us joy. When this former teacher-turned content creator needs to unplug , she enjoys time with her beau and beloved dogs.
risdcraft.com
BRITT MACHADO
8
Britt Machado is the force behind JohnnyCakes, an award-winning interior design studio and retail shop. Each month, she searches the state to assemble cool finds to feature on the Shop page. With the onset of fall, she provides inspiration for show-stopping wardrobe looks from around the state. Visit Machado’s shop next time you’re on Broadway and don’t forget to ask about the line of signature Squiggle goods. KAI GIETZEN BFA 22 ILLUSTRATION
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SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
T:8"
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Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard offers the best in everyday luxuries that you’ll love—like daily housekeeping, fine dining, and a personalized wellness plan. In addition to our Independent and Assisted Living programs, our Memory Care programs, The Neighborhood and The Terrace, focus on maximizing functional abilities, while enhancing engagement and self-confidence in both early and advanced stages. Schedule a visit today and discover the good life.
wingateliving.com | 401-273-6565
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Providence Monthly
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Client Wingate Job WIAL 8172 MATERIALS PREPARED BY SEIDEN 212.223.8700
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Notes Eastside/Blackstone - Providence Monthly SWOP
Round: FINAL
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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9
Some of my Active Listings
September in the Ocean State Early autumn brings the best weather of the year to RI. My top three local favorites for September: •
Enjoying peaceful, crowd-free beaches in South County
• Walks through the East Side as the foliage begins to change •
161 Benefit Street, Providence
310 Blackstone Blvd, Providence
Offered at $6,350,000 12 Units The George Earle Building - A unique opportunity to acquire an incomingproducing, signature property on Providence’s famed Benefit Street.
Offered at $4,895,000 5 BD 4.2 BA Hill & Harbor Designed Masterpiece on Blackstone Blvd. This remarkable new build incorporates modern amenities and the craftsmanship and detail of a bygone era.
Evening dining and WaterFire lightings downtown
Some of my Pending Transactions PENDING
PENDING
Derek Simpson Real Estate Sales Associate 401.487.2620 dsimpson @residentialproperties.com
402 Angell Street, Providence
31 Clarendon Avenue, Pawtucket
Versatile East Side Bungalow Under Contract: $1,150,000 2 BD 2.1 BA
Idyllic 1920s Colonial Near Blackstone Under Contract: $889,000 3 BD 2.1 BA
BARRINGTON
CUMBERLAND
EAST GREENWICH
PROVIDENCE
SOUTH COUNTY
WATCH HILL
Derek Simpson is a licensed real estate sales associate and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Ranking based on RI MLS data for 1.1.26 - 6.1.26 for sales in Providence.
JAMESTOWN
NEWPORT
WEST SIDE PVD
WESTPORT
NEWS & CULTURE E d u c a t i o n | O p - E d | R h o d y G e m | O c e a n S t a te M e d i a | T i m e h o p | C a l e n d a r | N e i g h b o r h o o d N ew s
Routine Reset Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Educators share strategies for transitioning from summer to school
By Jenna Kaplan
A
s the new school year gets underway, families are settling into the familiar rhythm of early morning wake-ups, overstuffed backpacks, nightly homework, and busy schedules. While the first bell has already rung , the transition from summer’s unstructured days can take time. Whether you’re guiding a wide-eyed kindergartener or supporting a senior through their final year, thoughtful habits at home can make the adjustment smoother. From reinforcing routines to nurturing emotional readiness, these practical tips can help set the tone for a confident, successful academic year.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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11
NEWS & CULTURE
2026/2027 SCHOOL CALENDAR From the first day to the last and every holiday and break in between, find it all at the Rhode Island Department of Education website at RIDE.RI.gov
First-day nerves often stem from the unknown, which is why familiarity is a powerful tool Attend school orientations or open houses, if available. Walk through hallways, peek into classrooms, and point out key locations like the cafeteria, nurse’s office, and bathrooms. Even brief visits help kids form a mental map and ease anxiety. If no formal visit is offered, check the school’s website for photos or a virtual tour. Talk through what the day might look like, from drop-off routines to lunch breaks, and reinforce who they can turn to for help.
routines. Summer’s flexible schedules often stretch bedtimes and blur mealtimes, but experts agree : structure gives kids a sense of security and confidence. A solid sleep pattern can improve focus, mood, and memor y, key components for a successful start. Extend structure to morning and evening rituals. A few full run-throughs the week before school, including alarms and getting out the door, help reduce morning meltdowns and boost confidence. Keep things relaxed. The goal is comfort, not perfection.
Re h e a r s e t h e Ro u t i n e
B u i l d I n d e p e n d e n ce
One of the most effective ways to ease back into school life is to re-establish school day
Back-to-school prep isn’t just about supply runs. It’s also about helping kids manage daily
12
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tasks with confidence. Age-appropriate chores, such as feeding the dog or setting the table, foster time management and a sense of responsibility that carries over to the classroom. Let your child help pack their lunch, choose their outfit, or prepare their school bag. It might take longer, and you may need to negotiate whether pajama pants count as real clothes, but the process builds self-reliance. Encourage younger children to practice tying their shoes, zipping coats, and opening snack containers. These small skills reduce stress during the school day. Older children benefit from a dedicated homework space stocked with essentials and maybe a fun personal touch, like a favorite photo or novelty pencil holder.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
C re a te C a l m
1350 Mineral spring avenue north providence, rhode island 154 mill street newport, rhode island
custom framing object framing & DISPLAYS MUSEUM MOUNTS ready-made frames artWORK PHOTOGRAPHY digital photo & Editing archival digital printing art handling & Installation home decor & Gifts gift certificates
401-421-6196 www.providencepictureframe.com www.drydengallery.com
NEWS & CULTURE
TIP: Consider joining the PTA at all levels of schooling to better understand your child’s school community
G i ve C h o i ce s Choosing your own school supplies can be a surprisingly powerful experience. For many kids, back-to-school shopping isn’t just about ticking items off a list; it’s a chance to feel capable, independent, and ready for what’s ahead. Whether it’s a glittery water bottle, a new backpack, or the perfect highlighter set, letting your child take the lead on small decisions can help them feel more prepared and excited for the year ahead. A first-day outfit, no matter how simple, can also work wonders. It’s not about brands. It’s about helping your child feel like they’re stepping into something new with style and self-assurance.
It’s important to get the kids involved in back to school shopping
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The foundation for a smooth school day begins at home, especially with sleep, nutrition, and screen-time habits. Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy. A banana, toast with peanut butter, or a smoothie can provide lasting energ y. Children who eat breakfast are more likely to stay focused and avoid mid-morning fatigue. Ease back into screen-time limits gradually. Try capping device use at around two hours a day. Turning off screens an hour before bed can help reset sleep patterns. Consider swapping screens
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
P r i o r i t i ze H e a l t h
THINKING ABOUT A MOVE OR AN INVESTMENT? LET'S TALK.
for calming nighttime rituals like reading or prepping lunch together. Hydration is often overlooked, so a reusable water bottle that follows your child from the classroom to after-school activities supports both focus and well-being. A consistent bedtime routine with simple cues, such as bath time or quiet reading , can make mornings less chaotic and more intentional.
B e a G o o d L i s te n e r Big transitions bring big emotions. In the weeks leading up to school, create space for low-pressure conversations. Ask what your child is excited or nervous about, and reassure them that their feelings are valid. “You don’t need all the answers,” says Ann Gallagher, a speech-language pathologist in the Woonsocket Education Department. “Just being available to listen and observe can make a big difference.” For younger children, roleplay common scenarios like asking for help or greeting a new friend. Older kids might benefit from journaling or creating simple goals for the school year. These conversations strengthen the parent-child connection and promote emotional readiness.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Whether you're buying your first home, selling your current home, or growing an investment portfolio, my goal is simple: make the process clear, strategic, and as stress-free as possible. With nearly 20 years of experience, honest communication, local market expertise, and the power of Compass behind every transaction, you'll have the guidance and confidence to make smart real estate decisions. • Buyer & Seller Representation • Investment Properties • Private Exclusives & Off-Market Opportunities • Proven Pricing & Marketing Strategy
BUILT ON HUSTLE. BACKED BY RESULTS.
SCOTT CHAMPAGNE 2026 Real Trends Verified Top 1.5% of Real Estate Professionals Nationwide Top 20 by Volume in Providence
SCOTTCHAMPAGNE.COM 401-447-8210 Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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NEWS & CULTURE
The Primary Is the Election Septe m be r ra ce to d e c i d e t h e c i ty ’ s f u t u re By B arry Fain and Steven Triedman
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and center-based childcare providers to accommodate more children. The city is stable. And a Helena Foulkes win in the g ubernatorial race would be a big win for Smiley as they share similar ideologies. David Morales, 28, is a Democratic Socialist who has ser ved three terms in the legislature. The majority of the legislation that he has introduced has died in committee. He has touted getting increased state aid for the city as part of his campaign, something that as a legislator he was unable to deliver. His work experience, aside from being a part-time legislator, is as the director of community action for the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, which has overseen the revitalization of the Woonasquatucket River, its Greenway, and its communities. He also competes as a professional wrestler with the Renegade Wrestling Alliance, where he is a two-time champion. He is personable and engaging and makes a good impression, but his responses to questions are often vague and tread lightly on specifics. At a protest rally at the Providence Public Safety Complex in July 2021, Morales, pandering to the crowd, said he would “fight to keep our tax dollars away from Providence Police to ensure that we don’t continue to fund these places of brutality.” He has since walked back that statement, saying that he was referring to the following year’s budget and that he would not defund the police department. One of the policies that Morales has floated is freezing property taxes for owner-occupied homes worth less than $2 million. While it sounds good, it begs the question of where the lost revenue will be recouped. Morales is tr ying to capitalize on the national progressive energ y with his platform that includes rent control, overhauling the property tax system, and making public transportation free for Providence residents. Morales backed rent control, which the socialist majority city council passed but was vetoed by Smiley, who countered with a $25 million bond proposal for new housing. This issue
Providence City Hall
will continue, but a solution that isn’t one-sided will be hard to find. Landlords have struggled with years of high interest rates, surging utility costs, rising insurance expenses, and laws that greatly tightened housing regulations. Even more frightening than Reagan’s pro nouncement and closer to home was the statement at a David Morales fundraiser. “ We are going to have full control over Providence government and David is going to turn Providence into a laborator y for municipal so cialism,” offered by one of his strongest local supporters, the progressive podcaster Daniel Denvir. Providence residents can’t afford to be the “rats” in this laborator y. Op-eds express the authors’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Hey Rhody Media Co. Readers are welcome to send responses or letters to the editor to be considered for print publication in a future issue or posted online. Letters can be emailed to Ken@HeyRhody.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia
R
onald Reagan famously said that the nine most terrifying words in the English language are: “I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.” The primar y election between Mayor Brett Smiley and State Representative David Mo rales is coming into focus, and the stark differences between the candidates are dramatic. This election, your vote counts! The mayor is the chief executive officer of the city. Their primar y job is to oversee the management of the daily city operations, including the police and fire departments, pub lic works, parks, planning , etc. They are also the chief spokesman and salesman for new business and economic development, chief budget officer, and they have limited responsibility for the schools, despite the fact that schools account for almost half of the budget. On the precarious financial side, the majority of the city’s budget is committed to salaries, union contracts, pensions, and debt ser vice. There is ver y little room for change as all of the city’s labor contracts and financial commitments have annual escalator clauses. And Providence is projecting its structural deficit to rise to $25 million by 2029. Brett Smiley entered office with the goal of making Providence “the best-run city in America.” He’s had a wild ride between the Brown shooting , a record snowstorm, and a new payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) program with the colleges and hospitals. Smiley has aggressively sought new housing development, and he just announced 200 more affordable apartments in three developments across the city. He has made major quality-of-life improvements to parks, sidewalk repairs, and flood mitigation. Crime is down, community policing has been expanded, and g uns are being aggressively taken off the streets; AT Vs have been crushed, and three new police academies have kept up with retirements. WaterFire was saved, and tourism is up, backed by the ver y successful World Cup PVD FanZone. And grants were given to improve 24 home-based
NEWS & CULTURE
Existential Thread Co. Vi ntag e g o o ds What it is: A shop selling vintage goods.
Where to find it: Tucked away in the historic Federal Hill neighborhood on Knight Street, look for the three-stor y brick building refreshed with bright blue and rainbow accents, just a short walk from Courtland Club.
What makes it a Rhody Gem? Located in the heart of the West End, Existential Thread Co. delivers an eccentric mix of vintage clothing , home decor, and accessories. Inside, you’ll find pieces ranging from ironically tacky to supremely unique. True to its motto, “Supplies for coping with the burden of awareness,” the shop pokes fun at life and existence while celebrating the nostalgia, beauty, and mysterious energ y drawing us to oneof-a-kind items. Owner Bridget Duggan created the business in October 2021 after being set adrift during the pandemic. What began as a solo passion project has evolved into a thriving , eclectic storefront and what sets the store apart is its vibrant, collaborative spirit, dedicated to connection. “I get to learn something new from ever yone who walks through the door,” says Duggan. “I tr y to hold some space for them by helping them find something that lights them up, or just by connecting with an old-fashioned conversation.”
139 Knight Street Instagram: existential.thread.co
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, 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!
Photo courtesy of Existential Thread Co.
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NEWS & CULTURE
Joe Paolino Still Wants to Re-Shape Downtown Providence As o ne o f t he l a rg e st p r i vate l a n d ow n e rs in Provid en ce, Pa olin o says th e c ity mu st addre ss pub l i c sa fety co n ce r n s i n o rd e r to rea lize its d evelop ment p otentia l In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org • By Ian Donnis
ON HOW TO REVITALIZE KENNEDY PLAZA Joe Paolino: I think (for) Kennedy Plaza, moving the bus hub is going to be very important, but they’ve got to do more than that. We have a mental illness problem in society today, and I think it’s important that you just don’t move a problem, but you have to also treat a problem. I would like to see social workers involved wherever that bus hub goes to try to help these people, transport them, and give them the help that they need. Then take Kennedy Plaza and make that a family-oriented place where people can have celebrations. Now, we just saw the soccer tournaments take place. That would be a great venue to have that. Having concerts in the heart of downtown – the Philharmonic, the Pops – in Kennedy Plaza would be good.I don’t blame the city as much as I blame the state. RIPTA controls Kennedy Plaza, and they don’t give it the security or the social ser vice help that that community needs. The whole mental illness problem is real. You know, if you break an arm, you put a cast on it, and then it gets fixed. You can’t do that with somebody with mental illness. People should not be sleeping on sidewalks. People should not be doing drugs in front of the Matthewson Street Church.
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ON HOW TO CONVERT MORE PROVIDENCE OFFICE SPACE INTO HOUSING Paolino: Well, unfortunately, the state legislature just did away with historic tax credits, and that was a big incentive for people with historic buildings to rehab them and to put residential (housing ) there. So you need to get some programs like that back. With the Amica building (a historic high-rise on Weybosset Street), I’m looking at interest rates right now, and so I have put a pause on what I wanted to do there. My initial intention was to expand The Beatrice (hotel) and have additional rooms at The Beatrice and then put (in) residential. What I’m concerned about now is what’s going to happen in the (Providence mayoral) election. If rent control comes into Providence, you’re going to see all residential apartment development come to a halt. Banks aren’t going to give mortgages. You’re not going to get developers wanting to take the chance knowing that rent control is going to control them. I want to see who the next mayor’s going to be and who the next city council’s going to be before I take any more steps. I mean, if government officials want to do something, lower the taxes. ON HOW TO CREATE MORE HOUSING IN PROVIDENCE Paolino: The problem is supply, and how are you going to build more supply? Right now you have people that have mortgages of three or four percent. Once you sell your house with a three or four percent mortgage, (if ) you want to buy another house, you’re going to have a seven or eight percent mortgage. So that’s why there’s not a lot of housing for sale. Now, the state has a $125 million (housing development) bond issue (on the November ballot). Where is that money being spent? To me, you don’t spend $1 for a dollar. You take that $125 million, and you try to parlay it so you can get half a billion dollars to a billion dollars of help to be able to create more housing, maybe to reduce interest rates for people – maybe for a
two- or three-year period – and try to help subsidize that. But politicians aren’t the right people to come up with those ideas. Home builders are. ON HIS VISION FOR PROVIDENCE PLACE Paolino: Having local ownership, I think, is critical. Having the original developer, Pyramid, come in, I think, is going to be very helpful. Getting better retail there and more retail, I think, is going to be important, and having security over there. Now, I have a long-shot dream. I’d love to see Costco go there. I don’t know if that can happen because Costco normally doesn’t go to malls. They want open-air. They want suburban areas. But I want to wait and see in the next few months, once we take control of it, if we can do a special urban concept for a Costco there. If it can happen, great. If it can’t, I understand the realities of it, but there are other major retailers that we are talking to. And having good security there is good. If you go to Providence Place, you want to feel safe. If you don’t feel safe, you’re not going to go there. So I have a very good understanding of what I think needs to happen over there, and we’ll be going down that road shortly. This article was originally posted on July 22, 2026. Ian Donnis can be reached at idonnis@OceanStateMedia.org.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Ocean State Media
J
oe Paolino has had a distinguished career. A former Providence mayor and city councilor, he also ser ved as US Ambassador to Malta under President Bill Clinton. Since retiring from politics, Paolino has become one of the most recognized real estate developers in Rhode Island. Paolino is part of a group that recently purchased the Providence Place mall in an effort to revitalize the massive downtown property. He sat down with Ocean State Media’s Ian Donnis to discuss his plans for the aging mall, his suggestions for revitalizing Kennedy Plaza, and how to address Providence’s housing shortage.
Providence developer Joe Paolino
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NEWS & CULTURE
Burt’s Eye View
A father-daughter walk down memory lane is a love letter to Providence By Emily Homonoff
R
REELIN’ IN THE YEARS
hode Islanders love their state with a specificity that’s hard to explain to outsiders. We don’t just remember what used to be somewhere; we remember what was there before that, too. My dad, Burt Homonoff, born and raised in Providence, is living proof. “The city has grown and changed a lot over the years, but it’s always been able to mesh history and newness into the fabric of Rhode Island’s capital.” What started as the two of us filming walking tours to preserve family stories turned into something much bigger when it became clear that people really love hearing (and talking ) about this wonderful, quirky place.
Find Nostalgic Walking Tours with My Dad on Instagram at @emilyhomonoff
Hey dad, what did Providence feel like when you were a kid? Providence was familiar. The landscape, the characters, the experiences… You could go into a store like Gladding’s, Peerless, or Shepard’s and buy something and put it on your account. You didn’t even have to pay for it right then and there. At Alba-Runci Barbershop, a little kid would walk in the door and go right to the toy horse in the window. Whether it was Joe or Gus or Freddy, whoever cut your hair, it was an event.
What’s a spot we’ve filmed that surprised you the most?
Was there a restaurant or shop everyone frequented that you wish still existed? That’s an easy one. Without question, The Old Canteen on Atwells Avenue. What an experience, and it started when you called for a table. You’d arrive, have your car parked, walk in the
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front door and up the steps, and the garlic hit you right in the face. What a welcoming smell! Antipasto, Scallops a la Canteen, Veal Steak a la Mike or a la Frank. It was like Federal Hill’s version of Cheers where everyone knew your name.
What made Providence feel like a small town, even though it’s a city? Everything involved people. You knew Dan by name at Dan’s (before it was Nicks on Broadway), and he knew you’d want a hot coffee and a toasted English muffin before you even sat down. You knew that Al Zacks at Lad & Lassie shoe store on Hope Street was ready to measure you for a new pair of Buster Browns or Converse sneakers before you jumped on the
bunny seat to try on shoes. Those face-to-face experiences were so rich and enjoyable.
What would you tell someone who just moved here and thinks Providence has always looked this way? On the contrary, the way Providence looks today is simply an evolution that began generations ago, across the city, in virtually every neighborhood. The history, the stories, the buildings, the sense of community. Providence’s richness today is merely the 2026 version of what I lived 50-plus years ago, as did so many others before me. I will always be a huge fan. Around every corner is something or someone that makes Providence shine.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Emily Homonoff
I was surprised by Thayer Street. It’s had so many versions over the years, and it’s evolved so much, even since you were a kid and we used to go to Shades Plus or Oop! Who would have ever thought that Clarke Flower Shop would become Sneaker Junkies? I mean, you could stand on the corner, close your eyes, and bring yourself back to standing in line for ice cream at Baskin-Robbins. It was a huge part of my childhood.
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Blythe Penna, Owner, with her Vizsla, “Clara I Do Declare”
We not only provide excursions, but overnights to our weekly clients. When you travel, you know your dog is living their best life with one of our Wranglers in their home, being a part of their family and running at the ranch all day! It’s like being at a doggie camp while you are gone…they might ask you to travel more often! I am so proud of our team of Wranglers and the leader of our pack, Austin Wright. He just celebrated his 14-year anniversary! There is absolutely no way we would be where we are today without his dedication to Ruffin’ Wranglers®. There is nothing like seeing pure joy in the eyes of a dog, and that is what we provide, joy...not bad for your daily gig! We are so grateful for our loyal customer base, the Ruffin’ Wranglers® Family. We would have never accomplished what we have in 18 years without the support of our human and canine clients.
Ruffin’ Wranglers® covers the East Side, West Side and Downtown Providence, Oakhill in Pawtucket, Edgewood in Cranston, Riverside, East Providence, Rumford, Southern Seekonk, Barrington, parts of Rehoboth and parts of Swansea close to the ranch.
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Please visit our website RuffinWranglers.com, go to the “Getting Started” section and click “Contact Us” or reach out to Blythe Penna directly at 401-419-4318.
NEWS & CULTURE
10 essential events this month
Sundays through September 27: Find one-of-a-kind items from dozens of makers, vintage vendors, artists, food producers, and community organizations at the Providence Flea outdoor site at 195 District Park every Sunday from 11am-3pm. ProvidenceFlea.com
September 3-October 4: Trinity’s new season
September 12-13: India Point Park is the place
September 20-26: The Olivier (UK) and Tony
kicks off with the world premiere of The Getaway Driver, the true story of activists Katherine Ann Power and Clare Schroeder, bound together by a life-altering moment that they hoped would change the world. TrinityRep.com
to be for the best seafood, craft beer, wine, and more from dozens of vendors at the Rhode Island Seafood Festival. Live music from local bands provides the soundtrack all weekend long. RISeafoodFest.com
Award-winning musical Operation MinceMeat: A New Musical, the #1 Broadway show of 2025, is an entertaining , fast-paced true story of a secret mission that helped win World War II. PPACRI.org
September 5-6: Don’t miss the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Glow-N-Fire Tour, a high-energ y spectacle that brings Monster Trucks to life, with riders performing jaw-dropping stunts, plus a fire-breathing, car-crushing robot dinosaur. AmicaMutualPavilion.com
September 18-19: PVDFest is the city’s premier arts event, a two-day celebration of art, music, food, and culture, filling downtown streets with internationally acclaimed performers Big Freedia, soul singer Butch Tavares, and salsa orchestra La Excelencia. Firstworks.org
September 25: The Brown Univesity foot-
September 10-18: Join local designers and en-
September 20: Head to Lippitt Park for the
trepreneurs for Design Week RI, an annual celebration featuring talks, tours, panel discussions, open studios, and parties that showcase the innovation and economic impact of the design sector. DesignXRI.com
inaugural Swell Folk Festival, a free family-friendly concert with local artists Princess June, Melo Green, The Vox Hunters, and others, plus dozens of food and crafts vendors. SwellFolkFestival.com
September 26-October 5: The Providence Preservation Society’s Festival of Architecture and Design features four weeks of immersive programming, including field trips, a cocktail party, and exclusive access tours of homes and beloved landmarks. PPSRI.org
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ball season kicks off with a home opener under the Friday night lights when the Bears take on Ivy Leag ue rival Har vard Crimson at Centreville Bank Stadium. Pawtucket, BrownBears.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Providence Flea
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With a commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive community, The Preserve at Briarcliffe is a senior living campus offering an experience unlike any other in senior living. Owner and CEO Akshay Talwar’s mission is to create a space for residents to embrace this next chapter in their lives as a time of renewal rather than isolation, surrounded by new friends and all the amenities of a comfortable life. The moment you set foot inside, there is a sense of coming home. The Preserve features 66 modern, private residences in a variety of appealing floorplans, for seniors seeking a supportive independent lifestyle or assisted living. The Preserve blends Briarcliffe’s legacy of care and compassion with a sense of elegance in spaces designed to feel airy yet cozy with high ceilings and upscale finishes. The Preserve is all about choices, whether that means enjoying a manicured outdoor oasis or using concierge and personal care services. Residents have daily access to a fitness center, restaurant-style dining, library, spacious lounges, and engaging social activities. Briarcliffe has been the choice of generations of RI families when it comes to providing compassionate care. The Preserve is an extension of this commitment with state-ofthe-art safety and accessibility features and a luxury resort feel. When you visit, you’ll see why the Preserve has earned Top Senior Living accolades every year since opening.
THE BRIARCLIFFE PRESERVE 54 Old Pocasset Road, Johnston 401.944.2450 • BriarcliffeRI.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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NEWS & CULTURE
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
A s p a ce m a d e ava ila b le to Provid en ce’s n eig h b or h ood a ssoc iati ons fre e of charge.
BLACKSTONE PARKS CONSERVANCY
JEWELRY DISTRICT ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 603141 Providence, RI 02906 admin@blackstoneparksconservancy.org BlackstoneParksConservancy.org Facebook: blackstoneparks
Sharon Steele Sharon@sharonsteele.com JewelryDistrict.org Facebook: Jewelry District Association Providence, RI
COLLEGE HILL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
MILE OF HISTORY ASSOCIATION
Rick Champagne P.O. Box 2442 Providence, RI 02906 CHNA@chnaprovidence.org CHNAProvidence.org
Charles Hewitt, Secretary C/O One Governor Street, Providence
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Kristin McGinn, President 401-580-2628 Facebook: Downtown Providence Neighborhood Association IG: @DNAPVD Email: DNAPVD@gmail.com
ELMHURST NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH Susan DeRita susan.derita@cox.net
ELMWOOD AND SOUTH PROVIDENCE NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH Doug Victor doug.crimewatch@gmail.com
ELMWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Jen Vincent JenniferDaltonVincent@gmail.com Facebook: Elmwood Neighborhood Association PVD
FOX POINT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 2315 Providence, RI 02906 FoxPointNeighborhood@gmail.com FPNA.net
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MOUNT HOPE COMMUNITY CENTER 401-521-8830 MHNAInc@gmail.com Facebook: Mount Hope Neighborhood Association, Inc.
NORTH END NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Alice Gorman and Deborah Rodriquez Castillo Info@nenapvd.org
OLNEYVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Cindy Miranda, Board Chair Cindy@ona-providence.org Facebook: ONA Providence
Weekly outdoor market celebrates food, culture, and community Sankofa World Market is a weekly celebration of food, community, and culture of the West End. The market offers fresh, locally grown produce, prepared food, handmade goods, live music, cooking demonstrations, and more. Sankofa Market highlights specialty crops from our diverse mix of growers, including bitter ball, bitter melon, sweet potato greens, bitter leaf, luffa, Asian corn, amaranth, water spinach, long beans, melons, and much more. Shoppers can use their SNAP/EBT and WIC to purchase fresh produce. The market runs on Wednesdays, 2pm-6pm, at the Knight Memorial, 275 Elmwood Avenue, through October.
SOUTH PROVIDENCE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 5653 Providence, RI 02903 • 401-369-1334 SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com Facebook: South Providence Neighborhood Association
SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
PROVIDENCE COALITION OF NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS
P.O. Box 41092 Providence, RI 02940 SNAProv@gmail.com SummitNeighbors.org
Info@provcna.org ProvCNA.org
WASHINGTON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
RESERVOIR TRIANGLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
BettyLinda@aol.com Facebook: Washington Park Association
David Talan 25 Santiago St., Providence, RI 02907 401-941-3662 DaveTalan@aol.com
SMITH HILL PARTNERS’ INITIATIVE Wole Akinbi 400 Smith Street Providence, RI 02908 Suite #1 AAkinbi@half-full.com Facebook: Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative
WAYLAND SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION Katherine Touafek Facebook: Wayland Square Neighborhood Association WaylandSquareNeighbors@gmail.com
WEST BROADWAY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION 1560 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02909 401-831-9344 WBNA@wbna.org • WBNA.org SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Lewis Dana
Providence Neighborhood Associations
Busy summer in the North End The North End Neighborhood Association (NENA) had great success planting in Hopkins Square Park this summer, and it’s been wonderful to see the community enjoy the space. The park has come alive with a variety of great events, including Opera in the Park, St. Ann’s Festival, and Summer Violin Melodies by Oriana Mujica. These events bring people together and are fun for all ages. For a full list of upcoming events in the North End, check NenaPVD.org/events. –Submitted by Alice Gorman
Purveyors of Unique & Unusual Plant Material, Pottery, Fountains & Garden Décor
Summit’s folk festival, community yard sale, and T-shirt design contest Once again, the Summit Neighborhood Association’s (SNA) annual community yard sale will take place over two days this year: September 26-27, from 9am-1pm each day. Participants may choose to hold their yard sales either or both days. To join our yard sale map, register online at SNA.Providence.ri.us. SNA is also excited to be one of the sponsors of the new Swell Folk Festival, happening on Sunday, September 20 at Lippitt Park. The festival is a free community event, where you can enjoy live folk and roots music, local vendors, food trucks, a beer garden, family activities, artisan markets and more throughout the day. Bring a blanket, discover local artists and businesses, and experience a new community tradition centered around music, creativity, and connection. Learn more at SwellFolkFestival.com. We are looking for a new SNA T-shirt design! If you have an artistic flair and would like to see your design walking around the neighborhood, submit your work to snaprov@gmail.com. There’s even a prize! Deadline to submit is October 16. –Submitted by Sharon Lee Waldman
open daily 9am-5pm 716 Mooresf ield Rd. (Rte. 138) South Kingstown, RI 02879 401-792-1340
thefarmersdaughterri.com
Discover a school as unique as your child
Mile of History annual meeting announced Save the date! The Annual Meeting of the Mile of History Association will be held at the Rhode Island Historical Society, Aldrich House, on Sunday, November 1 at 5:30pm. Dr. Morgan Grefe, executive director of the Rhode Island Historical Society, will be the featured speaker. Dr. Grefe’s work as a historian focuses on US social, cultural, and public history, with special attention to Rhode Island. –Submitted by Charles W. Hewitt SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Open K-8 House - October 24 | K-8 Special Education School | East 12, Providence, RI | thewolfschool.org Special Education School | Open House - February 2026 | thewolfschool.org
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Destination:
PROVIDEN THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO EXPERIENCING EVERYTHING OUR CITY HAS TO OFFER BY J E N N A KA P L A N
P
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
This isn’t a directory, and it isn’t trying to be. The listings are a starting point for exploring Providence one neighborhood at a time. Aside from the Insta-Inspo spread, every business appears once so more of the city gets a turn. Use the color key to choose a direction, then keep your plans loose enough for an unplanned stop or two. Found a new favorite? Tag Providence Monthly and use #heyrhodyphotos to show us where you ended up.
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EXPLORE ONLINE Browse all mentioned listings and more at DestinationPVD.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Zach Pona
rovidence packed plenty into its few square miles over the past year, turning Station Park into a home base for summer soccer, welcoming music and comedy back to the restored Uptown Theater, and watching Loma, a tiny Federal Hill cocktail bar, take home the James Beard Award for Best New Bar. New restaurants settled into mills, hotels, and neighborhood storefronts along the way, while familiar blocks found fresh ways to keep us lingering. All of which makes our namesake city as difficult as ever to fit neatly between two covers. What follows is our latest way through Providence, from morning coffee to last call, with shops, galleries, stages, green spaces, and a few detours worth taking along the way.
CE Providence Station
Kennedy Plaza
COLOR KEY Use the color key to choose a direction, then keep your plans loose enough for an unplanned stop or two.
GETTING AROUND Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is a system of buses and trolleys providing lowcost transport around the city and state with the hub currently located at Kennedy Plaza. Buses are bike-friendly, and there are vanpool options, handy for commuters. Connecting carriers include departure points for Peter Pan and Greyhound bus lines. Visit RIPTA.com to easily access maps, or download the WAVE app to pay for bus fares with an Earn As You Go feature. For riding the rails, Providence Station (near Providence Place Mall) is served by Amtrak and the MBTA, and has the charming Cafe La France inside!
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Dining NEW DINING
Thermia
Providence doesn’t give diners much time to settle into a routine. Over the past year, new kitchens have opened inside historic mills, boutique hotels, downtown storefronts, and neighborhood corners, serving everything from French-Canadian comfort food and fiery Thai dishes to Mediterranean rotisserie meats, handmade pasta, and a Japanese-Italian mashup. While some slipped quietly onto the scene, others arrived with national attention already waiting at the door. That attention is starting to feel less like a surprise. Providence’s relationship with the James Beard Foundation has moved well beyond a lucky streak, with Derek Wagner of Nicks on Broadway returning as a 2026 Best Chef: Northeast finalist and Oberlin and Claudine earning national semifinalist nods. At this point, the city isn’t crashing the national food conversation. It has a standing reservation.
NEW DINING CIAO CIAO MÉMÈRE’S MISO MOZZA PAULA’S AT COURTLAND CLUB PHED PHED TEN PRIME SEAFOOD THERMIA
Thermia brings Mediterranean flavors to the industrial setting of Rising Sun Mills, with rotisserie meats anchoring a menu of seafood, vegetables, pastas, and shareable plates. Historic brick lends the polished dining room a little of the Providence character built into its walls. 166 Valley Street YELLOW DOOR TAQUERIA
JAMES BEARD AL FORNO
Long before Providence became a regular on national dining lists, Al Forno was helping put the city on the culinary map, one grilled pizza at a time. Founded by Johanne Killeen and the late George Germon, the restaurant still draws diners for handmade pasta, wood-fired dishes, and desserts with followings all their own. More than four decades later, it remains one of the city’s defining tables. 577 South Main Street
Photo by Jenna Kaplan
Al Forno
Johanne Killee
n, Al Forno
CLAUDINE DOLORES GIFT HORSE JAHUNGER LITTLE SISTER
JAMES BEARD
NEW RIVERS NICKS ON BROADWAY OBERLIN OLNEYVILLE NEW YORK SYSTEM PERSIMMON
Photos by Erin McGinn
PIZZA MARVIN
FINE DINING
Fleur
BACARO BELLINI PROVIDENCE
FINE DINING
CAFE NUOVO CAMILLE’S THE CAPITAL GRILLE CAPRICCIO CAV CIRCE FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE FLEUR
From breakfast meetings to cocktails and dinner, Fleur gives downtown diners plenty of reasons to head to the second floor of the Omni Providence Hotel. Parisian and Mediterranean influences run through the menu, while cocktails arrive dressed for the occasion and the dining room brings a little continental polish. It works just as well for a night out as it does for anyone staying upstairs. 1 West Exchange Street
Rollers Sports Bar & Grill
GRACIE’S HEMENWAY’S MARE ROOFTOP MILL’S TAVERN PANE E VINO PARKSIDE ROTISSERIE & BAR POT AU FEU
FUN EATS
SARTO WATERMAN GRILLE
PIZZA
FUN EATS
Pizza
CHOP - CULINARY HUB OF PROVIDENCE CLUB FRILLS
After years of firing pies from a mobile oven, Chef Anthony Giordano has given Anna’s Vesuviano a permanent home on Doyle Avenue. Named for his grandmother, the pizzeria brings together Giordano’s Brooklyn memories and Neapolitan tradition in wood-fired pies topped with bright ingredients. The crusts emerge blistered and lightly charred, making the edges worth fighting over. 114 Doyle Avenue
DUNE BROTHERS SEAFOOD FRANK & LAURIE’S GEOFF’S SUPERLATIVE SANDWICHES HAVEN BROTHERS IN THE PINK ACAI & SMOOTHIES IRREGARDLESS BISCUIT THE MALTED BARLEY PAULA’S & COURTLAND CLUB PICKEREL ROLLERS SPORTS BAR & GRILL
ANTONIO’S PIZZA BY THE SLICE
Fifteen screens keep every game in view at Rollers Sports Bar & Grill, but the team behind Pizza Marvin and Club Frills gives non-sports fans plenty to follow on the menu. Grilled wings, playful snacks, and nods to Providence’s Steam Roller history fill the former Durk’s BBQ space. The score may be the main event, but the food has no trouble holding its own. 33 Aborn Street
BIG TONY’S PIZZA CASERTA PIZZERIA DOWNCITY PIZZA & SANDWICHES FELLINI’S PIZZERIA FLATBREAD COMPANY NICE SLICE PIZZA J
THE SANDWICH HUT THERE, THERE TRACK 15 FOOD HALL WALLY’S PROVIDENCE
PIZZA PIE-ER
Anna’s
PROVIDENCE COAL FIRED PIZZA SAL’S BAKERY SICILIA’S PIZZERIA
Photo (top) courtesy of Fleur, (center) courtesy of Rollers Sports Bar & Grill, (bottom) by Jacquelina Paiva, courtesy of Anna’s Vesuviano
ANNA’S
DEBBIE’S
GERRI SCHIFFMAN KNOWS PROVIDENCE #3 Agent in Homes Sold and Sales Volume
Experience . Integrity. Results. 401-474-3733
gerrischiffman.com
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CAFES
CAFES
GLOBAL EATS
ALEPPO SWEETS BAGEL GOURMET BITTY & BEAU’S COFFEE BOLT COFFEE BROWN BEE COFFEE CAFE AVA
GLOBAL EATS
CAFFÈ NERO
ANGELO’S RESTAURANT
CAFE ZOEY
AGUARDENTE
CEREMONY
APSARA ASIAN RESTAURANT
COFFEE EXCHANGE
BLAKE’S TAVERN
DAVE’S COFFEE
CASA AZUL TAQUERÍA
EASTSIDE BAGEL COMPANY
CASSARINO’S
ÉCLAIR PATISSERIE & CAFE
CIELITO MEXICAN KITCHEN
ELLIE’S
CILANTER
ESPRESSO BY STRIVE
COSTANTINO’S VENDA BAR & RISTORANTE
HAZEL ORIGIN COFFEE KNEAD DOUGHNUTS L’ARTISAN CAFE & BAKERY LASALLE BAKERY
DEN DEN CAFÉ ASIANA DEN DEN KOREAN FRIED CHICKEN EAST SIDE POCKETS
LITTLE CITY COFFEE AND KITCHEN
GARDEL
MADRID EUROPEAN BAKERY AND PATISSERIE
HARUKI EAST HENG THAI & ROTISSERIE
MALKANIS’ CAFE
HOMETOWN POKÉ & BUBBLE TEA
MOKA & CO.
INDIA
MOTW COFFEE & PASTRIES NEW HARVEST COFFEE AND SPIRITS OAK BAKESHOP
Oak Bakeshop puts its self-described “Jew-ish” spin on tradition, filling the pastry case with rugelach, hamantaschen, knish, and Jerusalem bagels alongside cinnamon buns, cookies, and other sweet detours. There’s plenty to tempt an empty stomach, so arriving early is always a good idea. Stop in on a Friday and don’t be surprised if a loaf of challah follows you home. 130 Cypress Street
At India, dinner changes with the seasons, from summer evenings on the garden patio to cozy tables near the fireplace when temperatures drop. The menu moves easily between familiar curries and contemporary riffs, with more than 30 vegan and vegetarian options giving everyone plenty to choose from. Nobody’s left making a meal out of naan alone. 1060 Hope Street JA PATTY JORO KABOB AND CURRY
PARKVIEW BAKERY CAFE
LA LUPITA TACOS MEXICANOS
PASTICHE FINE DESSERTS CAFE
LAMEI HOT POT
POINDEXTER CAFE
LAYALI RESTAURANT BAR
PROVIDENCE BAGEL
LOS ANDES
REPRISE AT PICKEREL
MAIZ EAST SIDE
RISE ‘N SHINE COFFEE BAR
MOKBAN KOREAN BISTRO
SAINT’S CAFE
NAMI
SCHASTEA
PALO
SEVEN STARS BAKERY
SOTT
SILVER STAR BAKERY
SPICE VALLEY HALAL
SMALL FORMAT
SUYA JOINT PROVIDENCE
SMALL POINT CAFÉ
TOLIA
SYDNEY
lori kettelle, Oak Bakeshop
TOYIN AFRICAN RESTAURANT
TEA IN SAHARA
TRATTORIA APPIA
THE NITRO BAR
VIVA MEXICO CANTINA GRILL
WHITE ELECTRIC COFFEE
WARA WARA
YUMI BAR
XACO TACO
India
Photo (top) by Erin McGinn, (bottom) by Stacey Doyle, courtesy of India
BOM CAFE PVD
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SPECIALTY MARKETS
SPECIALTY MARKETS CASA MEXICO CAMPUS FINE WINES EAST SIDE CHEESE & PROVISIONS
With more than 100 local and imported cheeses behind the counter, East Side Cheese & Provisions gives Wayland Square plenty to be brie-curious about. Angie and Jeff DiMeo round out the selection with charcuterie, chocolate, olives, crackers, and freshly baked baguettes. Put it all together, and party prep suddenly feels suspiciously easy. 17 South Angell Street FEARLESS FISH MARKET FOX POINT GROCERS GOOD FORTUNE SUPERMARKET HOPE & MAIN DOWNTOWN MAKERS MARKETPLACE JOE’S MEAT MARKET LA MEXICANA MINI MART & TORTILLERIA MARUICHI JAPANESE FOOD & DELI MEKONG MARKET NOT JUST SPICES ROMA RISTORANTE, MARKET & BAKERY SABORIZA MARKET SANCHEZ MARKET SAWYER’S TONY’S COLONIAL FOOD URBAN GREENS CO-OP MARKET VENDA RAVIOLI V-MART INTERNATIONAL MARKET
East Side Cheese & Provisions
Y MARU MARU
ICE CREAM BIG FEELING
At Big Feeling, founder Alex Maddalena turns local produce and plenty of imagination into ice cream flavors like brown butter polenta, mango sticky rice, and Thai tea. After building a following through years of pop-ups and pint drops, he now serves his inventive creations by the scoop at a permanent West End parlor. The name sets high expectations, but the ice cream delivers. 769 Westminster Street CAFECITO & HELADO TAIYAKI DAIRY KING ELLIE’S FIESTA SCOOP ICE CREAM SHOP & CAFE HOPE CREAMERY KOW KOW ICE CREAM
LIKE NO UDDER NEWPORT CREAMERY THREE SISTERS HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
Big Feeling
TIZZY K’S CEREAL ICE CREAM TRICYCLE ICE CREAM THE WRIGHT SCOOP SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo (top) by Angie DiMeo, courtesy of East Side Cheese & Provisions, (bottom) courtesy of Big Feeling
SUPERFRESH PROVIDENCE
Hoolliiddaayy T ndd H a l n s Trraaddiittiio I a l s e I d e o d h o h R R onn A A
Dec. 17-27
Live the dream!
Dance on The Vets stage alongside Ballet RI company artists! Auditions for The Nutcracker children’s cast are being held September 19th & 26th . Scan the QR code for more information & to register!
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! THEVETSRI.COM
COCKTAILS
Loma
THE AVERY BELLINI
COCKTAILS
BAR ROMOLO BEVI BAR BLAKE’S TAVERN BLU VIOLET THE BOOMBOX CAFE ITALIA CAPRI SEAFOOD CAPTAIN SEAWEED’S CLEMENTINE CLUB FRILLS COURTLAND CLUB CROWN PROVIDENCE DEADBEATS THE EDDY ESTHER’S HIGH DIVE THE HOT CLUB THE HIDE SPEAKEASY THE INDUSTRIOUS SPIRIT COMPANY TASTING ROOM JUNIPER BAR KIKI BAR KIMI’S LAYALI RESTAURANT BAR LOMA
LUCKY ENOUGH
BREWERIES
BREWERIES, DISTILLERIES & BEER BARS ARCANE MEAD & WINERY BUTTONWOODS BREWERY
MARCELINO’S BOUTIQUE BAR
THE GUILD PVD BEER GARDEN (MAY THROUGH OCTOBER)
MARE ROOFTOP
ISCO SPIRITS
MEDICI
LONG LIVE BEERWORKS
MURMUR HIFI LOUNGE
MONIKER BREWERY
NEEDLE & THREAD
MULDOWNEY’S PUB
NICK-A-NEES
NARRAGANSETT BREWERY
OGIE’S TRAILER PARK THE POINT TAVERN RED DOOR ROAM THE ROYAL BOBCAT SARTO SPORT AND LEISURE VARSITY LUXURY SPORTS BAR
Narragansett Brewery
Photo (top) courtesy of Loma, (bottom) courtesy of Narragansett Brewery
Loma has made room on its back bar for some serious hardware after earning the 2026 James Beard Award for Best New Bar. The honor puts a national spotlight on the diminutive Federal Hill lounge, where Puerto Rican and Guatemalan flavors shape the cocktails and gracious hospitality keeps the room feeling warm, never stuffy. 112 Spruce Street
At Narragansett Brewery, “Hi, Neighbor!” feels right at home as Rhode Island’s heritage beer brand pours fresh releases beside India Point Park. Grab a lager and settle onto the waterfront patio, where the Providence River provides the scenery and does a convincing impression of a vacation backdrop. 271 Tockwotton Street
THE WALNUT ROOM
ORIGIN BEER PROJECT
THE WAYLAND
SIREN SPIRITS DISTILLING CO.
XO BAR
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INSTA-INSPO ARCHITECTURE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
The Arcade Providence Benefit Street Brown University Daniel Pierce/Lightning Splitter House Superman Building The Lindemann Performing Arts Center Providence Art Club Providence Athenaeum Providence City Hall Providence Performing Arts Center Providence Public Library South Street Landing Temple to Music The VETS Wedding Cake House, 514 Broadway
ART
111.
3.
@the_hidden_worlds_of_pvd
@ERinMcGinn
64.
72.
@Citronics
@Hillary4297
114.
22.
@imcoreysherman
@salty_scrawl
16. Angell/Prospect Streets 17. Atwells Avenue 18. 92 Clemence Street 19. Eden Park Cleaners (mural) 20. Mathewson Street 21. 81 Dyer Street 22. Eagle Square 23. Riverside Park 24. Westminster/Dean Streets 25. Weybosset Street
CAFES 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34.
Aleppo Sweets Brown Bee Coffee Cafe Italia Ellie’s The Nitro Bar Oak Bakeshop Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar Seven Stars Bakery Small Format
EATERIES
35. Al Forno 36. Anna’s Vesuviano 37. Bellini 38. Big Feeling 39. CHOP - Culinary Hub of Providence 40. Cielito Mexican Kitchen 41. Claudine 42. Dune Brothers Seafood 43. India Restaurant 44. In the Pink 45. Mokban Korean Bistro 46. Sawyer’s Market 47. Seaplane Diner 48. Seven Stars Bakery 49. Thermia 50. Track 15
42
Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
NIGHTLIFE & PLAY 51. 52. 53. 54. 55.
The Dusty Planet Free Play Bar & Arcade Level99 Loma Bar Medici
56. 57. 58. 59. 60.
Providence Eagle Rollers Sports Bar & Grill The Strand Ballroom The VETS Uptown Theater SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
SCENIC SPOTS AROUND THE CITY PERFECT FOR SNAPPING PICS. KEEP SHARING YOURS WITH US BY TAGGING #HEYRHODYPHOTOS
9.
71. 72.
76.
73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79.
@PVDStreet
@kadircarcamo
21.
78.
Mare Rooftop Michael S. Van Leesten Pedestrian Bridge Narragansett Brewery Neutaconkanut Park Pleasant Valley Parkway Prospect Terrace Providence Riverwalk at South Street Landing Rhode Island State House Waterplace Park
SIGNAGE 80. 81. 82. 83. 84.
Avon Cinema Axelrod Music neon sign Big Feeling Olneyville New York System Uptown Theater
STOREFRONTS
@rafeakspvd
@serenapalleschi
68.
33.
85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96.
Asterfields Craftland Fox Point Grocers Frog and Toad - West Kreatelier Olefson Art Opticals Queen of Hearts/Modern Love Pleasant Surprise RISD Store Sawyer’s Shop Bloom PVD Stewart House
STREETS
@RHodyTravels
SCENIC VIEWS 61. 62. 63. 64. 65.
195 District Park Blackstone Park Conservation District Blu Violet at Aloft Roger Williams Park Botanical Center Brown University’s Ladd Observatory
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
@TravellikealocalMA
66. 67. 68. 69. 70.
The Capital Grille Flowerstand 205 The Hot Club India Point Park Japanese Garden at Roger Williams Park
97. Atwells Avenue 98. Benefit Street 99. Blackstone Boulevard 100. Broadway 101. Grant’s Block 102. Hope Street 103. Ives Street 104. North Main Street 105. Orange Street 106. River Avenue 107. South Main Street 108. Thayer Street 109. Thomas Street 110. Transit Street 111. Washington Street 112. Wayland Avenue 113. Westminster Street 114. Weybosset Street 115. Wickenden Street Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
43
Shop
Shopping in Providence is as much about the people behind the counter as what’s on the shelves. Local talent, sharp eyes, and a willingness to stock the wonderfully unexpected give each storefront its own point of view, making this a difficult city to shop with a strict list. Some have held their corners long enough to become neighborhood landmarks, while newer collectives are giving local makers room to grow. Together, they offer a closer look at how Providence dresses, decorates, reads, listens, rides, and celebrates. Leave a little room in the tote.
APPAREL CAPUCINE GARBOLINO BOUTIQUE GREEN INK BOUTIQUE HUNGRY GHOST PRESS J. MARCEL J.MCLAUGHLIN LOLA
APPAREL
LULI BOUTIQUE
Pretty Snake
MARC ALLEN MILAN PROVIDENCE MRS. ROBINSON NAVA PRETTY SNAKE
Walking into Pretty Snake means stepping straight into designer Joseph Aaron Segal’s wonderfully colorful world. Original prints, sculptural knits, and offbeat accessories fill the Brook Street shop, blurring the line between boutique and art installation. Even the snake wallpaper is Segal’s own design, because subtlety has never been part of the dress code. 142 Brook Street QUEEN OF HEARTS AND MODERN LOVE SILVERLINE
VINTAGE
VINTAGE
EXISTENTIAL THREAD CO. HALL’S ON BROADWAY JOHNNYCAKES DESIGN THE NEST
The Nest gives good clothes another go, whether they’re waiting on the racks or already hanging in your closet. Browse secondhand finds ranging from ever yday staples to statement pieces, then bring an old favorite to the tailoring and mending team for a little extra life. Sewing classes offer another way to make, repair, and wear what you love for longer. 272 Carpenter Street NOSTALGIA ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES STORE OLD BAG VINTAGE POP EMPORIUM PROJECT ATTIC ROCKET TO MARS
The Nest
URBAN THREAD THE VAULT COLLECTIVE WHITE BUFFALO
Photo (top) courtesy of Pretty Snake, (bottom) courtesy of The Nest
GREENESTONE STUDIOS
CELEBRATING OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!
We're grateful for the amazing support from our local community as we've brought creativity, quality, and a little sweetness to every cup.
Anthony Fine Art Painting
7 Thomas Street, Providence
Late Summer Glow Studio Visits Welcome (401) 419-2821
INSIDE JORDAN'S JUNGLE 545 Pawtucket Avenue Pawtucket TheHiveBarRI.com
AnthonyTomaselli.com
16 TH ANNUAL
PRE-SEASON SKI TENT SALE
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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 10-6PM SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 10-6PM
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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 10-4PM
Sunset Farm Food Truck w/ light beverages 11:30-2:30pm
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105 CHESTNUT STREET, WARWICK / (401) 781-4444 / WWW.RISKISHOP.COM SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Green River Silver Co.
JEWELRY
SPORTING GOODS
JEWELRY BORA HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY COPACETIC JEWELRY DUGAN CUSTOM JEWELERS GREEN RIVER SILVER CO.
The cases at Green River Silver Co. cover plenty of ground, bringing together handcrafted sterling silver jewelry from artisans around the world and designs inspired by Rhode Island. Rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets range from delicate and bohemian to unapologetically bold. Take your time browsing because there’s a good chance something shiny will follow you home. 735 Hope Street HEGEMAN & CO. RELIABLE GOLD LTD. TALULAH COOPER
SPORTING GOODS DASH BICYCLE SHOP FRIENDLY BICYCLE
At Friendly Bicycle, vintage racing bikes get another lap thanks to owner Eamon McGlynn, who restores each frame with a collector’s eye. The result is a Fox Point shop where the classics are worth fawning over and bike talk comes easily. Stop in to browse, bring your current ride for repairs, or do a little of both. 85 Ives Street
Photo courtesy of Green River Jewelry Co.
BOOKS & RECORDS
BOOKS & RECORDS
ANALOG UNDERGROUND [B] ARMAGEDDON RECORD SHOP BOOKS ON THE SQUARE BROWN UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE HEARTLEAF BOOKS
At Heartleaf Books, picking up your next read also means supporting a community-owned cooperative built around sharing stories. Shelves are stocked with queer voices, independent presses, local authors, and the kind of unexpected finds that make browsing take longer than planned. Book clubs and author events carr y the conversation beyond the checkout counter, so don’t be surprised if you leave with a new book and a few new friends. 374 Atwells Avenue HIGH GROUND COMICS THE LITTLE BUBBLEGUM BOOKSHOP OLYMPIC RECORDS
MISSION ELECTRIC BIKE
PAPER NAUTILUS BOOKS
OCEAN STATE TACKLE / RI BAIT AND TACKLE
RIFFRAFF BOOKSTORE AND BAR
PROVIDENCE BICYCLE
ROUND AGAIN RECORDS
RECYCLE-A-BIKE
SYMPOSIUM BOOKS
RHODE RUNNER
WEIRD PROVIDENCE
SEA FOOD Photo courtesy of
SEA FRIENDS
SEA VIEW
Friendly Bicycle
WATERFRONT DINING For Reservations
Friendly Bicycle
Photo courtesy of Heartleaf Books
LUNCH & DINNER OUTDOOR & INDOOR SEATING OPEN YEAR ROUND 7 DAYS 40 Ocean Road, Narragansett | 401.789.0700 thecoastguardhouse.com
2015–2025
Montessori Community School of Rhode Island
Visit MCSRI’s Fall Open House to discover how our toddler and preschool programs nurture your child's independence, curiosity, and community spirit.
REGISTER HERE
OPEN HOUSE DATES October 17: 10am-12pm November 14: 10am-12pm
Heartleaf Books
montessoricommunityschoolofri
@mcsri_pvd
73 Stanwood Street, Providence • (401) 654-4540 • www.mcsri.org Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
47
HOME, GIFTS & MORE ADLER’S DESIGN CENTER & HARDWARE ASTERFIELDS THE CAMERA WERKS CRAFTLAND FROG & TOAD HOMESTYLE KNIT CLUB KREATELIER THE LANDING PVD PEACEABLE KINGDOM PH FACTOR PLEASANT SURPRISE RHODY CRAFT RUSTIGIAN RUGS SHOP BLOOM PVD HOME, GIFTS & MORE
With dozens of small businesses sharing one Wickenden Street storefront, Shop Bloom PVD turns shopping local into a treasure hunt. The mix runs from handmade jewelry and art to stationery, clothing, and home goods, so there’s always another shelf worth checking. Workshops invite shoppers to stick around, meet the makers, and try their own hand at something creative. 243 Wickenden Street
Art at Studio Ho
p
SIMPLE PLEASURES STEWART HOUSE STOCK CULINARY GOODS STUDIO HOP
Shop Bloom PVD
48
Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo (top) courtesy of Studio Hop, (bottom) courtesy of Shop Bloom PVD
WENDY BROWN HOME
Kaelin’s Florals
FLOWER SHOPS
FLOWER SHOPS BIG HEART BLOOMS FOUR BUDS FLORAL STUDIO FREY FLORIST & GREENHOUSES JEPHRY FLORAL STUDIO KAELIN’S FLORALS
At Kaelin’s Florals, just about any occasion can become an excuse for fresh flowers, from an ordinary Tuesday to one of life’s biggest celebrations. Stop by the Broadway shop for a cheerful bouquet or host gift, or work with the team on something more elaborate. The arrangements feel lush and personal, with just enough drama to earn their own entrance. 349 Broadway POTHOS PLANT SHOP STUDIO FLOWERS THE FLORAL RESERVE THEA PLANT CO.
Photos by Maisie Snyder Photography, courtesy of Kaelin’s Florals
BLOOMING BLOSSOMS
floral arrangements for all of life’s special occasions
~ Since 1995 ~
— ALSO KNOWN AS FLORAL DESIGNS BY LIROG —
349 BROADWAY, PROVIDENCE • (401) 273-4010 • KAELINSFLORALS.COM • MONDAY - FRIDAY 10-6 | SATURDAY & SUNDAY 9-1
PLAY
The best way to understand Providence’s creative side is to join in. It stretches beyond museum walls and theater stages into converted mills, neighborhood studios, riverside parks, and late-night clubs, where watching from the sidelines would miss half the fun. That might mean making the art, taking the class, climbing higher, staying for the encore, or committing fully to a round of space-themed mini golf. Around here, serious fun and wonderfully odd fun have never been opposites. Both are invitations to get involved.
Waterfire Arts Center
GALLERIES AS220 GALLERIES ATRIUM GALLERY AT ONE CAPITOL HILL
RISD Museum
THE CHAZAN GALLERY AT WHEELER DIRT PALACE E.M. BANNISTER GALLERY AT RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE ERASE STUDIO AND GALLERY
Photo (top) courtesy of Troop, (bottom) courtesy of Go Providence
GALLERY AT CITY HALL GALLERY NIGHT PROVIDENCE PROVIDENCE ART CLUB PROVIDENCE COLLEGE GALLERIES PUBLIC SHOP & GALLERY RISD MUSEUM SOL KOFFLER GRADUATE STUDENT GALLERY WATERFIRE ARTS CENTER
Even without a bonfire flickering on the river, WaterFire knows how to lig ht up Providence’s creative side. Its cavernous Valley Street home turns an old mill into a stag e for contemporar y exhibitions, installations, performances, markets, and community g athering s. Check the calendar because no two visits look quite alike. 475 Valle y Street
GALLERIES
WOODS-GERRY GALLERY
52
WORLD’S FAIR GALLERY
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PERFORMING ARTS
PERFORMING ARTS BALLET RI EVERETT FÊTE MUSIC HALL FIRSTWORKS THE LINDEMANN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LIT ARTS RI THE PLAYERS AT BARKER PLAYHOUSE PROVIDENCE IMPROV GUILD PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER SOUTHSIDE CULTURAL CENTER OF RHODE ISLAND THE STRAND BALLROOM TEATRO ECAS TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY UPTOWN THEATER
The Dark Lady
GAY BARS
VETERANS MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM (THE VETS) [C] WILBURY THEATRE GROUP
LGBTQ+ NIGHTLIFE THE ALLEY CAT THE DARK LADY EGO PROVIDENCE MIRABAR PROVIDENCE EAGLE
Snow Street gets a little louder after dark at Providence Eagle, a long time fixture of Providence’s LGBTQ+ nightlife where leather culture, dancing , drinks, and spirited theme nights share the floor. The atmosphere stays proudly unfussy and the calendar lively, drawing a crowd that knows any good night out is better with a little edge. 124 Snow Street SAPPHIC CITY THE STABLE THE VU LOUNGE & BISTRO
Photo (top) courtesy of Uptown Theater, (bottom) by Jen Bonin
Uptown Theater
After a careful restoration, the lights are back on at 270 Broadway, where the former Columbus Theatre has reopened as the Uptown. Concerts, comedy, films, and special events now fill its century-old stage, while the restored Art Deco details give audiences plenty to admire between acts. It’s an old Providence favorite, ready to make some new memories. 270 Broadway
Casually Elegant Tuscan-Inspired Cuisine Award-Winning Wine and Cocktail Programs Enjoy a creative and affordable menu, along with our extensive beer and wine list in our stylish surroundings. Big city food and ambiance without big city price tag.
14.95
$19.95 Weekday Lunch
29.95
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$
weekday lunch three-course chef’s selection menu
Sunday and Monday dinner three-course chef’s selection menu
$31.95
Sunday & Monday Dinner
50% OFF
bottles of wine Mondays
happy hour specials
Wednesdays in Providence
starting at 3pm
50% OFF Bottles Of Wine Mondays
7 days a week
$8 Happy Hour Specials
Owners Sherri & Leonard Mello
Casually Elegant Tuscan-Inspired Cuisine & Award-Winning Wine and Cocktail 7 Days Programs A Week Three-course Three-course
Starting at 3PM Chef's Selection Chef’s Selection menu Enjoymenu our creative and affordable menu, along with our extensive beer and wine list in our stylish surroundings. Big city food and ambience without the big city price tag!
970 Douglas Pike Smithfield • (401) 349-4979 • 401 349 4979 | 289 Atwells Avenue, Providence • 401 274 6000 TavoloWineBar.com
Tavolo Wine Bar & Tuscan Grille • tavolowinebar.com
Things TO DO ANYHOW STUDIO
Medici
THE BUBBLER VR GAMING LOUNGE THE DUSTY PLANET
Olneyville has entered orbit at The Dusty Planet, an artist-made, nine-hole miniature golf course that sends players on a space adventure through handmade obstacles and cosmic mischief. Arcade games add to the fun, with families welcome to dock earlier in the day. After dark, karaoke, league nights, and the bar keep grown-up earthlings in play. 39 Troy Street ESCAPE RHODE ISLAND FREE PLAY BAR & ARCADE GATHER GLASS + GATHER CAFE & ICE CREAM BAR
THINGS TO DO
GRANT’S BLOCK LA GONDOLA PROVIDENCE LEVEL99 MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY & PLANETARIUM MUSE PAINTBAR PROVIDENCE ATHENAEUM
LISTEN UP
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LISTEN UP ALCHEMY THE GEORGE ON WASHINGTON MEDICI
Some nights call for a quiet soundtrack, but Medici isn’t one of them. Its Friendship Street nightlife room turns up the volume with live performers, high-energy DJs, and a sound system built for moving. When it’s time to catch your breath, the neighboring lounge offers craft cocktails, late-night bites, and a slightly softer landing. 127 Friendship Street MOONSHINE ALLEY NICK-A-NEES THE PARLOUR RED DOOR THE ROYAL BOBCAT THE SCURVY DOG
The Dusty Planet
Four Reasons to Get on Route 4 Route 4 may lead to the beach, but treating it like a straight shot south means missing some worthwhile turns along the way. Between a farmhouse brewery, a harbor village, a polished dining room, and a family farm, these four stops make the drive part of the day rather than something to hurry through.
1. TILTED BARN BREWERY: Tilted Barn
makes a convincing case that beer tastes better in a barn, pouring hazy IPAs, crisp pilsners, and experimental brews inside its handsome post-andbeam taproom. Take your glass to the patio or lower field, then see what the day’s food truck is serving. One Hemsley Place, Exeter
2. WICKFORD VILLAGE: A turn toward
Wickford Village trades highway scenery for harbor views, historic homes, and streets filled with independent shops, galleries, cafes, and waterfront restaurants. Browse without an agenda and pause beside the cove. What begins as a quick stop has a habit of stretching into the afternoon. Brown and Main streets, North Kingstown
Photo (top) courtesy of Medici, (bottom) courtesy of The Dusty Planet
3. MATUNUCK ATELIER: Matunuck Oyster
Bar founder Perry Raso brings a polished new dining experience to Old Tower Hill Road, where oysters, ceviche, and sushi share the menu with handmade pasta and familiar seafood favorites. The sleek dining room invites lingering, making this one detour best enjoyed without watching the clock. 151 Old Tower Hill Road, South Kingstown
4. CLARK FARMS: What begins as a
greenhouse run can easily turn into a full afternoon at Clark Farms, especially once someone spots the goats. Seasonal attractions offer plenty of reasons to return, from strawberry picking and sunflower strolls to a fall corn maze, hayrides, pedal go-karts, and cider donuts. 2984 Commodore Perry Highway, South Kingstown
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Drybar Providence
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SKip’s Barber Shop
Skip’s keeps things simple: good cuts, easy conversation, no fuss. The Atwells Avenue barbershop handles everything from fades and beard trims to classic cuts in a space that feels like a true neighborhood hangout. Pull up a chair and leave looking sharper than when you walked in. 556 Atwells Avenue
Photo (L) courtesy of Skip’s Barber Shop, (R) by Elyse Major
DRYBAR PROVIDENCE
PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE SOUNDTRACK FOR YOUR EVENT
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It’s PVDFest Time
PVDFest
The festival returns September 18-19, once again filling its familiar downtown footprint around Kennedy Plaza, the Providence Rink, Burnside Park, City Hall, and nearby streets. This year’s first performer announcement arrives with a headliner built for a crowd: New Orleans icon Big Freedia. The first lineup also brings the festival’s sound closer to home with Grammy Award-winning Fox Point native Butch Tavares, and La Excelencia, a salsa orchestra known for hard-driving salsa dura, bright brass, and socially charged sound. PVDFest will also honor three Grand Marshals whose work has helped shape Providence’s cultural life. This year’s honorees are Butch Tavares, long time cultural leader and event producer Rommel Montes de Oca, and Danielle Lucini, a Mount Pleasant High School music teacher and 2026 PPSD Teacher of the Year. The festival also has its official look for the year. Providence-based artist and RISD graduate Rebecca Pr y has been named winner of the official PVDFest 2026 x Boston Globe Rhode Island poster art contest, selected from 40 original entries. Her work adds another local layer to a festival already built around homegrown creativity, global performance, and the shared joy of seeing downtown come alive. Learn more at PVDFest.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo (top) by Zach Pona, (bottom) courtesy of PVDFest
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MONTH 20XX | HeyRhody.com
The Rhode Island Shriners proudly present the 12th Annual
FEZ-TIVAL OF TREES Thanksgiving Weekend, 11/28 – 11/29, 2026 SATURDAY, 11/28: 11 AM – 5 PM – SUNDAY, 11/29: 11 AM – 4 PM (Drawings start at 2:30 PM) *Net proceeds to directly benefit THE RHODE ISLAND SHRINERS (Donations are NOT tax-deductible)
AMAZING Tree, Wreath, Menorah, & Table Raffles
Holiday Crafter / Vendor Marketplace (Support Small Businesses!) Amazing FREE Children’s Activities – Food - Penny Socials - Music Complimentary Visits with Santa – AND MUCH MORE! RHODES ON THE PAWTUXET - 60 Rhodes Pl., Cranston, RI 02905 *2.00 Suggested Donation (Adults) – Children are FREE – Plentiful FREE Off-street Parking!
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NEW ENGLAND’S ULTIMATE MENSWEAR DESTINATION FOR OVER 20 YEARS 204 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PROVIDENCE RI 02903
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HOME & STYLE H o m e | M a ke r | S h o p | E n te r t a i n i n g
The parlor sets the tone for the home and first introduces visitors to Miss Hudson. “I wanted it to feel elegant and almost ceremonial,” says designer Bouley
Victorian Lady Photos by Liz Daly Photography, courtesy of Lindsey Dana Interiors
A regal townhouse sets a mood with saturated color and bold texture
By Ann Martini
T
hey call her Miss Hudson. An elegant late Victorian townhouse on Providence’s storied West End, Miss Hudson is less a renovation than a revelation: a home that unfolds room by room, each chamber offering a new mood, a new discovery. “The moment I walked into the condo I knew she was the one,” says the homeowner, a technolog y executive in her fifties. “Light poured through the windows like a permanent art installation, changing throughout the day and transforming every room.”
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HOME & STYLE
Constructed in 1876, the original floor plan – parlor, dining room, family room and kitchen – was a sequence the owner loved and wanted to preserve. “I wanted the house to reveal itself one room at a time,” she says. That decision delighted designer Lindsey Bouley, owner of Lindsey Dana Interiors in Providence. “It’s rare now to have a client ask to keep walls in place,” Bouley explains. “It allowed me to be more creative in telling each room’s story.” The guiding idea for the project was deceptively simple: treat the home like a jewel box. “If this were reduced to the size of a jewel, would it deserve a place in a jewelry box?” the owner asked. That question shaped every selection – furnishings, lighting, artwork, even the smallest decorative
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objects – ensuring that each piece earned its place not by cost or trendiness but by how it deepened the overall experience. Color and light play the canvas for each item. Bouley notes the space’s “magnificent” natural light as her first design principle. An earlier palette of cool blues and black trim left the rooms feeling cold despite abundant sun; together, the women pivoted to warm whites and saturated hues that respond dynamically as daylight shifts. The first-floor palette, save for the kitchen, is Benjamin Moore’s Pink Damask. It was a last-minute choice that inspired the wallpapering of the ceiling in the dining room, making it a conversation-sparking destination. The kitchen opts for Moore’s French Macaron – a soft counterpoint
The owner’s daughter describes this room as “fancy cozy.” Using bright colors and tones was key since this room gets the least amount of light throughout the day. SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Get Rhody Style I d e a s a n d re s o u rce s fo r m a k i n g t h e m o s t o f l i v i n g i n t h e O ce a n S t a te .
Art of the Deal Bouley notes that she finds endless inspiration wandering aisles at places like Mike’s Estate Services, 30,000 square feet of consigned furnishings, art, kitchen items, lighting, rugs, jewelry and more. With hundreds of new items arriving weekly, the West Warwick mill is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items, all reasonably priced. Similarly, Rhode Island Antiques Mall in Pawtucket offers one-stop shopping for estate items, repairs, appraisals, and more.
All in the Details Bouley enjoys shopping small around Providence and notes Nava (Wickenden Street) and Studio Hop (Hope Street) for curated, often one-of-a-kind homegoods. Nava trends towards unique, whimsical accessories for the kitchen counter, coffee table, bath, and beyond, while Studio Hop offers bold artworks, handmade items, and more from local and national artists. A favorite Providence artist is Jenny Brown, known for her collage and mixed media work.
B o t a n i c a l T h e ra py Looking to add plants to your decor mix? At Providence’s Thea Plant Company, you will find an expansive collection of tropical flora, specialized soils, and thoughtful accessories, alongside expert services including tailored plant care, bespoke design, and professional consultation. Over in Pawtucket, Jordan’s Jungle features vibrant tropical flora and is ready to curate the ideal botanical accents and vessels for your personal sanctuary, workplace, or outdoor living space.
Photos by Liz Daly Photography, courtesy of Lindsey Dana Interiors
The dining room was designed to spark conversation
to the invigorating tones elsewhere. Each room tells a distinct story. The parlor, formally named by the contractor and inspired by Bouley’s love of fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld’s sense of elegant ease, is ceremonial without being stuffy – “collected but smart,” Bouley says. It sets the tone for Miss Hudson: graceful, layered, and a little theatrical. The family room, which the designer’s daughter calls “fancy cozy,” is the house’s everyday heart: a long , narrow space made warm and functional through strategic furniture placement, a builtin reading nook, and a well-loved leather club SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
chair. Texture, too, creates warmth and movement through the rooms. The owner describes her approach as “thoughtful accumulation;” wallpaper, textiles, metals, estate furnishings, books, and collected objects that reveal themselves over time. Bouley builds on that tactile nest with restraint and intention. “Pattern play and texture mixture is central to my design philosophy,” she says, “but I prefer it to feel special, not ubiquitous.” A hand-painted South Asian sideboard anchors the parlor; surrounding textiles and art were chosen to enhance, not compete with, the piece’s decorative detailing.
Providence itself is woven into the design ethos of the home. “The city values history, architecture and independent creativity,” the owner says. “It inspired me to lean into a home that feels unapologetically feminine, deeply personal, and designed to reveal itself one room at a time.” Still, Miss Hudson is not simply a collection of attractive rooms. “The best homes aren’t simply beautiful,” Bouley says. “They’re designed to be experienced.” Learn more about Bouley’s work and services at Lindsey Dana Interiors, LindseyDanaInteriors.com, Instagram: @lindseydana_interiors Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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HOME & STYLE
Off-Runway Fashion Show-sto pp i ng l oo k s a re eve r yw h e re By Britt Machado
I
n Rhode Island, fashion finds its spotlight off the runway. The best dressed can be found strolling down Thames Street or sauntering along Hope. We inherited the best fashions during the summers of the Golden Age and mashed them up with our proud tradition of workwear and a spirit of sustainability. The result is a style all our own: colorful, understated, bespoke, and a little cheeky. You can have as many looks as there are seasons, and that’s something we can all make work.
Long Tiered Bow Dress in Black Cotton: APD, Pawtucket AmyPageDeblasio.com
Leather Slip-on Fabiano Ricci Sneakers: Blueprint 5, East Greenwich Blueprint5.com
Jennifer Satchel: Brahmin, Newport Brahmin.com
Amethyst Crown Ring: Tiffany Peay Jewelr y & Healing Arts, Tiverton | TiffanyPeay.com
Clare V Romy Hat Black: OMO, Westerly | OMOJewels.com
Specializing in Historic Property on the West Side, Broadway District, and Historic Elmwood for the last 25 years. Happy to assist you with all of your real estate needs.
Jane Driver Broker Associate 401.641.3723 jdriver@residentialproperties.com
Jane Driver is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.
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“Melody” by Maha Barsom
HOME & STYLE
Reshaping the Industry Meet designers from Rhode Island’s independent fashion scene By Gabriella Cos
R
hode Island’s fashion scene bridges international culture and New England charm. Bringing world-class tailoring techniques, resourceful craftsmanship, and creative collaboration to the smallest state, visionaries are redesigning coastal fashion from a regional look into an evolving canvas where global heritage meets local creativity. For Cathy Burgess, the designer behind the
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Burgess Collection, fashion is about defining a lifestyle, rather than chasing fleeting trends. Burgess captures the fundamental nature of modern luxur y through a blend of European sensibility and classic Newport elegance. Her design philosophy is centered around timeless tailoring and detailed craftsmanship, creating garments that feel like strolling the streets of Paris while simultaneously relaxing along the New England shoreline. Ever y piece
is specifically designed to transition across climates and occasions, resulting in versatile and effortless pieces. “ True luxur y isn’t about adding more,” notes Burgess. A perfect example is the Gwen Dress, a bestseller featuring a slightly shifted waist seam and hidden pockets to create a long , flattering silhouette. Utilizing premium, breathable fabrics, the entire collection effortlessly balances polished structure with daily comfort, Burgess has SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of Maha Barsom
Maha Barsom
Tailor Made Fit, balance, and quality are hallmarks of a bespoke fashion studio and showroom
Cathy Burgess
Not far from the malls of Warwick, yet worlds away quality-wise is the light-filled slow-fashion showroom and studio of Tatyana Ayriyan. Inside you’ll find pieces that Ayriyan has created from scratch – from outerwear to formal wear – each garment revealing intricate details often taken for granted, like the intricate stitching around a button hole, the tufting on a jacket. Along with expert tailoring and alterations, Ayriyan offers custom work: clothing designed and made just for you. It all begins with a visit to T Ayriyan for a consultation about everything from fabric to colors to accentuating the positive. Next are measurements followed by a few visits for fittings, and clients receive styling guidance to help complete their looks. “My work is rooted in creating thoughtfully designed pieces that reflect a woman’s individuality while offering timeless silhouettes and refined tailoring,” says the designer who launched her business in 2018 and had a shop in Newport prior to relocating to Bald Hill Road. “From bridal gowns to special occasion looks, each piece is designed with attention to detail, fit, and the individuality of the client.” Warwick, TAyriyan.com –Elyse Major
Photos courtesy of Cathy Burgess
The Burgess Collection
built a recognizable brand – and a devoted following. TheBurgessCollection East Providence-based designer and RISD apparel professor Maha Barsom views fashion as an intimate dialog ue with the earth. Her journey began early on with her father’s cotton plantation in Syria, watching her grandmother transform discarded fabrics into meticulously woven carpets. Today, that deep foundation of respect for raw materials has SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
shaped her revolutionar y approach. Maha has designed a zero -waste, made-to -order collection constructed entirely from recycled fabric remnants. Having trained in Paris under leg endar y fashion houses like Dior, Chanel, and Saint Laurent, Barsom takes the elite structural techniques of haute couture and applies them to modern street-fashion silhouettes. She approaches each design like a sculptor, refusing to allow size restrictions to dictate
Tatyana Ayriyan
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HOME & STYLE
Rhode Island Fashion Week
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her work. She pieces together irreg ular scraps to create entirely new fabrics, ensuring no two garments are ever identical. With the uproar in fast-fashion, Barsom’s hand-stitched demi-couture pieces offer consumers a deliberate luxur y, reimagining modern fashion with “wearable art worth waiting for.” MahaBarson.com Founder and executive producer of Rhode Island Fashion Week, Yemi Sekoni is redefining regional fashion from Cranston. “For me, fashion has never existed in a vacuum,” Sekoni says. Behind each collection of pieces is an ecosystem of photographers, stylists, jewelers, and visual artists. Sekoni has actively championed this interconnected industry through her collaborative platform, Fashion Fête. Rather than adhering to the traditional exclusivity of trade shows, Sekoni merges high-end runways with interactive marketplaces, proving local artists don’t need to flee to major hubs to gain recognition in their craft. “Rhode Island doesn’t need to become New York,” Sekoni begins. “It needs to become the best version of Rhode Island.” Her ideolog y centers on intentional representation, supporting emerging and marginalized voices while inspiring creators to “treat your creativity like a business from day one.” FashionWeekRI.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of Yemi Sekoni
Yemi Sekoni
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HOME & STYLE
She Sells Sea Shells A creative entrepreneur DIYs a DIY bar By Elyse Major
Y
ou know that you have an original idea when you research how to tackle it, and nothing comes up. That was the case for Jessica Billings, founder and owner of Farmgirl’s Front Porch in Wickford, when she landed on the concept of a sea shell bar – a self-ser ve experience of selecting shells as
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vase fillers or for use in crafting – and was ready to pursue how to realize that vision. “I was brainstorming ideas for a unique instore pop -up when my 15-year-old daughter and her friend had a do -it-yourself night and decorated the most beautiful sea shell picture frames. The second I saw them, I started to plan the sea shell bar,” says the entrepreneur,
who opened the brick-and-mortar last spring to add a tactile in-person component to her popular faux floral decor e-commerce site, The Accidental Farmgirl. When Billing ’s search for a “sea shell bar” came up empty, she fashioned her own template. In her pre-Farmgirl life, Billings had a candy buffet business called Party Pants,
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Elyse Major
Jessica Billings at her seasonal pop-up
25 ESTEN AVENUE PAWTUCKET, R.I.
401-726-3000
HOME & STYLE
where she would set-up beautiful displays of apothecar y jars filled with sweets to align with a prescribed party theme. “ That type of display is so simple and attractive, and I’ve been wanting to incorporate something like that in the shop somehow,” she says. The sea shell bar was the perfect fit. With an arsenal of sturdy plastic jars at the ready from Party Pants, plus baskets and other vessels, the next step was to amass shells. Rather than comb the shoreline and embark on scrubbing and soaking to remove organic matter, she found a trusted vendor and now carries nearly a dozen
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types of shells, each housed in its own jar. The Seashell Bar sits on a wooden unit akin to a potting shed table, lined at the center with leng ths of sage-and-white-striped paper and risers positioned to provide var ying levels for interest and access. On the bottom shelf, there is a basket of mixed small shells with a plastic scoop, and nearby are clear flatbottom bags for shoppers to fill. And whether you know a tiger cowrie from a spiny murex or not, it doesn’t matter – like any hands-on bar or buffet, the choice is yours. Additionally, filled bags are available for grab -and-go.
Throughout the shop, inspiration abounds for how to decorate with shells, whether strung , stored, or as vase fillers. Billings shares that she keeps a jar of shells collected from family vacations in her kitchen yearround ; however the retail installation will be put away to make space for fall. “I am toying with the idea of a DIY bar to switch out with the seasons,” she says. “But I’m not sure if anything will top the Seashell Bar. It’s been so popular, we will keep it up through September.” 10 Main Street, North Kingstown; AccidentalFarmgirlCo.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Elyse Major
Shells available include bursa ranna, tiger cowrie, spiny murex, pearlized trochus maculatus, purple turritella, scallop, scotch bonnet, sea urchins, sea stars, and strombus.
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766 Hope Street, Providence • 401.273.5367 • thecamerawerks.com • Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm | Closed: Sun, Mon & Holidays SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a registered investment adviser. As a Certified B-Corporation, Harkins Wealth Management has completed an independent assessment conducted by B-Lab and pays an annual fee to maintain the certification. Certification does not imply any specific level of skill, performance, or training in ESG investing. Commonwealth Financial Network is not a certified B-Corp and is separate and unrelated to B-Lab.
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FEATURE
A Growth Industry
Farming in Rhode Island can be a challenging, yet rewarding career
Clark Farms greenhouse in Wakefield
Photo courtesy of Clark Farms
By Emil y Homonoff
R
hode Island’s farming scene is in the middle of a tangible shift. With more than 1,000 farms and the nation’s highest percentage of new farmers, the state’s agricultural sector is growing. From 2017 to 2022, both the number of farms and amount of farmland increased, a genuine reversal after decades of losing ground. Some of that growth is showing up as new infrastructure. For example, Cranston’s Urban Edge Farm just broke ground on a $1.7 million food hub designed to provide small farms with shared processing and aggregation space they could never afford on their own. But the bigger story is happening farm by farm, as growers embrace direct relationships with customers through formats such as Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares, farmers markets, and agro-tourism. Here’s how four Rhode Island farms are building that direct connection.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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For Rich Clark, agritourism isn’t a side project; it’s the business model. Clark Farms in Wakefield runs on a rotating calendar of profit centers: from greenhouse crops in spring , to pick-your-own sunflower fields in the summer, fall festivals, and Christmas trees and decor in the winter. “Moving from Greenhouse crops in spring to sunflower-driven agritourism, to fall festivals, to Christmas decorating and back to spring again is a monumental task for our staff to execute ever y single year,” Clark says. “As soon as one thing is done, we are racing to start the next season.” That constant motion is deliberate. “ We work really hard to create a destination worth visiting whether it’s just to take pictures, create happy family memories, or to take beautiful products home with you,” he says. Clark credits South Kingstown’s pro -agriculture posture for making that model possible, and he’s optimistic about where the town and the farm are headed. In 2025, Clark Farms acquired the prop erty next door, a farm where Clark himself started shoveling manure back in 1983. This purchase brought the farm’s total footprint to more than 200 acres, “giving us almost unlimited potential to add a multitude of crops and purposes to keep our business solid and successful for the next hundred years.” His son Perr y is now stepping in as a second-generation owner and manager. “ We feel that the future is ver y bright for our company, for our staff, and our community,” adds Clark. Mar yellen Sun has big goals for Morris Farms, a fifth-generation family-owned farm that has been in operation since 1915. The Exeter and War wick locations have been investing heavily in equipment, greenhouse upgrades, and a farmstand that now offers premium Ang us-Wag yu cross beef alongside its produce and flowers. “For many farms, local reg ulations prohibit many agritourism events without special permitting or zoning designation,” Sun says. Morris Farms is working with its towns to change that, with plans for chef-partnered har vest dinners, farm stays, and hands-on classes like flower-arranging workshops.
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Clark Farms’ Garden Center in Wakefield sells seasonal products and offers family-friendly attractions
Morris Farms is a fifth-generation family-owned farm in operation since 1915
Photo (top) courtesy of Clark Farms, (bottom) courtesy of Morris Farms
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FARMERS MARKETS AROUND RI
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Sun points to rising costs of materials, such as fertilizer and fuel, that hit small farms hardest. “Small farms like us don’t have the ability to negotiate better prices like the large corporations can,” Sun said. What keeps her optimistic is what a working farm protects. Morris Farms’ fields and meadows in Exeter and North Kingstown host beavers, bobcats, turtles, and monarch butterflies, a habitat that disappears the moment land is developed. “Once farms are developed, there is no turning back,” Sun says. That’s part of why she believes small farms are worth the premium. Without the pressure for crops to sur vive mass shipping , Morris Farms can grow heirloom varieties like
white egg plant, and let tomatoes ripen fully before picking. “Anytime you see a small farmer working , you can pretty much be sure that they are doing this as a labor of love,” Sun says. At The Farm in RI, located in Chepachet, sur viving has meant learning to say no. Owner Sammie Vallone describes the last five years as a crash course in focusing on what actually works. “ We’ve shifted our business model to emphasize direct relationships with our customers through our self-ser ve farm stand, expanded into our restaurant relationships, and continued to grow our certified organic plant sale,” Vallone says. “ We think of it like pruning for the business.”
Enjoy the bounty of Rhode Island farms this harvest season at farmers markets, located around the state every day of the week through October. Here’s a list of Providence-area markets open to the public through October. Always be sure to check local schedules before heading out.
PROVIDENCE • Wednesdays through October 28: Sankofa World Market, Knight Memorial Library, 275 Elmwood Ave., 2pm-6pm. • Thursdays through October 29: Armory Park Farmers Market, Dexter Training Ground, Parade St. and Hollywood Rd., 3pm-dusk. • Saturdays through October 31: Hope Street Farmers Market, Lippitt Park, 1015 Hope St., 9am-1pm. • Saturdays Through October 31: Broad Street Farmers Market, Algonquin House, 807 Broad St., 8am-noon.
CRANSTON • Sundays through October 18: Garden City Farmers Market, Garden City Center, 100 Midway Rd., 10am-2pm.
EAST PROVIDENCE • Thursdays through September: Weaver Library Farmers Market, Weaver Library, 41 Grove Ave., 4pm-7pm.
PAWTUCKET • Fridays through September 4: Pawtucket Farmers Market, Jordan’s Jungle, 545 Pawtucket Ave., Fridays, 4:30pm -7:30pm.
• Saturdays through September 26: Conimicut Village Community Market, 662 West Shore Rd., 9am-noon.
The Farm in RI in Chepachet is known for sustainable farming practices
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• Thursdays through October 8: Westbay Marketplace, Westbay Farm, 1351 Centerville Rd., 4pm-5:30pm. • Fridays through October: Goddard Memorial Park Farmers Market, 1095 Ives Rd., 9am-1pm.
(L) courtesy of Boston Photo courtesy of The Farm inLegacy RI FC
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The costs forcing that discipline are almost universal for small farms: seeds, compost, insurance, packaging , labor. “There’s a limit to what customers can realistically afford to pay for food, so margins have become much tighter,” Vallone says. This year brought a sharper blow when the farm lost a greenhouse during a blizzard, cutting into what it could grow all season. Vallone sees state grant programs as genuinely useful, but says regulation often assumes a scale small farms don’t have. “Many regulations are
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written with much larger operations in mind,” she says. “Small farms often end up navigating the same paperwork and compliance requirements as businesses many times their size.” Still, she’s optimistic, pointing to a new generation of growers and a public that increasingly wants to know where its food comes from. “Buying from a local farm isn’t just purchasing vegetables,” Vallone says. “It’s investing in open space, local jobs, food security, and a resilient community.” Sanctuary Herbs of Providence is a network
of farms that produce chemical-free herbal teas and culinary herbs grown by small farmers across the Providence area, many of them immigrants and refugees from countries including Liberia, Laos, Cambodia, and Uganda. Owner Christina Dedora, who also runs Blue Skys Farm on rented land at Urban Edge Farm in Cranston, knows the economics of small-scale farming firsthand. “Labor cost and material cost have risen over the past five years, thus making margins tighter than ever,” Dedora says.
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Photo courtesy of The Farm in RI
Samantha Vallone, shown inside the farm stand, is the driving force behind The Farm in RI, located in Chepachet
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We’ve Expanded!
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Finding help has become its own struggle, too. People “who want to work hard physically” through “unpredictable weather every year,” as Dedora puts it, is a combination that keeps many prospective hires away. What’s made the difference, Dedora says, is support that goes beyond individual customers. Dedora points to the state’s Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) grant as one of the biggest reasons Sanctuary Herbs has
been able to grow, “ We were able to purchase equipment and build infrastructure.” She also credits nonprofits like Southside Community Land Trust, where she and Sanctuary Herbs co-founder Eliza Sutton first met, and Farm Fresh RI for supporting small farmers “over the past 20 years.” Her hope rests less on grants than on people: “an increased number of consumers who truly want to buy local, even though it may cost more.”
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Photo courtesy of Sanctuary Herbs
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Milk and Honey Photo by Jason Wessel Photography, courtesy of Ellie’s
A favorite Parisian cafe serves nostalgia in a cup
Honey Cups at Ellie’s
By Ann Martini
S
ome of the best ideas are also the simplest. And they’re even better when they stir a sense of familiarity. At Ellie’s, the beloved Providence Parisian café and baker y, that idea comes in the form of a petite paper cup filled with house-made ice cream. Called Honey Cups, these nostalgic treats evoke childhood summers while showcasing the pastr y team’s creativity, technical skill, and commitment to reducing waste, all in a dessert g uests can enjoy any time of day, all year-round.
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and her lifelong affection for the golden sweetener. Spady incorporates local honey into the vanilla base, discovering it added more than sweetness. “It brings a little more complexity and a subtle floral note,” she says. “When I created the recipe, I knew Ellen would love that addition.” The nostalgic paper cups were Slatter y’s idea, inspired by the single-ser ve ice cream Hoodsie Cups she loved growing up. They also solve a practical challenge. During Ellie’s bustling brunches and busy dinner ser vice,
staff can simply hand g uests a perfectly portioned dessert without stopping to scoop individual ser vings, there’s even a tiny wooden spoon under the lid. “Our mission has always been to celebrate life’s simple pleasures,” Slattery says. “There’s something universally nostalgic about enjoying ice cream from a little paper cup. Pairing that familiar experience with our own house-made flavors felt like the perfect way to create a dessert that’s playful, elevated, and approachable.”
Photo by Jason Wessel Photography, courtesy of Ellie’s
“I’ve wanted to make ice cream for a long time,” says Pastr y Chef Kerri Spady. “Partly because I wanted us to offer affogatos (the classic Italian dessert of hot espresso poured over vanilla ice cream), but mostly because ice cream has always been my favorite dessert.” Once Spady began developing the recipe, she knew exactly what ingredient would make the base distinctly Ellie’s: honey. The Honey Cup name is inspired by owner Ellen Gracyalny Slattery’s beloved pet pig, Honey,
Ice cream cup namesake, Honey the pig
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That sense of simplicity belies years of behind-the-scenes work. Perfecting the recipes required countless rounds of testing and refinement before the team achieved the creamy texture and balanced flavors they envisioned. “ We’ve been working on this for several years,” Slatter y says. “Kerri makes it sound easy, but there was a lot of trial and error to perfect ever y flavor.” Honey Cup flavors cleverly give new life to ingredients that might other wise be discarded. Ellie’s authentic French macarons, for example, are notoriously fragile. Rather
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than waste cracked shells, Spady folds them into Strawberr y Macaron Ice Cream, transforming delicate cookies into colorful bursts of texture and flavor. The Espresso Martini Cake Ice Cream draws inspiration from one of Ellie’s signature cakes, an indulgent dessert that frequently appears on seasonal and holiday menus. Another favorite, Honey Caramel, was designed as a staple, amplif ying the floral sweetness that inspired the collection’s name. The Honey Cups also carry a charitable mission. In honor of Honey, Ellie’s donates $1 from every cup sold to Ross Mill Farm in
Pennsylvania, a nationally recognized sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehoming surrendered pigs while providing education, veterinary consultation, and lifelong care.” Their love and devotion to pigs is truly a gem,” Slattery says. Most of all, the Ellie’s team loves witnessing people’s reactions. “ Watching g uests’ eyes light up when we hand them a Honey Cup has been one of the best parts,” Slatter y says. “It sparks memories, starts conversations, and reminds people that sometimes the simplest desserts leave the biggest impression.” 250 Westminster Street, ElliesProv.com
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Photo by Jason Wessel Photography, courtesy of Ellie’s
Pastry bits are among the sweet ingredients
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City Oasis
An inte r i o r d e si g n e r b r i n g s Ja m a i c a n t u c k sh op vib es to Westmin ster Street By Ann Martini
The bright space on Westminster Street
really about creating an experience.” After nearly 22 years designing restaurants throughout Rhode Island, Parenteau has learned that successful hospitality design is equal parts psycholog y, storytelling, and logistics. Beautiful spaces matter, but so do efficient kitchens, comfortable employees, and floor plans that allow servers to move effortlessly through a packed dining room. Parenteau’s work can be seen in restaurants including Nathaniel’s Bistro in Lincoln, Wickford on the Water, the third-floor reno vation at The Mews Tavern in Wakefield, and the recently opened JA PATT Y, where Providence’s Jamaican culture ser ved as the inspiration for ever y design decision. Rather than arriving with a predetermined
Vibrant artwork complements bold flavors
style, Parenteau begins every project by listening. “When I met with Chef Conroy Outar and Alison Rosario from JA PATTY, I wanted to hear their story,” she says. “Conroy is from Jamaica, so it was important that the colors and environment reflected where he came from.” Those conversations become the blueprint for the entire project. Parenteau wants to understand more than the menu. She asks what emotions the owners hope guests will feel, how long they expect diners to stay, and what makes the restaurant unlike any other. “I want clients to trust me to bring their vision to life,” she says. “I’m not just designing a beautiful room. I’m creating an environment that reflects their food, their personality, and their brand.”
Photo by Jesse Dufault Photo & Film, courtesy of Michelle Lee Designs
B
efore diners notice the menu or exalt over the first bite, they’re already deciding how they feel about a restaurant. Maybe it’s the warm glow of a pendant light over the bar. Maybe it’s the cozy banquette tucked into the corner, lending intimacy, the rich color on the walls, or the subtle soundtrack that makes conversation effortless. Whatever it is, those first impressions shape the dining experience long before the food arrives. “People think restaurant design is about decorating,” says Michelle Lee Parenteau, of Michelle Lee Designs, a Johnston-based interior design firm known for its founder’s voracious use of color and a fearless desire to tell a story. “But it’s
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“ When we created JA PATT Y, we wanted the warmth and energ y of Jamaica reflected not only in our food, but throughout the entire restaurant,” says co-founder Alison Rosario. “The flavors, colors, and atmosphere all work together so guests feel the same sense of hospitality and community that inspires everything we do.” Rosario says Parenteau invested the time to understand both the business and the people behind it. “She listened to our ideas while bringing our vision to life,” Rosario says. “She incorporated our brand colors, local artists, and small businesses to create a space that
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feels welcoming and full of personality.” Function is just as important as aesthetics. While guests admire lighting fixtures and finishes, Parenteau is thinking about what they never notice – the distance between the kitchen and dining room, where servers refill water glasses, and whether staff can navigate a crowded restaurant without interruption. “A well-designed restaurant creates better flow,” she says. Then come the finishing touches — the elements that transform a room from functional to unforgettable. Parenteau describes lighting as “the jewelry of the room.” Combined with layered textures,
carefully selected music, comfortable seating, and thoughtful sightlines, those details establish the mood before a single plate reaches the table. For Parenteau, every restaurant tells a story, and every design element should help tell it. “I want people to forget about the outside world for a little while,” she says. The most rewarding moment, says Parenteau, doesn’t come when construction is finished, or the last light fixture is installed. It happens on opening night. “I’m watching people’s faces,” she says. “Seeing them smile, compliment the space, and create memories — that’s what makes me happiest.”
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Jesse Dufault Photo & Film, courtesy of Michelle Lee Designs
There are many varieties of rice bowls
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FOOD & DRINK
Savoring Rhody Eight places to revel in local’s summer B y Patty J
A
Cinder Re sta ura nt Follow your nose to this smokehouse known for its slow-cooked meats – including brisket, smash burgers, and steak frites – and a patio overlooking the Pawcatuck River. Having recently visited, I can vouch for their margaritas, hummus and chips, squash fries with passionfruit applesauce, and the fried fish and French lentil salad entree. Leave room for desserts like citrus olive oil cake. Westerly
Patty J at Snack Bar Royale
The Butche r Sho p Owned and operated by Dave Surabian since 1970, this old school deli and micro-grocery in the Elmgrove neighborhood of the East Side is a real gem for lunch (so many soups, salads, and sandwiches!) and essentials like cold drinks and snacks. Additionally, there’s hot food, and I am obsessed with their breakfast-all-day pancakes; some of the best you’ll ever eat. Providence
Pescadou
Jo’s Do ug h After starting as a cottage bakery back in 2023, Jodi Lentini opened a cute little storefront for her artisan sourdough bread this past July on Gansett Avenue in Cranston. Sourdough traditionalists will love the Plain Jane, but don’t sleep on the blueberry lemon, cheddar jalapeño, or the kalamata olive. Pre-order online or take your chances at the walk-up window (go early for best selection). Cranston
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Pesc ad o u
Pan D B o n o
There’s nowhere else quite like this dreamy new French Riviera-inspired brasserie. Located on the main floor of the refreshed Hotel Viking and named for the Provencal word for fisherman, Chef Robert Andreozzi and Jesse Hedberg have created a menu based on exceptionally fresh, locally sourced seafood. I love the raw bar, Parisienne gnocchi, and their spin on a lobster roll. Newport
Open since mid-June, this Colombian bakery and cafe in a plaza on Broadway is fast becoming a goto spot. Traditional Latin American baked goods like cheesy pandebonos, buñelos, and churros are made from scratch daily by the owner, who is a third-generation baker. They also have amazing empanadas, Colombian coffee, and hot or cold specialty lattes that will wow you. Pawtucket
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo (top L) courtesy of Patty J, (bottom L) courtesy of Pescadou, (top R) courtesy of Pan O Bono, (bottom R) courtesy of Cinder Restaurant
fter a few months of sharing the Ocean State with tourists, September means we have it back to ourselves to enjoy! I am here for the peaceful mornings at the beach, less chaotic coffee and sourdough bread runs, and relaxing al fresco meals. Here are eight splendid spots to enjoy all the beauty of late summer, sans crowds.
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A ldeia Co f fe e ho us e Inside a charming yellow cottage on Maple Avenue, Chef Maggie Mulvena Pearson (Feast and Fettle) has created a slice of Portugal. Lingering over a specialty coffee drink and toasted bolo sandwich with Portuguese red plum jam and salted butter feels like traveling abroad; I mean, even the mugs and plates are imported from Portugal. Barrington
1253 North Main Street Providence, RI 02904 401-272-2590
245 Carpenter Street Providence, RI 02903 401-451-3075
Order online at thesandwichhut.com 60 years, 3 generations, and who knows how many meatballs.
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BUILT FOR BESTIES! Olympia Tea Room
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The Olympia Tea Room is 110 years old and has been owned and operated by the Felber family for more than 45 years. With its pink walls, temperance clock hanging over the bar, and mahogany booths, any visit feels like stepping into a classic movie. My favorite time to go for delicious salads, seafood, and grilled pizza is in September when the village isn’t so crowded. Watch Hill
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Olympia Tea Room
O l ym p i a Tea Ro o m
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SPORTS BAR & GRILL
33 Aborn Street Providence, Rhode Island FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
poke bowls made to order
Snack B a r Roya l e Coffee, ice cream, oysters, and cocktails is what you’ll find at Snack Bar Royale, the latest offering from Chef Jake Rojas (formerly of Tallulah’s Taqueria). This jaunty seaside eater y brings coastal European energ y and a curated menu of sips and snacks ideal for slow mornings and leisurely evenings by the water. Seating and window service, too! Jamestown
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Southern Comfort
Rho de Is l a nd ’ s fi rst re st a u ra nt d evo te d exc lu sively to c h ic ken a n d wa ffles op en s in Oln eyvi l l e By Jenna Kaplan
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to storefront with legal g uidance, marketing assistance, and a $3,000 Grand Opening Grant. The regional nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain successful businesses through advising , access to capital, technical assistance, professional ser vices, workforce development, and educational programming. The folks at House of Chicken & Waffles want to remind customers that this isn’t fast food. Everything is made fresh in-house and is billed as comfort food done with intention. “Our goal has always been bigger than opening a restaurant,” Monroe said. “We wanted to build something that creates jobs, serves our community, and can one day grow without sacrificing quality.” 105 Plainfield Street; WeGetChicken.com
Richard Monroe and Adonis Cossia
Photos courtesy of RIBBA
H
ouse of Chicken & Waffles isn’t asking anyone to choose between sweet and savory. It’s putting both on the same plate, then adding enough waffle flavors, syrups, butters, and crispy buttermilk-marinated chicken to make one visit feel like only the beginning. Co-owners Richard Monroe and Adonis Cossia celebrated the restaurant’s grand opening July 31 with live music, complimentary food samples, giveaways, and a ribbon cutting. The opening gives a permanent address to a concept Rhode Islanders first met as a food truck. Now, Monroe and Cossia have more room to expand the menu, which includes more than 20 waffle flavors paired with Southern-inspired comfort food prepared with Halal (permitted under Islamic law) ingredients. Diners can build their order with specialty butters, flavored syrups, various honeys, and premium chicken options. Seasonal dishes and gluten-free choices will also make appearances, which means working through the full menu could take some commitment. Twenty-plus waffle flavors are a lot to tackle, but becoming a regular feels like a perfectly reasonable solution. “ We didn’t want to create just another restaurant,” Cossia said. “ We wanted to build an experience.” That experience started on four wheels, but Monroe and Cossia always had bigger plans for it. They’ve spent years refining the food, tightening up ser vice, and fig uring out how to grow without losing the quality that earned the truck its following. The new storefront gives them a chance to do more than ser ve dinner. They hope the restaurant will become a neighborhood gathering place, create local jobs, and show other aspiring entrepreneurs what can happen when a good idea gets the support it needs. Initiatives including kids eat free when they bring in a report card or progress report, discounts for active duty ser vice members and veterans, and a standing discount for currently enrolled students with a valid student ID, align with the restaurant’s community-minded mission. RIBBA helped support the move from truck
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