Though Newport, Rhode Island is an amazing coastal town perfect for a Summer visit, it’s worth a visit no matter the time of year. It’s the perfect long weekend getaway. From New York City, it’s about a four hour drive.
Sailing is prevalent in Newport and there are a number of gorgeous Gilded Age mansions to visit. Take a scenic cliff walk, visit seafood and oyster shacks, attend a polo match – Newport is one of the quintessential New England coastal towns.
With all of the activities to keep you busy during your stay, you’re bound to work up an appetite.
WHAT ARE THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND?
The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn
When you think of Newport, Rhode Island one of the first images that come to mind are the white Adirondacks overlooking the East Bay at Castle Hill Inn. Grab an Adirondack and watch the ships sail by with a cocktail in hand. If you feel like lingering longer than a drink, the hotel patio at the Lawn is a good option for a more casual dinner al fresco versus the prix fixe tasting menu at the dining room at Castle Hill Inn. It’s a popular spot in Newport so time your visit accordingly.
Bouchard
A fine dining experience in Newport, Bouchard offers French fare for an upscale dinner. Note the proper attire requirements. There are two menus offered with the first seating at 5:00 – 6:00PM for a four-course tasting menu at $75 per person. The second seating is between 7:30 – 8:30PM for a five-course tasting menu at $89 per person. A favorite dish? The lobster. Do not skip on the lobster.
Flo’s Clam Shack
Right outside of town is Flo’s Clam Shack, a no-frills clam shack. The clam shack is a laidback seafood shack across the street from Easton Beach. Order at the counter, pick a spot at a picnic table (or on the second floor deck), and enjoy a casual lunch of fried clams, chowder, and New England fried seafood galore. Do yourself a favor and get the clam strips.
Clarke Cooke House
Clarke Cooke House is a quintessential Newport eatery where both locals and tourists frequent. The summer porch is a great spot for a date night and following dinner, head to their SkyBar upstairs for a drink. For those looking for something a bit livelier, the BoomBoom Room located downstairs draws a crowd looking for a night out.
The Roof Deck at the Vanderbilt
Named after the Vanderbilt family, the hotel is an Auberge property right in town and features a roof deck perfect for sunset drinks and fresh Rhode Island oysters. There are wraparound views over the harbor and ring in happy hour (literally) at 5:00PM with a ring of the bell and homemade rum punch shooter cheers. Head here for sunset and pre-dinner drinks.
Giusto
Giusto opened in the Hammetts Hotel in 2020 and has become Newport’s most in-demand waterfront dining. Chef Kevin O’Donnell cooked at NYC’s Del Posto and has returned to his Rhode Island roots, making New England fare with an Italian twist.
White Horse Tavern
White Horse Tavern is the oldest tavern in North America, dating back to 1673. Downstairs is perfect to stop in for a drink and light bites or head upstairs for a formal dining area. The interior holds a nostalgic design – like a step back in time – with colonial details and décor. The food, however, is a modern take on New England fare. Reservations are recommended.
The Mooring
The Mooring is a family-friendly restaurant that has a deck overlooking the Narragansett Bay – perfect for a casual lunch. Make sure to ask for a table on the patio. The menu is seafood focused, as is much of Newport, with a wide range of raw bar options. Try out their fish and chips or their “top-of-the-catch” seafood specialties.