Everyone knows that when the parents come into town, dining hall food is not acceptable. Graduation is the perfect time to hit up your favorites and celebrate a huge milestone. With so many dining options in Providence, finding the perfect bougie post-grad meal is simple.
1. Enoteca Umberto
Tucked way in a little spot on Federal Hill, Enoteca Umberto offers authentic Southern Italian food in an intimate setting. A reservation is necessary because of limited seating but it is definitely worth it. Enoteca offers delicious food but also a unique experience. While it’s not super expensive, it’s definitely an occasion to go and a great way to celebrate graduation.
Location: Federal Hill
Price Range: $$-$$$
Cuisine: Italian
2. Los Andes
Providence has an abundance of Italian restaurants (which there is nothing wrong with) but if your looking for something different, Los Andes is the place to go. Los Andes serves up authentic dishes such as Paella, Jalea, Pacumuto and Silpancho. Their seafood is very fresh and they use the highest quality ingredients whenever possible.
Location: Elmhurst
Price Range: $$-$$$
Cuisine: Latin American, Peruvian
3. Cafe Nuovo
The perfect place to go for Waterfire, Cafe Nuovo offers views like no other. Opt for a table outside if weather permits and you will not regret it. Whether you go for lunch or dinner, you will not be disappointed. Good food recommendations include the Creamy Tomato Soup, Stuffed Rigatoni and the Nuovo Chocolate Cake.
Location: Downtown
Price Range: $$$-$$$$
Cuisine: American
4. Al Forno
Rated one of the top Pizza Places in the U.S. by Food & Wine Magazine, Al Forno is truly a hidden gem right here in Providence. It has a unique location on the Providence River, different from the hustle and bustle of Federal Hill. Grilled Pizza option include Calamari Pizza & Tuscan Kale Pesto. From the wood-grill they offer Lamb Chops, NY Strip Steak and Duck Legs. And if your looking for an extravagant dessert, opt for the Cookie Finale, perfect for two.
Location: Fox Point
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Italian
5. Persimmon
Persimmon has been a hit in Providence since it’s move from Bristol, RI. Along with a new location, they have changed their menu to offer small plates rather than the traditional appetizer/entree/dessert so guests can try a variety of options. Some menu options include confit potatoes, RI black bass, Foie Gras, Risotto and the famous PB&J “S’more”.
Location: College Hill/ East Side
Price Range: $$-$$$
Cuisine: American
6. Gracie’s
Fine-dining in a cozy setting DownCity is possible at Gracie’s. Their menu changes seasonally and they really focus on each ingredient to create their perfectly crafted dishes. Gracie’s offers chef tasting menus, prix fixe, dessert tasting and wine pairings. Try the All Natural Ribeye or Butter Poached Lobster.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: American
7. Pane e Vino
Owned by a second-generation Italian American born in Providence, it is truly a locally-owned restaurant. Fresh, simple & honest ingredients are vibrant at Pane e Vino. Pane e Vino offers classic Italian-fare such as Pasta Fagioli, Locally-sourced Lobster Ravioli and Wood-Grilled Veal Rib Chop.
Location: Federal Hill
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Italian
8. Local 121
In the heart of DownCity on busy Washington Street, you will find Local 121. It is in the former Dreyfus Hotel and was completely transformed to feature cozy yet chic accents. For parties and events, they offer a “Speakeasy” room downstairs, just like in the ’20s. Local 121 focuses on seasonal ingredients and has a rotating menu.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: American
9. The Dorrance
Everyone at JWU has walked by The Dorrance several times but not gone in. Mainly because it is very pricey and bougie but for special occasions, why not? The interior alone is simply stunning and makes you feel like your in Europe. Menu offerings include Point Judith Lobster Pappardelle, Citrus Shrimp and Risotto and New York Sirloin.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: American
10. Hemenway’s
If you have seafood lovers in your party, Hemenway’s is the place to go. Located right in the heart of RISD, Hemenway’s offers the freshest seafood in Providence along with a unique view of the Providence skyline. Popular menu items include Lobster Bisque, Ceviche, and Alaskan King Crab Legs.
Location: College Hill
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Seafood
11. Fleming’s
Even though Fleming’s is a chain, the food goes above and beyond. Located in the ground level of the Omni Hotel in Providence, Fleming’s is very convenient for post-graduation dinners. Fleming’s has several different Filet Mignon options, New Zealand Lamb Chops and an extensive drink menu.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$$
Cuisine: Steakhouse
12. The Capital Grille
Another chain that does not disappoint is The Capital Grille in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Providence. Serving up American-fare, The Capital Grille offers a la carte options such as Gorgonzola & Truffle Crusted Dry Aged Bone-In NY Strip, Seared Chilean Sea Bass & Parmesan Truffle Fries.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Steakhouse
13. Mill’s Tavern
Mill’s Tavern offers high-class food in a comfortable environment. Their menu changes seasonally to reflect ingredients that are in harvest. Menu items include Seafood Saffron Risotto, New Zealand Rack of Lamb, and Nutella Ganache.
Location: College Hill
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Seafood, Steakhouse
14. Pot Au Feu
1972 was a big year for French cooking in America. Everyone was fascinated by Julia Child and her seemingly-impossible creations. Pot au Feu is America’s oldest French bistro-and it is right here in DownCity. Not only do they serve food, they provide class trips and wine tastings.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: French
15. birch
birch is intimate, classy and never disappoints. Located right next to Gracie’s, both restaurants have definitely put a twist on food in DownCity. At birch, you sit at a long wrap around bar that provides privacy but also the chance to meet new people. birch makes the best of the New England region by featuring ingredients at their peak. For $49, you can get a four-course gourmet meal featuring raw black bass, celeriac, grilled cabbage and grass-fed cow’s milk cheese.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: American
16. CAV Restaurant
The only restaurant located in Providence’s Jewelry District, CAV is a special place. Along with having delicious food, there is an antique art gallery and live music on the weekends. CAV menu items include: Prince Edward Island Mussels, Black Truffle Ravioli and Braised Lamb Shank.
Location: DownCity
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: American
17. Siena
One of the most well-known restaurants on the hill is Siena. Whether it’s for a date, celebration or just a night out, Siena does not disappoint. Popular items include the Pasta Fagioli, the varieties of pizza such as Margherita and Chicken with Risotto.
Location: Federal Hill
Price Range: $$$
Cuisine: Italian