written by Andrea McHugh, Senior Communications Manager for Discover Newport
The wait is over! Summer on The Classic Coast is officially upon us and so begins the season of plenty. While Newport and its surrounding coastal communities remain proud of longtime institutions ranging from family eateries (like Evelyn’s Drive In, marking its 50th year as Rhode Island’s iconic clam shack) to nearly century-old ice cream shops, there’s always a new, palpable excitement surrounding all that is new in these parts. Here are just some new businesses experiencing their inaugural summer on The Classic Coast:
NEW HOTELS
The Cliffside Inn: Reinvented and reimagined by Lark Hotels, the newly unveiled 16-room innpays homage to its 1876 Victorian mansion roots and former owner, Beatrice Turner, a noted 20thcentury painter. Melding historic elements with modern touches, this year-round hotel was redesigned by Boston-based Rachel Reider Interiors using a rich palette of jewel tones, rich textures and eclectic patterns. Original early 20th century furnishings include four-poster beds, armoires and ornate side tables accompanied by stunning coastal views over Newport’s famed Cliff Walk. From gourmet breakfast to plush beds, fine linens and fireplaces in every room, this inn provides all the luxurious amenities desired from a large hotel in a personalized, boutique setting. 2 Seaview Avenue, Newport. thecliffsideinn.com
The Outlook Inn: What was originally a single-family home in the heart of Newport now features 10 guest rooms and a two-bedroom suite – all with modern amenities including flat screen TVs, plush linens, en-suite bathrooms and luxurious personal care products. The third-story observation deck is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city and captivating harbor. A rave-worthy breakfast is prepared daily by the innkeeper and served in the guest lounge located on the third floor. 123 Spring Street, Newport. theoutlookinn.com
Serenity Inn: This luxurious collection of 12 distinctively designed guest rooms sits quietly tucked away in one of Newport’s most historic neighborhoods amid two- and three-century-old homes. The elegant Victorian was built in 1855 on the first gas-lit street in America and today’s guests enjoy homemade breakfast prepared each morning. Formerly known as the Adele Turner Inn, this property is also on the National Register ofHistoric Places. 93 Pelham Street, Newport. serenityinnnewport.com
For hotel news including new builds, click here.
NEW RESTAURANTS IN NEWPORT
12 Meter Café: Serving breakfast sandwiches and fresh baked bagels with artisan cream cheese, plus lunch boxed lunches, pastry, Nitro Coffee and more located inside Seamen’s Church Institute. 18 Market Square, Newport. facebook.com/pg/12MetreCafe
Bar & Board Bistro: From Alex and Ani founder Carolyn Rafaelian comes this concept restaurant featuring a reconstructed interior, open kitchen, two floors for dining and an expansive covered patio. Enjoy a locally sourced Italian and Mediterranean-inspired menu (think: charcuterie and cheese boards, local seafood and more) with cocktails designed to bring you back to the Newport of decades ago. 282 Thames Street, Newport. barandboard.com
Bar Cino: In the heart of Newport’s Washington Square, this 60-seat Italian-inspired wine bar and trattoria serves grilled pizza, paninis, small plates and full entrees. Owned and operated by Newport Restaurant Group. 22 Washington Square, Newport. barcinonewport.com
Cara: Formerly The Spiced Pear restaurant at The Chanler, Cara’s tasting menus bring a thoughtful, curated dining experience to Newport. Fully refreshed with new floors, furniture and custom pieces, Cara is helmed by Executive Chef Matthew Voskuil, previously of Las Vegas’ Venetian Resort and Casino. Minimalist dish descriptions found on the two tasting menus only scratch the surface of the inventive cuisine that engages all the senses. Savor New England’s fertile fields and bountiful waters with a dining experience augmented by a robust wine and cocktail program. 117 Memorial Blvd., Newport. thechanler.com/cara-restaurant
Friskie Fries: Savor more than a dozen varieties of French fries ranging from fries topped with crispy chicken and cheese to poutine style. New locations in Barrington and Newport.
Hill Market Café: Located inside the Hotel Viking, this chic new space serves freshly brewed coffee by Stumptown Coffee Roasters, handmade pastries, on-the-go bites and fresh pressed juices and smoothies, all made in-house. 1 Bellevue, Newport. hotelviking.com/dining/hill_market
Humming Bird, A Taste of the Caribbean: Owned and operated by a local couple hailing from Jamaica, this Broadway café and restaurant serves up spicy Caribbean specialties in addition to traditional American dishes. Warm sandwiches, salads, breakfast and more. BYOB. hummingbirdnewport.com
104 Broadway, Newport.
Imbriglio’s Pizzeria Resto Bar Napoletana: An authentic Italian eatery serving pizzas in the Neapolitan tradition inspired by owner Richard Sardella’s grandfather, Richardo Imbriglio, who owned a bakery in New Jersey dating back to the 1890s. Open for dinner seven night a week. Located adjacent to its sister restaurant, Sardella’s. 32 Memorial Boulevard West, Newport. facebook.com/ImbrigliosNapoletana
Nitro Bar: From the owners of The Nitro Cart in Providence comes this neighborhood breakfast and lunch location featuring a menu highlighting local farms, house-made items and killer coffee. 2 Pond Avenue, Newport. thenitrocart.com
TPOJ Courtside: An expansion of The Power of Juice’s Middletown flagship, this new “snackery” and juice bar features indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the grass courts at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Enjoy an assortment of healthy “grab and go” plant-based options. 13 Memorial Blvd., Newport. thepowerofjuice.com
The Reclaimed Café (formerly Lorusso’s): Offering breakfast, lunch, brunch and a full espresso bar. 580 Thames Street, Newport.
Root, A Vegan Juice Bar & Eatery: Another addition to burgeoning Broadway, this cozy quick serve eatery offers fresh juices, smoothies, bowls, soups, toasts, desserts, daily specials and more. It is the only dedicated vegan eatery in Newport and is Kosher. 6 Broadway, Newport. rootonbroadway.com
Tin Can Crab Shake: Casual Cajun and Asian fusion seafood priced by the pound alongside fried favorites. Choose specialty sauces and both traditional and eclectic “add-ons.” 472 Thames Street, Newport.
Trattoria Romana: Combining old-world Italian preparations with gracious service, this dining experience at Twin River Tiverton Casino features homemade dishes cooked with only the finest and freshest local ingredients. 777 Tiverton Casino Blvd., Tiverton, twinrivertiverton.com/trattoria-romana
Tuscan Chophouse: A unique dining atmosphere where Chef Luciano Canova’s Italian favorites combine with local seafood and the finest prime cuts of beef for the ultimate steakhouse experience. 777 Tiverton Casino Blvd., Tiverton, twinrivertiverton.com/tuscanchophouse
The Wharf Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar: The reinvented Wharf Pub has fully embraced Southern style cuisine alongside craft beer and cocktails – and their world-famous selection of tater tots has stayed put. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and brunch served weekends. 37 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport. wharfsouthernkitchen.com
For more food news including restaurants that have moved, see the Quick Bites at the end of this section here.
NEW RESTAURANTS IN OUR COASTAL COMMUNITIES
Milk & Honey: The new Portsmouth location of this popular gourmet shop continues to carry 100+ cheeses and assorted honeys in addition to meats, charcuterie and specialty food items. 1016 West Main Road, Portsmouth. milkandhoneyri.com
Mission Middletown: One of Newport’s favorite burger joints opens a second location serving up house made burgers, hotdogs, falafel and hand-cut fries. 58 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown.missionnpt.com
The Cheese Wheel Village Market: Located in the historically charming Tiverton Four Corners, this gourmet cheese shop features more than 100 exquisite and special edition cheeses from around the world. Other offerings include pâté and charcuterie, fresh baguettes, crackers, olives, cornichons, dried fruits and jams plus local honey and farm fresh eggs. 3838 Main Road, Tiverton. thecheesewheelri.com
Portside Tavern: Modern dining meets pub-style favorites at this East Bay eatery. 444 Thames Street, Bristol. portsidetavern.com
Sydney: Australian inspiration meets local ingredients at this charming cafe and coffee shop offering a full espresso and loose tea selection as well as house-made baked goods, breakfast, lunch and grab-and-go items. 8 Russo Road, Portsmouth. sydneypvd.com
NEW RETAIL SHOPS, GALLERIES & STUDIOS
Athleta: Clothing that integrates performance and technical features for active women and girls. Opening summer 2019. 36 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport. athleta.gap.com
Becca Rose Wellness: A haven of health to heal your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual bodies featuring natural makeup, skin care, body care, gemstones and crystals plus educational items focused on wellness. 491 Thames Street, Newport. beccarose.net
The Black Dog: Started in 1971, the iconic Black Dog brand is known for apparel for men, women and children; outerwear, footwear and accessories including tote bags, wallets, umbrellas and more. 240 Thames Street, Newport. theblackdog.com
Created Purpose: Hand-crafted jewelry, purses, paintings, home decor, hand-blown glass and knitted items plus personal care and pet products from artisans across Rhode Island and the world. There is an onsite classroom to host a robust schedule of workshops. Located in historic Tiverton Four Corners. 3964 Main Road, Tiverton. createdpurposeri.com
Gineva: This Bowen’s Wharf jewelry shop offers authentic Murano glass necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings created by local designers Christina and Christopher Kurtin. 8 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport. ginevajewelry.com
Kristen Coates Art & Home: Art and objects for the well-curated home from an array of artists and artisans. 152 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. kristencoates.net
Loren Hope: An independent jewelry line based in Rhode Island made from carefully sourced raw materials. Fun and funky designs have a nod to vintage styling. 86 William Street, Newport. lorenhope.com
Meeka Fine Jewelry: Features an exceptional collection of handcrafted jewelry designed by select artisans from around the country. 33 Franklin Street, Newport. meekajewelry.com
Newport Original: Celebrating the destination, “Newport Original” clothing includes sweatshirts, hats, t-shirts, accessories and more plus other locally-supported items. 424 Thames Street, Newport. facebook.com/Newport-Original-413337689447111/
North Sails: Weaving together 60 years of sail-making expertise, innovative technology and bold design,North Sails performanceand casual apparel is made for adventures on land and sea. 16 Bannister’s Wharf, Newport. northsails.com
OceanSky Studios: Located inside Newport’s oldest retail storefront, the studio offers Sip n’ Paint nights, workshops and activities for adults and children plus public and private parties. 13 Spring Street, Unit 1, Newport. oceanskystudios.com
The Peyton Co.: This Warren shop was founded upon a desire to create beauty, body and wellness products made with organic, sustainable and local ingredients – that are accessible and affordable – for the conscientious consumer. 7 Child Street, Warren. thepeytonco.com
Pop-Up Newport: A conglomerate of “made in Newport” and Newport-centric gifts, décor and more. 45 Long Wharf Mall, Newport.
Patina Studio: This gallery and studio space features copper wall art by Rhode Island artist Teresa Mowery. 8 Neck Road, Tiverton. patinastudio.com
Rhode Island Reef: CBD shop crafting products from organic hemp grown sustainably outdoors. Oil tinctures, salves, softgels, pain creams, vape pens and even dog treats are among their offerings. 227 Spring Street, Newport. rhodeislandreef.com
Saltwater Studio: Artist/owner Mary Chatowsky Jameson specializes in pieces integrating marine botanicals including seaweed and organic material sourced from North Atlantic coastal waters. Workshops include seaweed pressing, eco-pressing and collaging to groups large and small. 15 Vernon Avenue, Suite 4, Newport. saltwaterstudio.biz
SandeeGlam/The Sandee Saunders Project: A pop-up shop showcasing emerging luxury designers and artists with services including personal shopping, lifestyle wardrobing, closet editing and image consultations. 39½ Memorial Blvd., Newport.
Sinesia Karo: One-piece and bikini swimsuits in addition to elegant cover-ups by Brazilian designer Sinesia Karo. 135 Spring Street, Newport. sinesiakarol.com
Newport Retail Round-up: CK Bradley has moved to 182 Bellevue Avenue. Jason & Co. has moved to 57 America’s Cup Avenue. Re-Sails has moved to 43 Long Wharf Mall.The Groovy Gator has moved to 479 Thames Street. Groove Newport to 474 Thames Street. Chez Shell has moved to 408 Thames Street.
NEW HEALTH, WELLNESS & SPORT
Island IV: Concierge IV therapy offering on-demand intravenous therapy and electrolyte, vitamin and beauty replacements. 42 Spring Street, Suite 8A, Newport.
Jessica Lee, Psychic Medium: Medium readings, tarot readings, group readings. 134 Spring Street, Unit 1.25, Newport (enter through OceanSky Studios). jessicaleepsychicmedium.com
Level Beauty Collective: Salon and beauty treatments. 207 Goddard Row, Brick Market Place, Newport. facebook.com/Level-Beauty-Collective
The Preserve Infrared Sauna: Therapy that uses heaters to emit infrared light experienced as radiant heat which is absorbed by the surface of the skin allowing for multiple health benefits. 1038 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown. thepreservenewport.com
Island Wellness Center: Offering cryotherapy, infrared sauna, air compression massage therapy, a vibration plate, cupping, LED therapy, a steam slimming pod, inversion table, polarity therapy, aromatherapy bar and salt therapy cave in addition to wellness products. 102 W. Main Road, Middletown. theislandwellnesscenter.com
Longplex Family & Sports Center: One of the largest indoor sports complexes in New England with 187,000 sq. ft. of floor space, the complex features a roller hockey rink, basketball courts, six turf soccer fields, a quarter mile long running track, gyms, restaurants, bars, party rooms and more. Miles of trails outside accommodate all types of outdoor obstacle courses and events including Tough Mudders, BoldrDashes and traditional running races. 300 Industrial Way, Tiverton. longplex.com
Newport Indoor Golf: This 5,000 sq. ft. indoor virtual golf facility located adjacent to the Newport Car Museum in Portsmouth gives both novice and seasoned golfers the ability to play the game year-round. Trackman Golf Simulators allow golfers to practice on a virtual driving range or tee off on courses from around the world. Fully customized bays feature high-definition projection screens with living room seating and amenities. A custom contour putting green is also available. 1947 W. Main Road, Portsmouth. newportindoorgolf.com
Rhody Surf: The return of this surf rental, lessons and award-winning surf school brings forth a new location on First Beach. At Easton’s/First Beach, 175 Memorial Blvd., Newport.rhodysurf.com
NEW TOURS
Island Tour to Beavertail Lighthouse: A majestic sentry at the entrance to Narragansett Bay, find out why Jamestown’s Beavertail Lighthouse is a favorite place to watch the surf, breathe in the freshest air and listen to the waves crashing on the rocks. Board a new, comfortable touring shuttle at the East Ferry Dock and relax on the quick ride to the lighthouse while listening to descriptive narratives of the rich history of Conanicut Island. Take a break for photos, a short walk or visit to the Lighthouse Museum. conanicutmarina.com/destination/island-tour-to-beavertail-lighthouse
Island Tour to Historic Jamestown Windmill: Board a new, comfortable touring shuttle and enjoy a relaxing, narrated ride to the 1787 Jamestown Windmill. Sitting on “Windmill Hill” between two significant farms, this windmill provided critical service to Jamestown for more than 100 years. Marvel at its early wooden-gear technology used to grind cornmeal using wind power and walk around the grounds. The tour winds its way back to the dock along the east shore, where Privateer Thomas Paine protected Pirate Captain Kidd’s buried treasure. Fun for both children and adults. conanicutmarina.com/destination/island-tour-to-the-jamestown-windmill
Jamestown Newport Ferry: This longtime hop-on/hop-off ferry service has introduced Scenic Bay Cruises around Newport Harbor and lower Narragansett Bay. Guests see lighthouses, mansions, “Clingstone” (the house on the rocks) and the beautiful shoreline. Boarding is available at Newport’s Perrotti Park or East Ferry Wharf in Jamestown. Off-boarding is available in Jamestown and Newport should guests wish to go ashore for lunch, shopping or sightseeing before continuing on the cruise. On-board cash bar for refreshments. JamestownNewportFerry.com
NEW EXHIBITS
Rosecliff: John James Audubon: Obsession Untamed colorfully explores the naturalist’s relentless pursuit of the birds of America and his singular determination in seeing his beautiful artworks published. In 1820, Audubon embarked on what would become his life’s work as “portraitist of all the birds of America.” This witness to America’s Heroic Age translated his obsession into a successful business venture that resulted in arguably the most enduring images associated with the modern conservation movement. Located in the second-floor galleries through Nov. 3.newportmansions.org/exhibitions/current-upcoming-exhibitions
Rough Point: Beyond Fortune: The Life & Legacy of Doris Duke features historical documents, photographs, fashion and fine arts from the Doris Duke Historical Archives at the David Rubenstein Library at Duke University in addition to the Rough Point collection. Visitors will learn more about Doris by taking a closer look at her interests, complexities and eccentricities to see beyond the myth and legend often associated with her life. Located in the second-floor galleries through Nov. 17. newportrestoration.org/roughpoint
Through July 21. newportartmuseum.org
Parleying into the above, the Newport Art Museum presents “Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney: Sculpture,” showcasing rarely seen works from private collections from her earliest classical sculptures to her more symbolic public monuments. Pieces also range from her bleakly Realist depiction of the tragedy of World War I to her late art deco work. This is the first exhibition of Whitney’s art since her death in 1942. Through July 21. newportartmuseum.org
The Redwood Library & Athenaeum: Spectacular Silver: Yachting’s Goelet Cups is a multimedia sweep of one of the great chapters in sailing competition and trophy craftsmanship: the Goelet Cups and the regattas held in Newport from 1882 to 1897 for which they were the prize. The races were among the first American sporting contests to attract national media attention and the elaborate silver trophies, made by leading firms including Tiffany & Co. and Whiting Manufacturing Co., are considered a high point in 19th century American silver. The exhibit features a range of historic materials from yacht models and marine paintings to press clippings and scrap books, culminating in a select presentation of Goelet Cups from major private and institutional collections. Organized by the New York Yacht Club in partnership with the Redwood Library, the exhibit brings the Goelet Cup races to life in the original context of Newport in celebration of the NYYC’s 175th anniversary in 2019.
Seamen’s Church Institute: Opened to the public in February, the Discovery Deck is an interactive, educational exhibit showcasing the maritime industry of Newport and Narragansett Bay. Interactive components include a block and tackle station, maker-space, energy grinder and sand table. Videos showcase careers on the bay, filmed by Rhode Island PBS. 18 Market Square, Newport. seamensnewport.org/the-discovery-deck
NEW EVENTS
Ongoing – Newport International Polo: New cocktail party meet-and-greets have been added to Newport Polo’s program as well as additional aprés polo parties to complement the 2019 sporting season. From Bellinis and Negronis with the Italian team to a gala pre-party with the South African team, the season is full of festive happenings. nptpolo.com
July 8-13 – The 2019 12 Metre World Championship will be the largest-ever gathering of historic 12 metre yachts in the country. The regatta will host 24 teams from seven countries including five yachts that have successfully defended the America’s Cup. For some extended racing excitement beyond the Worlds, the New York Yacht Club has invited the 12 Metre Class to participate in a “12 Metre Jubilee” at its 175th Anniversary Regatta (July 15-20).
July 18, August 22 & Sept. 19 – Summer Tasting Series: Linden Place, a 200-year old mansion located in the center of Bristol, will host a series of tasting events this summer with local beverage artisans Two Gals Cocktails. Events will take place inside the mansion as well as the gardens, giving attendees a social, fun and educational opportunity to sample spirits, wines and beers. 500 Hope Street, Bristol. lindenplace.org/events-calendar
July 10 – Rosé with the Roses: Savor Rough Point’s rose allée as you take in the blooms with a glass of rosé in hand. The museum’s exhibits and grounds will be open for strolling. Price includes admission to the museum and one drink ticket (weather dependent). 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. newportrestoration.org/event/rose-with-the-roses
July 11 – Mozart’s The Magic Flute at Blithewold: Rhode Island’s new opera company, Encore Opera Company, presents Mozart’s The Magic Flute with the Warwick Symphony Orchestra. The program appeals to audiences of all ages and is fully staged with costumes. 6:30 p.m. Blithewold Mansions, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road, Bristol. See Blithewold’s upcoming events and programs here: blithewold.org/programs-and-events
July 22 – Creative Survival: African Artisans in Newport: Newport was the most active slave port in the British North American colonies, and many of the enslaved Africans who arrived here were placed into training in the artisan trades, including furniture making. This presentation by the 1696 Heritage Group will explore how these African craftsmen and women contributed to colonial Newport’s economic and cultural prosperity. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. newportrestoration.org/event/creative-survival-african-artisans-in-newport
July 24 – Jazz on the Lawn: In celebration of Doris Duke’s lifelong affinity for jazz music, enjoy an evening of picnic blankets, ocean breezes and soulful tunes that recalls the early years of the Newport Jazz Festival when Doris was known to bring musicians back to the mansion for informal musical performances. Featuring Joe Albano and the Jazz Lords. (Outdoor event – rain date July 31). 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Rough Point, 680 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. newportrestoration.org/event/jazz-on-the-lawn
For full event line-up at Rough Point: newportrestoration.org/events
ABOUT DISCOVER NEWPORT
Discover Newport is the official destination management organization (DMO) dedicated to promoting the City of Newport and the eight surrounding coastal townships in Newport and Bristol counties, Rhode Island. These include Barrington, Bristol, Jamestown, Little Compton, Middletown, Newport, Portsmouth, Tiverton and Warren. As a non-profit organization, Discover Newport partners with stakeholders throughout our tourism and hospitality industry to market the regionas a premier destination for business and leisure travel.
Visit DiscoverNewport.org for complete listings, destination information, an events calendar and so much more
