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    Tuesday, April 30, 2024

    So many good places to eat in Westerly

    Westerly is certainly not New Orleans, Chicago, Los Angeles or New York City, but when it comes to great eating, the 02891 zip code has many, many terrific options. Here is a sampling:

    Nana’s, 82 High St., (401) 213-3911

    Nana's tomato, mozzarella and sweet corn pizza

    This is an all-day place, with breakfast and brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. They have an organic bakery, a pizza shop, and serve up delights ranging from an Italian grinder loaded with meat and cheese to the unusual Rye Berries & Bean Salad. The menu changes with the season, and Nana’s take great pride in everything they prepare and serve.

    Olympia Tea Room, 74 Bay St., (401) 348-8211

    The Tea Room is an institution, established in 1916, known far and wide for its food, cocktails and location on busy Bay Street in Watch Hill overlooking the nearby harbor. They typically open from spring until late October, and on glorious summer days, there’s almost always a line waiting to get in. Among favorite items on the menu are the Crisp Zucchini Ribbons, Old World Greek Salad, Lobster Roll, Roast Chicken, and Grilled Sausage Bruno. But there is much more to try.

    High Hope Tavern, 18 High St, (401) 388-8450

    High Hope marinated anchovies with creme fraiche and sourdough

    Located on the main drag in downtown Westerly, High Hope is a great place for a creative cocktail and a small bite, or something more substantial. They have a raw bar and source much of what they serve from local fishermen and farms. They have a Fluke Tartare, Fried Smelts, Roasted Eggplant Risotto, and Linguine Vongole. Get the French fries. High Hope keeps its kitchen open late on weekends for those on the prowl.

    Cinder, 169 Main St., (401) 229-3377

    Dinner line-up at Cinder

    Cinder has innovative food and craft cocktails in a casual atmosphere with an awesome patio on the edge of the Pawcatuck River. They serve naan tacos, salads, sides, and bowls. The tacos can be gluten free with corn tortillas or vegan grits, and they serve up brisket, tofu, chicken, pulled pork, and more. There is a green curry and grits bowl, or one with hot honey pork belly bites, pineapple kimchi, and scallions. This is not your typical menu.

    Ella’s Food & Drink, 2 Tower St., (401) 315-0606

    Chef Jeanie Roland is a champion in the kitchen, with multiple James Beard nominations and a victory on the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay.” She describes her cuisine as “refined French technique and Asian influences,” with offerings such as Mussel Leek, Fried Mushroom, Duck Udon, Miso Salmon, Pig & The Fig, and Moroccan Spiced Lamb. It is a great place to celebrate a special occasion or just a scrumptious night out.

    Thong, 15 Railroad Ave., (401) 348-0511

    Chicken Dumplings at Thong (Ann Baldelli)

    Many describe Thong as having the best Thai food around. Located opposite Westerly’s Amtrak station, the menu is extensive, with offerings such as Chive Cakes, Coconut Shrimp, Tom Yum Soup, and Crispy Duck Salad. But save room for the Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles, House Fried Rice, and multiple other curry, noodle, and stir-fried dishes. A favorite is the Shrimp Tempura Rice Bowl.

    The Café, 3 Canal St., (401) 357-0300

    Literally connected to the United Theatre, The Café is a must-visit location in downtown Westerly for a snack, lunch, dinner, or cocktail. There is great ambience and an easy flow between the movie theaters, galleries, and event space next door. You must try the Crispy Fried Artichokes, the Roasted Beet Napoleon, and the Smoked Prosciutto-Wrapped Meatloaf. But there is so much more, like the Duck Fat-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. Go see a movie and saunter over after for a craft cocktail and fabulous food.

    Maria’s Seaside Café, 132 Atlantic Ave., (401) 596-6886

    Hurry up and get to this seasonal restaurant operated by the Bellone family for 30 years before they close at the end of the summer. They serve top-notch Italian, like Rigatoni Ala Vodka, Tagliatelle Al Barolo, and Nonna Francesca’s Pappardelle. Located just off Misquamicut Beach, this place is an oasis with great service and delicious food. Their Seaside Burrata is a must-have, but there are so many other great choices. Too bad they are only open about six months of the year.

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