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Heading to Newport? The small Rhode Island town sits on Aquidneck Island along the Atlantic Ocean, drawing in visitors each season for the unique New England atmosphere. With these vibes, of course, comes the mouthwatering New England seafood. If you’re in Newport and stuck on what and where to eat, let us help you out with the five best restaurants in Newport, RI.
1. The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn
Check out the Dining Room at the Castle Hill Inn for some of the best flavors in Newport. The four-star restaurant features a prix fixe menu, in which you can find an impressive wine list — over 800 in fact — as well as popular dishes, including the grilled cheese, cooked on cranberry bread with pears and bacon and a pumpkin soup, or the lobster hash, taking advantage of New England’s great lobster catches. Of course, you can’t miss out on a classic Sunday brunch, either. The restaurant’s location along the harbor gives you great views to enjoy during your meal, making it an unforgettable Newport experience.
2. Black Pearl
All aboard! The Black Pearl, right along the water’s edge, is the place to be in Newport. Dine in one of three distinct areas in the restaurant — the elegant and upscale Commodore’s Room, the traditional and cozy Tavern at the Black Pearl, and the always popular Patio at the Black Pearl. The dishes offered vary upon which section of the restaurant you’ll be visiting. The standard menu includes the famous Black Pearl clam chowder, as well as littleneck clams, and shrimp cocktail. The Commodore’s Room menu includes lobster, sauteed Dover sole, roast duck, and more, while the Tavern offers up lunch menus with omelets, crab benedict, and egg Copenhagen, as well as salads, burgers, and sandwiches. The Patio’s raw bar is perfect for all the best seafood dishes, but be sure to check out the lamb, swordfish, and Filet Mignon as well.
3. The Chanler at Cliff Walk
Fine dining along Newport’s famous Cliff Walk? Count us in! The Chanler at Cliff Walk offers you the chance to dine next to breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views, as well as fine dining on a prix fixe menu at Cara or a hot coffee to warm you up during those chilly Rhode Island days at The Cafe. Cara’s menu serves up three-course meals at a set cost, where you can find French, Italian, and Spanish cuisine, as well as New England favorites, such as gnocchi, pan roasted chicken breast, seared salmon, and more.
4. Midtown Oyster Bar
Located on the buzzing Thames Street, Midtown Oyster Bar is a Newport favorite. The spot is perfect for lunch or dinner, or just after work drinks. Try the popular dishes like the R.I calamari, char-grilled octopus, blacked mahi-mahi, Midtown Oyster Bar signature lobster roll, poke bowls, raw plates, burgers, and of course the oysters. Midtown Oyster stew is also a must-try dish. The restaurant is known for great cocktails, local and imported beers, and an impressive wine selection too. Cheers!
5. Diego’s
For laid-back vibes in a casual, seaside spot, head to Diego’s. The Newport restaurant is known for West Coast-style Mexican food, including the fish tacos that made it famous. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks by the wharf, you’ll be pleased with your bites at Diego’s. Popular dishes include margaritas, fresh guacamole, scallops, spicy chicken, and breakfast burritos. The menu also has a full gluten-free menu, vegan menu, and each ingredient is fresh and locally sourced. Diego’s also hosts special event nights throughout the year, such as Taco Night and Nacho Night, so be sure to bring some friends to enjoy the discounted but equally delicious food.