As one of the original 13 colonies, Rhode Island brims with historical significance at every turn, which also extends to its storied food and drink scene. I mean, how lucky are we to have a number of taverns throughout the state that have been around for hundreds of years?
This cozy restaurant used to be a stagecoach stop back in the day. After briefly shuttering in 2016 and reopening in 2017 under current owner Roy Ring, the spacious yet cozy place continues to embrace its past while offering a decidedly modern menu of American favorites. Regulars rave about their Cape Cod reuben, Carriage burger, and pulled pork sandwiches. North Kingstown
This Bannister’s Wharf mainstay, named for a wealthy sea captain, serves up delicious fare in well-preserved (and relocated) 18th-century dining rooms. Always lively, the vibe is rooted in Newport’s yachting culture. The kitchen is helmed by Ted Gidley, who brings a Mediterranean-spin to American classics. Don’t miss the chowder and save room for dessert. Newport
This lore-filled restaurant in the heart of downtown Bristol started as the headquarters for the DeWolf family’s businesses, including a stint as a rum distillery. Since taking ownership in 2019, Chef Sai Viswanath has introduced Indian dishes such as the naan bread sampler, tandoori chicken, and pakora vegetable fries, alongside classics like lobster popovers. Bristol
Owners Jackie and David Moore embarked on a major renovation of the inn and restaurant after scooping it up in 2022. Over the years, the General had played host to everyone from Al Capone and Tallulah Bankhead to Ben Franklin and Teddy Roosevelt. Nowadays, folks flock to the tavern for their Sunday brunch, garlic bread tower, and burgers. Make it a spirited stay! Charlestown
Thanks to its art deco interior, a meal at Olympia feels like stepping into an old Hollywood movie. Owned by Marcia and Jack Felber since 1980, this 110 years-young eatery is still the place to see and be seen in Watch Hill. Regulars live for their salads, grilled pizza, linguine and clams, and wine list. Watch Hill (reopens Spring 2026)
“Eat, drink, and be scary,” is the tagline of this cozy restaurant and bar under its recent ownership of Phil Zahlany and Chelsea Lumnah, who wholeheartedly embrace the whispers that this restaurant may indeed be haunted. See for yourself on any given night with their hearty dinner specials (their parms and seafood get glowing reviews), old faves (popovers, prime rib), and creative cocktails. Chepachet
Nestled along busy Centerville Road is a rustic retreat serving up handcrafted micro-brews, a scratch-made menu, and a tap selection featuring unique beers crafted with the finest hops, barley, and wheat. Love a dessert cart? This place has one, and much more. Their lobster mac and cheese, chicken wings, noodle bowl, and tea selections keep people coming back again and again. Warwick
Built in 1652 as a private home and turned into a tavern in 1673 by a retired pirate (namely, William Mayes, Sr.), WHT has the distinction of being the oldest operating restaurant in the entire US. It was actually occupied by British troops during the American Revolution. Now owned by Jeff Farrar, people from all over go to enjoy their seafood, steaks, and a Dark and Stormy cocktail or two. Ask to see the picture of their resident ghost, which they keep behind the bar. Newport
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