8 Best Restaurants in Providence, Rhode Island

When it opened in 1980, Al Forno put Providence on the national dining map as the originator of its distinctive grilled pizza. Still consistently good, the restaurant retains a loyal following for its thin-crust pizza, handmade pastas, and wood-grilled or roasted entrées.

The scents and flavors of Italy surround you at Costantino's as you peruse the amazing selection of homemade pastas and imported foods. The convivial banter between customers and employees adds to the atmosphere. While here, grab lunch, dinner, an espresso, or gelato at Venda Bar & Ristorante on the opposite side of DePasquale Square. Patio dining in the summertime is a true taste of la dolce vita.

You'll find some of the best southern Italian food you've ever tasted at this cozy, family-run Italian restaurant tucked away on a Providence side street. The chef also serves up delicious grilled swordfish, whole branzino, and NY strip steak, but be sure to have the antipasto, fried dough with Pomodoro sauce, or eggplant parm appetizers—all great for sharing.

Locals come to this third-generation, family-owned restaurant in the heart of Federal Hill for the chicken or eggplant Parmesan, veal with peppers, and braciola like (your Italian) grandma used to make. The prices are reasonable; the atmosphere, warm and casual.

The informal first floor of this two-level Italian restaurant has a deli case stocked with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and traditional Italian-style small plates; upstairs is a more traditional dining room with impressive views of the Providence River. Every table receives a separate checklist of the cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, which are then arranged as a beautiful charcuterie board.

Portions are big in the Rhode Island comfort-food tradition at this southern Italian ristorante on Federal Hill; count on fresh ingredients presented in a simple, straightforward way. Share a pasta if you dare, but keep in mind that the veal chop could probably topple Fred Flintstone's footmobile; gluten-free dishes are also available.

This place generates well-deserved buzz for its branzino (sea bass) with scallops in a creamy scallion sauce and for its pasta with a rich Bolognese—both of which are legendary. It's best to split an appetizer, as portions are huge, though you may wish to keep the delicious involtini di melanzane (eggplant rolled with prosciutto and ricotta and baked in tangy marinara sauce) all to yourself. The silky-white pasta e fagioli under the menu's antipasti section is a meal in itself. The excellent wine list is usually augmented by special selections available by the bottle or glass, and the well-trained waitstaff can help you make the perfect pairing. Ask for a table by the large windows, as the stylish back dining room can get noisy.

This superb grocery offers a family-friendly atmosphere in which to peruse the finest of Italian meats and cheeses; imported vinegars and olive oils; and candies and pastries—all at reasonable prices. In addition, Tony's deli stocks freshly prepared foods to eat on the premises or take with you; try the Italian grinder, a Rhode Island lunchtime staple.