Five Things: 5 Restaurants to Check Out for Providence Restaurant Weeks 2011

Five Things: 5 Restaurants to Check Out for Providence Restaurant Weeks 2011

With Providence Restaurant Weeks coming up July 10-23, Sean DeBobes knew that even the most avid diners wouldn't be able to hit the nearly 100 participating Rhode Island restaurants. But with 3-course dinners all running for $29.95, you'll want a guide to the best options. Here are the five things he wants you to try.

One. Rainier Cherries (Gracie’s, Providence)

I love to see this cultivar in cuisine. The subtle sweetness of the Rainier, with its soft yellow flesh, always picks up a dish. Gracie’s has decided to feature this ingredient prominently throughout its RW menu and I couldn’t be more excited to taste. The main course will feature a Crescent Farms Duck with blue cheese potato croquette, roasted beets, spicy greens and a Rainier cherry mostarda (candied fruit with mustard syrup). I will be sure to leave room for the Rainier cherry tart for dessert. Made with a chocolate port reduction, toasted almond tuile and Neoplitan semifreddo. That sounds like a tart to talk about.

Two. That Tandoor (DeWolf Tavern, Bristol)

There are a few certainties in the food world and for me one is that anything that Chef Sai Viswanath puts into a Tandoor comes back out exquisite. That is why I will be thinking outside the Providence bubble and taking in a little

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Bristol these Restaurant Weeks. I am looking forward to the Tandoor oven roasted chicken marinated in caramelized onions, topped with a sweet and spicy honey and tomato sauce and accompanied by an intriguing brussel sprout and corn bread hash.

Three. On the Sweeter Side (CAV, Providence)

I may be in a duck state of mind but CAV has also caught my attention with Le Canard. CAV promises a duck confit with a blood orange coulis and a sweet potato mash. If your sweet tooth has been satisfied by this entrée – you can come down a little with a blackberry merlot sorbet. I usually don’t take my merlot frozen, but I’m willing to try.

Four. Just Like Mom Made (Bacaro, Providence)

The dessert at Bacaro certainly won’t be making any culinary waves, but sometimes you just long for a something on the simpler side. Bacaro will be featuring mini ice cream sandwiches at the upcoming Restaurant Week(s). The clincher for this, of course, is that the cookies will be made to order just before filling.

Five. Top Pick (Ten Prime Steak & Sushi, Providence)

Ten does not try to hide its high price tags… the bill can pile up fast when visiting this popular Pine Street location. That is why it is a particularly good idea to try during this table d'hôte event. Start with a tuna ceviche marinated in a lemongrass and ginger vinaigrette.  After your taste buds are on alert try a sampling of Ten's sushi with the 14 piece sampler of Sashimi, Nigiri and Maki. Be sure to leave a little room to try a lychee and mango sorbet. A perfect summer feast. 

Bonus play. (Angelo's Civita Farnese, Providence)

If this weren't all fabulous enough, the venerable Angelo's offers a special deal during Restaurant Weeks... 2 for 1, straight-out. Fold this into your plans like a linen napkin and get over to Federal Hill for some old-school Rhode Island dining.

Providence Restaurant Weeks – July 10-23.  Providence and surrounding areas. For all the participating restaurants, specials, menus, and everything, go here.