Biggest RI Restaurant Stories of the First Half of 2025

January

Death of The Old Canteen

In January, GoLocal broke the story of the sale and ultimate demise of a Rhode Island institution.

GoLocal reported: 

Nicholas Schorsch — the Newport-based businessman whose companies have gobbled up many of the best-known Newport-based restaurants — is looking to expand to Providence.

GoLocal has learned from sources with direct knowledge that the Marzilli family has an agreement, yet to be finalized, that would sell The Old Canteen restaurant on Atwells Avenue on Federal Hill to Schorsch’s group.

Schorsch and his collection of companies have primarily acquired local family-owned businesses in Newport.

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January

Hospitality Industry Study Reveals $114M Negative Economic Impact & 1,300 Jobs Lost From Washington Bridge Closure

A comprehensive economic impact study conducted by Salve Regina University in partnership with the RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) released in January 2025 revealed significant economic consequences to Rhode Island’s hospitality sector following the December 2023 closure of the Washington Bridge.

The report highlights a projected $114 million loss in statewide hospitality-related revenue during the first 12 months following the shutdown, creating a substantial strain on local businesses and employment.

The Washington Bridge, a critical artery for east-west travel, was closed on December 11, 2023, due to structural failures.

“This study provides critical insight into the economic toll of the Washington Bridge closure on our industry, but also highlights opportunities for recovery,” said Farouk Rajab, President/CEO, RI Hospitality Association. “The data underscores the urgency of continued legislative support to mitigate long-term challenges. Restaurants, hotels, and other small businesses are the backbone of Rhode Island’s economy, and we need collaborative efforts with state lawmakers, as well as the community’s help to sustain them.”

According to the report, Providence County has borne the brunt of the impact, accounting for $56.7 million of the total hospitality revenue loss. Other counties, including Kent and Newport, also experienced notable declines, with economic losses reaching $29.8 million and $16.5 million, respectively. Washington County reported a $17.6 million loss, highlighting the widespread effect of the bridge closure on regions dependent on hospitality-driven revenue.

1,300 Jobs Lost

The report also estimates a statewide job loss of 1,342 positions within the hospitality sector during the first 12 months of closure. The greatest employment losses occurred in Providence County, where 668 hospitality-related jobs were eliminated, while Kent and Washington Counties also experienced significant declines. However, the study revealed a contrasting trend in Bristol County, which saw a 2.3% increase in hospitality revenue, equating to a $6.6 million gain. This uptick suggests a shift in consumer travel patterns, with some economic activity being redistributed to areas less affected by the bridge closure.

Looking beyond the first year, the study projects the total economic impact on Rhode Island’s hospitality industry to reach $748 million by 2029, further emphasizing the long-term implications of the Washington Bridge’s closure. Key municipalities, including Providence, Warwick, and South Kingstown, were identified as among the hardest hit, reflecting the critical role the bridge plays in supporting businesses and transportation connectivity.

February

Olneyville New York System Bought by Schorsch's Group

The next target for Schorsch's business groups was the beloved Olneyville New York System in Providence. 

It was the latest locally owned small business to be acquired by the former New York real estate businessman.

PHOTO: Gilheeney

March

Opening of Track 15

The long-anticipated Track 15 — the food hall first announced first in 2021 — opened in March in the old Union Station in Providence.

The brainchild of developer Chris Marsella has been a welcome addition.

The food hall's costs to build the project increased from $22 million to $25 million.

According to developers, the overall 18,000 square foot project will include a large central bar, a new home for seven Rhode Island-based restaurateurs, indoor and outdoor seating for over 300 patrons, an entertainment venue, and a 10,000 square-foot plaza which will provide outdoor seating and a home for special events.  

The food hall includes Dolores; Dune Brothers; Guisto PVD; Little Chaska, Mother Pizzeria; There, There; and Tolia.

The big, bold project is expected to revitalize the Union Station area, which has been nearly morbid in recent years with the move of the Capital Grille and the closure of Luxe Burger in 2020.

Marsella's investment is one of the largest private investments in downtown Providence in years.

March

An Italian Restaurant Empire is Expanding in Rhode Island

Kate Nagle, GoLocal's News Editor, reported on the expansion by one top local restaurant group:

Greg Stevens didn’t always know he was going to build a restaurant empire. 

The West Warwick native, who began his career in Massachusetts first in tech and then the mountain bike business, was lured back to Rhode Island when he took the helm of Pat’s Italian Restaurant in Johnston.

Now, with additional locations in Coventry and Cumberland, Stevens is about to embark on a new Pat’s destination - Warwick. 

“It’s on Post Road. There’s a company called Good Homes out of Manhattan, that’s converting former hotels and assisted living facilities into apartments, and in Airport Plaza, there’s a former Sheraton and 90 apartments going in. The restaurant space in the front is 4,000 square feet,” said Stevens. 

With soon-to-be four Pat’s Restaurants and the potential for more, the next generation of the family is now getting involved in the business.

“It’s pretty exciting,” said Stevens. 

And for Stevens, there could even be a side of politics with pasta. 

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April

Last Diner

GoLocal first reported in April:

One of downtown Providence’s few breakfast spots - and diners - is closing.

Nico Bella’s on Dorrance Street, located just a block from City Hall, made the announcement on Friday.

Featuring such staples as eggs Benedict and chicken and waffles, all-day breakfast was the centerpiece of the business. 

“I built the restaurant old-school, selling food and paying for equipment," owner Daniel Crenca told GoLocal. "I was in really good shape before the pandemic, but I just couldn’t get out from under it,” 

Crenca noted that the restaurant is just the latest closure downtown. which in recent years has included Yoleni’s, Kin, and more. 

Nico Bella’s had been open for ten years.

It will now be shutting its doors at the end of April.

May

Fire Breaks Out at Matunuck Oyster Bar Overnight

One of the most popular seafood restaurants in Rhode Island was devastated by fire overnight. A fire at the Matunuck Oyster Bar reportedly broke out around 4 AM on Tuesday.

The restaurant is located on Succotash Road in South Kingstown. 

Perry Raso, the owner, has become one of the best-known oyster entrepreneurs in the country.

He has become the face of the industry in the region —  “an oyster farmer with degrees in aquaculture and fisheries technology, [who] started ‘digging wild shellfish with a bull rack at age 12.'”

June

James Beard Award Winner

On Monday night, the James Beard Foundation handed out awards, and one Rhode Islander scored a top award.

Sky Haneul Kim of Gift Horse in Providence won the award for Best Chef: Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT).

Rhode Island was well represented in the Finalist category announced on April 2, but Monday night in Chicago, the grand prizes were awarded.

“It’s with deep celebration that we congratulate the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award winners— distinguished culinary, beverage, and hospitality leaders whose talent and vision are shaping our dining landscape,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO, James Beard Foundation. “These outstanding professionals are the epitome of Good Food for Good®, elevating our industry’s standards and redefining what’s possible in American cuisine.” 

“Tonight, we toast this year’s exceptional Restaurant and Chef Award winners,” said Dawn Padmore, VP of Awards, James Beard Foundation. “We’re also proud to welcome our first winners in the new beverage categories and celebrate their invaluable contributions to our industry. I also extend my thanks to our subcommittee members and judges, whose dedication and thoughtful work makes these Awards possible.” 

Considered to be one of the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive. This year marks 35 years of the Awards, with the ceremonies commemorating the transformative role the Awards have played in recognizing culinary excellence and shaping the evolution of American food culture. 

PHOTO: Cullen CC: 3.0

June

Tortilla Flats Sold

It’s official - Tortilla Flats has new ownership. 

The Mexican restaurant and East Side institution made the announcement on Monday afternoon.

“We are thrilled to finally be able to announce the sale of our beloved Tortilla Flats to Kristin, Ryan & their business partner (loyal Flats fam & restaurateur) Guy Shaffer,” announced Tortilla Flats. 

"This is what we (and you!) hoped for...new ownership in the hands of people who know and love this place as much as we all do. I am beyond proud to pass the torch to long-time employees just like my boss did for me," the post continued. 

According to the current owners, their last day will be Friday, June 27 for a “last night” celebration before the ownership change. 

“The heart and soul of this Providence institution will carry on strong. You’ll still feel that same Flats spirit every time you walk through our doors — with a few exciting updates and fresh touches on the horizon,” they added. 

June

A Top Providence Restaurant Has Announced It Is Closing

Providence’s Vino Veritas has announced it is closing.  It has been one of the city's prized restaurants for years. 

It was founded by attorney Robert Caron nearly a decade ago.

He made the announcement that the restaurant was closing with a simple message, calling it a "good run."

Two Careers

He started his career in restaurants.

At the age of 17, Caron became the chef of El Torito, a West Coast restaurant chain. He waited tables at the Blue Grotto and Capriccio. Then, he attended Roger Williams Law School and made a reputation as a criminal defense attorney.

Nine-plus years ago, Caron opened Vino Veritas. It was a different type of top-tier dining. The small, intimate setting had a significant New Orleans influence mixed with Mediterranean dining.

The restaurant located on Broadway was a boost to the neighborhood and a wonderful plus to the city’s dining options. Sadly, the news comes just as the Uptown Theater (formerly the Columbus) is poised to reopen after a major rehab.

June

Matunuck Oyster Bar's Return

Matunuck Oyster Bar opened for al fresco dining on July 1.

Matunuck Oyster Bar owner Perry Raso said, “Matunuck Oyster Bar has secured final approval from the South Kingstown Town Council to open for al fresco dining. We are making final preparations to set up in the marina parking lot across the street from our restaurant, and we are looking forward to begin welcoming guests to our tented dining area in Matunuck Marina with a soft opening on Monday, June 30th, and an official opening date of Tuesday, July 1, on our 16-year anniversary.”

The restaurant offers both tableside dining and grab-and-go options. The operating hours for outdoor dining will be daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.