Newport RI - Dining Choices
 

This is so strange - I posted a message last night about lodging & dining in Newport, but see today that my message was edited to just lodging question. Does anyone know what this is about?

In any case, we'll be in Newport for a weekend mid-Sept and are looking for current recommendations for dinner. No doubt, we'll go to Black Pearl (best clam chowder) but any added ideas would be appreciated - it's been more than 5 years since my last trip.

Thanks in advance!

when I click on your name, I see TWO posts from yesterday, one saying "United States: Black Duck Inn-Plus Dining, Newport RI" and one just saying BLACK DUCK INN. Both are there, you must have hit the enter button a little too soon...

Hi Nyer,

I had no idea that I could just click on my own name. I now see a message that I didn't see before - so many thanks!

Yes, that's the great Fodor's Forums user interface for ya! ;)

As for your Newport request:
We went to The Clark Cooke House last weekend because we tried too late to get reservations for the Black Pearl. The atmosphere there is great; I like the layers of restaurants and bars, all with a classic NE coastal feel. At the Clark Cooke House, we ate in The Candy Store after having drinks in The Midway. The food was good - but of course was no Black Pearl! It would be better to get reservations for The Porch at the top of the structure. www.clarkecooke.com/clarke_cooke_house.aspx

We also had drinks and appetizers at the Red Parrot farther up Thames Street. The food was fresh and tasty - good seafood selections with a Carribean twist. (The conch fritters were a little oily but such a nice flavor!) www.redparrotrestaurant.com/html/home.html

The good thing about Newport is that not a lot changes very quickly there! So all your old haunts should still be around. Enjoy!

Depends on your budget tastes and whether you want "in town" or out.
The absolute best (and one of the most expensive is The Castle Hill Inn. Sunset to die for, excellent food.
In town, the best seafood is Scales and Shells up Thames. Cash only and mainly served with or over past but excellent. No reservations.
Our favorite is The West Deck. Right on the water up Thames. Other good options The Mooring, 22 Bowen. We also love the Candy House (downstairs).
The Red Parrot is touristy and it's menu reminds me of The Cheesecake Factory (pages upon pages).
Lots of others too.
What are your tastes?

Open on budget and as for tastes, we love just about everything (as our waists are proving!)- but when in Newport, seafood is always 1st choice. Glad to know Scales & Shells is still going strong. I'm not familiar with Castle Hill Inn but it sounds romantic, and this is an anniversary trip... Is it a dressy place (jacket required for men?)

Thanks for the great ideas folks!

True, Red Parrot is touristy. I guess what I meant was that I was surprised that the food was pretty good.

We had lobster bisque at The Red Parrott and it was wonderful!!