2 Best Restaurants in Newport County and East Bay, Rhode Island

With Bruce the shark out front and a weathered, kitschy vibe, this local institution across from Easton's Beach in Middletown is as casual as they come. Lobster rolls, fried seafood, baked fish, clam cakes, cold beer, and a great raw bar make for long lines in summer. A smaller second location is at Island Park Beach in Portsmouth.

The “mother” at this Long Wharf eatery refers to the naturally fermented sourdough that underpins the pizzas sliding out of the Neapolitan-style oven, dished to guests alongside selections from an extensive wine list and Rhode Island draft beers. White and red-sauce pizzas are topped with cheese, figs, pineapple, carnitas pork, summer vegetables, and other creative accoutrements.