3 Best Restaurants in Downtown, Providence

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We've compiled the best of the best in Downtown - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Gracie's

$$$$ Fodor's Choice

The city's best spot for a romantic meal is a table in a private alcove at Gracie's, across the street from the Trinity Rep theater. Owner Ellen Gracyalny mixes sophistication with whimsy in the main dining room, and executive chef Matthew Varga sources many of his ingredients from Rhode Island farmers; Varga's tasting menus are a standard setter for fine dining in Providence.

194 Washington St., Providence, RI, 02903, USA
401-272–7811
Known For
  • Seasonally inspired menu
  • Five- and seven-course fixed-price, wine-paired chef's tasting menus
  • Personalized service
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.--Tues. No lunch

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CAV

$$$

Chandeliers hang from the ceiling, and African and Asian artwork adorns the walls (everything is for sale) at this restaurant--antiques store. The menu is extensive—seafood is particularly, but not exclusively, featured—the food is rich in flavor, and the ambience, occasionally augmented with live music, is full of personality. Brioche toast is the house specialty for weekend brunch.

14 Imperial Pl., Providence, RI, 02903, USA
401-751–9164
Known For
  • Imaginative presentation of menu favorites
  • Fresh pasta dishes
  • Antiques for sale

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PVDonuts

$

Just as sneakerheads line up for hot releases, doughnutheads stake their places on the sidewalk outside this one-of-a-kind shop to try limited-edition flavors like S’mores or Chocolate Churro. There are filled and old-fashioned-style donuts to sample, but the stars of the monthly changing lineup are the light and fluffy, oversized brioche dough orbs. Go early because sellouts are a regularity.

79 Ives St., Providence, RI, 02906, USA
No phone
Known For
  • Cereal-studded doughnuts and trademark creations like the Friendsgiving doughnut
  • Vegan options
  • Locally roasted coffee
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues.

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Recommended Fodor's Video

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