Despite Newport's reputation as an expensive and sometimes exclusive place to dine, there are an increasing number of family-friendly casual restaurants throughout Newport and its neighboring town of Middletown. From classicburgers to pizza to pasta and seafood, Newport's casual restaurants offer those seeking traditional meals a good value for their dollar in a relaxed environment. Always keep in mind that casual dining in Newport does not mean a step up from fast food. On the contrary, it simply means you can enjoy some great food in a laid-back casual atmosphere, with or without the kids in tow. For those picky eaters in your family, we've got you covered with chicken nuggets available on a lot of kid's menus around town too!
Over the years, the restaurant landscape here in Newport has changed some, and many new establishments have opened that cater more to the relaxed dining environment that visitors crave. Some have even gone the extra step of creating a kid's menu to show their patrons they really want families at their restaurants. The benefit to adults is that everyone in the family can enjoy what they like, with items like mac 'n cheese and chicken nuggets for the picky child eater and maybe a lobster or filet mignon for mom and dad. Everyone leaves happy and satisfied - mission accomplished!
For lunches on the go and maybe snacks at the hotel later, there is plenty of small take-out places in town, featuring everything from homemade soups and sandwiches to cupcakes, pizza and fudge. Check out this section on the site as well as the Lunch Section for more ideas on eating well and keeping the kids happy while visiting Newport.
Bar'CinoRelatively new to the Newport scene is Bar'Cino, a cozy Italian getaway right in the heart of Washington Square in downtown Newport. The menu is Tuscan-inspired and feels updated, featuring local ingredients like seafood, chicken, artisan pizzas and pasta. The space is welcoming and would be ideal for a date or friends getting together to share great wine and food. Highly recommended!
Caleb & BroadThis restaurant/bar features tradtional American fare with a new twist in a friendly and funky tavern-like atmosphere. A large wrap-around bar with intimate booths throughout make this establishment an easy choice for lunch, dinner or brunch on the weekends. A really well-rounded menu of delicious items well-prepared in a fun and cozy environment. Fun bar crowd featuring indoor/outdoor seating during the warmer months.
Mondays- all entreés just $10; Tuesdays- ½ price bottles of wine!
The Landing Restaurant & BarWhen nothing but the best waterfront views in Newport will do, The Landing is definitely the place. With a casual family restaurant atmosphere, The Landing has 4 separate dining areas(2 inside, 2 outside), an outside bar overlooking Newport Harbor and a varied menu from lobster to steak to clamcakes & chowder. Also available for private parties and rehearsal dinners.
The Lobster BarWhen it comes to fresh lobster and seafood it doesn't get any closer than this. This new restaurant and bar located right on a working fishmen's wharf gives 180 degree views of Newport Harbor and features seafood from its neighbor, Aquidneck Lobster Company. Arguably one of the best views of Newport Harbor and true New England waterfront dining atmosphere. A fun place for the whole family to sit back and experience coastal New England.
Lucia Italian Restaurant & PizzeriaLocated downtown across the street from Brick Market Place. The food is the real-deal - real Italian food made by real Italians. A casual setting for lunch with casual fare, and a more formal setting with linen tablecloths and cozy atmosphere for dinner, with traditional and innovative North Italian cuisine. Featuring pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, pizza, large vegetarian selection and more.... Take advantage of the early dining specials available in the beginning of the week during the winter months (Nov-Apr).
Newport Vineyards - Taproot BrewingLocated just a couple miles from downtown Newport and set in a real working vineyard, Taproot Brewing offers visitors a delicious local farm to table experience. Their seasonal menus offer snacks, appetizers, sandwiches, pizza and home-made desserts fresh from their bakery. A great escape from the hustle and bustle of Newport, relaxing amongst the countless acres of a beautiful vineyard. Highly recommended!
The Pineapple Club - Newport Harbor Island ResortOPEN SEASONALLY: Mid May - September
For real al fresco dining and phenomenal views of the Newport Bridge, The Pineapple Club is the place. A little off the beaten path at the rear of the Newport Harbor Island Resort property on Goat Island, the outdoor bar and grille overlooks the Goat Island lighthouse and offers sweeping views the Newport Bridge. Casual fare including the freshest seafood raw bar, locally-grown produce, salads, sandwiches, cocktails and frozen drinks. Listen to live entertainment or wander over to our outdoor fire pit where the kids can make S'mores. Helpful tip: water taxis are plentiful, inexpensive and a fun way to get out to Goat Island from the downtown wharves! Truly one of Newport's best kept secrets!
Salt Water Restaurant - The Newport Harbor Hotel & MarinaSituated in the middle of Newport on the harbor, Salt Water is arguably one of the best places to dine harborside in Newport. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers satisfying fresh local seafood favorites, delicious sandwiches and burgers and its all beside one of the best views in Newport. Whatever the season, Salt Water is worth a stop while you're in town, even if you're not staying at the hotel. Fun and lively atmosphere featuring live music on the enclosed and heated outdoor patio during the warmer months.
Smoke HouseIf real barbecue and people-watching are your thing, this is your place. Located directly on the corner of America's Cup Avenue and Scott's Wharf downtown, this seasonal open air barbeque and rib restaurant offers Newport's only real BBQ experience. Ribs, burgers, brisket and more. Also a great spot to hang out at the bar and enjoy a summer cocktail!
La VecinaNEW! Located in the heart of Newport on Washington Square, La Vecina provides a cure for that Mexican craving we all get from time to time. Beyond the standard Americanized taco joint, La Vecina offers fresh plates including ceviche, salads and lighter fare to complete your experience. You will find tacos stuffed with everything from fish (it is Newport, RI after all) to shrimp and short ribs, as well as larger plates incorporating multiple mexican staples all together on a single plate. And by the way, the Mexican specialty drinks are fantastic too!