New England is rich with history, but nothing shakes up life like something brand new. From innovative food offerings and horizon-expanding culture to the latest in luxurious experiences, our region keeps finding fresh ways to enjoy each season. In this month of Thanksgiving, we present the newest entries on our gratitude list in this exploration of new things to do in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
New Bedford – Cisco Brewery
Let’s start this list of all things new in New Bedford. With construction completed of the Cisco Brewers Entertainment Complex this year, South Coast residents gained a fabulous and multi-faceted venue for family-friendly leisure. Cisco Brewers New Bedford is an offshoot of Cisco Brewers Nantucket and a collaboration with local restaurateur Steve Silverstein. This over-three-acre, coastal spot is more than a routine watering hole. Guests can enjoy not only Cisco Brewery, but also a distillery, a winery, a 300-seat restaurant, and an outdoor barbeque. According to SouthCoastToday, the venue pleases fun-seekers of all ages with an outdoor kid zone, a fire pit, and a stage featuring live music daily. When the winds kick up this month, picture yourself with a frosty beer at this cool spot or at our next destination, which takes us from chill to chilis.
Lincoln – OZ Tacos & Tequila
Northern Rhode Island may not scream “south of the border” but OZ Tacos & Tequila in Lincoln lets you spice up a jaunty weekend with delectable small plates and an extensive menu of tequila. Opening just last spring, The Chow Fun Group, owners of Xaco Taco and Ten Prime Steak and Sushi, delivers what they describe as a “quirky and upbeat” atmosphere for savoring whimsical cocktails and tacos. Our next outing takes us from Patrón to patrons.
Cranston – Ohanga Art Gallery
Located in Garden City and with a second location off Thames Street in Newport, this arts collaborative opened in 2021 with the goal of providing artists and makers with resources to grow their brands and achieve sustaining incomes. Ohanga’s owners ensure a 360-degree customer experience through their various initiatives, including their magazine Etch, seasonally themed gift boxes, and their Ohanga Live sessions – livestreaming Facebook videos where Ohanga community members discuss art, commerce, and everything in between. And while we’re in between, we shall move onto a beautiful new hotel situated perfectly between Downcity and the East Side.
Providence – The Beatrice Hotel
This year saw the opening of Providence’s newest boutique hotel on Westminster Street. The Beatrice Hotel presents chic surroundings and sleek, modern rooms ideal for a fresh perspective on life in the city. Next time you need some headspace in sophisticated surroundings, visit their lobby and living quarters to sip, email, or nosh. For a taste of fine dining, the hotel’s Bellini Restaurant continues the glamour and style as you sample a light snack and a cocktail at the bar or sit down to fine Italian cuisine, such as pastas, grilled specialties, and crudi di pesce. For some TLC in PVD, consider a November stay at The Beatrice – and for some TMI, their toilets are heated!
Middletown – Foodlove Market
A brainchild of the Newport Restaurant Group, Foodlove Market opened just a few months ago in Middletown in an excellent central location serving all of Aquidneck Island. Whether it’s a post-work chillout at its lovely café featuring beer and wine or taking a night off from cooking with its prepared foods, this market provides fresh and delicious cuisine. Their made-to-order paninis, salads, sandwiches, and wood-fired pizza more than satisfy, while its pleasing atmosphere lends a warm sense of community. Are you feeling the Foodlove? Maybe a romantic getaway is in order, and South Kingstown now provides just the thing.
South Kingstown – Shepherd’s Run Resort Winery
At Shepherd’s Run, you’ll be enchanted by a serene atmosphere worthy of writing a romantic novel. Honest wine, fresh flowers, and succulent food fulfilled the needs of French peasants, and you can enjoy all three and more in the area’s latest destination resort. You’ll discover country vibes with modern luxury on 36 picturesque acres in South Kingstown, offering estate-grown, regional, and global wine selections. Its 10 guest rooms available for nightly rental allow you to rediscover the simple pleasures of fresh air and well-crafted vintages. Continue the feeling on Thanksgiving Day, when Shepherd’s Run presents its own takeout Thanksgiving menus, featuring wines, appetizers, and desserts from beloved local vendors such as Graze on Main and Ellie’s Bakery. Orders are being taken until Saturday, November 20 and pick-ups can be made on Wednesday, November 24 from 12-6 p.m. Finally, let’s continue the theme by going from a Shepherd’s Run to a turkey’s trot.
It’s the season of family tradition, so why not begin a new one on Thanksgiving with the First Annual East Bay Turkey Trot! Beginning at 8 a.m., participants will run and walk (twice) around beautiful Colt State Park in Bristol to the finish line for a good cause. Sponsored by the Bristol County Lions Club, all proceeds go to the East Bay Food Pantry to let you end a month of romping on a note of giving.
Make the tail end of 2021 more memorable with novel experiences throughout “New-vember.”
