The state of Rhode Island, nicknamed "The Ocean State," is best known for its numerous colonial and historic sites, a prosperous fishing industry and the opulent mansions that line its Newport coast. However, what many do not know is that the country's tiniest state also plays home to a small selection of dining establishments that specialize in capturing the heart of Bavarian culture through their cuisines, music and decor.
This warm and spacious European-style eatery sits nestled in the heart of Bristol, overlooking Independence Park and Bristol Harbor. The menu's focus is on German and Alsatian specialties, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work. The elegant dining room features a festooned skylight, strands of tiny clear lights strung across the ceiling, and a double-sided fireplace that also faces a bar/lounge with eclectic stained glass windows. Lunch and dinner are served every day while breakfast is offered on weekends. Popular menu items include grilled bratwurst with sauerkraut, traditional wiener schnitzel and veal, pork and beef meatloaf. Patrons also have an extensive wine list to choose from to help wash it all down.
Redlefsen's
444 Thames Street
Bristol, RI 02809
401-254-1188
redlefsens.com
Ideal for locals, the German American Cultural Society is opened to members and guests who want to experience good old Bavarian food, beer, music and entertainment. The ratskeller, which is a tavern that sits below street level, offers a number of authentic German beers such as Paulaner Munchen, Zotler Bier, St. Georgen Brau, Meckatzer and Miltenberger. Member chefs prepare fresh, mouthwatering German dishes like bratwurst, sauerbraten, trout and pickled herring while desserts range from torts to cakes like black forest and German chocolate. The space is available to rent for weddings, receptions, social functions and corporate events. In addition, certain nights feature dancing and live music catering to an over 40 crowd.
German American Cultural Society
78 Carter Avenue
Pawtucket, RI 02861
401-726-9873
gacsri.org
This cozy, family-owned property has been in operation since 1978, successfully combining a fully functioning florist, gift shop, tea room and bistro into a German-inspired one-stop shop that is open every day but Sunday. The bistro's Bavarian themes are more evident in the rustic countryside decor than the menu, although die-hards will find some authentic items such as sauerbraten, stuffed sole, fish stew and grilled beefsteak alongside non-German dishes like thin-crust pizza, Maryland crab cakes and Texas-style French toast. Patrons can then finish off the meal with one of the restaurant's many fine teas and a freshly baked scone with strawberry jam before buying some German edelweiss as a parting gift with which to remember the trip.
Ferns and Flowers Teahouse and Bistro
1094 Centerville Road
Warwick, RI 02886
401-821-1105
fernsandflowers.com
