Local Coastal at Casey Farm

Gingerly turning through the modest stone entrance to Casey Farm is a Saturday morning ritual for hundreds of South County residents each week.

From Jamestown to Charlestown, South County locals brave bridges and beach traffic to visit what has become a mecca of farmers’ markets tucked conveniently off of scenic Boston Neck Road in Narragansett.

After parking your car in the grassy area abutting the rows of heavens-aspiring crops, or propping your bike against one of the age-old trees dotting the landscape, visitors are met with the therapeutic sound of stones crackling and popping under foot, the smell of the freshly sown earth, and the faint sound of music wafting through the air.

This is the Coastal Grower’s Market at Casey Farm and it is simply a farmers’ market as it should be.

For some, Casey Farm is a sojourn along their southerly trek to Misquamicut, Narragansett, or Sand Hill Cove beaches. But to others, it represents the height of South County’s growing locavore movement.

For the latter group, who passionately support local industry from agriculture and fishing to arts and crafts, Casey Farm represents more than just a farmers market. It represents community, independent businesses, self-sufficiency, and sustainability.

Indeed, a quick scan of the numerous tents, stands, and tables set up under the watchful gaze of the classic hip and gabel farmhouse reveals a multitude of local and organic foodstuffs and crafts to choose from. From local artists touting handmade jewelry to organic flowers, vegetables, and even fresh shellfish, Casey Farm boasts one of Rhode Island’s most eclectically practical farmers markets.

Yes, you’ll find a host of one-of-a-kind items here from hand painted crafts to paintings, but to South County locavores, it’s the ability to stop and shop for a weekend dinner or an entire week without visiting Stop and Shop that makes the Coastal Growers’ Market so popular.

The West Deck

The West Deck
One Waites Wharf
Newport, RI 02840
www.westdeck.com (menu)
$-$$$

Wanna know a secret? The West Deck is one of Newport’s best restaurants. Tucked away on Waites Wharf on Lower Thames (hang a right at O’Brien’s), The West Deck – as its name suggests – is a great spot to pull up a chair and watch the sunset from their outdoor dining area.

Now in its 16th season, The West Deck boasts some of Newport’s best live music and seafood and (gasp) never has a cover charge!

Don’t Miss: Live music every Sunday afternoon, The summer breeze (this place is right on the water), raw bar, some of Newport’s best mixed drinks
[Inside]Tip: Stop in Tuesday nights for TWD’s Sam Adams Lobster Bake

The Lobster Pot

The Lobster Pot
119 Hope Street
Bristol, RI 02809
(401) 253.9100

A Rhode Island institution

In operation since 1929, The Lobster Pot boasts a menu of New England classics anchored by — you guessed it — lobster. Overall, expect a moderately priced meal with entrees ranging from $12-$22 dollars (excluding market-based dishes) and don’t be surprised if you find yourself waiting at the bar if you don’t have a reservation.

DeWolf Tavern

The DeWolf Tavern
259 Thames Street
Bristol, Rhode Island
(401) 254.2005
www.dewolftavern.com
*Reservations Suggested

A contemporary spin on traditional American cuisine, the DeWolf Tavern is one of Rhode Island’s finest. Located on the water in Bristol, the DeWolf is well suited for either a cozy winter dinner or a lazy summer lunch on the outdoor patio. Menus vary from the upscale to the casual, however the quality remains superb across the board.

Looking for a good date spot? Yes, it can be pricey, but the DeWolf is sure to impress and has been named one of RI’s most romantic restaurants, RIMonthly’s Best New Restaurant of 2005, and one of Esquire Magazine’s Best New Restaurants of 2005.

Don’t miss: The DeWolf’s rum and bourbon selection

[inside]tip: Architecture buffs will be enthralled by the freshly renovated c.1800 warehouse structure, while foodies will delight in the seasonal fare and refined wine list.

The Black Pearl

The Black Pearl
Bannister’s Wharf
Newport, RI 02840
(401) 846.5264
www.BlackPearlNewport.com

One of Newport’s best. Renowned for its chower, don’t miss out on The Black Pearl’s market fresh seafood expertly prepared by Chef Knorr. Words don’t do this spot justice. A true New England gem.

Don’t Miss: New England Clam Chowder, Fried Brie

Avoid: The Lines. During the summer, give the hostess your name about 20 minutes before you want to eat and enjoy a stroll through the shops on Bowen’s Wharf

[inside]Tip: Though you’ll find it closed for a few weeks (usually late Feb.) stop in for a cozy winter dinner in the Commodore’s Room