20 Best Restaurants in Cranston, RI
Whether you're a seasoned gourmand or just someone who simply loves a good meal, join me as we embark on a gastronomic journey, unearthing some of the best restaurants in Cranston, Rhode Island.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Iannuccilli Restaurant
My dinner evenings at Iannuccilli Restaurant have always been a delightful experience.
This charming, family-run Italian restaurant boasts a beautiful ambiance, with tasteful decorations and romantic music setting the right mood.
I love how the walls are adorned with paintings and bookshelves filled with Italian cookbooks - it feels just a bit like stepping into a little piece of Italy.
The menu might appear smaller compared to other places, but the quality and essence of what they serve are nothing short of extraordinary.
Each dish is prepared with incredible attention to detail and tastes like a love letter to Italian cuisine.
I recall ordering the steak special one evening - it was a succulent filet mignon served with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, and red peppers.
The flavors were perfectly balanced and left me savoring every bite.
One thing that stands out about this place is their calamari appetizer.
The calamari was beautifully cooked, and the accompanying sauce was perfect.
It was by far the best calamari I've had in a while.
I also relished their clam linguini pasta, and it was absolutely delightful.
The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the clam sauce was rich and aromatic.
Another highlight of my visit was their traditional Tiramisu.
It was so delicious that it's probably one of the best renditions of this classic Italian dessert I've tasted in recent times.
The cream was light and fluffy, and it had just the right amount of coffee flavor.
If you're a fan of Tiramisu, then this is a must-try.
Thai Orchid
Thai Orchid has always been a go-to place when I crave authentic Thai food.
Nestled in the heart of our city, it's just a short walk away from my house.
The warm, straightforward setting of this eatery is always so inviting.
I remember the first time I walked through their doors, the aroma of their dishes greeted me like a sweet, savory perfume.
You can view their location here: Thai Orchid.
Their menu boasts classic Thai dishes, which are always fresh and flavorful.
The Duck Pad Thai and Masaman Curry are my absolute favorites.
The Masaman Curry is a symphony of flavors, rich and creamy, while the Duck Pad Thai is an explosion of tanginess and spice.
And don't get me started on their salmon salad!
It's bursting with freshness and healthiness, something I can continue to enjoy without guilt.
Not to mention their Phad Thai, which is arguably the best in Rhode Island.
Wein-O-Rama
There's this little diner, Wein-O-Rama, it's been a staple in Rhode Island for over 60 years.
It's a family-owned spot that's renowned for its hot weiners.
And let me tell you, they are absolutely perfect.
The service is always excellent, and the food comes out fast, so you never have to wait long for your meal.
For me, it's a must-visit spot.
Not only because of its nostalgic appeal but also for its fantastic food at such great prices.
They serve breakfast too, which is pretty good in its own right.
But the highlight of their menu has to be the fries.
They're even better than what you'd get at McDonald's.
It's one of those places where you can't ever go wrong.
You can find this local gem at this location.
Lou Umberto's Italian Kitchen
Ever since I stumbled upon Lou Umberto's Italian Kitchen, my taste buds have been on a ceaseless journey of scrumptious exploration.
Their thin-crust pizzas are a blissful reinterpretation of the NY style, with each box flaunting eight generously sized diagonal slices.
The Margherita pizza, with its layer of buffalo mozzarella, has my heart.
The use of San Marzano tomatoes instead of regular tomato sauce adds a subtle sweetness that makes their pizza stand out.
Trust me, the prices are as pleasant as the pizza itself.
Spain Restaurant
I'm always on the hunt for local gems where I can enjoy a delightful meal, and Spain Restaurant in Cranston is one of those places.
The Spanish cuisine they serve has a locavore twist, something I really appreciate.
The restaurant is spacious and airy, with a late-night lounge for those who fancy a nightcap.
I remember the best calamari I have ever tasted was right here.
My dining companions were equally impressed with their meals.
But it’s not just about the food.
Spain Restaurant is also a fantastic place to host events.
I've been here for dinners and multiple parties.
The service is always top-notch and friendly, and they never skimp on food portions.
From appetizers to main dishes and desserts, everything is always superior.
One notable feast was when I was part of a large group of 21 people.
We had an arranged menu with an assortment of appetizers such as stuffed mushrooms, chicken empanadas, stuffed clams, calamari, and coconut shrimp.
The entrée selections were diverse too - from Pollo Al Limon to Coruñesa, and Seafood Stuffed Sole.
And the dessert choices of Tiramisu, Bread Pudding with Chocolate Chips, and Tres Leches were a delight to the palate.
Personally, I would recommend the Espresso Martini and the Coruñesa, but you can't go wrong with any selection here.
Marchetti's Restaurant
There's nothing quite like a Friday evening at Marchetti's Restaurant.
It's the kind of place where even in the hustle and bustle of a packed house, the service never wavers from being top-notch.
The calamari, expertly prepared, was an absolute delight.
It's one of those dishes that you just can't stop gushing about; it's that good.
It's one of the reasons Marchetti's is a personal favorite and a regular haunt for me.
For anyone who hasn't been to Marchetti's yet, you're missing out on some of the best Italian cuisine on the East Coast.
The portions are generous, to say the least.
My first meal there left me with a box of leftovers and a belly full of satisfaction.
And that's the norm here, not the exception.
The Big Cheese & Pub
I've had my fair share of Italian grub, but one place that continues to stick out is The Big Cheese & Pub.
It's one of those cozy, longtime eateries that just ooze charm, and their menu is filled with delicious Italian fares like pizzas, pastas, and calzones.
I remember the last time I visited, it was on a whim after not having been there in years.
My partner and I were seated right away, and we kicked off our meal with their tantalizing Mozzarella bread appetizer - a must-try for any cheese lover, trust me!
For the main course, we chose an Onion, Pepper, and Pepperoni pizza.
The crust was flavorful and almost flaky, and the marinara sauce was simply fantastic.
It was as mouthwatering as I remembered from the old days.
We've decided to add The Big Cheese & Pub to our regular pizza night outings - it's just too good to pass up!
Whenever we're feeling lazy, we also order take-out from them.
Their Hawaiian pizza, in particular, is the best I've ever had.
Their food is always ready within 20 minutes, and the prices are more than reasonable.
Amedeo Restaurant & Lounge
I must admit, I've been to Amedeo Restaurant & Lounge more times than I can count, and each visit is as delightful as the last.
Nestled in the heart of Cranston's Little Italy, Amedeo's is the go-to spot for authentic Italian cuisine.
This family-owned gem serves up a full menu until 10 in the evening, accommodating late-night cravings and post-work dinner outings.
Whether you're seated at the bar or one of their cozy tables, you are met with prompt and pleasant service that complements the inviting atmosphere.
In a world where large-scale eateries are taking over, Amedeo Restaurant and Lounge stands as a beacon of warmth and authenticity.
You can find the place here.
But the star of the show is, of course, the food.
From burgers to veal parm, the menu is a tantalizing spread of Italian classics.
But for me, the Italian nachos are a must-try.
It’s an unexpected dish that perfectly embodies the innovation and authenticity that Amedeo's is known for.
Summer nights take on a special charm, with the outdoor patio playing host to live music that adds to the ambiance.
Antonio's Trattoria
Every now and then, I forget just how lucky I am to live so close to top-notch restaurants like Antonio's Trattoria.
This elegant Italian restaurant, situated conveniently on Cranston Street, is one of my absolute favorites for its delicious pastas, traditional entrees, and extensive wine list that keeps me coming back for more.
I stopped in for dinner recently after a long break due to the pandemic.
I was pleased to find the restaurant impeccably clean and as comfortable as ever, immediately getting seated even without reservations.
In the spirit of indulgence, I opted for the chicken parmigiana, a dish that never fails to satisfy.
The flavors were on point, so much so that there wasn't a morsel left to take home!
Additionally, my companion had a pizza that was devoured completely by the end of the night - a testament to its scrumptiousness.
She also appreciated the well-mixed Manhattan, a part of their robust drinks menu.
But what truly sets Antonio's Trattoria apart is their knack for making classic dishes feel extraordinary, such as their eggplant parm.
In my opinion, it’s potentially the best in the country.
L'Osteria Ristorante
There's something incredibly unique about dining at L'Osteria Ristorante, and it's not just their excellent menu.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel the warmth and hospitality that makes this place stand out from the rest.
Dining here is like being whisked away to a small Italian village.
The aroma of fresh herbs and slow-cooked sauces fill the air, while the soft chatter of patrons and the clinking of silverware on plates create a symphony of sounds that transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
It was just last night when I had my first experience with L'Osteria.
I had been hearing rave reviews from friends and finally decided to try it out for myself.
The meal was nothing short of mind-blowing.
From the appetizers all the way to the dessert, everything was bursting with flavors that were rich, authentic, and full of depth.
It's safe to say that my dining experiences will forever be measured against the standard set by L'Osteria.
It's not every day you come across a place that's head and shoulders above the rest, and I can't help but kick myself for not discovering it sooner.
And the Tiramisu?
Oh, the Tiramisu!
It's like a little piece of heaven that melts in your mouth, leaving you with an aftertaste that lingers long after the meal is over.
Cucina Rustica
I must say, Cucina Rustica is not just a restaurant to me.
It's a place that feels like home, a place I've chosen for special occasions, and a place that left a warm impression on me during one of the hardest times of my life.
They arranged an incredibly beautiful bereavement dinner when my father passed away.
They not only catered to our needs but also took care of all the details, leaving us to spend time with our family.
The food at Cucina Rustica is equally exceptional.
I've found myself astonished by the generosity of their portions and the quality of their dishes.
I still remember the first time I dined there.
One of the best deals is their 3-course pre-fix dinner, available until 5 pm every day.
For just $17.99, you get a full-sized entree, soup or salad, and dessert, not to mention $5 martinis and house wines until 5:00!
I especially adore their homemade pastas and the Antipasto, abundant with four different types of Italian meats.
The Eggplant Parmesan and Veal Parmesan are among the best I've ever had.
Don’t even get me started on their Sole Francais, one of the best fish dishes around.
Chapel Grille
Located in a historic 1891 stone church, the exquisite Chapel Grille in Rhode Island offers a unique dining experience that I've been lucky enough to take part in on multiple occasions.
The breathtaking architecture, elegant terrace, and panoramic views provide a stunning backdrop for the superb Mediterranean and Italian cuisine that's on offer.
One memorable time was an Easter dinner I had there.
The special menu was brimming with options, and the flavorful cocktails were hard to choose from, but we managed to try a few responsibly.
The ambiance was just perfect; it felt like you could spend the whole evening there, just enjoying a drink at the bar.
Another time, I had a delectable appetizer there.
The portion was generous, the quality was evident in every bite, and it was clear they took their time to cook the food to perfection.
If you choose to sit outdoors, the view is truly mesmerizing.
Basta Italian Restaurant
One of the best dining experiences I've had in a while was at Basta Italian Restaurant.
The moment I walked in, I was struck by the elegance of the place.
It was nicely decorated and had an inviting atmosphere.
I opted for an outdoor seat to enjoy the evening breeze.
The service was attentive and prompt, everything you'd wish for in a dining experience.
The menu had a wide array of Italian classics, and I couldn't resist trying the freshly made pasta with plum tomato sauce.
The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauce was delightful.
To pair with it, I had a side of broccoli Rabe and a gigantic shrimp cocktail which was simply divine.
What I loved about Basta was how they managed to balance the richness of their food without it being overwhelming.
I also noticed that they offered a variety of wines for those who would prefer a lighter hand with their drinks.
Nevertheless, if you're a fan of strong, feisty cocktails, their La Posta “Laura” drinks are a must-try.
As for the main course, their tomahawk steak and chicken Saltimbocca were both served hot and packed with flavor.
Twin Oaks Restaurant
It's been a tradition for me to dine at Twin Oaks Restaurant, an enduring spot in Rhode Island that I've been frequenting for over 30 years.
This place truly embodies the comfort of home, with its multiple dining rooms and a broad selection of Italian & American staples that never disappoints.
Upon entering, the warm greeting you receive sets the tone for the exceptional experience that lies ahead.
Even though the place is always bustling, there's never a feeling of being crammed in.
The service is swift and efficient.
Seating is quick, and drinks arrive at the table in no time.
Their appetizers are always a great start to the meal.
I've tried the hot wings, calamari, and my personal favorite, the scallops wrapped in bacon.
They are delivered promptly, and the flavors are always spot on.
The variety on the menu is extensive.
On my last visit, I opted for the Italian special, which included veal, a delightful meatball, and a hearty sausage.
Moreover, the portions are so large that you're bound to take home leftovers.
What truly stands out at Twin Oaks is not just the delicious food but the stellar service.
Celebrating special occasions at Twin Oaks has become a family tradition.
It's the perfect place for large gatherings like my Dad's birthday, where we seated 10 people without any hassle.
Avvio Ristorante
When the craving for authentic Italian cuisine strikes, there's one place that always comes to mind - Avvio Ristorante.
I've been a regular patron for quite some time now, and each visit is a reminder of why it holds such a special place in my culinary heart.
The ambiance at Avvio is a seamless blend of contemporary and classic.
It's a perfect fit for the menu that boasts traditionally rooted Italian dishes as well as Neapolitan pizza.
On my recent visit, I had the pleasure of treating my palate to their rib eye steak, a choice made by the three of us.
The steak was cooked to perfection, tender, and bursting with flavor.
We were also intrigued by the duck on the menu, which was equally excellent.
What sets Avvio apart is not just their delectable food but also the unparalleled service.
Avvio's commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond their dining room.
I ordered takeout as well and was pleasantly surprised by their meticulousness.
My order of Avvio burgers, made gluten-free upon request, were just as delicious as when enjoyed in their restaurant.
Macera's Italian Restaurant
My heart always skips a beat when I sit down for a meal at Macera's Italian Restaurant.
The traditional Italian fare served in an offbeat space decorated with magnificent murals and a sky ceiling always feels like a true feast for the senses.
The white clam chowder at Macera's is the best I've ever tasted.
The consistency is just right - not too thick, not too thin - and each spoonful is a burst of flavor in my mouth.
I've had their scallop scampi, too, and I cannot stop raving about it!
The scallops are cooked to perfection, so tender they melt in your mouth.
One of the best-kept secrets in our area is Macera's legendary soup and their to-die-for sauce.
My significant other and I are absolutely in love with this place, and we rarely pass up an opportunity to eat here.
On our last visit, I had the Tri-Colored cheese Tortellini with grilled Chicken.
The tortellini were bursting with flavors, and the grilled chicken was cooked just right.
They accompanied the meal with the softest, most delicious Italian bread I've had.
Their polenta is also a must-try!
It's honestly the best I've ever had.
The service here is always outstanding, and the warm, beautiful atmosphere makes every visit memorable.
The Chicken Tortellini is so flavorful and creamy rich, while their Scrod Francaise with a flavorful lemon sauce is an absolute delight.
King's Garden Restaurant
King's Garden Restaurant has always been a go-to spot for me and my family.
The food, the atmosphere, the service - it's always been top-notch.
But over the past couple of years, I've noticed a significant improvement in the quality and taste of their dishes.
It's as if they've magically found a way to enhance their recipes without losing the essence of their original flavor.
Now, every time I order a hot pot or noodle dish, I'm taken aback by the freshness of the ingredients and the flavorful punch each mouthful delivers.
And that's not even the best part - the portion sizes are massive, giving me enough for a hearty meal and then some for later.
Whether I choose to dine in or get my food to go, I'm always satisfied with the outcome.
39 West Restaurant & Lounge
I remember stepping into 39 West Restaurant & Lounge for the first time and being taken aback by the relaxed ambiance.
As someone who enjoys Italian cuisine, their early bird special dinners immediately caught my interest.
The venue houses a full bar, promising a good time with a wide variety of drinks, and with live bands playing over the weekends, the vibes are truly unmatched.
The last time I was there, I had an early dinner and was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I was seated.
I went for the Chicken Marsala complemented by a side of pine under a red sauce, and it was flavorful beyond words.
An added perk of the place is ample parking with no wait time.
It's quite a sight when the place transforms into a lively lounge with a DJ and dancing over the weekends.
Fresco Cranston
I decided to spend my evening at Fresco Cranston recently, and I must say it was a bit of a mixed bag.
The atmosphere was quite pleasant, with adequate lighting, setting the scene for a nice dining experience.
The bread and oil were excellent, very rustic, and hearty, reminding me of traditional home-cooked meals.
To wash down the meal, I indulged in one of their drinks.
I have to give them their due, the drinks were awesome.
On my visit, the place was bustling with patrons, with no tables available, but that didn't deter me.
I ended up sitting at the bar, and to my surprise, I was glad I did.
A standout on the menu was the chicken parmigiana, which was the best I've had in a long time.
I've had a lot, being a huge fan of the dish, but this one took the cake.
And the cherry chocolate espresso amaretto drink, oh boy, it was simply amazing!
T's Restaurant Cranston
Oh, how I love starting my day at T's Restaurant!
Situated right here in Cranston, this spot has become my go-to eatery for a hearty American breakfast.
I must admit, I was a bit late to discover this gem, but now that I have, I just can't get enough.
You can check them out yourself here.
The food here is always on point.
Don't even get me started on their sourdough toast and pancakes, they're absolutely divine.
But what really sets them apart is their service - it's exceptional every single time.
Not to forget their dark roast coffee - it's the perfect pick-me-up to start the day.
But what I relish the most is their French toast.
It's so good it haunts my dreams.
The butter they serve alongside, it's pure heaven.
I mean, who knew a simple side could elevate the experience to such an extent?
Final Thoughts
Cranston, Rhode Island, truly offers a culinary journey like no other.
I've spent countless evenings enjoying the delectable dishes at Iannuccilli or delighting in the authentic Italian cuisine at Lou Umberto's Italian Kitchen.
The diverse food scene here never ceases to amaze me.
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