Newport, Rhode Island, is not just known for its scenic views and historic charm but also for its diverse dining options. If you’re planning a midday meal in the city, you’re in for a treat. Here’s our straightforward guide to some of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
Best Restaurants for Lunch in Newport
Family-Friendly: Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant
Website: Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant
- Location: 140 Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840
- Description: Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant is a Newport tradition that has been serving the community for over 40 years and its clear as soon as you try to get a table why it must be one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport. It’s always tough to get a table, but the wait is well worth it The restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes pub-style comfort food, award-winning seafood, fine steaks, and modern multicultural cuisine. The establishment is known for its friendly atmosphere and has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Legacy: With a rich history spanning four decades, Brick Alley Pub has cemented its place as one of Newport’s iconic dining destinations. The restaurant’s gallery showcases images that reflect its commitment to quality dining and its deep-rooted connection to the Newport community.
Special Features
- Award-Winning Menus: Brick Alley Pub is celebrated for its diverse and delectable food and drink menus, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
- Event Hosting: The restaurant is also recognized as an ideal venue for hosting events, including wedding rehearsals and private parties.
Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant has a very laidback environment without a diminished dining experience. It’s location on Thames Street is also a huge plus when exploring the rest of downtown Newport. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurants or not, this is one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
The Brick Alley Pub’s Blackberry Sangria is one of the best drinks in all of Newport
Unique Location: La Forge Casino Restaurant
Website: La Forge Casino Restaurant
- Location: 186 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
- Description: Located within an acclaimed Stanford White building, La Forge offers a blend of local fare and fresh seafood. Whether you’re looking for an intimate evening or a venue for a corporate outing, La Forge provides the perfect atmosphere. It has a diverse menu and a unique setting alongside the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The views from the back of the restaurant overlook the center grass courts in the heart of the museum.
Special Features
- Historic Setting: The restaurant is situated within a historic Stanford White building, adding to its charm and allure.
- View of Tennis Courts: One of the standout features of La Forge is its prime location on Bellevue Avenue, offering diners a unique view of the grass tennis courts of the Tennis Hall of Fame. This view not only adds to the dining experience but also connects guests to Newport’s rich tennis history.
La Forge Casino Restaurant has prime location on Bellevue Avenue to go along with with views of the Tennis Hall of Fame’s grass courts. The ambiance and a solid mix of great food and drinks makes this one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
Although its not an Italian restaurant, La Forge has a terrific Chicken Parmesan.
Great Location: Gas Lamp Grille
Website: Gas Lamp Grille
- Location: Situated in the heart of downtown Newport.
- Description: Gas Lamp Grille is an inviting destination that offers an experience like no other in Newport. It stands out as a place that truly has it all – a vibrant atmosphere, friendly people, delicious food, a wide selection of beers, and a space to enjoy sports and music. The restaurant is known for its late-night menu, which is available until 12:30 am every day, making it a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a meal or drink after hours.
Special Features
- Diverse Offerings: Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, a refreshing beer, or just to catch up on sports, Gas Lamp Grille promises a diverse and enjoyable experience.
- Best Bourbon Bar: Gas Lamp has a very good bourbon selection and features a lot of Woodford Reserve.
Gas Lamp is one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport because it combines a great location and ambiance with a unique and diverse menu.
Bacon Mac and Cheese is our favorite on the menu. The nachos as an appetizer are also excellent.
Italian: Sardella’s
Website: Sardella’s
- Location: 30 Memorial Blvd W, Newport, RI 02840
- Contact: 401-849-6312
- Description: Sardella’s is a beacon of rich, fresh, and authentic Italian cuisine in Newport. The restaurant prides itself on recipes that have been passed down through the Sardella and Imbriglio families, ensuring that each dish carries a touch of family heritage. One of their standout offerings is Imbriglio’s pizza, which is crafted with fresh ingredients, soft dough, and real cheese, delivering an authentic Italian flavor right to your plate.
Special Features
- Dinner for Two: Sardella’s offers a special value meal for couples, essentially providing two meals for the price of one. This deal is accompanied by a delicious $13 bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, handpicked by the proprietor.
- Jazz Nights: Every Wednesday night, starting at 7 pm, guests can enjoy live jazz music, creating a harmonious blend of Chianti and jazz.
- Private Events: Sardella’s provides a Mediterranean ambiance for hosting private events, catering to both small and large gatherings. The restaurant ensures that guests can eat, laugh, and enjoy themselves in a serene setting.
Sardella’s is one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport because it offers a fantastic pasta dishes, excellent Imbriglio’s pizza, and a great wine selection (and sangria).
Fried Mozzerella as an appetizer is a must. Sardella’s has one of, if not the best Chicken Parmesan in the city.
Seafood: The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
Website: The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
- Location: 1 Sayers Wharf, Newport, RI 02840
- Contact: 401-846-2260
- Description: The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar is a gem located on Newport’s historic waterfront. For over 35 years, this iconic restaurant has been serving its guests with a blend of warm hospitality, crafted beverages, and ‘top-of-the-catch’ seafood. The Mooring is renowned for its award-winning wine list and a bountiful raw bar that showcases the freshest seafood offerings. this isn’t just one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport, but one of the best restaurants in all of New England.
- Ambiance: The dining experience at The Mooring is enhanced by both indoor and outdoor seating options. Guests can enjoy panoramic sunsets and nautical views of Newport Harbor, making every meal a visual treat. During warmer months, the mahogany-planked patio, which floats over the water, offers an unmatched maritime alfresco dining experience.
Special Features
- Right on the Water: You can’t eat much closer to the water than this.
- Location: Besides being on the water, it’s also smack dab in the heart of downtown Newport.
- Private Parking lot: No need to worry about finding street parking.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fresh catch from the raw bar, a glass of award-winning wine, or simply to soak in the mesmerizing views of Newport Harbor, The Mooring promises a dining experience that will leave an indelible mark on your culinary journey.
Upscale: Cara at The Chanler at Cliff Walk
Website: Cara at The Chanler
- Location: 117 Memorial Boulevard, Newport, Rhode Island 02840
- Contact: Reservations: 401-847-1300
- Description: Cara, the signature restaurant at The Chanler, offers a contemporary and creative menu inspired by European elegance and sustainable New England ingredients. Tucked away in a private room with panoramic ocean views, Cara is both a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond recognized establishment.
- Ambiance: Cara provides an intimate and luxurious setting, ensuring every meal becomes a memorable experience. The restaurant’s design and decor reflect the rich history and elegance of The Chanler, making it a perfect spot for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Special Features
- Cliff Walk: Located in the only hotel situated on the Cliff Walk, Cara offers tremendous views.
- Chef & Cuisine: Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Jacob Jasinski, Cara’s cuisine lets the food take center stage. Chef Jasinski crafts avant-garde dishes daily, emphasizing ingredients harvested at their peak. Each dish is thoughtfully presented and explained by the kitchen team, creating a dynamic interaction between the chefs, service team, and guests.
- Wine Pairing: An optional wine pairing is available, curated nightly from an extensive beverage list that has been recognized by Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. This pairing complements each dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
With its breathtaking views, impeccable service, and gourmet dishes, Cara promises a dining experience that is truly unparalleled in Newport and all of this makes it one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
American: Jo’s American Bistro
Website: Jo’s American Bistro
- Location: 24 Memorial Blvd W, Newport, RI 02840
- Contact: 401.847.5506
- Description: Jo’s American Bistro is nestled in the heart of Newport, Rhode Island, and offers a delightful dining experience. The restaurant is known for its award-winning burgers, a variety of gluten-friendly dishes, and a special $23.95 prix fixe menu available from Sunday through Thursday. It’s one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport and is arguably the best for burgers as well.
- Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm (last seating)
- Friday: 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm (last seating)
- Saturday: Noon – 9:00 pm (last seating)
- Sunday: Noon – 8:30 pm (last seating)
Special Features
- Specialty: Some of the signature dishes that stand out at Jo’s include the Bacon Onion Jam Burger, Lobster Salad Roll, Point Judith Calamari, and the Dry Dock Fish & Chips.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic American burger, a fresh seafood dish, or a gluten-friendly option, Jo’s promises a dining experience that will leave you coming back for more.
Best View: The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn
Website: The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn
- Location: 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840
- Contact: Local: 401-849-3800
- Description: The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn offers a world-class dining experience in Newport, combining seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with exemplary culinary techniques. Led by Executive Chef Andy Taur, this elegant dining room is an icon of Newport dining. Guests are presented with an exquisite culinary journey inspired by seasonal local ingredients, global cooking techniques, and paired with award-winning wines. The wine list at Castle Hill Inn has been consistently recognized by Wine Spectator magazine as one of the world’s best. It’s clear why this is one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
- Ambiance: The Dining Room provides an intimate and luxurious setting, ensuring every meal becomes a memorable experience. The restaurant’s design and decor reflect the rich history and elegance of the Castle Hill Inn, making it a perfect spot for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Special Features
Other Dining Experiences: Apart from The Dining Room, Castle Hill Inn also offers other dining experiences such as:
- The Lawn Terrace: A treasured tradition, this alfresco dining spot offers evolving menus of casual favorites accompanied by sweeping views of the East Passage.
- The Lawn: Guests can relax with friends and family on the sprawling lawn, enjoying the best views of the East Passage in the classic coastal comfort of Adirondack chairs.
With its breathtaking views, impeccable service, and gourmet dishes, it promises a dining experience that is truly unparalleled in Newport. This is yet another place that isn’t just one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport, but is one of the best in all of New England.
Pizza: Pasta Beach
Website: Pasta Beach Newport
- Location: 138 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840
- Contact: (401) 847-2222
- Description: It boasts a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that mirrors the brand’s dedication to an authentic approach to traditional Italian cooking. Simplicity is the essence of their dishes, ensuring that each meal is a reflection of genuine Italian flavors.It’s one of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport because it offers a lively atmosphere, fresh food and something to offer just about everyone, and fantastic drinks.
- Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:30am – 10:00pm (last seating)
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30am – 10:30pm (last seating)
Special Features
Specialty: Pasta Beach is renowned for its authentic Italian pizzas and pasta dishes. The restaurant’s history began in a quaint Italian trattoria where the love for spaghetti pomodoro was born. The Newport location offers patio dining during the warmer months, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a slice of Italy while soaking in the Newport ambiance.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza, a plate of spaghetti pomodoro, or just a relaxing evening with a glass of wine, Pasta Beach promises a memorable culinary journey in the heart of Newport and it rounds out our list of the best restaurants for lunch in Newport.
