Newport Dinner Lineup: 12 Incredible Restaurants to Try on Historic Thames Street

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Newport’s historic Thames Street is the city’s energetic backbone—one long cobblestone stroll that squeezes centuries-old buildings, indie shops and, most importantly, a buffet of restaurants into a single mile-and-a-half. Below are some of the most popular spots for dinner along the famous street.

The Icons of Thames

Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant – 140 Thames St

A Newport landmark for over 40 years, Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant is a family-owned establishment famed for its eclectic decor, which includes a vast collection of memorabilia. It continues to offer a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes.

• Popular Menu Items: The creamy New England Clam Chowder and the over-stuffed Lobster Salad Roll are staples on the menu. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and steaks.
• Atmosphere: The restaurant has a lively and casual atmosphere, with a sprawling multi-level dining area, a large bar, and several fireplaces. The walls are adorned with an impressive collection of sports memorabilia, license plates, and other curiosities, making for a unique and engaging dining experience. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it can get crowded, especially during peak season.

O’Brien’s Pub – 501 Thames St

A classic Irish pub with a sprawling garden patio, O’Brien’s is a Newport institution.

• Popular Menu Items: The Over-Stuffed Lobster Roll and their famous mudslides what they’re known for.
• Atmosphere: O’Brien’s has a fun and casual atmosphere, with a large bar, a lively crowd, and a fantastic garden patio. It’s a great place to go for a casual meal, a few drinks, or to enjoy the summer weather.

Global Flavors & Classic Tastes

Midtown Oyster Bar – 345 Thames St

This bustling, bi-level restaurant is a haven for seafood lovers. It boasts two bars and a year-round patio, making it a popular spot for all seasons.

• Popular Menu Items: The Seared Sea Scallops served over creamy cheddar grits are a highlight of the dinner menu. The Signature Lobster Roll, served warm with butter, is also one of the most popular in Newport. The raw bar is a central feature, with a daily selection of fresh oysters, clams, and other shellfish.
• Atmosphere: Midtown Oyster Bar has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The downstairs area is dominated by a large, lively bar, while the upstairs dining room offers a slightly more relaxed setting. The breezy patio is a popular choice for al fresco dining. The restaurant is known for its extensive wine list and creative cocktails.

Buskers Irish Pub – 178 Thames St

An authentic Irish pub in the heart of Newport, Buskers offers a taste of Ireland with its traditional food, extensive drink selection, and lively entertainment.

• Popular Menu Items: Classic Irish fare such as Fish & Chips and hearty Cottage Pie are favorites. The pub also boasts a selection of 20 Irish whiskeys and features live music.
• Atmosphere: Buskers has a cozy and traditional pub atmosphere, with dark wood furnishings, a long bar, and a friendly, welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy a pint of Guinness, listen to some live Irish music, and soak up the lively “craic.”

The Red Parrot – 348 Thames St

Housed in a historic 19th-century building that was once a meat-packing plant, The Red Parrot is a multi-level restaurant with a diverse, eclectic menu. It is indeed a great spot for families and large groups.

• Popular Menu Items: The “Jerk Chicken entrée” and “Jamaican Jerk Wings” are a couple of the menu headliners. The Red Parrot is known for its Caribbean-inspired dishes and a vast menu with a wide variety of options that would appeal to any group.
• Atmosphere: The Red Parrot has a unique and vibrant atmosphere, with three floors of dining, two bars, and an open-air patio. The decor is a mix of historic and tropical, with exposed brick walls, colorful murals, and a lively, bustling energy. It’s a popular spot for both casual and celebratory dining.

Gas Lamp Grille – 206 Thames St

A popular late-night spot, the Gas Lamp Grille is a combination of a sports bar and a bistro, offering a relaxed and casual dining experience.

• Popular Menu Items: The beer-battered Gas Lamp Fish & Chips is a popular item. They also offer a late-night menu until midnight.
• Atmosphere: The Gas Lamp Grille has a casual and lively atmosphere, with a large bar, multiple TVs for watching sports, and a comfortable dining area. It’s a popular spot for a casual meal, a late-night bite, or to catch a game.

An Italian Interlude

Lucia Italian Restaurant – 186B/190B Thames St

This cozy, split-level restaurant offers a menu of Northern Italian comfort food, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Popular Menu Items: The Scaloppina Aromatica (veal with lemon, capers, olives, and oregano) and a variety of handmade pastas are still tough to pass up on.
• Atmosphere: Lucia Italian Restaurant has a warm and intimate atmosphere, with a cozy dining room and a romantic ambiance. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a quiet, romantic dinner.

Mamma Luisa’s – 673 Thames St

Located in a converted Victorian house, Mamma Luisa’s is a family-run restaurant that serves soulful, traditional Italian dishes.

• Popular Menu Items: The Tagliatelle al Pesce (egg ribbon pasta with shrimp and scallops in a white wine garlic sauce) and the Ravioli di Zucca (butternut squash ravioli) are top choices.
• Atmosphere: Mamma Luisa’s has a charming and romantic atmosphere, with a cozy dining room, a fireplace, and a beautiful garden patio. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Four More Thames Street Must-Tries

Scales & Shells – 527 Thames St

This open-kitchen seafood restaurant is a must-visit for any seafood lover. The focus is on fresh, simply prepared seafood, with a raw bar and a wood-fired grill.

• Popular Menu Items: The Spicy Seafood Linguine and the Lobster Fra Diavolo for Two are great choices.
• Atmosphere: Scales & Shells has a lively and bustling atmosphere, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. It’s a popular spot, so reservations are recommended.

TSK (Thames Street Kitchen) – 509 Thames St

TSK has evolved into a boutique steakhouse, offering a refined dining experience in an intimate setting.

• Popular Menu Items: The Red-Wine-Braised Short Rib is a popular dish, and the menu features a 30-ounce dry-aged rib-eye.
• Atmosphere: TSK has an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, with a small, bustling dining room. The focus is on high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes.

Il Forno Italiano – 372 Thames St

This late-night, wood-fired pizzeria is a great spot for a quick and delicious bite.

• Popular Menu Items: The Fresh Mozzarella & Pesto Pizza and the Newport Chicken Pizza are popular. They are open late, serving until 2 a.m.
• Atmosphere: Il Forno Italiano has a casual and relaxed atmosphere, with a focus on delicious, wood-fired pizza. It’s a popular spot for a late-night snack or a casual meal.

Cluck House – 515 Thames St

A must-visit for fried chicken lovers, Cluck House offers a variety of fried chicken sandwiches, wings, and platters.

Atmosphere: Cluck House has a fun and casual atmosphere, with a focus on delicious, high-quality fried chicken. It’s a great place to go for a quick and satisfying meal.

Popular Menu Items: The signature “Clucker” Sandwich and the Wing Challenge platter are both on the menu.