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Rhode Island Red Food Tours

Rhode Island Red Food Tours bring people from all walks of life together to share the sustenance and bounty of Rhode Island. It’s fantastic food, restaurants and so much more.

Each all-encompassing tour ventures off the beaten path to five to six independent eateries, where you will sample creative foods featuring local ingredients, learn about the chef’s background and food philosophy, and discover the history and culture woven through the city’s food scene.

Bring your friends, family, or colleagues—or make new friends!—as you taste the Ocean State anew.

Downcity Providence Food Tour

Arts & gastronomy  come together in the creative capital.

Delicious adventure awaits where food, art, and architecture collide in Providence’s vibrant Downcity Arts District. Sample from diverse Rhode Island favorites and award-winning culinary restaurants, and between bites get an insider’s view of this lively and creative small city. Our expert guides will help you discover the treasure of epicurean favorites, hidden art, historic architectural gems, sharing local stories and the many happenings to be found in Rhode Island’s Creative Capital.

Enjoy a One-of-a-Kind Guided Tour for Rhode Island Natives and Visitors Alike

Newport neighborhood food tours, off -the-beaten-path food & cultural walking tour.

During your Newport Neighborhood Tour, you will discover diverse, eclectic out-of-the-way neighborhood eateries – with a homespun vibe, where the locals know to go as well as hotbeds of food and fun in the more traveled parts of the city. Step inside some of what may appear as a hole-in-the-wall café or an authentic, cozy 18th-century tavern and you will be surprised to find a mouthwatering food scene, using both cultural & regional influences with a strong commitment to sustainable ingredients.

PVD Valley Neighborhood Victuals Tour (Winter Tour)

Market & makers – see, taste & learn.

A new and unique Providence neighborhood food & drink experience within a former industrial corridor is currently being transformed into an exciting food hub.  The growing neighborhood has become a haven for makers, artists, small businesses, farmers, and chefs with a burgeoning food production scene.

We will introduce you to small-batch craft food products made in Rhode Island in a dynamic marketplace, as well as brewers and distillers that primarily utilize local and regional farming sources. All of which are part of Rhode Island’s newest and most creative makers. 

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Rhode Island Red Food Tours

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Newport Neighborhood Food Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Rhode Island Red Food Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Taste of Rhode Island

About This Tour

Bring your family and friends on this entertaining food adventure in one of America’s favorite foodie cities! On this mouthwatering trip we will take you all over our capital city by tour bus and introduce you to Rhode Island’s most famous foods at the best places that make them! As a fun keepsake, everyone who completes this delicious, seven-course Taste of Rhode Island will receive a certificate proclaiming you a true citizen of the Ocean State!

Tour Highlights

Dave’s Coffee

Del’s Lemonade

Dune Brothers Clam Shack

Gregg’s Restaurant

Olneyville New York System

Providence Oyster Bar

Tony’s Colonial Market

What's Included

all food narrated city tour

If you would like to book this outing, please call 401-886-0733

Or email us at [email protected], at a glance, minimum group size: 10, monday - saturday, available may – october, 12:00pm - 2:30pm, tour length: 2.5 hours, tour reviews, more rhode island experiences.

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Unique places to stay, spots for afternoon tea, spring foodie tours, must-try lobster rolls, april activities, must-do's this may, all things spring, best of 2024, top spring events, on-going gallery exhibits, guide to parking, first timer's guide, top 12 things to do.

Here you'll find food, wine and brewery tours to tempt your senses. Savor local flavors, embrace foodie traditions, and learn about the history intertwined with the tastes of our region and the chefs that bring it all to life daily. 

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Imagine a place where global flavors blend seamlessly with the freshest seafood and farm produce. Enter Rhode Island, its culinary scene is an explosion of tastes, deeply rooted in its rich history and diverse cultures.

As a coastal state, Rhode Island celebrates the bounty of the sea. Succulent lobsters and clams, cooked to perfection, showcase the best of ocean fare, complemented by fresh, local ingredients.

However, Rhode Island's culinary range extends beyond seafood. The state's food scene is shaped by the rich mix of cultures that have called it home. Native American, Portuguese, Italian, and Asian influences add to the delectable diversity of its cuisine. This potpourri of cultural influences creates a varied and delightful culinary landscape.

Now is the moment to start the culinary exploration. We'll navigate through Rhode Island's seafood staples, traditional dishes, popular beverages, and the thriving farm-to-table movement. By the journey's end, you'll understand why Rhode Island is a food lover's treasure trove.

Exploring Seafood in Rhode Island

Rhode Island, also known as the Ocean State, is a haven for seafood lovers. The fresh, vibrant flavors of its seafood are integral to its culinary identity.

Quahogs and Clams

Staple ingredients in Rhode Island's cuisine, quahogs, and clams shine in local dishes. Take ' stuffies' for instance - oversized clams stuffed with a savory mix of chopped clams, breadcrumbs, and herbs. And then there's the famed clam cake, a deep-fried, doughy delight teeming with chopped clams.

Clam chowder, however, sparks a local debate. Some locals favor the clear, broth-based version that highlights the clams, while others prefer a creamy chowder with a rich, milky base. The best way to choose a side? Taste both. 

The  Matunuck Oyster Farm offers an informative and immersive 90-minute experience filled with interesting and educational insight into our aquaculture and fisheries. 

Lobsters and Crabs

Rhode Island's lobsters and crabs are a feast for the senses. Imagine cracking open a steamed lobster at  Newport Lobster Shack , its succulent meat bathed in melted butter. Or savor the sweet, delicate flesh of blue crabs.

Lobster rolls are a serious affair too. Each roll is generously filled with tender lobster meat, lightly dressed, and served in a toasted bun. Some variations include:

• The classic lobster roll that highlights the lobster's natural sweetness.
• The 'Rhode Island Red' spiced up with hot sauce for an extra kick.
• And a roll topped with warm, creamy cheese sauce for a touch of decadence.

Whether you're a seafood connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Rhode Island's seafood is a culinary adventure waiting to be savored. Each bite promises a new, exciting experience.

Classic Rhode Island Dishes

Hot wieners.

Rhode Island offers a unique take on the traditional hot dog with its "hot wiener," a culinary experience with a rich history. Greek immigrants introduced hot wieners in the early 20th century, securing their place as a staple of Rhode Island cuisine.

A true Rhode Island weiner, served "all the way," features a layer of mustard, a meat sauce topping, diced onions, and a sprinkle of celery salt. This combination creates a delightful flavor explosion with every bite. Hot wiener establishments throughout the state each boast their unique meat sauce recipe.

So many spots to choose from you will just have to pick one for yourself and we promise you won't be sorry! 

Johnnycakes

Johnnycakes, a type of flatbread made from cornmeal, hold a significant place in Rhode Island's food culture. Native Americans introduced this dish, traditionally cooked on a hot griddle, offering a satisfying mix of crispy and creamy textures.

The cornmeal is the secret to a perfect johnnycake. Rhode Island prides itself on its stone-ground, white cap flint corn, giving the johnnycake its ideal texture and subtle sweetness. Some enjoy their johnnycakes with butter, while others prefer a drizzle of maple syrup, but either way, it's a timeless classic not to be missed. A top spot would be Kenyon's Grist Mill to try your own, find a recipe, and learn about this dish's history. 

From the savory hot wiener to the comforting johnnycake, Rhode Island offers dishes that reflect its cultural heritage. These traditional dishes, rich in history and flavor, encapsulate the essence of Rhode Island's culinary scene: simple ingredients prepared with care for a satisfying and memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to try these classics on your visit to the Ocean State, and understand why they remain favorites among locals.

Rhode Island Beverages

Rhode Island's beverages reflect the state's diverse food culture. From the official state drink to a locally famous lemonade, the Ocean State's drinks are as enticing as its cuisine.

Coffee Milk

Rhode Island's official state drink, coffee milk, is a delightful blend of milk and coffee syrup. Originating from Italian immigrants' love for coffee in the early 20th century, this sweet, caffeinated treat has become a favorite. Rhode Island remains its heart, making it a must-try beverage in local diners, seaside restaurants, or even at home with a bottle of locally produced coffee syrup. And don't forget your weiners for the perfect pairing. 

Del's Lemonade

Del's Lemonade , a Rhode Island classic, is a slushy mix of lemons, sugar, and ice. This refreshing, tangy drink gained popularity quickly after debuting in Cranston, Rhode Island, in the late 1940s. Del's Lemonade is available in a variety of flavors, ranging from the original lemon to exciting options like watermelon and blueberry. The tradition? Shake the cup and drink straight from it, perfect for a hot summer day.

• The classic lemon offers a true taste of Rhode Island tradition.
• The cherry variant provides a sweet, tangy twist to the original.
• The mango flavor introduces a tropical touch.
• Try the blueberry for a unique blend, popular in the summer months.

Coffee milk and Del's Lemonade are integral to Rhode Island's culinary offerings, embodying the state's inventive spirit and commitment to delicious beverages that satisfy both locals and visitors.

Rhode Island's Farm-to-Table and Modern Eateries

Rich in farming tradition, Rhode Island passionately espouses the farm-to-table movement, creatively highlighting local and seasonal ingredients in its cuisine. This approach celebrates the state's agricultural abundance.

The Farm-to-Table Movement

Rhode Island's culinary scene abounds with eateries supporting the farm-to-table philosophy. These establishments build strong relationships with local farmers, sourcing fresh produce, dairy, and meats. The result is a culinary experience intimately tied to the land, the sea, and the seasons.

Menus at these establishments joyfully reflect the changing seasons. Spring introduces dishes featuring asparagus, rhubarb, and fresh peas. Summer serves ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and juicy berries. Autumn's bounty includes pumpkins, apples, and root vegetables, while winter brings hearty stews made from locally reared meats.

These eateries also feature locally brewed beers, wines, and spirits, enhancing the farm-to-table experience. Here are a few examples:

• Braised rabbit with wild mushrooms in the fall.
• Heirloom tomato salad with fresh mozzarella in the summer.
• Pumpkin soup enriched with locally made apple cider in the autumn.
• Clam chowder made from clams caught the same morning in the winter.

You can find farm-to-table dining experiences across Rhode Island and here are just a few recommendations. The Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar in Providence, The Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown, The Stoneacre Brasserie in Newport, The Shanty in Warwick, and if you stay overnight at Grace Note Farm in Pascoag their farm-to-table breakfast is included in your stay. 

Modern Eateries

Rhode Island's culinary scene isn't just about tradition. It's also about innovation. Contemporary eateries across the state combine traditional ingredients with modern techniques and international flavors.

Chefs in Rhode Island push culinary boundaries, crafting surprising and delightful dishes. Whether it's Korean-inspired seafood or Italian-infused farm produce, the state's food scene is a vibrant blend of old and new.

These chefs create more than just meals - they create edible art. Every dish is a visual treat, thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Whether you're enjoying just-harvested vegetables or a creatively presented dish in a modern eatery, Rhode Island's commitment to quality, freshness, and innovation promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Experience Rhode Island's Flavors

Wanting to experience more flavors in a day there are some enticing and delicious food tours offered by Experience Rhode Island Tours , Newport Neighborhood Food Tour , and Rhode Island Red Downcity Providence Food Tours to name a few. 

Rhode Island offers an unforgettable culinary experience, packed with a variety of seafood, traditional classics, refreshing drinks, and contemporary farm-to-table dining. The food scene in this region presents delicious discoveries at every turn. So why hesitate? Dive into Rhode Island's gastronomical treasure trove and experience its unique flavors .

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Looking to plan your next visit to Rhode Island, check out some of the current special offers and enjoy savings, extra perks and more!

Food Tour | Newport, Rhode Island

Discover the flavors of Newport

An immersive dining experience.

Many participants on other food tours never see the insides of the restaurants. Newport Foodies Stroll offers a different tour where participants are invited inside establishments to sit down and enjoy the restaurants' ambiance. 

Looking for something fun, new, and delicious to do in Newport, Rhode Island? Welcome to Newport Foodies Stroll! We are Newport's first food tour and newest attraction. We invite you to come Experience Newport, One Stroll at a Time

Interested in a Private Tour? Contact Us for More Information 

[email protected]

Come taste the best from local eateries and learn the rich history of Newport while strolling the historic streets.  Our Newport Foodies Stroll runs May 3- October 16 and will take you to five restaurants focusing on a variety of gourmet delights.  About Newport Foodies Stroll

Also Offering  A Winter Stroll!

The Newport Foodies Winter Stroll Tours run Friday and Saturday evenings, December 1st & 2nd, December 8th & 9th, and December 15th & 16th beginning at 5:30 PM with a welcoming cocktail. Tours will also run February 2nd- March 30th, Friday and Saturday evenings, beginning at 5:30 PM with a welcoming cocktail. Adult guests will receive a three course meal accompanied by selected wine pairings at three of Newport's exquisite restaurants. About Newport Winter Foodies Stroll

Our tours are small and intimate to make sure that our guests receive a personalized experience.

NEWPORT — Susan and Thomas Maxwell have always been foodies, they have spent their time traveling and taking food tours. READ MORE

Crime and C uisine on Federal Hill

A food tour with a felonious twist.

The Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence is one of its hottest destinations, home to some of the best Italian food in the world. This tour will give you a smorgasbord of its best bites and drinks, from fine wines to housemade pasta. Come hungry!

Every guest will also get a memento from their time on the Hill to take home with them. Spoiler alert: it's delicious! 

The Hill was also home to some historic characters who dabbled on the wrong side of the law. Follow the intrigue of State v. Patriarca, when a future mayor took on a mob boss; learn about the corruption which brought Rhode Island's banking system to its knees in the '90s, and about a raid on an illegal dice game that sent a Providence Police Officer through a second-story window.

"The Crime and Cuisine Tour teased our appetite for Federal Hill’s riveting history, which is inexplicably bound in food and wine."

Kou Tukala Nyan, PVD Monthly

"Your biggest problem in Providence might be narrowing down the sheer number of places where you want to eat."

Lilit Marcus, CNN

Restaurant Stops

Trattoria Appia

Venda Ravioli

Napolitano's Brooklyn Pizza

Former headquarters of the New England Mafia

Site of Providence Police raid on illegal gambling operation

Flashpoint of the RI Banking Crisis

Meeting Point: Garibaldi Park, at the base of La Pigna gateway arch

Address: 99 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI

Distance: About 1 mile

Difficulty: Easy

Tour Length: About 3 - 3.5 hours

For Private Tours:  Contact Us

RHODE ISLAND RED FOOD TOURS

Our mission is to fill your hearts and bellies with the bounty and beauty of Rhode Island.

We aim to bring joy to everyone through fresh, delicious, pretense-free local culinary dishes prepared by our treasured food artisans. We bring history, culture and the Ocean State spirit to life while leaving it to our chefs to be the culinary experts. We hope to give locals and visitors alike an authentic taste of Rhode Island that will draw them to share with their families, friends and colleagues, and to return for more.

Core Values

Authentically Rhode Island

Experiencing authentic Rhode Island on our food tours means walking its streets and neighborhoods, exploring both its history and its people through food.

Support Small Businesses

By lifting up and supporting our independently owned restaurant community, we also proudly support its workers, farmers and food purveyors who are our family, friends and neighbors.

Keeping It Local

Buying local means higher quality products using better ingredients. Together with our restaurant partners we create a healthy, sustainable environment for our communities and make them uniquely our own.

Proud Ambassadors

We are the biggest fans of Lil Rhody and love nothing more than sharing a local’s perspective of where to eat and what to do in this fun-sized state.

Our Commitment

To local business.

It is an honor working with the local vendors, employees, and talented chefs we spotlight on our tours. We believe that it is important to support local small businesses and develop relationships with these very talented artisans and innovators. In turn our restaurant partners support local and regional farms and purveyors, buying fresh sustainable ingredients so that you can have a true farm to table experience.

Get To Know

Our team is filled with fun, talented Rhode Island foodies that love sharing the hidden gems that make their home state so special!

Current Opportunities

Join our team.

Are you friendly, charming, fun, and a skilled storyteller with first-rate communication skills? We want you on our team!

OUR PARTNERS

Our restaurant partners strive to give our guests a superior food and drink experience, using only high-quality, fresh, local ingredients.

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Rhode Island Red Food Tours 270 Bellevue Ave. #355, Newport, RI 02840

401.684.1110

[email protected]

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