There is nothing like a long walk and talk with a good friend to catch up, but then you add a place to stop and eat, and the day becomes more relaxing and enjoyable. Several tantalizingly tasty locations in RI are found off walking/bike trails.
Washington Secondary Rail Trail Bike Path measures 19 miles and runs along an abandoned corridor of the former Hartford, Providence and Fishkill Railroad. The trail runs through Coventry, West Warwick, and Cranston. From west to east, the Trestle Trail, Trestle Trail East, Coventry Greenway, West Warwick Greenway, Warwick Greenway, and Cranston Bike Path are connected. Maps are available at dot.ri.gov.
Places to eat outside off the Trestle Trail in Coventry include:
Lake Taco, Coventry — casual Mexican-American food and drinks overlooking Lake Tiogue. Try their gluten-free cornbread drizzled with honey. It’s worth the walk!
Braza Brazilian Barbeque, Coventry — authentic rotisserie barbecue meats and homemade buffet-style sides. You’ll love everything you try, especially the plantains! Sandy Acres Recreation area is across the street if you want to set up for a picnic!
Udder Delights, Coventry — a tasty, refreshing dessert shop with premium hard ice cream, soft serve, milkshake, doggie ice cream, sundaes, and a unique specialty item known as “Udder Mixins”.
Cup of Joy, Coventry — looking for a cozy atmosphere? Check out the coffee menu, and try breakfast sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, fresh juices, and baked goods. They offer gluten-free, organic, and vegan options.
The Olde Theater Diner, Coventry — In search of a good-sized portion for breakfast? Look no further, and try a Bloody Mary, if you’re up for it!
Flat River Tavern, Coventry — This veteran-owned family business has pizza, wings, and really good potato kegs! Try a spicy jalapeno and cucumber margarita, listen to karaoke, live music, and trivia! (Check the website for the calendar.)
Sherri’s Come Along Inn, Coventry — If you’re looking for a quick appetizer, or a full menu, this tavern offers American, Italian, and Portuguese dishes and craft cocktails.
Black Oak Kitchen & Drinks, Coventry — comfort food and craft beers and cocktails, just a short walk from the bike path off Sandy Bottom. Try the bang bang shrimp!
Baja’s Fresh Grill, Coventry — Mexican food, tacos, chimichangas, burritos, bowls, and quesadillas. Horchata, tamarindo, jarritos, and passion fruit drinks are all worth trying. Did someone say Tres Leches?
Borealis Coffee Company, East Providence — locally roasted coffee, artisanal breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods to give you the energy you need for an early stroll.
Union Square Bistro, East Providence — this spot is just off the bike path, and hosts an outdoor terrace with Mexican food, as well as some Motif award-winning bartending.
Sundaes, Cranston — the bike path runs right behind this sundae shop. Stop and check out the menu!
Merlino’s, Cranston — Prosciutto and fig pizza!!! Cozy dining and high-quality pizza with affordable pricing.
Cafe International, Cranston — Fresh brewed coffee, flavorful iced coffee, chai tea, fresh bagel sandwiches and tasty muffins. Try a cheddar bagel with jalapeno cream cheese!
Dari Bee, East Providence — Recently reopened after years of renovations, this Townie staple is right ON the trail and serves fast-food bites, ice-cream, and floats.
Rhodes Pizza & Restaurant, Cranston-Riverside, East Providence. Family-friendly pizza and other choices on the menu for a quick slice off the trail.
Wein-O-Rama, Cranston — *Cash only* for hot wieners, burgers, fries, or chicken sandwiches.
Pita Plus Mediterranean Grill, West Warwick — located on Cowesett Ave, a walk from the path, but worth it to tryng a falafel, kabobs, or fresh shawarma.
Caliente, West Warwick — Mexican food and a popular spot for tacos, located off the path in the Cowesett area.
Boomerangs Roadhouse, West Warwick — a minute walk from the bike path, this American sports bar and restaurant offers burgers, wings, and live music. (Check the website for the menu and calendar of events.)
RI Homemade Donut, West Warwick — A casual donut shop for a quick homemade bite and boba tea.
Fu Ming, West Warwick — Chinese wonton soup and crab rangoon calling you? They have it fuming. Dine in or take out.