Newest food and drink options in RI and goodbye to an old favorite

My progression of emotion upon hearing of the opening of Fed Hill’s The $3 Bar (fairly self explanatory) began at confusion, transitioned to excitement, and settled at, “eh” upon seeing Facebook photos of miniature drinks. My progression of emotion after hearing of Erm’s Cupcake Truck began at “cool,” and ended at “OMG SO CUTE” after seeing a photo of a massive cupcake on wheels functioning as a food truck. Exciting the rest of Providence is the opening of North Bakery. The West Side’s renowned artisan-American fare spot, North, opened up a sweeter shop next door. Despina’s Café on Bellevue is catering to the sweet tooths of Newport with cakes, baked breakfast treats and homestyle meals. If you prefer bakeries that dish out savory snacks, Newport Pretzel opened on Thames Street. The old Asterisk on Thames has re-opened under the same ownership as Willy’s Burger Bar and Rotisserie … and hot dogs. The old Rhino Bar (also on Thames) has re-opened under half of the same ownership, as Perry Mill Tavern, a bit more upscale. Newport is seeing yet another opening with Caleb & Broad where you can find tacos, duck flatbread and edamame on the same menu. North Providence is getting in on the new-restaurant-fun as well with Fahrenheit 516, an upscale Asian fusion  bar and lounge boasting fresh, original bar bites.

Closed

The Blue Grotto on Federal Hill has shut its doors along with Vintage in Woonsocket of the same owner.