In a world filled with cookie-cutter restaurants and trendy eateries that make you wait for your meal, there’s something comforting about a local tavern that has stood the test of time. The Ivy Tavern on the East Side of Providence is exactly that kind of place — a neighborhood favorite that has been serving up delicious food and warm hospitality for over two decades. The tavern’s name is a nod to the numerous universities that call Providence home. When the current owners — only the second in the tavern’s history — took over in the mid-2000s, they chose to preserve both the name and the sports memorabilia that give the place its special vibe. If you’ve visited, you’ve likely had a fun interaction with Alan “Ray of Sunshine” Skinner, the manager who has been with the eatery for over a decade. A true New Englander with roots in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Alan found his way to the Ivy Tavern when he lived in Providence years ago. He couldn’t think of a better place to work.
When asked what he hopes customers might say about their Ivy Tavern experience, he doesn’t pause: “I hope they keep coming back for the neighborhood vibe.” For him, the tavern’s mission is simple yet special — good food, good music, and good company. One of the unique touches folks who stop by love is how each employee curates their own playlist for the daily soundtrack. And if you’re lucky, you might catch Alan breaking into song during your visit, which happens often! In some cases, we customers may jump on board as back-up singers. While the Ivy Tavern might feel like your classic neighborhood burger joint, the menu holds some delightful surprises. Alan’s personal favorites include the Ivy Burger, the bibimbap Korean pot, and the classic fish sandwich. I second his sentiments on the Ivy Burger, but I like to toss on some avocado to jazz it up a bit.
It is an insider’s scoop to know that the Korean pot is on the menu at a burger joint. Those of us in “the know” are willing to share this not-so-secret secret with friends and visitors from out of town. For this customer, it is my go-to place to celebrate a win or to soothe my weary soul after a rough day. As a matter of fact, it was on a certain day this past November that I knew where I needed to be to enjoy some comfort food when I really needed it. Burgers are totally the star of the show at the Ivy Tavern. Alan helped design the Golden Burger — an 8-ounce patty topped with melted cheddar, an onion ring, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and BBQ sauce.
But the tasty goodness of Ivy Tavern’s approach is its willingness to experiment. All burgers are handmade and cooked on a flat-top grill, and the kitchen is happy to customize to your heart’s content, as long as they have the goodies on hand. From hefty half-pound patties to smashburgers, to veggie burgers, there really is something for everyone. It is a small space that keeps things quaint and friendly. Catching up with a friend? The window seats offer prime people-watching opportunities. In summer months, outdoor seating hooks you up to enjoy the Hope Street energy. If you’re flying solo, the bar provides the perfect spot — a great place to socialize and perhaps make some new friends. After just a few visits, don’t be surprised if Alan greets you by name once you share it with him. What makes the Ivy Tavern truly special is its role as a gathering place. A couple who has lived around the corner for 47 years regularly stops in for lunch. A group of former professors has made Friday lunches at the tavern a standing tradition for decades. They even hosted a viewing party when a local Rhode Islander competed on “Jeopardy!” But it is also a great place to pop in, even if you live all the way over on the other side of town, like me. All are welcome.
In an age of digital connection, the Ivy Tavern proudly does “social the old-fashioned way” — with real conversations and genuine human connection rather than social media posts and clicks. The Ivy Tavern delivers on its promise of good food and good company in an atmosphere that feels like coming home — even on your first visit. •
Dennise M. Kowalczyk is a multipassionate, second-act creative, creating a big life one small adventure at a time. As an aspiring author and filmmaker, Dennise also acts and loves making new friends. Connect with her on Instagram at @TheAdventureBroad.
Photo by author
