Hemenway's Restaurant

Hemenway's Restaurant, a renowned seafood establishment, is situated in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, near the Providence River and Waterplace Park. This esteemed restaurant has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike, including Alton Brown, Rachael Ray, and Bobby Flay, who have all praised its exceptional cuisine. With its rich history and commitment to serving the freshest seafood, Hemenway's Restaurant has become a staple in the New England dining scene, often compared to other notable restaurants like Neptune Oyster and The Union Oyster House. The restaurant's proximity to Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design also makes it a popular spot for students and faculty, including notable alumni like John F. Kennedy Jr. and Seth MacFarlane.

● History

Hemenway's Restaurant has a long and storied history, dating back to its founding by Charles Hemenway in the late 19th century. Over the years, the restaurant has undergone several transformations, including a major renovation in the 1980s, led by Johnson & Wales University graduate and renowned chef, Frank McMahon. This renovation helped to establish Hemenway's as a premier seafood destination, attracting visitors from across the country, including Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C.. The restaurant's history is also closely tied to the Providence River Greenway, a scenic pedestrian path that runs along the river and offers stunning views of the city, similar to those found in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf and New Orleans' French Quarter. Notable figures like Julia Child, Jacques Pépin, and Thomas Keller have all visited Hemenway's, praising its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, sourced from local suppliers like Narragansett Bay and Cape Cod.

● Menu and Cuisine

The menu at Hemenway's Restaurant is a love letter to seafood, with dishes inspired by the Mediterranean Sea, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. From classic New England clam chowder to more exotic options like grilled octopus and seared scallops, the restaurant's culinary team, led by Culinary Institute of America graduate and executive chef, Michael Leviton, is dedicated to showcasing the freshest seafood available, often incorporating ingredients from local farms like Aquidneck Island and Block Island. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of eco-friendly practices, similar to those employed by Chez Panisse and The French Laundry. Hemenway's has also been recognized for its extensive wine list, featuring selections from renowned vineyards like Napa Valley's Opus One and Tuscany's Castello di Ama, as well as craft beers from local breweries like Newport Craft Brewing Company and Trinity Brewhouse.

● Location and Ambiance

Located in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, Hemenway's Restaurant offers stunning views of the Providence River and the city skyline, similar to those found in Chicago's Navy Pier and Seattle's Pike Place Market. The restaurant's interior is warm and inviting, with a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions, like Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve. The dining area is adorned with nautical-themed decor, including vintage lobster traps and fishing nets, adding to the restaurant's charm and character, reminiscent of Maine's Red's Eats and California's The Crab Shack. Hemenway's is also within walking distance of several popular attractions, including the Rhode Island State House, Providence Place Mall, and Dunkin' Donuts Center, making it an ideal destination for visitors to the city, including those attending events like the Providence Festival of Lights and WaterFire.

● Awards and Recognition

Hemenway's Restaurant has received numerous awards and accolades, including recognition from Yankee Magazine, Boston Magazine, and Providence Monthly. The restaurant has been named one of the Best Seafood Restaurants in America by USA Today and has received a AAA Four Diamond Award for its exceptional cuisine and service, similar to awards received by Le Bernardin and Per Se. Hemenway's has also been featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and The Best Thing I Ever Ate, with hosts like Guy Fieri and Andrew Zimmern praising the restaurant's creative dishes and commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, sourced from local suppliers like Rhode Island Shellfisherman's Association and Massachusetts Lobstermen's Association.

● Management and Ownership

Hemenway's Restaurant is owned and operated by The Hemenway Family, who have been involved in the restaurant industry for generations, with ties to notable restaurants like The White Horse Tavern and Del's Lemonade. The restaurant's management team, led by General Manager and Johnson & Wales University graduate, Sarah Hemenway, is dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that every guest has a memorable dining experience, similar to those found at The Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton. With its rich history, commitment to sustainability, and exceptional cuisine, Hemenway's Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a truly unique dining experience, with notable fans like Emeril Lagasse, Wolfgang Puck, and Mario Batali often recommending the restaurant to their fans and colleagues. Category:Restaurants in Rhode Island