Providence has an unusually strong restaurant scene for its size. Federal Hill is the center of Italian-American cooking, but the dining options spread across neighborhoods and cuisines.
Angelo's Civita Farnese
141 Atwells Avenue, Federal Hill. Open since 1924, Angelo's is the kind of place that hasn't changed much and doesn't need to. The menu runs to red-sauce standards — homemade ravioli, veal parmesan, cavatelli — at prices that seem impossible for this quality. Cash only; expect a line on weekends.
Hemenway's Seafood Grill
121 South Main Street, downtown on the river. The go-to for fresh New England seafood: oyster bar, lobster ravioli, grilled swordfish, chowder. Reliable for both lunch and dinner. Reservations available at hemenwaysrestaurant.com.
Bacaro
262 South Water Street. A wine bar with an open kitchen and serious food: squid and octopus salads, duck breast with risotto, poached scallops. Good for groups that want to share plates and linger. Reservations at bacarorestaurant.net.
Cafe Nuovo
One Citizens Plaza. Contemporary fine dining in a good downtown location. Strong on New England seafood preparations and an oyster bar. Works well for a special occasion dinner.
Aspire Restaurant
At the Hotel Providence, downtown. Upscale but not stiff. The menu leans American with global influences; the wine list is extensive. Good for a business dinner or date night.