Once a summer getaway of choice for the elite families of the Gilded Age, Newport is a sought-after summer destination for beachgoers, historians, and foodies. Each of the history-rich mansions along Bellevue Avenue provides a glimpse into the glamorous lives of the 19th-century elite.
Sailboats and yachts harmoniously cruise through the harbors while visitors from near and far sit back and enjoy oysters and rosé from the docks. The charm of Newport is something that should not be missed, much like the culinary scene.
The narrow streets of downtown are lined with incredible bakeries, Italian eateries, seafood restaurants, and steakhouses, while a few steps off Thames Street you’ll find hotel rooftops with views of the harbor that provide the perfect backdrop for a sunset beverage. In addition to a great meal, when you use your Bilt Mastercard at restaurants and bars, you'll earn 3X points. That means your Newport food crawl could help fund your next vacation.
Let's take a look at some of the best restaurants in Newport that are worth making a reservation at.
Lunch
Whether you’re looking for a cold beverage and oysters or a buttery lobster roll, there are plenty of options.
The Lobster Bar - A great casual spot for fresh seafood on the wharf. If you can, get a table on the dock where you can watch boats and yachts sail through the harbor.
Black Pearl - A classic Newport restaurant. Another casual eatery where you can enjoy everything from fresh salads to incredible chowders. A personal favorite is the Citrus Scallop Bowl. Try to snag a seat on the patio where they have an outdoor bar and serve the full menu.
Surf Club - Bar food with a twist — don't sleep on the brick oven pizzas (especially the Pizza Blanco) or friend green beans, they’re incredible. They also have an outdoor patio where you can find refreshing frozen drinks.
Midtown Oyster Bar - Awesome seafood restaurant and raw bar for lunch or dinner. If you’re coming by for after-dinner drinks, they have a rooftop bar area that overlooks Thames street.
Dinner
From fine dining to casual seafood joints and local Mexican restaurants, the options for dinner in downtown Newport are endless. Here are the restaurants worth checking out.
22 Bowens - If you’re looking for an upscale dinner, this incredible steakhouse has some of the best cuts of meat and freshest seafood. Located on Bowen's Wharf, you can indulge in a decadent meal, tasty cocktails, and a full wine list that features multiple local wineries.
Clarke Cooke House - A Newport staple, this classic restaurant offers something for everyone. You can choose between casual and fine dining areas in the restaurant, depending on your mood. In the high season, the downstairs basement turns into a club at night.
Guisto - The most fabulous Italian eatery. This new restaurant is located off the patio at Hammett's Hotel and offers indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy pasta, meat plates & seafood, plus cocktails, wine, and water views.
Bar ‘Cino - Another Italian hotspot located downtown on Thames Street. This laid-back Italian restaurant and bar serves up everything from bruschetta to pizza, pasta and specialty entrees like a chianti braised short rib.
The Reef - A casual waterside restaurant serving local fare including seafood & steak, plus creative cocktails. On the weekends you can catch live music on the dock.
Perro Salado - Quite literally some of the best Mexican food you’ll ever have. Located in an old house, the margaritas and vibes are real strong. The sticky ribs are a daily specialty that often run out, so order them as soon as you sit down.
Specialty Drinks
There are many bars in downtown Newport, but these upscale venues are great for date night or a special occasion.
Vanderbilt Rooftop- Unwind with a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset over the harbor. Seating is first come first serve.
Gurney's Newport Resort and Marina - About a 15-minute walk from downtown, Gurney’s is on Goat Island and has a gorgeous outdoor area. At night there are tons of firepits and it’s a great place to grab a drink.
Beyond Downtown
If you're up for a short drive from the center of Newport, you'll discover some beautiful locations for lunch, dinner or drinks.
The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn - A 15-minute drive from downtown, this stunning property is home to one of the best lobster rolls in Newport. You can dine the full menu on the patio or realx in Adirondack chairs on the lawn where you can get cocktails and light bites. The views are breathtaking, as the property is surrounded by sailboats coming in and out of Newport. Recommend for brunch or lunch.
The Chanler - After you complete the Cliff Walk, stop here. Like Castle Hill Inn, you can grab lawn chairs and a glass of wine and admire the beach and the rocky coast. There is a restaurant that you can dine at that has some great seafood dishes, but it's on the fancier side.
Safari Room at OceanCliff - A specialty restaurant at OceanCliff resort. Here you can dine inside or outside surrounded by beautiful water views. The property is elegant and the food is unique.
Bottom Line
There are endless options when it comes to dining in Newport. There’s a great selection of fine dining and casual, but for the most part even the fine options are on the more casual side. Put on a comfortable pair of shoes — a lot of the streets are cobblestone or uneven — and get ready to explore all that Newport has to offer.
And dont forget your Bilt Mastercard at home. Earning 3X on dining will quickly add up and can fund your next redemption.