10 Downtown Providence Restaurants to Dine at Before a Show
There is nothing quite like enjoying dinner and a show in downtown Providence, RI. From touring Broadway musicals at the Providence Performing Arts Center, to original plays at Trinity Rep, to concerts at The Strand, there is plenty to choose from for entertainment. If you are loathe to head into a show with an empty stomach (one can only eat so many concession pretzels and candy, after all), then we are here for you!
Here are ten downtown Providence restaurants to dine at before a show. Each restaurant is located in downtown Providence and is within walking distance to PPAC, Trinity, and The Strand. Make sure to see if reservations are available ahead of time, and let us know where you eat by tagging us at @indowncitypvd on Instagram.
WE RECOMMEND…
A cheese plate at Amaryllis (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
AMARYLLIS
Enjoy the cozy interior—or charming sidewalk seating in fair weather at—Amaryllis! Each dish is fresh, locally-sourced, and delightfully colorful (we love their cheese plate with housemade jams). Plus, since it’s a BYOB restaurant, having Eno Fine Wines right next door is ideal.
225a Westminster St. Providence, RI 02903
Tacos at Cielito Mexican Restaurant (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
CIELITO MEXICAN KITCHEN
Cielito opened in September 2024 and we’ve been thinking about their chocolate tres leches cake ever since! This beautiful restaurant is where Michoacán food meets Providence fare. Enjoy tacos, margaritas, corundas, enchiladas, and so many more Mexican dishes.
186 Union St. Providence, RI 02903
Sushi rolls at Sura (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
SURA
On the hunt for a fantastic sushi place in downtown Providence? Check out Sura before a show! Sura serves both Korean and Japanese cuisine. The sushi (especially the Rainbow Roll), sashimi, and noodles are flavorful and delicious. Whether you’re a new customer or a returning one, there’s always something new to try.
232 Westminster St. Providence, RI 02903
The ‘Nduja and Mortadella pizzas at Figidini (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
FIGIDINI
Figidini has been a downtown Providence staple when it comes to delicious Neapolitan pizzas straight from the wood fire oven! The interior is romantic and the menu consists of a variety of pizza pies, grilled meat and vegetables, salads, and sweet cocktails.
67 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903
Plantains and samosas at Suya Joint (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
SUYA JOINT
If you’re downtown and looking for a little taste of West Africa before the show, we adore Suya Joint! Suya Joint opened on Westminster Street in late 2024 and we’ve been enjoying the Fried Plantains, Jollof Rice, Egusi Stew, Suya Wings, Samosas, and more ever since.
320 Westminster St. Providence, RI 02903
A selection of pretzels, dips, and beer at The Malted Barley (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
THE MALTED BARLEY
Craving a pretzel? Whether you’re looking for a sandwich, dessert, or simply a pretzel to dip, The Malted Barley on Westminster Street has you covered. Pair a house-made pretzel with a colorful flight of beer before heading to the theater! BONUS: The Malted Barley is also well-known for their gluten-free food and drink offerings.
334 Westminster St. Providence, RI 02903
Ravioli at Oberlin (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
OBERLIN
As a regular on James Beard Foundation nomination lists, it’s no wonder that Oberlin boasts an undeniable menu! Those who adore pasta will be unable to turn away from the seasonal lineup at Oberlin: from fresh focaccia, to a delicious and unique take on roasted cabbage, to panzanella, there’s something for everyone… The menu also includes salads, cheeses, fish, and meat dishes, as well.
186 Union St. Providence, RI 02903
Russet Potato Gnocchi at Gracie’s (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
GRACIE’S
Looking for a romantic place to eat before watching something on stage? Head to Gracie’s! With wine pairings, foie gras, sea scallops, and more, each part of the meal has the air of elegance. Choose from the five course, seven course, or a la carte options. (We highly recommend stopping in for a drink and the cheese plate, at least!)
194 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903
A selection of oysters at Gift Horse (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
GIFT HORSE
Calling all seafood lovers: ever since Gift Horse opened in June 2023, this raw bar and restaurant has been our go-to for crudo, oysters, and more raw bar items. They have happy hour from 4-5 pm and we highly recommend a gorgeous plate of scallops and a cocktail to start the night. (Pssst- don’t take our word for it, they’ve even landed awards from the James Beard Foundation!)
272 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903
Noodle at Tori Tomo (photo by Abigail Clarkin for InDowncity)
TORI TOMO
Tori Tomo describes themselves as “offering traditional Japanese and innovative dishes.” From steaming bowls of ramen, to salty and sweet pork belly buns, each dish is crafted thoughtfully and presented with care. This is always a warm and welcoming dinner—and lunch—destination downtown.
69 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903
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