Lunch means different things to different people. If you're a family, it likely means sandwiches or hot dogs and hambugers. For the adults without kids, it's an opportunity to sit overlooking the water and enjoy a fresh New England classic like a lobster roll with a glass of wine or your favorite beverage. Still others take their lunch on the go, and Newport has no shortage of beautiful parks both on and off the ocean to have a fantastic picnic.
Some great locations to enjoy your lunch outdoors are King's Park, just off Thames Street, which offers beautiful views of downtown Newport, the entire harbor as well as sweeping views of the Newport Bridge. Venture out on Ocean Drive and you'll find Fort Adams, an 18th century military fort with tons of acreage to sit and have your feast. Still further on Ocean Drive is Brenton Point State Park, a large park which has unobstructed views of Rhode Island Sound from just about anywhere you decide to set up for an oceanside picnic. The breeze is wonderful out there as well, and if you're into flying kites this is the place to do it. There's even a kite vendor on site in case you get the urge to fly but don't have a kite on hand.
The kid-friendly options in downtown Newport abound as well, with lots of small artisan sandwich shops and pubs in the area. Here expect the usual burger fare, with lighter entrees offered as well. A lot of Newport's lunch restaurants also offer kid menus to keep the little ones happy, while you enjoy your seafood! If you're headed to the beach, both 1st(Easton's) Beach and 2nd(Sachuest) Beach offer food concessions, albeit a little more expensive with less food choices. We recommend visiting a local deli and loading up the cooler with sandwiches and chips, which is more economical and you will have more(and healthier) food options.
Those choosing to lunch in and around the downtown Newport area will find everything from sushi to burgers and barbeque, all within a short walk of each other. And if you feel like an elegant lunch, enjoy a fresh lobster or sirloin salad with a glass of wine overlooking Newport Harbor. Whether your budget is $5 or $50, Newport's lunch restaurants truly offer something for everyone.
Annie's
Becky's BBQ
The Hungry MonkeyA cozy, family-friendly lunch joint serving everyone's favorites including omelettes, waffles, stuffed french toast, burgers, patty melts, wraps, salads and grinders (that's what we call a sub sandwich in RI).
Cluck HouseLocated right in the heart of downtown Newport on Thames Street. This food truck turned brick and mortar features all things chicken, from sandwiches to fried chicken to wings with about 20 different sauces to choose from. In addition, like a true luncheonette, they serve up the classic sides to accompany your chicken including creamed spinach, mac & cheese, sweet potato fries, cornbread and coleslaw. If you want the classics, this is definitely the place.
La Forge Casino RestaurantWhether you're into tennis or not, La Forge is a real lunch tradition in Newport. Situated on Newport's famed Bellevue Avenue, this restaurant overlooks the courts of the International Tennis Hall of Fame and you can eat al fresco in the summer months while watching a match. The food doesn't disappoint either, and inside you can expect to find classics like a cobb salad, lobster bisque, french onion soup and great selection of sandwiches and entrees like cod and shrimp. If you want the true Newport experience, this place is a must!
Marco's CafeMarco's is conveniently located in downtown Newport on historic Spring Street. Inside you'll find a delicious assortment of breakfast and lunch options, ranging from bagels and avocado toast to breakfast sandwiches and burritos. For lunch, they ramp it up with homemade soups, salads and a large assortment of both fresh deli and hot sandwiches. A great place to stop in during a morning stroll for coffee and breakfast or grab your sandwiches to go on the way to the beach or a seaside picnic on Ocean Drive.
Taproot Brewing Company at Newport VineyardsFresh Local Beer – straight from their farm brewery to your glass. Even the hops are grown on their farm! Located just 5 minutes outside of Newport and overlooking the vast rows of grape vines at Newport Vineyards, the brewery focuses on unfiltered hop-forward beers made in small batches and meant to be enjoyed immediately for the ultimate freshness. Come for the beer and nosh on their farm-focused menu, artisanal cheeses or house-made pretzels.
Sweet Berry FarmThis idyllic working fruit and vegetable farm sits on 100 acres of conserved land. Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Newport, the farm has a café serving lunch daily. The menu features a selection of homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and specialty menu items each day. A great place to go out and pick your seasonal fruits like apples, blueberries, rasperries and even pumpkins while enjoying a delicious lunch in a beautiful country setting. A top pick for a relaxing lunch while visiting Newport!
Wally's WienersDon't let the name fool you- Wally's has a lot more to offer than just hot dogs. With more than a dozen specialty wieners, Wally's also serves up 7 kinds of fries along with other treats like ribs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, wings and salads. There's something for everybody on the menu, from picky kids to adults and you can wash down your meal with an adult beverage from their full bar! Great casual atmosphere inside.
The Black Pearl
Bannister's Wharf
Newport, RI
A good year-round destination for lunch in Newport. Offers a large outside bar and covered seating area in the warmer months with a limited menu including chowder, chili, burgers and sandwiches. Inside you'll find a more expansive menu in the Tavern and Commodore's Room.
The Red Parrot
348 Thames Street
Newport, RI
Located at the heart of Newport, the Red Parrot has been a favorite lunch spot for many years. It's huge menu offers everything from tasty salads to sandwiches and main dishes. Great drink menu and bar too!
Brick Alley Pub
140 Thames Street
Newport, RI
A tradition in Newport for decades. Huge menu, known for their soup and salad bar, huge desserts. Get their early, often a wait to be seated.
41 North
351 Thames Street
Newport, RI
Upscale waterfront dining both inside and al fresco during the summer. Unbeatable views of the harbor and yachts.