🍃 Fresh Tips, Films & Flavor

If May’s flowers aren’t blooming like they just landed a modeling contract, we want a refund on all this April rain. Sure, we’d rather be basking in golden hour than puddle-hopping, but this weather is practically begging for cozy corners and comfort food. So grab a mug, fluff that throw pillow, and scroll into the good stuff – because today’s newsletter is your rainy day remedy, packed with local stories that’ll warm you from the inside out.

Rhode Island Black Film Festival Returns with Star Power and Cultural Storytelling

The Rhode Island Black Film Festival returns April 10–14, with five days of screenings, panels, and performances that celebrate Black storytelling and cultural impact. This year’s lineup features established talent with rising stars alike – including Providence native Angela Cooper – across venues in Providence and Newport. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Rhode Island Black Film Festival}

Refresh Your Home with a Touch of Green This Season

As spring thaws the chill, locals are embracing a fresh start indoors and out with nature-inspired design. From plant-filled interiors to garden prep tips, local pros share how to make your space bloom – no matter the weather. Read more online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Elyse Major, photo by J Wessel Photography}

^{Presented by CRU PVD}

CRU PVD Serves up Brunch and Dinner to Satiate Every Member of Your Crew

The West End has a new hang-out spot, where the menu teases nostalgia with each creative dish, and the vibes are just right. Since opening their doors in January, CRU PVD has become a neighborhood favorite for dinner, drinks, and weekend brunch. “We are passionate about delivering a warm, inviting, and delicious experience, with something interesting on the menu for everyone,” says Morin's Restaurant Group CEO Russ Morin.

At the kitchen’s helm is culinary director Dave Johnson, who has mastered the art of developing recipes that evoke feel-good familiarity while surprising the taste buds with fresh, unexpected twists. Weekend brunch wouldn’t be complete without something sweet (hello, Dutch-Baby Pancake) and savory (The Dean St. Breakfast Burrito is a must-try).

For dinner, there’s the shareable Olive Oil Poached Shrimp and the bold Sesame Pork Schnitzel with kimchi. The full bar serves up inventive cocktails – like the This and Yap (a dirty martini that’s more savory than briney) and the Matcha-Tini (move over espresso martini!), and don’t sleep on their fun takes on frozen drinks.

“We are new to the neighborhood, and our team is eager to meet the community and create a spot they love to visit again and again,” says Morin. The space itself channels the spirit of the city, with walls displaying works by local artists, and special nights throughout the week generate palpable excitement. The last Tuesdays of the month are for Fried Chicken Champagne Disco, featuring crispy gluten-free fried chicken with delicious sides, sparkling wine specials by the bottle, and groovy beats. Take your chances on Dice Roll Wednesdays – roll snake eyes, and eat for free!

“Creating community through food is what it's all about for us,” says Johnson. “We hope guests feel that sense of warmth every time they walk in.” Follow @cru_pvd for menu specials, future collaborations, events, and more.

CRU PVD
381 West Fountain Street, Providence
CRUPvd.com

• By Abbie Lahmers

History Comes Alive During Rhode Island Cemetery Weeks

Cemetery Weeks returns April 1–May 31 with over 60 free events aimed at preserving Rhode Island’s nearly 3,000 burial sites while engaging the public through tours, clean-ups, and workshops. Organized by state preservation commissions, the initiative explores the intersection of history, ecology, and culture in cemeteries across the Ocean State. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission}

Rebel’s Rations Heats Up Providence’s Bar Food Scene

Chef Daniel Brown has turned Rebel’s Rations from a winter pop-up into a full-throttle culinary cult favorite at the Scurvy Dog Bar. With punk rock energy, rotating comfort food specials, and a growing fan base, Brown’s kitchen hustle is just getting started. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Rebel’s Rations}

#HeyRhodyPhotos

🌼 When life gives you April, Rhode Island grows daffodils.

Photo by: @hillary4297

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