Thur May 21

As spring teases the arrival of warmer days in Rhode Island, it's time to embrace the season's delights! Dive into our newsletter for a rundown of exciting weekend escapades celebrating Rhode Island's flavors and sights, engaging chats with local small biz owners on our podcast, and more. The temps may still be chilly, but we're here to sprinkle some spring magic into your Thursday!

Weekend Must-Do’s: Savor Tasty Treats and Scenic Sights!

Step into the first official weekend of spring with flavors and sights of the season. It's time to shake off the winter blues and dive into the weekend fun! Check out our top picks for activities across the state. Read the full list online at HeyRhody.com.

_{• Written by Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Tiverton Farmer’s Market}

New Podcast Episode Alert! 🚨

This week on the show, join Chris and Jenna as they talk with Anthony Costa, owner of Skip's Barbershop, about Rhode Island's unique blend of culture, history, and personal growth. Hear from Anthony about the story behind his unique barbershop, which makes customers feel right at home for an ideal haircut experience. Click here to listen to the podcast.

_{• Writing by Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Chris Revill}

Presented by Strive Kitchen + Bar

From Dishes to Decor, Strive Kitchen + Bar is Designed with Students in Mind

When Joseph Colaluca set out to open Strive Kitchen + Bar, he was thinking about all the students and professionals who make Providence a lively college town. Reflecting on his own community-centric college experience, he wanted to create a similarly tight-knit environment for young professionals around Providence College. Founder and chief operating officer of Strive Realty – and now restaurateur – Colaluca says, “My goal is to transform that area, to make that a more desirable and vibrant area.”

Italian-influenced fare and great drinks combined with distinct seating areas is Colaluca’s formula for a successful networking hub. Whether fostering new connections or meeting up with friends, Strive Kitchen + Bar is an upscale-casual setting for work and leisure. Collaborating with interior design firm JacksonCreative Group, Colaluca transformed the former Club Eagles into his restaurant vision of four distinct areas: a foyer, mezzanine, bar, and basement speakeasy.

When it comes to food, the vision is “familiar dishes, elevated and reimagined.” With the help of Antonio Franco, executive chef at Basta in Cranston, Colaluca created an approachable menu with a fun twist, with standout shareables like Arancini Mozzarella Sticks and Buffalo Cali (a spicy calamari dish). For mains, there’s everything from an Angus Rodeo Burger to Sicilian-style pizza, and desserts include pure chocolate decadence and sticky toffee cakes.

Italian influences in the menu are a tribute to Colaluca’s roots, too. When his family emigrated from Italy to Providence in 1890, they had a bottling company in the same neighborhood as the restaurant on Admiral Street. Seamlessly infusing Italian flavors with eclectic culinary choices, the food at Strive satisfies changing tastes, and spans generations – the tartar may be better suited for formal networking, while a burger, pizza, and shareable apps are great for a hang-out with friends after class. No matter your preferences, there’s something for everyone at the table.

Instagram: Strive Kitchen + Bar

Facebook: Strive Kitchen + Bar

^{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Strive Kitchen + Bar}

Luxurious Picnic Adventures Across the State

What could be better than enjoying delicious food amidst breathtaking scenery? How about not worrying about the cleanup afterwards! In Rhode Island, local businesses are elevating outdoor dining experiences with luxury picnic packages. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo from Adobe Photostock}