Five Things About Tavern on Broadway, Newport

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Sean DeBobes, GoLocalProv Dining Critic

 

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A savvy Rhode Islander knows when to hit Newport to beat the crowds. One of the best off-season Newport spots is Tavern on Broadway, a grille-style restaurant and bar perfect for a night out with friends or a special someone. Sean DeBobes recently visited this seaside delight. Here are 5 things he wants you to know.

One. Date Night.

I’ve always been a huge fan of Newport in the off-season. No reservations required and plenty of elbow room on the streets. One of the best benefits is the great deals that restaurants offer. Tavern on Broadway’s Date Night is one of the best deals I’ve seen. Come in with a friend or partner in crime on Tuesdays and enjoy a three course meal including a bottle of wine for $28. That is as close to free as dinner gets. The Tavern has other programing as well including the upcoming 4 course – Two Roads Brewing Company beer dinner taking place on March 20th.

Two. Dark Liquor.

I am a firm believer in starting dinner with an excellent cocktail and while I like to get around the bar, whiskey is a perpetual favorite of mine. With growing popularity in recent years, more and more bars are stocking large selections. Tavern on Broadway has an admirable selection of 22 straight whiskies, bourbons, and scotches. I’d say they are a great vermouth away from a top notch program. The house Sazerac featuring Jefferson’s whiskey was smooth with notes of vanilla. For a regular whiskey drinker, it was a cocktail with training wheels, but this one could be enjoyed by someone who doesn’t usually tend toward the darker side.

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Three. Tavern Wings.

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Is there a better starter than a truly great chicken wing? It is a stand-by favorite “junk food” for me and the Tavern wings stand up to scrutiny. They were excellent. Crisp, fresh, and delicious. I chose a chimichurri sauce to accent the wings. The herbaceous sauce was a great addition to a well-executed base.

Four. Shrimp Naan.

The menu offerings come from far and wide at Tavern on Broadway (read: Epcot-esque) but a little eclecticism can be a fun break from menus that take themselves too seriously. I will chase down a well-choreographed 5-course but there is something to be said about interesting variety. The shrimp Mozambique shifted gears on my meal but was a wonderfully flavorful dish. High levels of garlic in the fresh tomato broth made a perfect reason to sop up the mix with warm naan bread. The spicy grilled shrimp were a perfect reimagining of a seaside course.

Five. Short Ribs.

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Properly braised beef can be worth its weight in gold. These short ribs follow that philosophy. This fall-apart cut was tender and delicious. Chef Tim Sousa created a wonderful winter entrée with these short ribs. The parmesan risotto and cranberry balsamic gave nice accents to this dish which nicely captures excellent home cooking.

Would I go back? Yes. Great prices and well executed tavern fare. I predict a busy summer season.

Hit “Save”: Tavern on Broadway. 16 Broadway, Newport. 401-619-5675. tavernonbroadway.com

Twitter: @SeanDeBobes

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FiveThingsGoLocalProv

 

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