Rhode Island’s 5 Best Appetizers
Thursday, February 06, 2014
You know the feeling...you've been running around with work and family commitments and the minute you sit down you want something tasty. Enter some of the state's best starters. They could be as simple as a perfect soup or something closer to a full meal. We set out to find 5 delicious ways for you to start your next meal...
Navajo Fry Bread
Local 121 - Providence
It may be the official state bread of South Dakota, but one chef in Providence has added a tasty version of this Native American staple to his menu. Local 121 Executive Chef Tyler Demora tops this crisp-tender bread with sweet mole pulled chicken, house queso fresco, creme fraiche and cilantro. The result is one of the best, most satisfying apps we've had in a long time. The fry bread holds up well to hearty ingredients, and is lighter and more airy than you'd expect. It's enough to share, but you could make it a meal as well.
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(401) 274-2121
French Onion Soup
Chez Pascal - Providence
Cold, snowy day? yeah, they all seem to be lately. Chez Pascal has what you need in the form of a savory, old school French onion soup. We've tried all the varieties of this favorite and continually return to Chef Matt Genuoso's version. Sweet onions sautéed until soft anchor a rich, super-flavorful broth that, unlike many we've had, isn't too salty. Topped with a generously-sized herb crouton and stretch, delicious gruyere, it's, well, mmm mmm good!
960 Hope St
(401) 421-4422
Queso Fundido
El Rancho Grande - Providence
Our favorite spot for authentic Mexican in Providence is El Rancho Grande. Every visit begins the same way: a craft margarita and some of the delicious fondue. The flavor of the Mexican cheeses is enhanced by the addition--or not--of chorico and smoked peppers. The smooth and flavorful cheese is accompanied by some of their soft and chewy tortillas for dipping. Just about anything you try here is going to be the best you've had and this is no different. It is a perfect winter warm-up.
311 Plainfield St.
(401) 275-0808
www.elranchogranderestaurant.com
Crispy Confit Chicken Wings
84 Tavern on Canal - Westerly
Our dreams of summer lead us to Westerly recently and we discovered 84 Tavern on Canal. This welcomed addition brings the best of the gastro-pub idea to the local dining scene. Chef/owner Christopher Champagne brings a lifetime of knowledge to this place and you can taste it. The confit chicken wings with sriracha sweet Thai chili were crispy and sweet and spicy. We loved them. They had a Buffalo version that we will be returning for soon.
15 Canal St
(401) 596-7871
Chicken Samosas
Rasoi - Pawtucket
There are few cuisines that warm your winter bones quite like Indian cuisine. The combination of spices and flavors take the chill away and please the palate simultaneously. When we're craving an Indian meal, we usually head to Rasoi and we always start with the samosas. We switch it up from form time to time but the ground chicken always wins us back. There is just the right amount of spice and the chicken flavor is well balanced as well.
727 East Ave.
(401) 728-5500
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