As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, many flock to the scenic highways of New England in search of the perfect leaf-peeping adventure. However, the true gems of the season may lie in the coastal communities, where the crowds have thinned, and the best seasonal fare is being served up with local flair. In Rhode Island, the shoulder season offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the state's vibrant culinary scene, from spooky treats to apple-infused delights. Join us as we uncover the restaurants, cafés, and food-filled events that will make your autumn in the Ocean State truly unforgettable.

Savor the Seasonal Splendor: Discover Rhode Island's Autumnal Culinary Delights

Ongoing Seasonal Specials

Venture to Newport Vineyards, where they are serving up a spooky treat board that will delight the senses. Indulge in a delectable array of spiderweb truffles, candy bar brownies, ghostly marshmallow creations, pumpkin cupcakes, and tombstone cookies, all accompanied by piping hot apple cider. At just $22 per board, it's a must-try for any autumn enthusiast.Stroll along the iconic Cliff Walk in Newport and then head to The Chanler at Cliff Walk's new Apple Cider Bar. Sip on mulled cider ($12) made with Rose Hill Heirlooms' finest, or treat yourself to the Johnny Appleseed ($18), a warm concoction of apple jack brandy and ginger liqueur. The outdoor cider bar is open every Saturday and Sunday through November 17th, providing the perfect respite after a brisk coastal walk.In Bristol, make your way to Borealis Coffee for a unique twist on the classic apple cider. Indulge in their River Cider, a steaming blend of apple cider and your choice of milk, with a dash of vanilla for added warmth and depth. For those seeking a more complex flavor profile, the Chaider, a harmonious fusion of cider and spiced chai, is a must-try – with the option to add a shot of espresso for an extra boost.Venture to Middletown's Sweet Berry Farm, where the autumn bounty is on full display. Savor their homemade pumpkin spice ice cream, cider doughnuts, spiced apple dumplings with cinnamon cider fondant, roasted apple upside-down cakes, and flaky apple turnovers. With everything crafted in-house, this farm-to-table destination is a true celebration of the season's flavors.

Spooktacular One-Time Events

On October 25th, indulge in the grandeur of The Vanderbilt's Menagerie at the Mansion Halloween party, a nod to the lavish soirées hosted by Lady Caroline Astor in the Gilded Age. Tickets are $295 per person, but the experience promises to be truly unforgettable. Expect exotic surprises, a performance by No Ring Circus, live music, hors d'oeuvres, a Negroni and Harridan Vodka bar, and an array of seasonal delicacies, from oyster Rockefeller to pumpkin risotto and decadent truffles and beignets for dessert.Embrace your inner Lucy Ricardo and join the grape-stomping festivities at Newport Vineyards' 7th annual Harvest Festival on October 26th and 27th. Compete in the grape-stomping competition, sample a variety of wines and Taproot beers, and try your hand at free axe-throwing games. Dress up in your favorite costume and you might just win a prize. Indulge in cider-brined turkey legs, Portuguese fire-roasted steak sandwiches, and campfire apples with walnut stuffing cooked over an open fire in the field. Admission is $35, with children 15 and under free.

Post-Halloween Delights

After the spooky season has passed, turn your attention to the culinary delights of Newport Restaurant Week, running from November 1st to November 10th. Nearly 40 establishments are offering an array of prix-fixe menus for lunch ($20 to $30) and dinner ($30, $45, or $60), including some new additions to the scene.One such newcomer is Flora, the coastal Mediterranean restaurant inside the Gardiner House hotel, where chef Miguel Somoza is bringing his global expertise to the table. Honed from his time cooking for the late Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Richard Branson, and other esteemed clientele, Somoza's culinary prowess is sure to impress.Acclaimed James Beard Restaurant and Chef award semifinalists Foglia and Giusto will also be serving up delectable $45 per person dinners during the event. In Jamestown, the Salty Restaurant and Wine Bar, nestled within the Village Hearth Bakery, is offering a $60 dinner menu that is not to be missed.With so many participating restaurants and their mouthwatering special menus, Newport Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to explore the depth and diversity of Rhode Island's culinary landscape. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy coastal meal or a sophisticated dining experience, this 10-day celebration has something to satisfy every palate.