This summer, Instagram was filled with reels promoting Newport, Rhode Island, as the perfect destination for a short trip. The visuals looked oh-so-inviting, reminding me of the unforgettable day I spent in that city back in 2021.
Before that day, I had never heard of this New England summer resort, let alone its regal mansions or sailing traditions. It was only a matter of time before I was completely blown away and decided I had to return. So, right on Labor Day weekend, I made it back.
If I may say, the scenery was even more beautiful than I remembered, blessed with blue skies and late summer breezes perfect for strolling around town. One thing that stood out to me was the abundance of lovely hydrangeas everywhere.
We arrived after lunchtime, and the city was bustling with people walking, enjoying ice cream, and dining on the many patios. We made our way to Pasta Beach, where we could indulge in our own patio drinking. The atmosphere was relaxed yet modern, with airy and colorful decor. Since we didn’t go during peak hours, the place was lively but not overwhelmingly crowded.
We started with the fritto di calamari e gamberi as an appetizer, and the spaghetti alle vongole as a main, but the highlight was, without a doubt, the mezze maniche carbonara and the spaghetti alle vongole. For drinks, we enjoyed the Aperol Spritz and the Piedmontese Punch, their take on sangria.
Right next to the restaurant were a number of gorgeous boutiques and antique stores, and I wished I had all the time in the world to explore them one by one. Among the standouts along Bellevue Avenue were Harper & Tucker and Kristen Coates. Further down the street, you’ll find the International Tennis Hall of Fame—did you know the first edition of the US Open took place in Newport?
Afterwards, we needed an afternoon pick-me-up, and we found it at The Coffee Grinder.
Given its location near the water and next to souvenir shops, I expected it to be touristy. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how charming it was and how the staff made everyone feel like part of a big family. We enjoyed an espresso and a vanilla iced latte (which was surprisingly small but somehow the perfect size) as we took a walk around Bowen's Wharf, the self-described "anchor of the Newport Waterfront."
We walked a bit more before stopping for drinks at Stoneacre, a French brasserie that pleasantly surprised us. The decor was stunning, featuring muted colors that created a sophisticated atmosphere, while the ambiance remained lively. We sat at the bar, and I ordered the Nude in Nantucket, one of the house staples—a drink that made me savor every sip.
We ended this perfect day with drinks at the Gardiner House, a waterfront hotel that opened in 2023 and was highly recommended by my algorithms. While the restaurant Flora is located in the hotel, we opted to stay at the Studio Bar, which, according to the website, was decorated by an art collector. I don’t doubt it—the style was eclectic and unique, yet upscale and impeccable. The description claimed it was "a little New York, a little London, and a lot of Newport," and I wholeheartedly agree. It was the perfect place for a nightcap.
BONUS TRACKS: During my last visit to Newport, I highly recommend exploring one of the Gilded Age mansions. I toured The Breakers and was pleasantly surprised by its Parisian feel. If you happen to visit on a rainy day with some extra time, it's the perfect activity. And if you’re there around breakfast, don’t miss Belle’s at the Wharf—it's the spot for delicious lobster rolls.
To wrap up, Newport is truly a sight for sore eyes, and I couldn't recommend it more. It’s an ideal weekend getaway from New York or Boston, and you won’t regret a visit—it absolutely lives up to the hype!
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