Hey, it's Providence Restaurant Week, Summer 2016...With special prix fixe menus with dinner priced from $24.95 to $34.95 per person, lunch at $14.95 (Restrictions apply. Does not include drinks or gratuities. Yada, yada, yada.), and running until July 23rd (It's actually wayyy longer than a week, but we're not complaining.), this the absolute best time to try out a place you've always wanted to go or enjoy an old favorite that you've been missing. We thought you might need some inspiration to get into the PRW spirit (especially before you start seeing all those posts online later this week and FOMO sets in, but you maybe can't get a table then because you waited too long to make reservations), so here are a few of the participating local eateries that PattyJ.com contributors are #obsessed with and why:

1. Cafe Nuovo is in a league all its own and is by far my favorite restaurant in RI. Regardless of what season it is, it has a beautiful view of the Providence River where WaterFire takes place. The outdoor seating in the summer is an absolute must, so you can watch the gondolas on the river, but I visited during the blizzard on Valentine's Day last year and it was just as beautiful...For dessert, I always get the Creme Brulee and a cappuccino. (It Girl and regular contributor, Lindsay Raposa)

2. On the rare occasion I dress up to go out to dinner, I do have a few places I prefer. Gracie's in Providence is the perfect spot to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or just enjoy excellent French/American cuisine. From the stars on the wine glasses to the homemade cookies the valet leaves in your car, they have every detail down to a science. I also love CAV and Mill's Tavern (great oyster selection). (Amy Desmarais of Pure Barre RI)

3. My favorite restaurant in Providence would have to be CAV. I thought I fell in love the moment I realized they had street parking, but when I saw the decor, I knew...The vibe is so cozy and welcoming. It's hard not to just stare at the chandeliers all night. The food is incredible too. An added bonus. (Jewelry Designer Keryn Tommasiello)

4. When we are craving pasta, we sneak away to Siena, owned by our hard-working friends. To me, they have hands down the best Penne Alla Vodka. (Artist, Designer, Stylist, and Owner of Gossip/Beatnik Boutiques, Janelle Feigley)

5. The atmosphere at Red Stripe is perfect for a casual meal. My favorite dishes are the mussels and the short ribs. I also love freshly made pasta and the dishes at Trattoria Zooma really hit the spot. (Dermatologist & Blogger at The Dermafiles, Dr. Caroline Chang)

6. For cocktails and dinner al fresco in the city, a current favorite is Garde de la Mer. (For more of photog Stacey Doyle's picks, click here.)...Garde de la Mer has, in my opinion, one of the prettiest bars in the state. I suggest starting off your experience with fresh oysters and sauteed squid, and ending with an espresso martini and homemade creme brule. (More from Amy Desmarais)

7. One of my favorite places to visit is Angelo's on Atwells. It was a place my family would take me after a special event and it brings back a lot of good memories. (Restauranteur Julian Forgue)

8. Persimmon (originally from Bristol) just opened up shop a couple of blocks from me and I'm dying to try it. The Chef has had multiple James Beard Foundation Awards (a big deal in the culinary world) and the menu sounds to die for! Also, Simone's in Warren. Somehow I've missed out on this hidden gem that serves Mediterranean style dishes with local and seasonal ingredients. The menu has 'snacks', smaller plates, and larger dishes. It sounds like a great spot for drinks and apps that are easy to share. (Phoebe Joy, Very Stylish RI Girl & Nurse Extraordinaire)

This is by no means a complete list, so don't despair if you didn't see your go-to. Stalk an expanded list here or give them a jingle to inquire if they are part of PRW.

Team Patty J

Photo Credits: All pics courtesy of PattyJ.com