I am a proud Rhody girl and this past year I had the honor of representing the ocean state as Miss Rhode Island at Miss America. It’s been a busy year zipping around the state for appearances! I also recently completed my MPA at Brown University and am now pursuing a Master’s in homeland security at Salve Regina. I feel very fortunate to have attended school in two of Rhode Island’s most beautiful cities!

Considering all of the time I spent at Brown, my favorite spots in Providence are nestled on the East Side or off Thayer. The Duck & Bunny has always been my favorite for a celebratory drink and cupcake or for a catch-up brunch with girlfriends. I love Tallulah’s on Thames, so Tallulah’s Taqueria has been a godsend to have near campus. Their tacos are to die for and they have the world’s greatest chips and guac. It’s also impossible for me to turn down pizza and pint at Flatbread Company. (I typically order the veggie special.) Across town, The Grange is my favorite for their vegan menu (and it was a great first date spot with my boyfriend!).

When I am in Newport, nothing beats dinner and drinks at Diego’s (Blood orange margaritas are a must!). My go to lunch spot is Keenwah for a green smoothie. When it comes to Newport shopping, I love Angela Moore (They carry one of my favorite local New England lines Love, Lilly.), Island Pursuit, Island Outfitters, and Anchored in Pink. What can I say? Jackie O is my style icon.

Half my life in Rhode Island has been spent in East Greenwich. I lived right off Main Street for several years, so I frequently stop on Main Street for a Mango Glow from Raw Bob’s. ZuZu’s is my go to for last minute wardrobe. (From appearances to dances, the selection of Amanda Uprichard and Jude Connally at ZuZu’s has never failed me!) My sweet post-pageant indulgence is Silver Spoon Bakery. Shimmer Salon and Day Spa has been my go-to for 6 years. (Massages, spray tans, hair…I do it all there!) A large iced black hazelnut coffee from Brewed Awakenings on Route 2 typically fuels my studies and appearances.

I am thrilled to spend the next two years in Newport while I finish my studies at Salve. When I’m not hitting the books, I am running the Cliff Walk, blogging or competing in pageants. (Next up, Miss RI USA!) You can keep up with my Rhody adventures on Twitter/Insta: @AllieCurtisRI and at alliecurtis.com

Photo Credits: Additional photos of The Duck & Bunny, Raw Bob's, Zuzu's, and Silver Spoon Bakery courtesy of Ashley Farney. Other restaurant and scenic shots courtesy of the PattyJ.com Instagram. All photos of Allie Curtis provided by her.