A Love Letter To Two Of My All Time Favorite Rhode Island Eateries

After a particularly draining 10, 11, or 12 hour day at my old job (let’s not go there rn, I keep telling myself that someday I’ll sit down and write a thinly-veiled-tell-all disguised as a novel, a la Lauren Weisberger’s The Devil Wears Prada), I’d motor over for a late dinner.

Maybe a bowl of hot soup with a side of thick, crusty bread. (Ever had their Thai Tomato? It is so, so good!)

One of the nightly specials, if I was feeling in a rut or in need of change.

Or most likely, my forever go-to, their classic Squash Quesadilla, always with an extra helping of salsa on the side of the plate.

When my mom was being treated for colon cancer at Miriam Hospital the summer after I had left my job and launched this blog, I’d walk the mile or so to and from 727 East Avenue many nights in search of a quiet (meat free) meal and a brief escape.

We’d also sometimes get their takeout for the nurses on the floor where my mom was being cared for and recuperating or for the group of family camping out in one of the adjacent waiting areas.

Later, once my mom was better and daily life had gotten back to normal-ish, I’d pop in for lunch or brunch, either with a friend, one or more of my nieces, my husband, or on my own, at least 2 or 3 times a week.

I’ve even celebrated a few birthdays there over the years.

When all is said and done, I’ve probably been a regular for going on ten years, it’s been something of a personal sanctuary for me.

Yep, the Garden Grille — and later, their sister bakery and cafe a few doors down, Wildflour — and I go way back. (For the record, I am partial to the scones, muffins, and golden milk lattes at Wildflour. Their vegan ice cream is also quite delightful.)

Was going to say that I have the phone photos to prove it, but unfortunately my camera roll only goes back to 2015. (See image below.)

Yesterday I saw that the Garden Grille and Wildflour both announced on social that they will be opening for takeout next week.

And you can bet that even though I’m continuing to isolate at home, I’m going to find a way to get my hands on some of my perennial favorites from both restaurants.

Well, that’s all for now.

Stay safe and stay well,

Patty J