Now, as a rule, I wouldn’t urge you to go to a shipyard, but this isn’t any ole boatyard in the Ocean State.

I’m talking about the Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard on Washington Street where you’ll be bowled over by the sheer amount of super yachts (psssst, word is many marquee names have had their luxury boats brought there for repairs, service) and also where Belle’s Cafe is situated.

If you’re wandering around the City By The Sea in search of a delish breakfast or lunch with a side of water views, odds are you wouldn’t just stumble upon BC by chance — because it’s located behind a high fence in a space that frankly looks from the outside to be the last place you’d find a fantastic casual eatery.

Someone in-the-know really has to loop you in. I first found out about it from Marc Streisand of Marc Allen Clothiers back in 2015 when he listed it as one of his favorites in a guest blog post he put together for my site.

Well, now you know and news flash, Belle’s is indeed back open for the season!

We managed to get a table for breakfast there last Sunday morning, which for the record is not always easy to come by without a reservation. We had tried to get in a few times last summer (aka, the lost summer) but alas, no luck.

They’ve changed the set-up because of new protocols (social distancing and so on), tables are farther apart and the couch style seating is gone: it is still, however, an entirely enchanting spot for a daytime meal during the spring and summer. Even on a cloudy day.

As far as the food is concerned, the blueberry pancakes were some of the best I’ve ever eaten. Ever.

The people around us were ordering other things like avocado toast (it’s not over, it’s never over, lol!) and crab benedict, both of which are apparently quite popular with the regulars.

Then there are the remarkable views of Goat Island and again, those gorgeous boats.

It’s also dog friendly at BC. In fact, we saw quite a few people who brought along their pups the other morning. As long as dogs are leashed, it’s all good.

In addition, there’s a shop next door where you can pick up Belle’s merch including tees, tote bags, hats, and coffee mugs. (We bought 2 mugs and they are the perfect size for either am coffee or pm tea in front of the television.)

Also, I had heard that pre-everything-going-on-over-the-last-year, various celebs (including a certain superstar couple from the music world known for their blockbuster albums and tours) have been spotted at Belle’s enjoying the eats and the relaxing and picturesque environment.

Yeah, I’ve said it before and will say it again — the food’s very good and you never know who you might catch a glimpse of whilst there.

Find Belle’s Cafe at 1 Washington Street in Newport, Rhode Island.

As always, if you motor over for a meal after reading this, please do let them know you found out about them here on PattyJ.com.