An old friend recently texted me saying that he had ‘the best jambalaya’ (cue the Seinfeld meme of Newman from season 7, episode 6) ever at this Pawtucket bistro that opened not that long ago.

Another pal — who happens to be pretty knowledgeable about the Rhode Island food scene — praised their calamari, jambalaya (there it is again), and steak tips in sharp photo carousel set to a catchy soundtrack.

She also messaged me about meeting up there for a meal SOON. (Am still hoping we can still make that happen this winter.)

Throw in a tv connection (the wife of this wife and husband owned restaurant thrived on the Boston season of the show “Top Chef”), and color me INTRIGUED.

This enchanting space, which used to be Lauren’s Cafe (before that think it was a smoothie and juice place), has been winning over locals with their delightful spins on din din (the jambalaya is made RI style with linguica and mussels…apparently their squash dumplings are also amazing), salads (get the kale), and sweets (I hear they even make their own cake pops).

There are already folks referring to it as a hidden gem and a superb date night destination, too, which has me and the hubs planning on early dinner there this week. (Wink 😉 : Stay tuned for THAT update in the coming days.)

I mean, right now don’t we all need a little treat because of all the holiday prep and stress? (I just had an argument with a fam member over shipping gifts…sad face…what a bummer!)

And what’s better than a DELICIOUS and hot meal that you don’t have to cook?

Find Hangry KItchen at 542 Pawtucket Avenue in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

As always, if you go, PLEASE let them know you were inspired by Patty J and PattyJ.com.