Coastal elegance meets culinary creativity — your guide to East Bay’s must-try restaurants
The East Bay is having a true culinary moment in 2025. From a Parisian-inspired brasserie in Bristol to a chic new Italian kitchen in Barrington and a beloved Warren favorite making its comeback, there’s a renewed sense of excitement on the local dining scene.
Across Bristol, Warren, and Barrington, chefs are blending coastal ingredients with creative flair, offering spaces that feel both elevated and unpretentious — much like life here on the bay. Whether you’re a longtime local or exploring the East Bay for the first time, these five new restaurants capture the region’s signature mix of charm, craftsmanship, and community.
From leisurely brunches to waterfront dinners worth reserving ahead, here’s where to book your next table in 2025.
1. The Franklin – Bristol
Location: 195 Franklin St, Bristol, RI
Link: thefranklinbristol.com
What to Know: A modern French brasserie by the Groundswell team. Think Parisian charm meets coastal Rhode Island. Reservations only, Wed–Sun evenings.
Must Try: Duck confit with herbed lentils and the signature pot de crème.
Insider Tip: Parking is limited — arrive a few minutes early and stroll through downtown Bristol.
2. Viola Cucina – Barrington
Location: 296 County Rd, Barrington, RI
Link: violacucina.com
What to Know: Opened early 2025, this elevated Italian spot balances understated design with bold, seasonal flavors.
Must Try: Gnocchi with short rib ragu or grilled branzino.
Insider Tip: Book early — tables fill by Friday afternoon.
3. Metacom Kitchen – Warren
Location: 322 Metacom Ave, Warren, RI
Link: metacomkitchen.com
What to Know: A beloved local favorite that reopened in 2025 with a refreshed menu and look. Creative takes on classic New England ingredients.
Must Try: Pan-seared scallops with sweet corn purée.
Insider Tip: Go mid-week for a quieter atmosphere and a chat with the chef at the bar.
4. Saint Martha – Warren
Location: 40 Market St, Warren, RI
Link: saintmarthawarren.com
What to Know: A late-2024 arrival that truly found its stride in 2025. Stylish but approachable — perfect for celebrations or low-key nights out.
Must Try: Lobster risotto and the house Saint Martha spritz.
Insider Tip: Ask for a window seat for harbor views and soft evening light.
5. Madrid European Bakery & Patisserie – Barrington
Location: 230 County Rd, Barrington, RI
Link: madridbakery.com
What to Know: New to County Road in 2025, Madrid brings a European pastry-café vibe to the East Bay. Ideal for brunch or a mid-morning coffee stop.
Must Try: Almond croissant and Spanish tortilla sandwich.
Insider Tip: Go early — weekend pastries sell out fast.
Plan Your Night
Bristol:
Start your evening with dinner at The Franklin, where candlelight and brasserie-style dishes set a sophisticated tone. Afterward, stroll down to the harbor and take in the glittering reflections on the water — maybe with an ice cream from a nearby shop or a nightcap at one of the town’s cozy bars. Bristol’s walkable downtown makes it easy to linger a little longer.
Barrington:
Begin your day at Madrid European Bakery & Patisserie, where the scent of freshly baked croissants and rich espresso fill the air. After exploring the local shops or trails at Haines Park, circle back in the evening for an elegant dinner at Viola Cucina. With its understated design and refined Italian dishes, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and savor the day.
Warren:
For a night out that feels effortlessly local, start at Metacom Kitchen with a creative take on coastal classics and a glass of wine at the bar. Then head to Saint Martha for dessert or a cocktail — the warm lighting, harbor views, and upbeat crowd make it an ideal place to linger. It’s a progressive night out that captures Warren’s mix of creativity and community.
Thinking About Making the East Bay Home?
At Cote Partners Realty, the East Bay isn’t just where we work — it’s where we live, dine, and unwind. From sunrise walks along Bristol Harbor to Saturday mornings at the Warren farmers market, we know firsthand what makes this corner of Rhode Island so special.
Each town has its own rhythm — Bristol’s historic charm, Warren’s creative energy, and Barrington’s coastal calm — and we love helping our clients find the right fit. Whether you’re looking for a waterfront retreat, a walkable village home, or a quiet neighborhood near top-rated schools, our team can guide you every step of the way.
→ Explore East Bay Homes and discover the lifestyle that’s every bit as inviting as its dining scene.
