TOP TEN APPETIZERS IN WESTERLY THAT YOU NEED TO TRY THIS SUMMER
Westerly, RI is proud to have a thriving food scene for its size, punching above its weight with a mix of high-end coastal dining, historic downtown eateries, and farm-to-table options.
We've compiled a list of ten incredible appetizers that you have to try at least once this summer (if you don’t love them already!).
Sweet Heat Brussels, EVIE’S
ABOUT EVIE’S: Classic American comfort food with a coastal vibe and small town hospitality. Amazing craft cocktails.
Also try: The reuben (overstuffed and melty and amazing)
ROASTED OYSTERS, HIGH HOPE TAVERN
ABOUT HIGH HOPE: Romantic nautical version of your classic New England tavern. Rotating menu with local catch.
Also try: the Honey Trap (cocktail)- tequila, mezcal, fresh lemon, ginger, honey, bee pollen salt
OLD BAY AND BUTTER WINGS, TAVERN 265
ABOUT TAVERN 265: New and lively local hang. Modern pub atmosphere. Big screens for the big game.
Also try: Bourbon Glazed Sirloin Tips (16oz of tender sirloin tips with fresh sauteed mushrooms, onions, and peppers marinated in a bourbon glaze). You have to taste their house made bourbon glaze!
WHIT’S FAMOUS HOMEMADE CORNBREAD, RIVER BAR
ABOUT RIVER BAR: Award winning eatery with a beautiful patio on the Pawcatuck River. Sister restaurant to Nana’s.
ALSO TRY: Lobster Lettuce Wraps (miso kewpie mayo, snap peas, tarragon, preserved lemon-dill vinaigrette)
SPICY CURRY MUSSELS, ELLA’S FINE FOOD AND DRINK
ABOUT ELLA’S: Owned by seven-time James Beard nominee Chef Jeanie Roland, who beat Bobby Flay on Beat Bobby Flay. The moules frites is her signature dish.
ALSO TRY: Momma’s Chicken (buttermilk fried, all-natural chicken breast, slow cooked Anson Mills yellow grits, finished with white cheddar cheese, wilted greens, and sweet corn butter)
PURPETTI, Maria’s Seaside Cafe
ABOUT MARIA’S: A Misquamicut staple since 1994. Authentic Mediterranean eatery with handmade pasta, craft cocktails, and beautiful coastal views.
ALSO TRY: (part of their Snack Pack happy hour menu)-
Clam Pizza + Whisker'd Wit (White clam pizza paired with a 16 oz can of Beer'd Brewing Whisker'd Wit)
SURF NACHOS, SURF CANTINA
ABOUT SURF CANTINA: Modern neighborhood eatery with bold Mexican flavors and a vintage coastal aesthetic.
ALSO TRY: Gringo Tacos (ground beef, pico de gallo, lettuce)
SEARED SCALLOPS, GUYTANNO’S
ABOUT GUYTANNO’S: Inspired international cuisine in a relaxed, neighborhood setting. Features an authentic, ‘scratch’ family recipe menu and friendly service.
ALSO TRY: Guytanno’s Bruschetta (crispy prosciutto, basil, fresh grape tomatoes, red onions, EVOO, toasted garlic bread, bacon gorgonzola marsala sauce)
SOFT SPRING ROLLS, NAM KHONG
ABOUT NAM KHONG: Authentic Lao and Thai dishes, known for super fresh ingredients and a selection of made-from-scratch dishes. Travelers confirm this spot is truly legitimate and could compete with any Southeast Asian locale.
ALSO TRY: Any of their curry dishes- red, green, yellow, panang, massamun
ARANCINI, POOCH’S POUR HOUSE
ABOUT POOCH’S: Elevated comfort food in a lively and super friendly downtown pub. Cozy patio with a view of the river.
ALSO TRY: their 5 star Fish and Chips with their homemade tartar sauce
From hearty comfort food to elegant culinary delights, Westerly is absolutely brimming with amazing restaurants.
We hope you enjoy all it has to offer, starting with these incredible appetizers!

