5 Places to Go Before an Event Downtown
Pre-gaming in PVD? There’s everything you need just a short distance away from the Amica Mutual Pavilion (AMP), Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), Trinity Rep and more. Here are a few great spots:
Angelo’s Civita Farnese Restaurant
Experience the comfort and warmth of dining in this iconic restaurant, which recently had a Federal Hill street named in its honor. Head over to Angelo’s, right up the street from the Amica Mutual Pavilion on Atwells Avenue, for an authentic Italian family meal. The kids will be entertained with a plate of meatballs and fries, while watching the toy train track along the ceiling of the restaurant. And the grown-ups can sit with a glass of wine and enjoy some fresh pasta, soup, chicken parmesan and more.
Marcelino's Boutique Bar
Step outside Marcelino's and your destination won't be far away. A local favorite and hidden gem in Providence, its Mediterranean atmosphere is a sanctuary in the middle of downtown. Looking for a drink and snack before a show? Marcelino's is one of the BEST places in Providence for craft cocktails. Pair the Middle Eastern flavors of their Mezze Trio (a selection of hummus, roasted red peppers and smoked tahini eggplant) or an Armenian Flatbread with your favorite seasonal cocktail or mocktail. Or stop in after a Providence Bruins game and share a charcuterie board with your pals.
Providence Coal Fired Pizza
Just a short walk from PPAC, the AMP and Trinity Rep, Providence Coal Fired Pizza is a great choice for a quick bite to eat before any game or performance. From appetizers like the Baked Goat Cheese or Chicken Parmesan Dip, to their classic Pepperoni or Artichoke & Prosciutto pizzas, you're sure to find something delicious!
Murphy’s
Because it’s owned by “the Swedish woman with the Italian last name, who runs an Irish pub with a Jewish deli,” you get the best of all worlds at Murphy's. You’ll find truly authentic Irish food and unbelievable sandwiches (you can even build your own “mountain-high” sandwich) at this long-running establishment. You can end the night here as well, because on Friday and Saturday, the bar is open until 2 a.m. Insider Tip: do not miss the bowl of pickles that is on your table.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Looking for something a little more upscale for the evening? You'll find one of the finest steakhouses in Providence connected to the AMP's parking garage (through the Omni Hotel). At Fleming's enjoy delicious steak and seafood or head to the bar for a cocktail and some of the fabulous items served there, including the Sweet Chili Calamari, Beef Carpaccio or a Chilled Shellfish Tower. You can’t go wrong.
Downtown Performances
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I eat before an event at the Amica Mutual Pavilion?
Angelo's Civita Farnese is right up the street on Atwells Avenue. Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is connected to the AMP's parking garage through the Omni Hotel.
- Where can I grab a quick bite before a show at PPAC or Trinity Rep?
Providence Coal Fired Pizza is a short walk from PPAC, Trinity Rep, and the AMP, making it an easy choice before any performance or game.
- Are there family-friendly restaurants near the AMP?
Yes. At Angelo's, kids can enjoy meatballs and fries while watching the toy train that runs along the ceiling.
- Where can I get a craft cocktail or mocktail before a show?
Marcelino's Boutique Bar downtown is known for its craft cocktails and also serves seasonal mocktails. Its Mezze Trio and Armenian Flatbread make good pre-show snacks.
- Where can I go after a Providence Bruins game?
Marcelino's is a good spot to share a charcuterie board after the game. Murphy's is another option, with the bar open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Is there an upscale dining option near the AMP?
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar serves steak and seafood, with bar options like Sweet Chili Calamari, Beef Carpaccio, and a Chilled Shellfish Tower.
- What kind of food does Murphy's serve?
Murphy's offers authentic Irish food and deli sandwiches, including build-your-own "mountain-high" sandwiches.