Pre-gaming in PVD? There’s everything you need just a short distance from the Dunkin' Donuts Center. Here are a few great spots:

Angelo’s Civita Farnese Restaurant

Enjoy the comfort and warmth of dining in this restaurant that has been around for almost 100 years. Head over to Angelo’s, right up the street from the Dunkin' Donuts Center 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. 

The Vig

Walk outside this restaurant and the Dunk is your next-door neighbor. The Vig is a local favorite and hidden gem in Providence. Chef Guy Charles, a culinary genius in my opinion, has created a menu that will make everyone leave with a smile. Just looking for a drink and snack? The Vig is the BEST place in Providence for bar snacks as well. Don’t leave without trying the bacon caramel popcorn or bar nuts with tupelo honey glaze. You won’t be disappointed if you stop in after a Providence Bruins game for the strawberry rhubarb ice cream sandwiches. And for those who love French Canadian cuisine, this is the place for poutine.

Trinity Brewhouse

Did you know Trinity Brewhouse was established in 1995 and was one of the first brew pub restaurants in New England? They craft their beer with the finest quality hops from around the world using filtered water from the Scituate Reservoir. It’s also a family-friendly spot with great pub fare and is around the corner from the Dunk.

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. One note — 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 Dunk'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 filet mignon flatbread, colossal shrimp tempura or a charcuterie board. You can’t go wrong, and you’re just a block away from the Dunk.