Providence, RI offers many options for an exciting getaway to the city. A trip to New York is not necessary to experience fine dining and a fabulous theater production. From the exquisite dining establishments on federal hill, to the upscale dining venues in the heart of the downtown area, restaurants are abundant. Whether you are visiting or actually live in the city, Providence explodes with a diversity of entertainment options.
This particular getaway highlights dinner at Flemings Prime Steak House and Wine Bar complemented by a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Flemings was initially chosen because of its proximity to the theater; however, I would definitely dine there again. Along with the food, the service was impeccable.
My husband, friends and I arrived very early for our 5:00 pm dinner reservation. In spite of our early arrival, we were warmly received by the hostess and offered seating in the restaurant or at the bar. I believe we were actually the first patrons at the restaurant, and our early arrival compelled us to sit at the bar for a drink before dinner. The bartender was very gracious and engaged in delightful conversation with us. He later informed the hostess when we were ready for dinner, and she promptly escorted us to our table in the main dining area. The ambiance in the dining area, which included an open-kitchen in the rear, provided a relaxing atmosphere. Our waitress and the other wait staff were quite attentive to our every need.
While the dinner menu offered a variety of foods, the carnivore in all of us impelled my group to feast on steak. While our beef selections varied, the end results were the same–satisfaction. Personally, I selected the prime rib-eye cooked at a medium temperature with a baked potato on the side; my friend and I also ordered the sauteed corn as an additional side. My entire dinner was cooked to perfection, and I also managed to share the walnut turtle pie for dessert–delicious.
After dinner, we took a short stroll to the Providence Performing Arts Center where we had tickets to see the Jersey Boys. The performance was getting rave reviews, but unfortunately this (June 5th and 6th) was the last weekend for the Providence production. However, I highly recommend if anyone has the opportunity to see this musical at another venue, then jump at the chance. The original production opened on Broadway in the fall of 2005 and won the 2006 Tony Award for best musical. The show, which tells the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, continues to play at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway as well as on other stages nationally.
The Providence Performing Arts Center, which was recently renovated, offers a variety of entertainment for all ages. Check out their online site for information on upcoming performances, in particular the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.