Oberlin is one of the best examples of Providence's fantastic dining scene—expect a wide range of excellent lesser-known, sustainably caught local fish like tautog, butterfish and bluefish, as well as a wide range of other regionally-inspired dishes like fresh pasta, homemade sourdough, and roasted local veg. The place has a real neighborhood vibe that makes you want to stay for hours, which is definitely helped by the exceptional wine list and desserts (specifically: the Basque cheesecake).

Julian's is a Providence staple. It has amazing brunch, is vegan friendly, serves sweet treats like apple & spice cocktails & cherry cinnamon buns, and has a cozy-stars wars-cheerful-rock & roll vibe. I feel happy every time I go there.

White Electric is an eclectic worker owned coffee shop that offers bagel sandwiches, fresh donuts, and every kind of coffee drink imaginable, including the classic Rhode Island "coffee-milk" (made from locally roasted beans) in an off-beat interior.

Bayberry Beer Hall is a contemporary take on a German beer hall—open year round and filled with plants, the space offers New England-made brews from local favorites like Oxbow, Maine Beer Co., Aeronaut, Proclamation Ale Company (and of course, Narraganset). It's scandi communal tables are great for big groups, and despite being billed as a beer hall, it's food is surprisingly exceptional and seasonally inspired. Be sure to try the pretzel.

Cellar Stories is, hands-down, my favorite used book store of all time. I have never left without buying a book. They have especially large sci-fi, art, cooking, and antiquarian sections, as well as a lot of great books on local New England history. Their organization system is lovingly chaotic, but profoundly helpful to finding exactly what you didn't know they needed. A must for any reader or artist.