Bridge, Westerly
Here’s a hint to parents when cabin fever and all sorts of other winter grippes set in: The Washington Trust Community Ice Skating Rink (which offers lessons, free skate, and skate rentals) just happens to be located next to Bridge bar and restaurant. So after you drop off the kids, warm up inside where there’s a fun and varied menu, veteran bartenders, a rotating selection of oysters and craft beer, and, best of all, window seats situated directly over the rushing waters of the Pawcatuck River. Modern Dishes that Capture the Flavors of the Season, is how Bridge advertises itself. Rightly so. A night out may feature a starter of grilled sardines. Brunch, served Sundays, includes classics alongside hybrids, such as the Cod Cake Benedict or house-cured salmon. Vegetarians will find numerous choices, including the much beloved and life-affirming Buddha Bowl. The wings are some of the region’s best: baked and broiled, never fried. The burrito, about the size of the backpack you would take to hike the Pacific Crest, is lunch and dinner in one. There’s a customer loyalty program worth joining because it pays off. And, weekdays 4-6 p.m., the bar offers its “Gathering Menu,” an affordable and satisfying selection of small plates that include deviled eggs, sliders, shrimp tacos, and mac and cheese with chorizo. No, you can’t have a seat on the riverfront patio for a couple more months. But in the meantime there are more than enough reasons to visit Bridge in winter.
By Dan Pearson
37 Main Street
Westerly, RI
