back to At the Table with LPC
October 2022
Newport, Rhode Island has a cherished nautical legacy and history as the summer playground for America’s rich and powerful. Along with these comes a well-deserved reputation for excellent dining, with a range of restaurants arrayed along the downtown district and along the busy waterfront. One of the standouts is 22 Bowen’s Bar & Grille, located right on Bowen’s Wharf.
We visited Newport just after Labor Day with another couple and chose 22 Bowen’s for the spectacular view, eclectic menu, and what turned out to be an excellent wine list. We were easily able to secure a reservation during the post-summer lull, and were promptly seated in the Captain’s Room, which was closest to the water. This allows us to observe the comings and goings of Newport’s remarkably varied seagoing craft.
It may have been the name of the room in which we were dining, but we were treated as I imagine the Captain of a clipper ship may have been during the height of the sailing era. From the start the service was excellent, attentive without be obsequious. Our waiter was able to make some very good suggestions and – more importantly – advised us on what not to order. That is a sign of someone who is paying attention in the kitchen and not just walking through on their way to the front of the house.
22 Bowen’s has a reputation for top notch steaks, yet each member of our party discovered their own favorite among a surprisingly diverse menu. Our entrees included baked cod that was a recent resident of the nearby George’s Bank fishing ground, a flavorfully seasoned rigatoni, perfectly prepared lamb chops, and a grass-fed 16 oz. ribeye that clearly demonstrated why the restaurant is so well known as a steakhouse.
Our meal was complemented and enhanced by a very nice wine selection. In fact, it was so good that we decided to forego dessert in favor of a second bottle. We’ll have to go back to sample the dessert menu.
Overall, a very pleasant and relaxing meal set against the lapping of the waves against the pier and perpetual motion of the maritime trade. I highly recommend you make the drive down Aquidneck Island to see the sights of Newport and enjoy the superb service and menu at 22 Bowen’s Bar & Grille.
Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI 02840
401.841.8884