Westerly, RI
Westerly, Rhode Island is conveniently located a few hours from New York City and less than two hours from Boston. Making Westerly even more convenient is the Amtrak station right downtown. This town is definitely a tight community (not cult close but Cheers close), which sometimes feels a little claustrophobic, but it’s also one of the things I like the most. If you feel like getting out of the downtown area Watch Hill is the place to go.
Watch Hill is a seaside village surrounded by the Atlantic. I could go into the history of settlement of Watch Hill, but if you want that kind of information go to the chamber of commerce website. All you really need to know is gorgeous beaches, great restaurants, and it is old money rich. Most of the mansions in Watch Hill have been around well over one hundred years.
Eat/Drink:
84 High Street Café
Location: I think you can figure this one out.
84 High is open 7 days a week and has some great food and drink specials. There cheeseburgers are so delicious I have to talk myself into getting something else every visit. Their Clam Chowder is excellent, and like all New Englanders I’m tough to impress. The Toasted Crab Melt is, to steal someone else’s description, “decadent” and I couldn’t agree more. Zig-Zag and her Lady tell me brunch is amazing, unfortunately I work Sundays so I have yet to experience it myself. I’m dying to try the Crab Cakes Eggs Benedict. They also have a Filet Mignon Benedict that sounds fantastic. I could seriously suggest everything, but I won’t bore you. In summary, I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant.
Senor Flaco’s
Location: Canal Street
I’m not ashamed to say Zig-Zag and I are regulars at “the Flac” Only regulars call it “the Flac”, (and by regulars I mean me and Zig-Zag) so don’t try pulling that off unless you own a “I Heart SF” t-shirt, okay?
Thai Pepper
Location: Railroad Street, across from the Train Station
You must order the fresh rolls and pad thai.
Up River Café
Location: Main Street
Definitely on the pricy side but well worth it. Try the Duck fries. There mojitos are amazing also.
Perks and Corks
Location: High Street
This coffee and martini Bar has a super comfy feel with couches and low lighting. Has music a few nights a week. Check out their website for specifics. I suggest Tuesday nights. Amy and her band are a blast. I’m going to sound super new-age but the energy is so good. Also, her voice is ridiculous.
Shop:
Other Tiger
Location: 90 High Street, right next to 84 High Street Café
Other Tiger is an independent bookstore located in a historic building right on Wilcox Park. The store looks small from the outside but has over nine rooms of books. Mostly a new books store there is some used books. The store also carries a lot of local artist’s works including jewelry, scarves, and postcards.
Blue Mitten
Location: 86 Main St.
This thrift store is a tad cramped but has some great finds. Don’t miss $1 Days (I hope $1 Day is self-explanatory). They also have some vintage games as well.
Johnny Cake Center
Location: Friendship Street, you can’t miss it on your right.
Another thrift store in town, this place gets a great collection of old furniture. Lots of house/home objects. I like the men’s clothing selection more than the women’s, but like any thrift store it’s hit or miss.
Fun Things: I will be adding more to this when I feel something is worthy.
Wilcox Park
Designed after a Victorian strolling park, the park was established in 1898. Wilcox Park is approximately 9 acres with a fish pond, perennial gardens, sculptures and a large open area for laying out, playing Frisbee, whatever your nature-loving ass is into. Try not to expose yourself in front of the children though.
Westerly Arts Night
5-8pm first Wednesday of every month. Downtown galleries and studios are open to the public to exhibit new works.
Trivia Night at Senor Flacos
Every Wednesday. Super fun bar staff, $4 potent margaritas and a late-night menu. $5 buy-in per team. A tip from me to you: The more people on your team the better chance of winning.
