About
Welcome to Locanda RI, a culinary gem nestled at 3009 Tower Hill Rd in Saunderstown, Rhode Island. While it may share a space with a hotel, rest assured that this establishment stands proudly on its own as a true Italian restaurant. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm ambiance that sets the tone for an exceptional dining experience.
From the moment you enter, the inviting bar area captures your attention, while the open kitchen gives you a glimpse of the artistry that goes into each dish. The vibrant buzz of culinary creativity permeates the air, foreshadowing what’s to come. But it's the food that truly steals the show at Locanda RI.
Diners rave about the exceptional pasta, made fresh daily by a talented chef who pours his heart and soul into every plate. For those who appreciate true craftsmanship, the attention to detail in both presentation and flavor is remarkable. As one customer noted, the pasta here might just be the best cooked pasta around, elevating the dining experience to new heights.
Whatever your palate craves, you’ll find enticing options on the menu, whether it's light and airy bread, delectable appetizers, or heartwarming entrees. Guests have shared their delight over mouthwatering specialties such as Scallop and Mushroom Pancetta Risotto and Shrimp Scampi with house-made pasta, leaving them eager for their next visit.
But it’s not just the food that makes Locanda RI noteworthy; it's also the exceptional service that enhances the overall experience. Diners have consistently complimented the friendly and professional staff, who add a personal touch to your meal and ensure your dining experience is unforgettable.
As you savor each bite, you’ll understand why this restaurant has quickly become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike, and why so many express their desire to return. The happy chatter of satisfied guests fills the air, affirming that Locanda RI is indeed a hidden treasure worth discovering.
So, if you're searching for extraordinary Italian cuisine, drive a little further to Locanda RI. Your taste buds will thank you!
“ Went here this weekend, was skeptical with it being attached to a hotel but was immediately humbled by the inside as it is 100% an Italian restaurant. Though I won’t say the aesthetic of the entire dining room was blowing me away, I was very much enjoying the bar area visually as well as the pass youre able to see into with everyone cooking. I had a cocktail that was made very well, plus a few glasses of wine that was good too! Service was very professional and friendly. The main star here is definitely the chef and his food. This is by far the best tasting and best cooked pasta around and it’s also made fresh in the restaurant as well! The details this group does to make everything look like a piece of art and not just a meal was a nice touch. But seriously it’s 30 minutes from my house and I’d have no problem doing that drive again for this food. I’d like to say it’s a hidden gem but it was very busy so clearly word of mouth has brought many people here. Definitely recommend definitely will be going back, and definitely will be talking about the food to a lot of people. ”
“ Eat here. You will have no regrets! Everything we tried was amazing - we ordered a little of everything - the pastas were so fresh even the bread that was initially served was so fresh and light. You will love the chef - he genuinely cares about your dinning experience and takes care in every dish. ”
“ Did some research on restaurants while visiting Newport for a weekend with the family, happy we found Locanda! The food was some of the best, if not THE best Italian we've had including North End Boston, or Federal Hill Prov. Will definitely return in future. ”
“ Truly a hidden gem guys!! They have an amazing chef serving the freshest and delicious appetizers and entrees! Chicken soup special perfect for a cold night. Meatballs and their sauce were outstanding and for entree I had an amazing scallop and mushroom pancetta rissotto. My wife had Shrimp scampi with their house made pasta!! Brianna was our server and we can’t thank her enough for a great experience ”
“ I've eaten at plenty of Italian restaurants throughout my life, hands down the best. The food took a little long but after getting our entrees I understood why...absolutely amazing. My wife almost always complains of her pasta being bland this was not the case. When I don't hear a peep out of her that's usually a good sign. The dipping sauce for the bread and calamari were so tasty I wanted to order a side to eat by itself. We were definitely hungry so we're gonna have to go back just to be sure it wasn't in our imagination. My compliments to the chef everything was perfect from apps to dessert. ”
“ When the chef is a childhood friend you have to check out his chefy spot! Visted a few times with my children who enjoyed their apps and pasta. No complaints. Recently celebrated my birthday dinner with close friends. We enjoyed a little of everything, laughed all night, and left with full bullies! The entire team did not disappoint! Highly recommend for any date night, girls night, or event. ”
“ Incredible service and delicious food. One of the best Italian dinners I've had with my family in years. The fried artichokes were perfect, house made focaccia, the porch chop with vinegar peppers, and authentic gelato and cannoli....all perfect. If I could give more stars I would! Truly a gem of south county, a must visit! ”
“ Such a hidden gem! We opted for the short rib and the branzino — both were absolutely spectacular. We followed our waiter’s recommendations from appetizers all the way through dessert and don’t regret it one bit. He mentioned he was Italian, which made us trust his judgment on the Italian dishes even more. Fantastic service and phenomenal food. We’ll definitely be back soon! ”