From the Author: Our family has been taking week-long vacations on Block Island for 5+ years. We love this island and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
For such a small Island, there are over 40 Block Island restaurants to choose from during your stay!
From fine dining, to casual picnic-table eating, there is something for everyone.
Here are some of our favorites…
NOTICE // We try our best to keep the information in this guide as up to date as possible. If you notice anything has changed, please leave us comment down below.
LAST UPDATE:
1. Dead-Eye-Dicks
It’s a tough call, BUT if I was forced to pick the top Block Island restaurant, my vote would go to Dead-Eye-Dicks.
Dead-Eye’s has both indoor and outdoor seating.
The outdoor options include a covered deck or Adirondack chairs and benches on the grass, where you can take in all that Block Island sun.
Whether dining, drinking, or both (usually both), my favorite spot is in an Adirondack chair taking in the scenes of New Harbor.
The grass seating has a “back-yard”/casual vibe, and I’m all about it!
A popular order combo includes the Lobster BLT with a Painkiller cocktail.
If you enjoy waterfront dining, great seafood, sunset views – this is your spot!
Have a pup? Bring them along to enjoy outside dining with you.
Large party? Dead-Eye-Dicks can accommodate your group in their indoor dining area.
2. Spring House Hotel
The Spring House Hotel is the oldest hotel on the island.
You’re guaranteed to experience authentic New England charm when you’re there.
In front of the hotel there is a large rolling grass hill that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s lined with white Adirondack chairs.
There is nothing better than ordering a drink and appetizer, while taking in the ocean views. My favorite order: an Aperol Spritz and Caprese salad!
The Adirondack chairs are first come, first served, but if you are interested in a more formal dining experience on their veranda or inside, I would recommend making reservations.
The Spring House Hotel has an on-site farm that allows them to use their own fresh fruits and vegetables for the menu!
3. Persephone’s
Persephone’s is the quintessential island coffeeshop and eatery and, as expected, it’s a happening spot!
As you walk up to the entrance you’re greeted by their colorful door, coral flower box, and hand calligraphy signage.
Persephone’s prides themselves on using healthy, high-quality and fresh ingredients.
In addition to your cold brew and latte needs, the kitchen pumps out delicious breakfast sandwiches, yogurt bowls, and sweet treats.
After 11:30am you’ll find a handful of sandwich melts offered on sourdough or multigrain bread. There have a variety of vegan and gluten-free options as well.
The owner, Persephone, is usually onsite taking orders, hustling in the kitchen, or answering the phone.
They sell awesome tanks, t-shirt, and mugs. I love getting a cute tank top from here, vs. your typical tourist t-shirt that you’ll find lining Water Street.
There is indoor and outdoor seating, but keep in mind this is a small spot.
Ordering can be done in the restaurant, over the phone, and online. NOTE: Persephone’s adds an 18% gratuity with all online and phone orders.
4. Winfield’s
Winfield’s menu is influenced by French, Italian, New American, and Asian cuisines.
I would consider it one of the most “upscale” restaurants on the Island. I put it in quotes because upscale for BI is still far more casual than something fancy on the mainland.
They pride themselves on a menu that is small, and specialized.
There is an intimate dining room and a lounge. At the lounge you can enjoy a drink, appetizers, or a full meal.
I once heard this place described at “comfortably elegant”, and I think that is a very accurate description.
This restaurant is more expensive when comparing it’s prices to other BI restaurants–but worth it!
Overall, you will be guaranteed a great dining experience if you give Winfield’s a visit.
Insider Tip:
They have air conditioned dining.
5. Three Sisters
Three Sisters is a sandwich shop owned by…three sisters!
This adorable tiny roadside cottage has a bright yellow trim with a flower box in each window.
Between the cottage and the casual outside seating, the view itself would catch someone’s eye and pull them in.
They have a colorful chalk board menu lists the hours, a half dozen sandwiches, and a few salads. There are vegetarian and vegan options.
The seating options include shaded picnic tables on the lawn. There is also a hammock available if you are lucky enough to find it when it’s empty.
Three Sister’s is BYOB.
Other than social media (Facebook and Instagram) they don’t have a formal website.
The hours listed on their chalkboard say 11:30am-2:30pm, but are certainly subject to change.
I will note that I have experienced discrepancies with their hours. For example, I arrived at 2:10pm only to find out they had already closed up shop for the day.
As a fast paced New Englander this can be frustrating but I have learned to embrace the Island way.
6. The Beachead
The Beachead is a great water front spot located directly across the street from Crescent Beach.
They have a little bit of everything here, but they’re best known for their fresh-seafood.
We bring the whole family here at least once every trip – it has such a laid back, and kid friendly atmosphere.
There’s both outdoor and indoor seating, but I recommend coming on a nice day and sitting outside. It’s just not the same experience otherwise.
Insider Tip:
This is a great spot for an afternoon cocktail. Get off Crescent beach for a bit, get under an umbrella and order a “Kraken Rum Punch” with a side of Matunuck Little Necks!
7. The Oar
The Oar is always a repeat visit when I’m on the Island. This place is perfect for food and drinks or just drinks.
They have a lot of outside lawn seating options (wooden chairs and picnic tables with umbrellas) as well as indoor “open air” seating.
I’ve found this to be a great restaurant for families because the outdoor lawn tables allow the kids to run around while you wait for your food.
They also have a few cornhole boards and bags set up for use.
Most people know this restaurant is famous for their mudslides. I’m all about switching things up, but I can’t seem to bring myself to order any other drink — it’s so good!
As for the name—The Oar—you’ll notice many wooden oars hanging in and around the restaurant, inside and out.
Each oar has a little quip written on them from visiting guests.
I always wondered how you get an oar put up on the wall, and I was surprised to find out all you have to do is drop one off at the front desk!
Insider Tip:
When you order your mudslide, ask for a vanilla “floater” (top shelf – you deserve it)!
8. Poor Peoples Pub
I firmly believe Poor Peoples Pub has some of the best food on the island.
At first glance, it appears to be like a typical island pub, but the food deserves a lot more credit than “pub food”.
Menu items include burgers, BBQ, local seafood, pizza and more.
Although there any many favorites, a go-to order includes their famous pulled pork mac and cheese.
There is indoor and outdoor dining available. Outdoor dining options include a covered deck or a sun-filled patio.
This is a great spot if you are looking to catch a game – they have multiple flat screen TVs.
There are gluten free and vegetarian options available.
Insider Tip:
Ask for a “Brown Bag” shot!
9. Calaveras
UPDATE: Calaveras closed in 2022.
New England isn’t known for Mexican food, so it might be surprising that I have a Mexican restaurant listed as one of the best restaurants on Block Island but Calaveras has earned this spot.
Calaveras has authentic Mexican cuisine with food that has been inspired by the streets of Mexico City, and homemade recipes that have been passed down over generations.
Owner, Julio Mendozas was born and raised in Mexico City.
He and his wife, Iliana, pride themselves on using the freshest ingredients and making things from scratch.
Two of their most popular items are: pulled chicken and the fish tacos (made with homemade tortillas!).
Julio and Iliana reported that their goals are to keep the recipes authentic, fresh, and as healthy as possible.
Almost nothing is fried in the restaurant and they pride themselves on using very little oil when cooking.
Address:
30 Water Street, New Shoreham, RI 02807
10. Old Post Bagel Shop
If you are looking for an informal place to enjoy a quick breakfast or a spot to pick-up breakfast to enjoy on the go, this is your spot!
Expect a line out the door but the staff is fast and efficient so it never takes too long.
They have delicious bagels with multiple topping options, huge muffins, breakfast sandwiches, fruit, and pastry items. Everything is so fresh!
Their coffee is great also!
While in line listening to the chatter it will become obvious that lots of locals frequent this spot.
If you are looking to enjoy your food at the Old Post Bagel Shop, they have tables shaded by trees or umbrellas outside.’
11. Rebecca’s Seafood
Rebecca’s Seafood is located on Water Street right across the street from the Old Harbor ferry landing.
This cash only facility is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they have quite an extensive menu.
There is a take-out window and outside eating area (picnic tables with umbrellas) as well as a small inside eating area with counter and table seating options.
I consider this to be the perfect “quick bite” stop.
My family goes to Rebecca’s for their clam cakes. They are served hot and fresh!
Make sure you ask for tartar sauce – they make their own on-site! (Keep in mind, the clam cakes are usually not offered until after 11:30am).
There is another location – Rebecca’s Beach – located on Fred Benson Town Beach. They serve lunch inside the Town Beach Pavilion.
Lobster roll on the beach? Yes, please!
Final Word
Whether you are looking for a romantic dining experience or something fun and casual for the whole family to enjoy, Block Island has you covered!
I hope this helps guide you to satisfy your food needs during your next trip.
What’s your favorite Block Island restaurant? Leave me a comment below!
