Students
Students
5 Student-Approved Eateries Near Providence's Downcity Campus
Author James Regan '24 is a Media & Communication major and works as a student assistant at JWU, contributing to JWU News.
Providence is an amazing city known for its culture, diversity, creativity and food scene. This small city is home to hundreds of restaurants, many of which are owned or operated by JWU alumni. Our famed College of Food Innovation & Technology has spent more than 50 years churning out incredible chefs. We won’t take all the credit for Providence becoming a foodie destination, but we will try all the food.
One of the best perks of coming to JWU is knowing you’re always just steps from a delicious meal. Our students spend a lot of time exploring these restaurants, so we decided to find out which restaurants are the top favorites. We enlisted two students from the Collegiate Ambassador Team, Gavin Hoy ’27 and Regina Ware ’27, to visit each of these restaurants and put them to the test.
1. Seven Stars Bakery
Just a short walk from the Downcity campus, Seven Stars Bakery is a great spot to grab a coffee and pastry before those early morning labs or study on the patio with some delicious baked goods. Seven Stars Bakery has also employed many JWU students looking to expand their culinary experience or just make a living between classes. Gavin ordered a mocha and brownie while Regina selected tea with a lemon cake.
2. Friskie Fries
Friskie Fries is located right around the corner from Gaebe Commons. Whether you’re looking for a side or a meal, French fries become both here. Surrounded by several boutiques, Friskie Fries is the perfect way to end a day of shopping. What Friskie Fries lacks in seating it makes up for in its wide variety of French fry flavors. You can sit and enjoy your fries at one of JWU’s many common spaces such as Gaebe Commons or the Wildcat Lounge. Regina went for the Disco Dotty, French fries served with cheese curds and brown gravy. Gavin went with Fowl Play, chicken with marinara sauce and parmesan served on top of French fries.
3. The Malted Barley
The Malted Barley is only a street over from Gaebe Commons and offers one of the most unique meals in Providence. One of the most beautiful streets in Providence, the area is surrounded by shops and historical buildings; you can view the street in a whole new light if you’re there after sundown with the sparkling twinkle lights above the roads. Rhode Island's own Yacht Club Soda is on the menu, but the true selling point for The Malted Barley is the pretzels. Every meal comes with a soft pretzel, and all of the sandwiches and burgers use soft pretzels as the bread. While you’re enjoying your meal, you can also enjoy one of many games, the foosball table or their weekly open mic or trivia nights. Gavin ordered a meatball sandwich and Regina ordered a BLT, both were served on soft pretzels as buns!
4. Plant City
Across the pedestrian bridge, Plant City is in located in one of the most beautiful parts of Providence. It offers a waterfront view and a meal so good it will have you questioning whether it’s really vegan, but it truly is! Plant City offers an incredible variety of vegan and vegetarian meals ranging from Italian, Mexican and bistro to fruit bowls, coffee and desert. Plant City has meal options for those looking to stay or grab-and-go. Regina enjoyed the buffalo cauliflower wings, while Gavin went for the fried "chicken" sandwich.
5. Xaco Taco
Last but certainly not least is Xaco Taco (run by JWU alum John Elkhay '77), the best tacos and one of the best ambiances in Providence. Students can go any day of the week between 3-5 pm and get any tacos with one beverage for just $2.00. Perfect for the college budget. While the patio is beautiful, for the full experience sit inside and you’ll be surrounded by interesting tile art, beautiful decorations and a full-sized VW Bus in the middle of the restaurant. Gavin went with the El Passor Taco while Regina went with the fish baja taco.
Providence boasts some of the best eateries just steps from JWU's campus, reflecting the city's vibrant food scene. Beyond its culinary delights, Providence is a dynamic college town with a rich array of activities and experiences for students. From cultural events and historic landmarks to parks and entertainment venues, there's always something to explore. The city's numerous restaurants, many run by JWU alumni, offer students opportunities for employment and hands-on learning through internships and Directed Experiential Education (DEE) programs. Discover the dynamic student life in Providence and see how it enhances your JWU experience.
