Rick’s Roadhouse – Providence, RI
Rick’s Roadhouse / 370 Richmond Street / Providence, RI / 401-272-PORK
I was in love with Rick’s Roadhouse before it even opened. I remember reading an article about this new BBQ restaurant opening in downtown Providence that would reflect the type BBQ shacks one would find on on a road trip, such as on historic Route 66.
What one needs to know about me is that I am not only a travel addict, but also a BBQ addict. Having traveled to 43 states and having dined at some of the best BBQ shacks in America, I can honestly say that Rick’s Roadhouse is right up there with the best.
Move over Rendezvous in Memphis and Salt Lick in Austin, TX, here comes little Rhode Island’s, Rick’s Roadhouse.
Rick’s is, in my opinion, the coolest and most fun to place to dine in Providence. The decor is off-the-charts and the food is delicious & reasonably priced.
The neon EAT sign and garage-type building with it’s open windows and outdoor seating (during warmer months) is enough to make you curious to what this place is all about. I don’t know anyone that could drive by Rick’s without wanting to stop!
Not only does Rick’s have a killer bar with an incredible drink selection (with a special emphasis on Whiskey) it also has a jukebox, pool tables, video games, dots and flat screen TV’s for your enjoyment.
As if that wasn’t enough entertainment they also have karaoke every Tuesday night and, during their monthly Full Moon Party, LIVE music!
FUN! FUN! FUN!
The neon, the music, the ambiance, the friendly staff, and, oh yes, the FOOD!
Rick’s was voted “BEST BBQ 2012” in Rhode Island and that is a title rightfully deserved!
Rick’s web site describes their dining experience as: “A warm, lively atmosphere where you can roll up your sleeves for some home cooked, mom & pop style, small town food. Enjoy great fire grilled steaks, BBQ from world class rated pit masters and delicious sandwiches. Also, be sure to try award winning “State Fair” desserts all baked on premise. Enjoy down home hospitality, informal atmosphere, delicious food & affordable specialties that have been enjoyed by local and well informed travelers for many years.”
That pretty much sums it up, people.
You will find something for everyone! Hand cut steaks, burgers (ground daily), fall-off-the-bone ribs, delicious salads, nachos, fajitas, chicken sandwiches etc.,
Desserts include Camp Fire S’mores, apple cobbler, brownie sundaes and chocolate cake.
My partner Jen and I started our night off with Rick’s Steak on a Stick appetizer (tender grilled & marinated steak served with Rick’s own Bourbon steak sauce) and the Roadhouse Nachos (house made tri-colored tortilla chips topped with grated cheddar & jack cheeses, slow cooked BBQ pulled pork or chicken, jalapenos, lettuce, sour cream & salsa – we also added their delicious guacamole).
The steak was cooked perfectly and literally fell off the stick! Absolutely delicious.
The nachos were abundant and the guacamole was some of the freshest, creamiest we have ever had.
For our main course I ordered Rick’s 2-meat combo plate with Texas beef brisket, BBQ chicken and even added an extra side of ribs to sample. For sides I got the mac-n-cheese, baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread.
Jennifer tried the chicken fajitas.
Now here is where I fall even deeper in love with Rick’s. Here is where you learn that Rick’s isn’t just a pretty face. Rick’s isn’t just a “good time”. It is all of that AND MORE.
My stomach is growling just reminiscing about the spicy yet sweet taste of BBQ sauce and the cooked to perfection meats.
The ribs ARE truly fall-off-the-bone and yes, meat CAN and DOES melt in your mouth. Oh my. The BBQ chicken also had the same effect, however, my absolute favorite was the Texas beef brisket. Rick’s slow smokes the meat for 14 hours. It is carved to order with a wet mop. If you are a fan of BBQ, this is reason enough to head to Rick’s. Everything else is just a bonus.
Jennifer’s chicken fajitas were mouthwatering as well. Served with shallots and plump onions, the smell would make anyone’s mouth water!
Before I talk about dessert, let’s talk about Rick’s drinks.
Check this mammoth creation out…..
They call this the Margarita Corona-rita!!
Need I say more? And yes, it was as good as it looked.
Jen’s favorite is Rick’s Hillbilly Punch which has white rum, peach schnapps, amaretto, cranberry juices and sprite.
Talk about a good time? 😉
Okay, now on to dessert.
By the recommendation of our vivacious waitress we decided to try the Camp Fire S’mores for Two.
The presentation is adorable with it’s poo–poo platter dish, Hershey milk chocolate, marshmallows & graham crackers. There is something so fun about holding marshmallows over an open flame, watching them catch fire and enjoying the gooey goodness melted on top of chocolate and graham crackers.
The buzz from the Hillbilly Punch and Margarita Corona-rita made it all that more interesting! 😉
HOURS:
- Bar is open until they kick you out!
MENU:
EVENTS:
GIFT CARDS:
DELIVERY?
Why yes, they do! Rick’s now delivers! Click here for more info.
FAQ:
Rick’s menu has over 40 items priced at $9.99 or less!! What are you waiting for??
GAY & LESBIAN FACTOR: Rick’s is owned by The Chow Fun Group (XO Cafe, Ten Steak & Sushi, Luxe Burger Bar and Harry’s Bar & Burger). The Chow Fun Group is extremely gay friendly and welcoming to the LGBT community. They were extremely interested in being featured on Gay Travel Information’s web site and even became one of our advertisers. Rick’s has a laid back, anything goes type attitude. It is the type place that mixes all types of backgrounds together perfectly. My partner and I love it here and have no problem being openly affectionate. We feel extremely comfortable in not only the main restaurant area but also in the bar/pool area. We have seen numerous LGBT people having a good time at Rick’s. A plus is being able to bring your pet when seating is available at Rick’s outside picnic tables. Pet’s aren’t allowed inside the restaurant but are most definitely welcome outdoors! 🙂 I even organized a lesbian meet-up group here a couple of years ago and had a fantastic time. Grab your friends, family and/or partner and head to Rick’s for a fun night out with great atmosphere and even better food. I wholeheartedly “OUT” Rick’s as LGBT friendly and worthy of our business.
Ah, Rick’s. My type place. If Rick’s Roadhouse was to be called anything else it would be called Rick’s FUNhouse. I found myself getting lost in your quirky decor and reminiscing about my own travels. Neon, deer heads, funny road signs, pool tables, the smell of BBQ — all of these things make me giddy and happy.
Rhode Island is lucky to have such a fantastic BBQ/roadhouse/bar type place to call our own.
Whether you arrive by motorcycle, car or unicycle — just get to Rick’s.
See you there!
Desiree Sousa
Owner
Out & About Travel / Gay Travel Information Blog
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