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Providence

Al Forno Restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island, is celebrated for its exceptional Italian cuisine and inviting atmosphere. Diners frequently praise the restaurant's signature grilled pizzas, such as the Grilled Pizza Margarita, and the Baked Pasta with Five Cheeses. The made-to-order desserts, including the Golden Delicious Apple Tart, are also frequently highlighted. The ambiance is described as romantic and historic, with a warm fireplace and river views. Service is noted to be attentive and knowledgeable, contributing to a memorable dining experience.

Experience authentic Italian excellence at Al Forno Restaurant in Providence Rhode Island.

Nestled in the charming Fox Point neighborhood at 577 South Water Street, Al Forno Restaurant is an upscale Italian ristorante that masterfully blends local New England ingredients with traditional wood-fired cooking techniques. The result is a menu brimming with bold, unforgettable flavors that entice food lovers, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers alike.

Unforgettable dining highlights and atmosphere

Al Forno’s signature grilled pizzas, such as the iconic Grilled Pizza Margarita, are a must-try — celebrated for their perfectly charred crust and fresh, vibrant toppings. The Baked Pasta with Five Cheeses offers a rich, comforting dish that showcases the kitchen’s devotion to authentic Italian flavors. Guests often rave about the made-to-order desserts, especially the Golden Delicious Apple Tart, which rounds out the meal with a sweet, local touch.

 that pairs a romantic, historic setting with stunning river views and a warm fireplace, perfect for intimate dinners or lively group gatherings. The outdoor seating area is equally alluring, featuring a wisteria-covered courtyard for alfresco dining on balmy Providence evenings.

 include the grilled pizzas, chicken meatballs with Venetian sauce, and the corn pizza favored by many.

 featuring standout lemon drop martinis and cosmopolitans complement the menu beautifully.

 is provided by patient and knowledgeable staff who enhance the welcoming vibe.

 is romantic and historic with a warm fireplace inside and peaceful river views outside.

What are the restaurant's operating hours?

 Al Forno is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, with hours ranging from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM depending on the day. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

 Yes, the restaurant offers on-site parking, including valet service and free parking lots nearby.

 Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially on weekends and busy evenings.

 Yes, it has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating.

 Yes, including a charming wisteria-covered courtyard perfect for dining under the stars.

North America

United States

Nestled along the scenic South Water Street in Providence, Al Forno Restaurant is a culinary gem that beckons food lovers from near and far. Known for its innovative approach to Italian cuisine, this upscale ristorante combines local ingredients with traditional techniques, creating a dining experience that is both memorable and unique. As you step inside, the warm ambiance and inviting decor set the stage for an unforgettable meal.

Al Forno is celebrated for its **grilled pizza**, a must-try that showcases the restaurant's commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The dough is hand-stretched and grilled to perfection, topped with seasonal vegetables and artisanal cheeses. Another standout dish is the **pappardelle with Venetian sauce**, which features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, savory sauce made from slow-cooked meats and herbs. Each bite transports you to the heart of Italy, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

The restaurant's **outdoor seating** offers a delightful atmosphere, especially during the warmer months. Guests can enjoy their meals while soaking in the vibrant energy of Fox Point. Additionally, Al Forno’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of locally sourced ingredients, making each dish not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

Conveniently located at 577 S Water St, Al Forno is just a stone's throw away from the picturesque waterfront and the bustling arts district of Providence. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Rhode Island School of Design Museum and the scenic WaterFire installations, making it a perfect stop for a day of culture and culinary delight.

Al Forno is renowned for its grilled pizza and innovative Italian dishes that highlight local ingredients.

Yes, Al Forno offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal in the fresh air.

Al Forno provides valet parking, along with free street parking options for guests.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Al Forno is a culinary experience that should not be missed. With its exquisite dishes, charming atmosphere, and dedication to quality, it promises to leave a lasting impression. Book your table today and indulge in the flavors of Italy right here in Providence.

This upscale ristorante adds local touches to grilled pizzas, pastas & wood-fired mains.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuNGYtY2pRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJFzleDBdF5IkR3QbnvHdY7Ak/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuNGYtY2pRRRAB

One of my favorite restaurants in the US. Best lemon drop martini and cosmo I have ever had. The pork chop, corn pizza, chicken and ever single dessert is fantastic. The service is slow and needing of training at this caliber of a restaurant but overall a great spot that I recommend every time. Be prepared to spend a lot of coin to enjoy but for the most part it is worth it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiOHRPeEt3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJFzleDBdF5IkR3QbnvHdY7Ak/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiOHRPeEt3EAE

Matt is outstanding. We came in without reservations and waited for awhile, and he was very patient and kind and flexible. We started outside and the grilled margarita, squash blossom and ribeye meatballs were fast and perfect. Then, the rain! We had no choice but to bail on the table and find cover and within 10 minutes, Matt set us up inside. We were happy to take our chicken parm, dirty steak and gnocchi home but he insisted we stay and we did. The takeout was a fun twist to the evening - chicken was steamed from the lids but still great, and we can only imagine how perfect it would be as it should be eaten. The pasta needed more sauce but I swapped it for what they would have sent it out with and that pasta (someone else had it) was perfect.  We will be back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubllybU13EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJFzleDBdF5IkR3QbnvHdY7Ak/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubllybU13EAE

Where do I evening begin? I was in town from Boston for a week and this was recommended by a friend so I went on my first night in town. Sat at the bar since I was alone and it was very busy, but immediately the two up stairs bartenders made me feel at home and they had a really fun dynamic between each other and their families had also worked at this amazing establishment
in the past so they really care about the place and you can tell.

After a lot of deliberation, I decided on the pappardelle with Venetian sauce and chicken meatballs. I asked them what Venetian sauce was and they took out a cookbook, written by the owners (RISD grads, so cool), and showed me the actual recipe. Genuinely one of the best dining experiences in a minute and that Venetian sauce was SO GOOD as were the moist and flavorful chicken meatballs.

I had their ultra local dessert special, the Concord grape granita made with grapes from their patio and it was superb.

PS: they sell Diet Coke in glass bottles which IYKYK is the best Diet Coke known to man and was a great sign from the start it was going to be a stellar dining journey. Can’t wait to come back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuZ1p6dU5REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJFzleDBdF5IkR3QbnvHdY7Ak/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuZ1p6dU5REAE

Lived up to the hype, def get the grilled pizza, but be ready to share. Desserts made to order can’t be beat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3dGNyXzBnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJFzleDBdF5IkR3QbnvHdY7Ak/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3dGNyXzBnRRAB

We had the grilled octopus and fennel salad with blood orange. I had the veal special with onion rings and my partner had the flat iron steak. We shared the mini cake dessert. Everything was amazingly prepared and delicious.

Al Forno Restaurant: Upscale Dining in Fox Point, Providence

Al Forno Restaurant, established in 1980 by artists Johanne Killeen and George Germon, is renowned for pioneering grilled pizza and made-to-order desserts. The couple, both graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design, opened the restaurant to supplement their income and introduced innovative Italian dishes that have influenced the culinary world. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Forno?utm_source=openai))

Al Forno Restaurant history overview in Providence Rhode Island USA, founded 1980 by artists and RISD graduates Johanne Killeen and George Germon, pioneers of grilled pizza and made-to-order desserts, awarded James Beard Best Chef Northeast 1993, named best casual restaurant by International Herald Tribune 1994, continued legacy after Germon's 2015 passing under Killeen's leadership.

Nestled in the vibrant Fox Point neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, Al Forno Restaurant stands as an iconic culinary landmark since its founding in 1980 by the creative duo Johanne Killeen and George Germon. Both graduates of the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design, this artist couple transformed their passion for art and food into a unique dining experience that would influence the American culinary scene for decades to come.

Al Forno was conceived as a way for Killeen and Germon to supplement their incomes, but it quickly became known for pioneering two standout culinary techniques: the introduction of grilled pizza cooked over an open flame and made-to-order desserts crafted with artistic flair. These innovations set Al Forno apart in the competitive restaurant world and helped establish the venue as a trendsetter in Italian-American cuisine.

In 1993, the culinary talents of Killeen and Germon were honored with the prestigious James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef in the Northeast, a testament to their dedication and innovative spirit. The following year, 1994, saw Al Forno receive international acclaim when the International Herald Tribune named it the best casual restaurant in the world, elevating its status to a global level and attracting food enthusiasts from far and wide.

Although George Germon passed away in 2015, the soul of Al Forno endures under the stewardship of Johanne Killeen. The restaurant continues to celebrate its artistic roots and culinary innovation while welcoming a new generation of diners with its locally influenced grilled pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired main dishes. Its commitment to quality, creativity, and a memorable dining experience remains unwavering.

 Al Forno Restaurant was founded by Johanne Killeen and George Germon in Providence, Rhode Island.

 Killeen and Germon received the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef in the Northeast.

 Al Forno was named the best casual restaurant in the world by the International Herald Tribune.

 George Germon passed away, but Al Forno continues to operate under the leadership of Johanne Killeen.

Al Forno Restaurant in Providence, RI, is an upscale ristorante known for its inventive Italian cuisine, featuring grilled pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired mains, all made with local ingredients.

Al Forno Restaurant

Al Forno offers a variety of Italian dishes, including their renowned grilled pizzas, baked pastas, and made-to-order desserts.

Grilled Pizza Margarita

Baked Pasta with Five Cheeses

Dirty Rib-Eye Steak

Grilled Octopus Salad

Endive Salad

Ricotta Gnudi

Golden Delicious Apple Tart

Al Forno Restaurant Menu

Al Forno Restaurant Menu Overview at Providence, RI Location (577 S Water St) 

Nestled in the vibrant Fox Point neighborhood of Providence, Al Forno Restaurant invites you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates authentic Italian flavors enhanced by local touches. Renowned for its grilled pizzas, baked pastas, and wood-fired mains, this upscale ristorante offers an engaging dining experience perfect for foodies and lovers of artisanal Italian cuisine.

Begin your meal with elegantly crafted starters that tease the palate and set the tone for an unforgettable dinner. The Grilled Octopus Salad is a standout, featuring tender grilled octopus paired with sweet cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil, delivering a harmonious balance of smoky and fresh flavors. For a lighter option, savor the crisp Endive Salad, dressed delicately to highlight the natural bitterness and crunch.

Al Forno’s mains showcase the passion and expertise behind Italian cuisine through a selection of grilled pizzas, baked pastas, and hearty meat dishes. The Grilled Pizza Margarita is a celebrated classic, featuring a vibrant pomodoro sauce, fresh herbs, a blend of two cheeses, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil that perfectly complements the wood-fired crust — perfect for sharing with friends.

For cheese lovers, the Baked Pasta with Five Cheeses is an indulgent treat. This dish artfully combines pecorino romano, fontina, gorgonzola, mozzarella, and ricotta enveloped in rigate pasta shells, delivering creamy, rich flavors with every bite. Meat enthusiasts will appreciate the Dirty Rib-Eye Steak, featuring a juicy rib-eye served with a spicy pomodoro sauce that adds just the right kick to this robust entrée.

Additionally, the Ricotta Gnudi offers a delicate alternative to traditional pasta, combining fresh ricotta with flour and egg to create light, pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth.

End your dining experience on a sweet note with Al Forno’s made-to-order desserts. The Golden Delicious Apple Tart is a crowd favorite, showcasing tender slices of golden apples baked with butter, sugar, and flour to create a flaky, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the fruit’s natural sweetness.

Complement your meal with a selection of expertly crafted cocktails and beverages. Al Forno is especially known for its classic cocktails, including the best lemon drop martini and cosmopolitan that guests rave about. The bar’s welcoming atmosphere and attentive bartenders add to the enjoyment, making it an ideal spot to savor a drink before or after dinner.

Handcrafted baked pastas with artisanal cheeses

Locally sourced, carefully prepared starters and salads

Made-to-order desserts highlighting seasonal ingredients

Extensive cocktail menu featuring classic and creative drinks

Savor the unforgettable flavors at Al Forno in Providence's Fox Point. Indulge in wood-fired pizzas and creative dishes. Book your table now!

Al Forno Restaurant - Unique Dining in Providence, RI

Providence County

Thin-crust pizzas grilled to perfection with various toppings.

Grilled Pizza

A rich blend of five cheeses baked with rigate pasta shells.

A flavorful rib-eye steak served with spicy pomodoro sauce.

Tender grilled octopus served with cherry tomatoes and basil.

A fresh salad featuring endive and a light dressing.

Delicate ricotta dumplings served with a savory sauce.

A classic apple tart made with Golden Delicious apples.

Savor Authentic Italian Flavors at Al Forno Restaurant Providence Rhode Island USA 02903 Fox Point South Water Street 577 

Nestled in the vibrant Fox Point neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, Al Forno Restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience that food lovers and travelers alike will appreciate. Known for its innovative take on Italian cuisine, this upscale ristorante combines local ingredients with traditional techniques to create unforgettable dishes. Whether you're a foodie seeking the best grilled pizza or a digital nomad craving a cozy spot for dinner, Al Forno delivers with its welcoming atmosphere and top-notch menu.

Al Forno is celebrated for its unique grilled pizzas, each boasting a perfectly thin crust charred to smoky perfection and topped with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Priced at $21.95, these pizzas are a must-try for anyone visiting Providence. But the offerings don’t stop there. The baked pasta with five cheeses blends creamy textures and rich flavors, baked to golden perfection for $21.95. Meat lovers can indulge in the dirty rib-eye steak, a robust $45.95 dish dressed in a spicy pomodoro sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.

Al Forno’s menu is thoughtfully designed to satisfy a variety of palates, including vegetarian options.

 The grilled octopus salad features tender pieces of octopus paired with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for $15.95, creating a perfect balance of smoky and bright flavors. For a lighter option, their endive salad offers a crisp and refreshing experience for just $10.95.

No meal at Al Forno is complete without sampling their exquisite desserts. The golden delicious apple tart, priced at $8.95, is crafted with fresh local apples and a delicate crust that melts in your mouth. Complement your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails — renowned for the best lemon drop martinis and cosmos — or enjoy carefully selected wines and local beers. The attentive bartenders, with their warm and friendly service, enhance the overall dining atmosphere.

Al Forno provides a comfortable and stylish setting featuring both indoor and outdoor seating options. The restaurant is perfect for groups and offers valet parking as well as free parking options nearby. With dine-in and takeout available, guests can enjoy their favorite dishes on-site or at home. Although service may sometimes be leisurely, the quality of food and the dining experience make every visit worthwhile. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot at this popular Providence eatery.

Innovative grilled pizzas and authentic Italian dishes

 that blend local ingredients with classic flavors.

Perfect spot for groups and special occasions

, with convenient valet and free parking options.

 including standout lemon drop martinis and cosmos.

Vegetarian-friendly dishes and fresh seafood appetizers

 that satisfy diverse dietary preferences.

Al Forno Restaurant Providence Rhode Island USA Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled in the charming Fox Point neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, Al Forno Restaurant is a beacon of upscale Italian dining that delights food lovers with its unique grilled pizzas, wood-fired mains, and hand-crafted pastas. This establishment is renowned for its exceptional culinary craftsmanship, blending traditional Italian flavors with local ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance, steeped in a romantic and historic vibe, makes it a popular destination for those seeking both quality and atmosphere.

Guests consistently praise Al Forno for its outstanding Italian cuisine, especially its signature grilled pizzas that are crafted with precision over a wood-fired grill. The made-to-order desserts provide a sweet finishing touch that perfectly complements the savory dishes. Visitors also appreciate the attentive and knowledgeable service, which enhances the overall dining journey. The restaurant’s atmosphere, characterized by a blend of historical charm and romantic appeal, creates a welcoming environment ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions.

that highlights fresh, local ingredients and artisanal preparation.

that set the restaurant apart from typical Italian eateries.

that provide a delicious finale to your meal.

that elevates your dining experience beyond the plate.

that ensures guest satisfaction and a personalized dining journey.

While Al Forno offers a top-tier dining experience, there are some practical considerations to keep in mind when planning your visit. Due to its popularity, making reservations is highly recommended to secure a table, especially during peak times. Parking can be a challenge as space is limited, so arriving early or exploring nearby options may be necessary. Accessibility for wheelchair users might be restricted in certain areas of the historic building, which could impact comfort for some guests.

stands out as a must-visit spot for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine in Providence, combining exceptional food and a memorable atmosphere with some logistical challenges. With its celebrated grilled pizzas, made-to-order desserts, and warm service, it promises a rewarding evening for those willing to plan ahead.

Rhode Island

Experience Al Forno in Providence, RI, known for its grilled pizzas, cozy ambiance, and mouthwatering desserts. Reserve your table today!

Savor Authentic Italian at Al Forno, Providence

Plan your visit to Al Forno in Providence with tips on dining hours, parking, and must-try dishes like the Dirty Rib-Eye Steak!

Explore Providence: Al Forno Itinerary Tips

Discover the history of Al Forno, a pioneer of grilled pizza since 1980, and its renowned Italian dishes in Providence, RI.

Al Forno Restaurant: Upscale Dining in Fox Point, Providence

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