How Chepachet Farms Turns Sap into Syrup

Where to Eat

Tavern on Main
It’s easy to forget that Rhode Island has a long history, but at Tavern on Main, you’ll be greeted by historic details around every corner. Housed at a one-time stagecoach shop, the tavern is approximately 300 years old. It was also once the focal point of the Dorr Rebellion, Rhode Island’s own mini Civil War. Sit in its storied rooms and enjoy classic fare, from New England pot roast to stuffed lobster. 1157 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, 710-9788, tavernonmainri.com.

The Village Bean
Open early morning to mid-afternoon, the Village Bean is the place to go for breakfast and lunch in Chepachet. The casual, inviting atmosphere makes it easy for families to enjoy the menu, which ranges from freshly made baked goods to breakfast burritos to hot sandwich melts. Grab a cup of coffee and a galaxy cinnamon bun in this cozy, cabin-like cafe. 15 Money Hill Rd., Chepachet, 710-9470.

A short drive away
Blackie’s Bull Dog Tavern
From paleo options and juicy burgers to freshly grilled pizzas, cheesesteaks and a variety of tacos (just to name a few), expect twists on some of your favorite comfort foods. Join Blackie’s for brunch too, and munch on breakfast bites including chicken and biscuits, banana cinnamon paleo pancakes, a steak and egg hoagie and more. It’s a five-napkin kind of joint. 181 George Washington Hwy., Smithfield, 231-4777, blackiesbulldogtavern.com.

Trattoria Romana
Arrive with an empty belly and be prepared to experience an authentic Italian meal. Be transported to little Italy with beautiful decor and painted murals. Begin your meal with pasta e fagioli, a classic Italian soup made with cannellini beans and pasta. Stay for one of several pasta dishes (our favorite is the rigatoni alla zingara: homemade pasta sauteed with sweet Italian sausage, fresh mushrooms and black olives in a San Marzano tomato sauce with a touch of cream and Romano cheese) or a chicken, meat or fish dish. 3 Wake Robin Rd., Lincoln, 333-6700, trattoriaromana.com.
Tavola da Siena
Mix and match your favorite meats, cheeses and olives to create your own antipasto board, choose from a plethora of grilled pizza options or munch on a salad, and we’re not talking about soggy greens in boring dressing. The thick cut tomatoes and fresh mozzarella in the Caprese salad provide the perfect start to a winning meal. Don’t forget to order dessert; the tiramisu is heavenly. 400 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, 349-4111, sienari.com.

Sources: Chepachet Farms; city-data.com

Where to Explore

Purple Cat Tavern
Situated near the Rhode Island and Connecticut wine trails, Purple Cat Tavern offers a bounty of wines and beers at the bar. The building is under new management, but you can still listen to live music, watch a performance by a local theater company or join a class held in the cedar post and beam building. 11 Money Hill Rd., Chepachet, 500-0803, gotothepurplecat.com.

A SHORT DRIVE AWAY
R1 Indoor Karting
One of the newest additions to Lincoln’s recreational offerings, R1 Indoor Karting lets customers zoom around a go-kart track at blistering speeds. Equipped with the latest in kart technology, the electric vehicles have the power of a racecar without the fumes. Its asphalt track is specifically designed for karting, meaning you’ll have a fast experience all around. Grab a bite at the onsite Fuel Restaurant and Sports Bar afterwards and try your hand at axe-throwing, too. 100 Higginson Ave., Lincoln, 721-5554, r1indoorkarting.com.

BreakTime Bowl and Bar
Originally built to prevent workers from unionizing in the 1920s, this bowling alley has been revitalized to become a popular hangout spot in the Hope Artiste Village. Grab your friends and enjoy some good pub grub and drinks for a night full of fun. 999 Main St., Pawtucket, 427-7006, breaktimebowlandbar.com

Where to Shop

A Village Coin and Bullion
Whether you’re looking to shop or sell, A Village Coin and Bullion offers both options. In the store, you can buy coins and currency, jewelry and emergency preparedness supplies such as water purification sets, solar power kits and freeze-dried food products. You can also sell or get coins and jewelry appraised. 1191 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, 710-7200, villagecoinandbullion.net.

Brown and Hopkins Country Store
For more than 200 years, Brown and Hopkins Country Store has operated as a general store; it sells everything from vintage lighting to penny candy and all purchases are rung up on an antique cash register. Whether you want to give your home some antique charm or fill up with some pocket-change sweet treats, you’re sure to enjoy the store’s old-fashioned hospitality and charm. 1179 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, 568 4830, brownandhopkins.com.

The Town Trader
Once a 1960s trading post, this antique store is noted as the oldest structure in historic Chepachet Village. The Town Trader houses gifts and antiques galore, plus vintage furniture, jewelry and clothing too. Add something new (to you) to your collection. 1177 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, 568-8800, thetowntrader.com.

A short drive away
Donna Dressler Jewelry, Gifts and More
Find a stylish array of hostess gifts as well as ideas for new babies, birthdays and maybe even something special for yourself. With selections from popular brands including Vera Bradley, Charlie Paige, Stonewall Kitchen and Yankee Candle, this is a one-stop shop for all of your gift-giving needs. Or if you’re looking for something a little more personalized, Donna creates gift baskets just the way you want them. 1528 Old Louisquisset Pike, Lincoln, 722-8022, donnadressler.com.

Ryco’s Trimming Co.
If you’re crafty and love textiles, Ryco’s is the place for you. Equipped with every fabric, thread and sewing tool imaginable, the shop has the right supplies for beginners and experts alike. Take some classes on sewing, quilting or design. Whatever your project, whether it be a quilt or a teddy bear, you’ll find resources and inspiration at Ryco’s. 25 Carrington St., Lincoln, 725-1779, rycotrim.com.

Stillwater Antiques
Housed in a repurposed mill building, this antiques emporium reflects the history of the surrounding town. Check out cabinets full of vintage memorabilia, Victorian-era furniture and just about everything else from the near or distant past. If you’re an old-fashioned audiophile, Stillwater also has an impressive collection of vinyl, from jazz to rock. Looking to sell some of your own forgotten treasures? Bring in your goods for consignment. 711 Putnam Pike, Greenville, 949-4999, stillwaterantiques.net.

Gift Shop at Wright’s Farm
This 4,000-square-foot shop runs the gamut; there is a little something for everyone. Pick up a toy or other kid’s item in the children’s department, peruse the fashion accessories including clothing, handbags and jewelry or snack on homemade fudge or your favorite sweets from the candy corner. If you shop often, be sure to join the rewards program and earn a point for every dollar spent. 84 Inman Rd., Harrisville, 765-5745, wrightsfarm.com.