5 Spots in Rhode Island to Dine in an Outdoor Igloo
Bring your own blanket and cozy on up while dining outside in an igloo during the winter months.
the “Encore” igloo at Track 15. Photo courtesy of Track 15
One positive thing the pandemic did for restaurants is to inspire and encourage all-season outdoor dining experiences just like in Scandinavian countries. There are a few restaurants in Rhode Island that have brought back igloo dining for yet another winter season. The igloos are lit up, most are heated, and all offer a pretty al fresco dining experience in the chillier months.
Track 15
Beginning Saturday, January 17, you can enjoy your favorite Track 15 food and drinks in one of two new dining igloos on the food hall’s outdoor plaza. While both igloos feature a dining table and chairs, a mini electric fireplace, rugs and blankets, each has a distinct theme. Think a warm winter lodge vibe in the “Hearthside” igloo vs. a more glamorous aesthetic in the “Encore” igloo. Available for booking during regular Track15 hours, the igloos can accommodate up to eight guests at a time in two-hour increments.
“With the bustle of the holiday season behind us, we are leaning into winter!” says Christopher Marsella, owner of Track 15. “We are proud to give guests a new way to enjoy their Track 15 favorites in this season. These additions exemplify our ongoing commitment as a true gathering place for great food, drinks, and fun in the heart of downtown Providence.”
Be sure to indulge in Track 15’s winter libation menu while you’re cozied up in the igloos, including drinks like winter sangria, blood orange spritz, mulled hot apple cider, hot toddies and more. The hall’s beverage team has even launched an Old Fashioned of the Month program (for January, expect Old Grandad Bonded Bourbon with sugar, Angostura and Regan’s Orange Bitters and orange peel).
How to reserve: Reservations can be made online. A $50 reservation fee is required as well as a $150 food and beverage minimum.
Details: 1 Union Station, Providence, track15ri.com
Mare Rooftop
Stay cozy in one of Mare Rooftop’s winter igloos featuring an unparalleled view of the Providence skyline. Each igloo serves up a seasonal theme and a fireplace. They seat up to six guests and can be reserved for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m. Each reservation includes two and a half hours in the igloo.
How to reserve: Reserve your igloo by calling the restaurant at 401-336-6273. All igloo reservations are secured with a $50 booking fee — this fee is not a deposit and will not be applied to the bill. There is a required minimum spend of $65 per person, and 20 percent gratuity will be added to the final bill.
Details: 229 Waterman St., Providence, 401-336-6273, marerooftop.com
Igloos at the Reef in Newport. Photo courtesy of The Reef
The Reef
Make an afternoon or evening reservation for private, heated igloo dining for two to eight people overlooking Newport Harbor. The Reef’s dinner menu will be offered, with a full cocktail and wine menu. The unique igloo offerings are a collaboration between the Reef and Exquisite Events and include different themes (past themes have included Winter Wonderland, Rainforest, Botanical Garden and Citrus Grove).
How to reserve: Reservations can be made online. The rental is for two hours and twenty minutes. There is a $100 rental fee per igloo (which will not be applied to your bill) as well as a $50 per person food and beverage minimum. The bill also includes 20 percent gratuity.
Details: 10 Howard Wharf, Newport, 401-324-5852, thereefnewport.com
Coast Guard House
The Coast Guard House welcomes guests to dine by the sea in one of its designer-decorated snowglobes (a.k.a. igloos). The heated igloos can accommodate two to eight guests at a time. Enjoy panoramic ocean views, fresh seafood, expertly crafted cocktails and attentive service
How to reserve: Reservations can be made online or by calling the restaurant directly. There is a $100 igloo rental charge for three hours (reservations time may be shorter during holiday weekends) in addition to a $25 per guest minimum spend.
Details: 40 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, 401-789-0700, thecoastguardhouse.com
Newport Harbor Island Resort
Newport Harbor Island Resort’s private igloos at its onsite restaurant, 1639, are picture-perfect for a date night or special celebration. Each heated igloo offers space for up to eight guests within an intimate atmosphere complete with plush seating, soft lighting and personalized service. Find the breakfast and dinner menus here, and the lunch menu here.
How to reserve: Reservations can be made online. There is a $100 charge per party in addition to food and beverage prices.
Details: 1 Goat Island, Newport, 401-849-2600, newportharborisland.com
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