The Lobster Bar in Newport, Rhode Island

Mike and I have been taking a lot of daytrips to beautiful Newport as it is such an easy drive from Fall River. I love all the little coastal towns we can visit so easily – it’s one of the main perks of living in this region. Newport is probably my favorite vacation destination in Rhode Island. There is so much to do to justify the drive. We recently took a gorgeous cruise around the harbor and we were looking for a touristy, scenic place to dine afterwards. Our tour guide recommended The Lobster Bar, a fantastic waterfront restaurant and bar located in the touristy Bowen’s Wharf area.

Highlights of this restaurant include a raw bar and beautiful waterfront seating with amazing views of the harbor. During the warmer months, you can enjoy a leisurely meal on the gorgeous deck. One of the things I like about this region is that so many restaurants offer a nice seasonal outdoor dining area. I love dining al fresco during the summer season after a very long winter where most outside activities are limited.

After a long day on your feet exploring this historical city, this is the place to go if you are seeking fresh seafood in a gorgeous setting. Even though there is not much I can eat on the menu, I enjoy sitting on the beautiful patio and taking in the waterfront scenery.

Aquidneck Raw Bar in Newport, Rhode Island

Fresh seafood & more

Now this is fresh lobster! The Lobster Bar is located behind Aquidneck Lobster Company. Here you will find plenty of fresh, local seafood options on the menu.

Fresh local seafood at Aquidneck Lobster Company - Newport, Rhode Island

This restaurant does not offer much in terms of vegetarian options, however, I was able to find a Cucumber Salad on the menu. I did enjoy some tasty fries. I just wish they offered a few main entrees for vegetarians.

Cucumber salad at The Lobster Bar in Newport, Rhode Island

Mike, also not a big seafood eater, went with the Chicken Caesar Wrap, which was a filling combo of chicken, romaine lettuce, and Caesar dressing wrapped in a tortilla and served with chips.

Chicken caesar wrap at The Lobster Bar in Newport, Rhode Island

My father, the only seafood eater out of the 4 of us, ordered the Filet of Fish sandwich, which was an appetizing beer battered Atlantic Cod on a roll. We also ordered a basket of fries, which were gone in a matter of minutes.

Fish sandwich at The Lobster Bar - Newport, Rhode Island

The seafood is quite pricey (about 30-50 bucks depending on what you order) which is pretty normal, however, there were still a few budget options as well. We came mostly for the beautiful outdoor seating. The casual atmosphere and friendly service were also a plus.

Outdoor deck at The Lobster Bar in Newport, Rhode Island
Outdoor seating on the deck at The Lobster Bar in Newport, Rhode Island

A few highlights of the menu include:

  • New England clam chowder
  • Lobster Bisque
  • Lobster Panini
  • Fried Lobster Ravioli
  • R.I. Clam Boil
  • Lobster Rolls (regular and naked)
  • Fish and Chips
  • Fisherman’s Platter
  • Oysters Rockfeller

If you are a fan of seafood and wouldn’t mind a scenic view too, then you will love Aquidneck!

  • Address: 31 Bowen’s Wharf
  • Hours: Noon-5pm (Sunday – Thursday), Noon-8pm (Friday & Saturday)

Other area activities I recommend:

Mama Luisa: This is a wonderful local Italian restaurant on historic Thames Street. I love the food and the beautiful dining ambiance. This place does offer great vegetarian options including a wonderful butternut squash ravioli. There is also the gorgeous classic theater called the Jane Pickens in this area.

Butternut Squash Ravioli at Mamma Luisa Ristorante in Newport
This Butternut Squash ravioli at Mama Luisa’s is amazing!

Cliffwalk: Instead of just touring the luxurious Newport Mansions, I recommend taking a stroll along this iconic oceanfront path. You’ll get to see the exterior of each house, enjoy fabulous views of the water, and also get in a great workout! It’s one of my favorite things to do in the area.

Cliffwalk photo opp
Cliffwalk sign in Newport, RI

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge: Gorgeous place to wildlife and bird watch and hike. I recommend the short but very scenic Ocean View loop. On a side note, watch for ticks here (Mike found one on his neck once).

Ocean View Loop Trail at Sachuest Point Wildlife Refuge