The best restaurants in Providence County

“Pastas, traditional entrees & a robust wine list are offered at this elegant Italian restaurant.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“D. Palmieri's Bakery is that reliable Johnston staple for Italian breads, NY style pies, hefty calzones, and the beloved pizza strips you bring to every cookout. They also roll deep with sandwiches, daily prepared foods, soups, deli meats, pastries and cakes, plus catering and custom pizza designs.”

From the Johnston newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Fast-food outlet serving up namesake root beer, plus burgers, chicken & fries.”

“Popular Northern Italian spot in upscale but welcoming digs, with a long wine list & a cocktail bar.”

“Counter-serve pizzeria featuring pies such as the Buffalo-chicken pizza plus calzones, subs & wings.”

“Italian dinners & early-bird specials in a relaxed venue with a full bar & live bands on weekends.”

“If you’ve been sleeping on Isla Bar & Grill, consider this your sign: a lively Providence hangout serving Caribbean cocktails and Dominican-driven plates with big, bold flavor since 2017, perfect for unwinding after work or rounding up friends when you want dinner to feel like a mini getaway.”

“Traditional Italian dishes & cocktails, plus a take-out deli, in a relaxed setting open since 1971.”

“Fast-food burger & fries joint with an old-school feel, including retro drive-in service.”

“Casual restaurant offering Mexican fare, including design-your-own burritos, tacos & bowls.”

“Julianna's is a bright, no-fuss South American spot in nearby Providence serving Bolivian and Peruvian classics, desserts, and fresh juices that actually taste like fruit. It’s an easy go-to for a weeknight craving or a low-key lunch, with online ordering when you just want great food without the errand.”

From the Johnston newsletter, September 12, 2026

“California Taco Shop keeps it straightforward and delicious with tacos, burritos, and the kind of quesabirria that derails your evening plans in the best way. Feeling extra? Go for the pizza quesadilla or the California torta piled with steak and fries, then call it a win.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Whether you’re plotting a midweek taco fix or craving something cozy, La Eskina Gastronomia Mexicana delivers with legit street-style flavors, a lineup of tacos, and birria specialties like quesabirria and the surprisingly addictive birria ramen.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Casual Japanese steakhouse featuring teppanyaki chefs cooking tabletop, plus sushi & a full bar.”

“The Smithfield D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches turns out legit, freshly grilled classics like the legendary Steak Number 9 and steak & cheese, plus rice and grain bowls and grilled topped salads. Feeding a crew? Catering boxes and deli favorites, even lobster rolls, make meetings and weeknights way easier.”

From the Johnston newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“Italian restaurant offering traditional pastas & entrees in a casual, warm atmosphere.”

“Neighborhood fixture serving familiar Italian fare & thin-crusted brick-oven pizzas since 1957.”

“When you want a no-nonsense pie and then some, Mt. Pleasant Deli & Pizza comes through with build-your-own pizzas, legit gourmet combos, calzones, hearty footlong subs, and homemade half-pound burgers. It’s the kind of local standby you reach for weeknights, busy nights, and sudden buffalo-chicken cravings.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

“Lively restaurant offering all-you-can-eat Korean-style BBQ & hot pot, plus private karaoke rooms.”

“Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“When you want a low-key, high-reward dinner in nearby Cumberland, La Familia Restaurant delivers with homemade Italian and Portuguese favorites and fresh New England seafood. Think Chicken Parmesan, Linguini Frutti Di Mare, and Portuguese Calamari, plus homemade desserts that somehow convince you to ignore leftovers.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, October 3, 2026

“California Taco Shop keeps it simple and tasty with tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas for lunch and dinner, and they’ve got multiple Rhode Island spots including Woonsocket, Pawtucket, and North Providence. Easy pick when you want a quick, satisfying bite without overthinking where to go.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 5, 2026

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.”

“Angelo's Palace Pizza has been family owned since 1978 and still cooks from scratch with high-end local ingredients. Beyond the pies you can build exactly how you like, they roll out Italian and Greek comfort, solid drinks, and easy takeout or delivery... plus catering when your crew gets hungry.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, October 10, 2026

“D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches has been serving New England since 1967, and the Woonsocket spot keeps it classic with the Steak Number 9, hot-off-the-grill steak and cheese, and legit lobster rolls. When you want more than cold cuts, their rice and grain bowls and grilled salads scratch the itch.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Whether you want a pint with brunch or a ribeye that actually delivers, Ciro's Tavern, Brunch & Patio nails the British-pub comfort zone with a lively vibe, a patio locals swear by, and weekly live music and trivia nights. The lamb, oysters, and crispy wings score repeat orders.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 17, 2026

“El Rodeo Mexican Bar and Grill is that dependable weeknight go-to for fresh-ingredient cocktails and signature margaritas, backed by Mexican cooking from a team with years in the kitchen. When you want flavor without fuss and a spot that feels local, put this on your regular rotation.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Brick-oven pizzeria featuring pies with thin-crust options and hot and specialty toppings such as sausage.”

“Patriots Diner keeps it simple and satisfying with homestyle breakfasts, sandwiches, and hearty lunch plates in an old-school dining room that invites lingering over a mug. When you want local, no-nonsense comfort food that just hits right, this is the move.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“From crepes and quiche to a can't-miss eggs benedict, Modern Bistro nails cozy breakfast and unhurried brunch vibes right here in Cumberland.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Torre Restaurant Group brings authentic Italian cooking to Southern New England courtesy of Chef Luciano Canova, from just outside Rome, with trattorias and pizzerias across RI, including nearby Lincoln.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“OZ Tacos & Tequila brings Oz-themed fun to nearby Lincoln with locally sourced, chef-driven tacos like bang bang shrimp and creative drinks. They've been voted Best Tacos in RI by RI Food Fights three years straight, so when cravings hit, follow the yellow brick road.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Trattoria Romana annex offering prepared Italian dishes & desserts in a quick-serve/takeout format.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Eggs-Up Family Restaurant has been serving hometown breakfasts and easygoing lunches since 1986, with award-winning plates and the kind of staff who remembers your usual. Think cinnamon roll pancakes, Bacado Benedict, gluten-friendly swaps, and monthly coffee flavors that somehow make Monday feel like a good idea.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Pat's Italian Cumberland turns weeknights into excuse-to-eat nights with hearty Italian favorites, a playful cocktail list (hello, Espresso Martini and that lavender-leaning Violet Martini), and desserts that ruin resolutions, like Limoncello Mascarpone Cake and the REESE'S-studded Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Since 1973, Cumberland House of Pizza has been the go-to for freshly baked pies, grinders, soups, and salads, plus the full-service CHOPs Pub on site. It's the kind of family-run spot where you bump into neighbors, share a big menu, and leave plotting your next slice.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, October 13, 2026

“Casual pizza parlor offering subs and casual eats, plus friendly service.”

“Olly's Pizzeria & Diner has been a Woonsocket staple for more than 25 years, known for deep-pan and thin crust pies plus Italian comfort picks from calzones and spinach pies to pastas and subs. A Reader's Choice favorite for best pizzeria and delivery, they also pour beer, wine, and cocktails at night.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Casual eatery and bar serving pizza, subs, wings, and other comfort fare.”

“Small family owned Supreme Pizza hits that weeknight sweet spot with classic pies, hearty calzones, and legit subs, plus pasta, 6oz burgers, and even fish & chips. They cater, and online ordering keeps it easy when you’re juggling kids, errands, and a hunger level that can’t wait.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Casual restaurant established in 1968 serving pizzas, subs & wraps, plus milkshakes & desserts.”

“Family-owned Park Ave Pizza keeps Woonsocket fed with high-quality pies that actually taste like someone cares, plus hearty calzones and fresh salads. Easy online ordering for pickup or delivery, and clutch catering when you don’t want to cook for the crew... just show up hungry.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, August 30, 2026

“401 Pizza keeps things casual and tasty with daily-made dough, proper slices, and a lineup of wildcards like the 401 Special, Mexican Taco, and Gyro pies. Wings, loaded fries, and grinders round it out... perfect for when Cumberland hunger hits and you want flavor without fuss.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Elm Street Pizza lets you dial in your toppings just how you like it, or go with their signature pies, plus solid sandwiches and Italian subs. A dependable go-to for weeknights, last-minute kid bribes, and those can-we-not-cook-tonight moments.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Sunrise Pizza & Creamery is the kind of no-frills counter spot Woonsocket leans on when the craving hits... crisp-edged pies with fun spins like Firecracker or Ranch Rocket, hefty calzones, and those famous breaded wings, plus ice cream for dessert when you’ve allegedly sworn off seconds.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Casual restaurant serving birria, tacos, and other Mexican staples.”

“All Star Pizza is the move this week when dinner needs to just be good, now. Pies loaded with 100% natural toppings that arrive fresh daily, crispy fries, and burgers made from farm-fed, humanely raised beef, plus Daiya vegan cheese and a gluten free crust so everyone’s covered.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, August 24, 2026

“When you want that unmistakable New England pie, Papa Gino's still cranks out handmade pizzas using an over 80-year-old Italian family recipe and fresh ingredients. Grab a couple pies for movie night or mix it up with apps, pastas, subs, salads and Ben & Jerry's for dessert.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Family-run since 1972, Woonsocket Palace Pizza has that no-frills, hits-the-spot vibe, serving Italian classics and the pies you crave, with order-online convenience and delivery when you want dinner to arrive already. A dependable go-to for Cumberland nights when cooking feels wildly overrated.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Pizzeria serving traditional Greek-style pies, plus pasta dishes, salads and burgers.”

“Build-your-own pizza nights, anyone? MVP Pizzeria fires brick-oven pies just how you like them, then backs it up with wings, strombolis, hot dogs and subs, so everyone at home base gets fed. Solid go-to for Cumberland folks when the fridge is giving nothing...”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Azalea Asian Cuisine nails the "something for everyone" brief with Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese favorites plus fresh sushi made with traditional techniques. Great for a low-key dinner, online ordering is a breeze, and if you're hosting, they welcome parties and catering.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Pizza, burgers, and other comfort foods in a casual setting with a kids' menu.”

“Casual, family-friendly place dishing up pizza, grinders, and wings, plus a full bar.”

“Local pan-Asian chain serving sushi & a variety of classic entrees in a funky, contemporary space.”

“Bella Restaurant, just up the road in Glendale, nails that family-owned, five-star-meets-cozy vibe locals swear by, serving polished Italian plates with sincere, old-school hospitality since 1998.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 5, 2026

“The Hangry Italian serves fresh, made-to-order classics with an on-the-go vibe, led by Chef and owner Massimo, a perfectionist in the kitchen. Keep an eye on their events and catering menu, then claim your fork and let them turn hunger into an experience.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Casual spot offering Japanese dishes such as love boat platters plus a selection of wine.”

“George's Pizza 'n Pub keeps it classic with crisp pies, grinders and wraps, seafood and Italian specialties, plus beer, wine and cocktails, all in a casual, historic pub vibe. A quick hop from Putnam when you want comfort food, a drink and zero fuss on a weeknight.”

From the Putnam newsletter, October 12, 2026

“Casual restaurant serving Asian eats including sushi and ramen, plus small plates and beer.”

“Bandidos Mexican Restaurant keeps it easy for weeknights and game days with crowd-pleasing enchiladas, tacos, and other classic plates, plus a full bar for the requisite margaritas. Family-friendly vibe, online ordering when you don't want to cook, and catering when you don't want to lift a finger.”

From the Woonsocket newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Andrew's Bistro, Bakery & Catering nails that cozy, upscale vibe, fireplace included, with Italian-meets-European plates, hand-cut steaks, and seasonal chef specials that feel like a proper night out. Pair it with a standout bar program and finish at the in-house bake shop... because cheesecake counts as self-care.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Guacamoles Maria Cocina Mexicana Woonsocket is a casual, clean spot for tacos, burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, and the usual Mexican staples. Right over in Woonsocket, it’s an easy go-to when you need flavorful comfort without fanfare... quick lunch, low-key dinner, or a stress-free takeout night.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Trattoria Romana Lincoln nails that cozy, refined vibe, with murals, a refined bar, and plates that lean Roman in all the best ways. Chef Luciano Canova’s crew works fresh, homemade pastas and creative twists on traditional flavors into weeknight or date-night standouts... a solid go-to when you want wow.”

From the Cumberland newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Ebisu Providence is a cozy, family-owned izakaya where ramen bowls, shabu shabu, and robata yaki meet a legit sake lineup and Japanese craft beers. It’s the kind of spot you hit after work to graze on shareable tapas and unwind without fuss.”

“New York-style pies (including chicken-parm), plus wings, steak & cheese subs and grape leaves.”

“When you need a quick, genuinely good dinner, Caliente Reservoir delivers boldly fresh, modern Mexican with food grilled over fire, made fresh every day, and a high energy vibe from a family-owned crew. Slide in this week for big flavor that feels 100% local and reliably hits the spot.”

From the Cranston newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Azul Tequila Bar & Mexican Grill is a Pawtucket go-to that turns ordinary weeknights into mini fiestas with upscale takes on tacos and burritos, plus creative margaritas from a lively bar. Perfect for date night or a group hang, and if you're hosting, their catering and private party options make it easy.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, October 12, 2026

“Family-owned and proud, Catanzaro's Pizzeria Cranston turns out pies with bright house sauce and stromboli-style calzones made fresh early each day... they go fast. Think Italian comfort food that actually tastes like someone’s mom cares, perfect for an easy win this week.”

From the Cranston newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Casual, pizza-centric joint serving burgers, plus chicken dishes, salads, fries and grinders.”

“Right over the line in Central Falls, Samayoa's Restaurant and Bakery is turning out juicy birria tacos, melty birria quesadillas, and mixtos loaded with steak, chicken, and chorizo. When dinner indecision hits this week, this spot delivers serious comfort and flavor that will make your weekday feel like a win.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 21, 2026

“House of Pizza is that no-frills Pawtucket standby for crispy-crust pies piled with reliable toppings and generously stuffed steak or roast beef grinders that eat like a small victory. Perfect for weeknights or game-day takeout when you want familiar, hearty food that won’t overcomplicate your evening.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 30, 2026

“If you're in Pawtucket or just over the line in Central Falls, Tacos El Paraiso Inc is the reliable move when the craving hits. Straightforward, tasty Mexican staples and easy online ordering mean you can keep it low-key, feed the crew, and let the couch win the night.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Excellent Pizza (Providence) nails the classics with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, plus square pizza and hefty grinders from chicken parm to steak & cheese. Build your own, grab a calzone, or get it delivered hot and fresh when the couch calls.”

From the Providence newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Upbeat eatery with colorful decor featuring Mexican breakfast & lunch grub such as huevos rancheros.”

“Whether you need a midweek pick-me-up or a game-night spread, Ramon's Pizza serves up the comfort you crave with handcrafted pies, signature calzones, hearty pasta dinners, fresh salads, and flavor-packed parmesan subs. They keep things interesting with gourmet combos and generations-tested dough, sauce, and cheese.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Traditional Italian fare & pizza served in an offbeat space decorated with murals & a sky ceiling.”

“Family-owned location for burritos, enchiladas and other traditional Mexican fare, plus cocktails and a kids' menu.”

“Japanese eatery offering unique rolls like steak & cheese & teriyaki chicken, plus fried ice cream.”

“Casual pizza joint featuring custom pies, plus Italian staples like wings and lasagnas.”

“Cultura Mixta Family Restaurant blends Japanese and Mexican flavors in a family-friendly, no-stress setting, so everyone at the table gets what they’re craving. Put it on your dinner rotation this week if you want something different but still comforting.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Clean fixture offering pizzas, grinders and wings, plus takeout or dine-in options.”

“When you want reliable, from-scratch goodness this week without overthinking dinner, The Big Cheese & Pub serves hand-prepped pies and pastas, house-made sauces and meatballs, and salads with that award-winning dressing locals swear by. Over 45 years of home-style vibes, a friendly pub, and zero fuss.”

From the Warwick newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Two partners turned a shared dream into seriously good Mexican eats at La Herradura Taqueria Mexicana right next door in Central Falls, serving tacos, tostadas, nachos, and quesadillas with a lot of heart.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, October 2, 2026

“Casual stop for creative whole wheat thin-crust pizzas, with vegan & gluten-free options.”

“Skip the what's-for-dinner debate and cruise to Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet in East Providence for a sprawling lineup of Chinese, sushi, seafood and American comfort picks, plus a DIY hibachi station where you choose the goods and watch them sizzle. Over 150 options, zero judgment for second plates.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 26, 2026

“India Restaurant keeps it interesting with a creative blend of classic comfort like Chicken Tikka Masala and fun twists like salmon Bengal Fish Curry, plus 30+ veg and vegan options. Weekday lunch thali, grab-and-go boxes, and a weekend thali feast make it an easy habit.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 6, 2026

“At Pizza Mamma, the scratch-made dough and Italian-American love letter of styles Detroit, Sicilian, and New York make weeknights taste like Nonna visited. Started by Cranston native Alicia Carmody, it channels Superior Bakery’s craftsmanship into pies that feel like home... and vanish before leftovers exist.”

From the Cranston newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Guatemala-born counter-serve chain specializing in fried & grilled chicken & sides.”

“Since 1933, Twin Oaks Restaurant has been the local move for classic Italian, seafood, and steak, with multiple dining rooms ready for the whole crew and banquet-worthy spreads when the guest list grows. Old-school comfort, generous plates, and that Rhode Island no-fuss charm you already trust.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Casual, Peruvian spot for rotisserie chicken and other Latin fare, plus Chinese eats.”

“Casual restaurant with an all-you-can-eat format offering Korean BBQ and hot pot dishes.”

“Casual Guatemalan joint in a colorful space serving big portions of homestyle eats & margaritas.”

“Kid-friendly pub chain offering classic fare like burgers, wings & salads in informal surrounds.”

“Since 1962, Wein-O-Rama has been dishing Rhode Island hot wieners slathered in homemade meat sauce, plus all-day breakfast hits and diner burgers that taste like home. Keep it simple this week, treat yourself to a plate that’s been making locals happy for generations.”

From the Warwick newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“La Gran Parada Restaurant keeps it classic with sancocho, mofongo, and yellow rice that hits the spot, plus coffee when you need a lift.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 26, 2026

“La Casona Restaurant keeps things mellow and spacious so you can actually hear your friends, then delivers the kind of traditional Colombian cooking that makes empty plates happen fast. Beer and cocktails are along for the ride, perfect for a slow, satisfying weeknight or a no-fuss celebration.”

From the Pawtucket newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Waterside Thai Kitchen, formerly Rim Nahm, is still serving the greatest hits of Thailand right here at home. Think steamy Tom Yum with a kick, classic Pad Thai that nails the chew, and Mango Sticky Rice you’ll swear you’re saving for later... then promptly don’t.”

From the Warwick newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Chinatown On Thayer has your weeknight rescue handled with authentic Chinese and Asian favorites, now with sushi in the mix. Keep it simple and delicious, dine in if you feel social or order online for takeout or delivery, then enjoy that glorious moment when comfort food just fixes the day.”

From the Providence newsletter, August 7, 2026

“DownCity Pizza & Sandwiches Providence keeps it classic with saucy pies, stacked sandwiches, twirlable pastas and juicy burgers, the kind of no-fuss comfort that hits after a long day on Route 2 or the bay. Keep this one on speed dial when cooking feels optional.”

From the Providence newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Team GottaQ BBQ caters legit smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken plus collards, 4-cheese mac, and cornbread. For your office lunch or backyard shindig, they roll up with an onsite grilling trailer, then handle fries, smash burgers, wings, and the whole buffet set-up so you just eat.”

From the Providence newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Seaplane Diner keeps it casual with hearty breakfasts and the kind of familiar plates you want on a gray Providence morning. Think clam cakes, ravioli, and no-nonsense comfort that hits the spot when you need it.”

From the Providence newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Providence Coal Fired Pizza is the move when only a coal-fired pie will do. Expect that craveable crisp-chewy bite, simple toppings done right, and a lively buzz that makes catching up with a friend feel like you actually had plans.”

From the Providence newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Jacky's Waterplace & Sushi Bar, part of the Jacky's Galaxie crew, is a reliable go-to for rolls and good vibes when you just want easy, tasty, local. Put it on this week’s list, meet a friend, and skip the dishes in favor of maki therapy.”

From the Providence newsletter, August 24, 2026

“For a no-fuss weeknight fix, Don Jose Tequilas Restaurant hits with homestyle plates, sizzling fajitas, burritos, and Ceviche de Camarones that actually tastes fresh. Order delivery or takeout, or linger at the sidewalk tables with beer, wine, and cocktails.”

From the Providence newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Designer rolls & aged meats are the draw at this swank fixture, with a raw bar & happy-hour menu.”

“Casual restaurant serving pizzas, subs, wraps, and salads for dine-in or delivery.”

“Nicks on Broadway nails the imaginative, seasonal New American thing with an open kitchen that makes dinner feel like a show, rotating daily menus, and a very Rhode Island-friendly Rosé + Oysters situation, perfect when you want to level up a casual catch-up or date night without the fuss.”

From the Providence newsletter, October 5, 2026