Western Hotel Pizza and Tavern: A True Hidden Dining Gem in Harrisville, RI

Article and Photo by Eric H., at VisitingNewEngland.com

The Western Hotel seems to be located somewhere between Gomer Pyle's gas station and Little House on the Prairie, but don't let its out-of-the way location in tiny Harrisville, RI, deter you from sampling a bit of history, loads of character and some terrific comfort foods.

Situated in a former 1700s stagecoach stop that once accommodated Abraham Lincoln (don't worry, not recently), this lonesome-looking, historic, craggy long wooden building features a cozy, rustic, all-wood dining room and swinging doors leading to a friendly and equally rustic bar. You would expect to see Gary Cooper walking in here at high noon, but the reality is that the Western Hotel is family-friendly with the proof being in the glitter crayons for the kids. The service is really pleasant -- the staff makes you feel like part of the family.

Locals rave about the great bar pizza, prime rib, marinated steak tips and fish and chips, but I really enjoyed the tender, black "Diamond" sirloin steak that matched the quality of those more expensive urban steak houses. The Western Hotel also features a terrific red Rhode Island clam chowder with a flavorful tomato base and plenty of tender clams.

If you're looking for an out-of-the-way restaurant with excellent food that seems like your own special discovery -- and a place that will make you feel right at home-- then consider the Western Hotel.

Western Hotel Pizza and Tavern
610 Douglas Ave.
Harrisville, RI
(Tel. 401) 568-6253