PJ's Pub - @@@@

Real local bar that caters to work people after work. The proximity of the bar to the center makes it a favorite of many. The drinks are reasonable but I thought the food was quite good. I first tried some of their wings (Caesar salad flavored?!?) and the were large and crispy. They were topped with dressing and shredded lettuce so I thought that was kind of strange but yet oddly good. I think they are cheaper on Monday's which is always a good thing.

Main course I got a double burger with bacon, Swiss and all the condiments. The cheese was great and melts, burger juicy and grilled, and bun held up well to the massiveness. Side of curly fries were great too. The price I think was under $10 so good value too.

Like many others come here after work or just if you want a good bar meal. The menu will not amaze, but what I had was quite solid.

1139 Pontiac Ave
Cranston, RI 02920

XO Cafe - @@@@

Went to this spot Tuesday night. I had been here when it was XO Steakhouse, but was interested if there were any changes made. The menu seemed a little more balanced, with coworkers getting meatloaf, scallops, and chowder. I went with the prime ribeye and side of mashed potatoes.

The steak was cooked ideally medium rare and quite tender. Being a ribeye I of course loved it. I also got the chimichurri sauce on the side and it had a nice garlic flavor along with the herbs. The potatoes did seem to be lacking in flavor and were quite smooth. I prefer some texture of lumps to add to the potatoes.

Others seemed to enjoy the meal as all the plates were clean at the end. The price was reasonable for my meal, a la carte the steak was under $30. Quite decent if it was prime because it was over a pound. Sides ranged from $4-$8 which again is quite reasonable. I will most likely go back especially if you want a good place a touch north of downtown.

125 North Main St
Providence, RI 02903

Cracker Barrel - @@@

Haven't been here in so long although I did go to a real life, non-commercialized version in Arizona. It was surprisingly good, refreshingly cheap, and an overall good experience. Will the food be the best you ever had? No. But will they do classical comfort food like the country fried steak well? Yes.

Also look at the sides...3!! Got mashed potatoes, corn, and broccoli cheese bake all with the meal for like $9! Also included a biscuit (great with honey as a desert) and cornbread (wasn't that good). Also I found out they make the sawmill gravy from scratch which is refreshing. All in all a good experience that I shouldn't wait so long to go back to.