December is a whirlwind of chilly days and nights, holiday activities and events, and glorious food. From timeless sips and treats to new creations, there’s something here for you and everyone on your nice list to celebrate this month.
If you eat one chocolate-based dessert this month, let it be the classic Snowball in Hell at the eatery named for sea captain Clarke Cooke, who built the original restaurant in 1780. Made with vanilla ice cream, chocolate roulade, warmed Callebault chocolate sauce, and served in a chocolate-coated goblet that’s topped with toasted coconut, you’ll be hooked after the first bite. I know I was. Newport
The much-anticipated J.T. Commons (formerly FoodLove Market) is now open. Named for the legendary local leader who founded Newport Restaurant Group, they feature two kinds of pizza: a thin-crust Roman with over 10 varieties including their signature JT’s Margherita, and a thicker focaccia version. This pizza-centric gathering place lived up to all my expectations! Middletown
Yes, you can pick up sensational fresh-baked bread at this wife-and-husband-owned bakery by Kristen Botello Murphy and Dan Murphy. You should also check-in with them for all your holiday cookie needs this month. I mean, what’s December without a plate overflowing with scrumptious gingerbread and sugar cookies? Bonus points for no artificial ingredients. North Kingstown
Founded this past spring by Khony Luong, this food truck is all about something called a Kroffle – which is a cross between a croissant and a waffle; crispy with a subtle sweetness, and delicious. I tried their signature dessert flight (three Kroffles with different toppings) and their fried chicken wrapped in Kroffle, and yum. Statewide; Find their next stop on Instagram @KroffleKreations.
I’m already obsessed with the sandwiches, matzoh ball soup, and bagels at this modern-day spin on traditional Jewish delis, opened by RI native Jason Sugarman in 2023. But their latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts enjoyed at Hanukkah time) are what starts calling to me this month. Enjoy them in-house or get them to go. Pawtucket
Winter – AKA hot chocolate season – is upon us! You’ll find some of the tastiest in the state here at this comfy cafe opened in 2016 by Shannon Wylie. This year, they are rolling out four flavors: salted caramel, peanut butter cup, black forest, and peppermint, all crafted from top-shelf ingredients like their made-in-house cocoa mix and syrups. I’ll take one of each, please! East Greenwich
Owned by Amy Foster since 2022, this celebrated bakery on Federal Hill is still home to all your old faves. The fresh fruit tart may be the rock star on the menu, but their cranberry raspberry tart (filled with lemon custard and topped with cranberry raspberry compote and a candied lemon zest garnish) is deserving of accolades, too. Pro-tip: order early. Providence
Somehow nestled away on busy Centerville Road is mother-and-son Allyn and Michael Gerard’s restaurant, serving comfort food, craft cocktails, and a full menu of tea, housed in a dreamy converted 1860 farmhouse. Personal faves include their small plates, specifically the deviled eggs, chicken wings, and their European butter board (a loaf of bread accompanied by a variety of flavored butters). Warwick
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