Audette — Restaurant in Newport

31 July 2025 update: Another outstanding evening at Audette! Unlike our previous visits this one was spur of the moment as we were out and about in Newport and stopped in at 5:30PM to see if they could accommodate us for dinner that evening. With gracious hospitality that exemplifies Audette the host and Dan provided a reservation at our preferred time. Yet another way Audette differentiates itself from other Newport restaurants! Arriving later for dinner we were seated a lovely table, were we noted the several new items on the menu. Our dinner which mixed some of our favorites - Mushroom Vol au Vent and beef tartare - with some new / changed items - Seared Foie Gras on a blueberry flan and Striped Bass - was wonderful. The Striped Bass deserves special mention - perfectly prepared with the skin on and delicately crisp it was paired with a finely chopped mixture of summer vegetables that added a bright flavor - amazing! Turning to Dan for a recommended wine pairing he chose a Les Setilles white burgundy. Chilled to just the right temperature it was the perfect crisp wine to go with the striped bass and seared tuna entrees. As always we look forward to our next visit.

19 June 2025 update: Audette continues to impress! Dining on a Thursday night during what has been a rainy June we would not have been surprised to find Audette lightly patronized as has been the case for many Newport restaurants this spring. Instead, we found a pleasantly full dining room with a lively vibe that still allowed for easy conversation. Warmly greeted by Carmen, we were eager to try the spring/summer menu. As always Dan, our Captain, and Ben, our server, provided amazing service…and terrific recommendations to include a new (and different from the online menu) presentation of the seared foie gras that included white asparagus strips, toasted pistachios and brown butter sauce that is simply to die for! The seared tuna entrée was perfectly prepared and on point for the summer season, while the veal chop was impressive in size and presentation, with the amazing flavor of mushrooms and caramelized onions. In what has become a fun part of dining at Audette we asked Dan to choose a wine that would pair with both the tuna and the veal chop. Adding to the enjoyment he brought the wine to the table wrapped in a napkin so we could not see the label and had us try it. While we are not wine experts, we could tell that it was Italian, and it turned out to be a 2018 Terre Nere Campigli Vallone Brunello di Montalcino which paired wonderfully with our entrees. Left to our own devices we would not have thought to pair an Italian red with French food…thank you Dan! As always, we capped off the evening with one of Dan’s espresso martinis…the standard by which we measure all others. As we departed, we noted the bar – which is a terrific addition in the transition from Chanterelle to Audette – was well patronized by folks enjoying an upscale nightcap. We left as always eagerly looking forward to...

Thank you for setting the standards for what a restaurant should be. What a rare gem.

Audette was our third option, as all the fancy rooftop/waterfront restaurants were booked for the day. Boy, am I glad that it was our third and best choice — next time in town, it will be our first, by far. Despite having full house, they were adequately staffed and we got plenty of attention. Attention to detail was evident from the moment you set your foot into their door. Staff is well groomed and very classy. Wine choice for Reisling and Rose couldn’t be better. Details of the interior are neutral and yet elegant. The chairs are very comfortable and tables are good size to fit a small flower vase, a lamp and full set of silverware. Then come the dishes — each set of ceramics that landed on our table was eye candy so many restaurants lack. Appetizers and Entrees were smaller portions (for US standards), but they were so good that we literally said “wow”, making sure we leave space for next dish such great combination of taste, texture and presentation of all ingredients left us both impressed and so happy that we were turned down at the other two venues. Soufflé for dessert was the cherry on top of this cake.

The entire time, we felt cared for by every person who approached our table. We had 3 different people taking care of us (with many more behind scenes, I am sure) and we left feeling as if we are royalty.

Thank you. We...

I had an amazing time and I’ve been coming since the days it was Bouchard. Every single person I have spoken to says it has gone downhill under the new ownership but I don’t agree. I do miss their signature lobster dish but otherwise I think the place is fantastic. Even if it’s not quite as good as it used to be, it’s still the best restaurant in Newport. You simply cannot do better for service, atmosphere and quality food. I am not impressed by Thames st Kitchen next-door who actually owns Audette. Their services not very friendly and the steak is worse than something you could grill at home - TouristTrap - but that’s a different review. Audette is well...