The Eddy — Restaurant in Providence

I have passed by many times and always avoided it despite hearing good things because there is always a crowd. One icy, cold night after having a drink at the Magdalene Room a few blocks over (which is amazing btw) we stopped in because it didn’t look as crowded as usual. They sat us in the back, checked our IDs, got us waters and we ordered our drinks. Everything seemed normal until my one male friend ordered his drink, the bartender said “why don’t you finish that water for me first?” My friend was taken aback. We had all had a drink at the bar beforehand, so we were a little tipsy but that’s why you go to a bar..... He had planned to buy us our round but was aghast when they refused to serve him - and only him. So he drank the water like he was told and still the bartender never brought him his drink. I understand bartenders need to watch and make sure no one gets excessively drunk in their bar but why refuse to serve ONLY him? It was strange, especially seeing as he was probably the least loud of all of us. He ended up leaving very upset and it really put a damper our night. In any case, it seemed rude that the bartend singled him out. And despite all the good things I’ve heard about this place, the cocktails we had were mediocre anyways. Won’t...

I love the vibe here. And the cocktails. Especially the cocktails. The bartenders know their craft, and their cocktail menu is creative and even a bit whimsical if that's possible. The tone is set by the almost life-sized painting of a jumbo jet, warm and moody like a sun-faded Polaroid, watching over the patrons. The space is at once sultry and intimate, yet lively and gregarious. Food offerings are simple and minimal.

And on a personal note, as a white man of some size who probably looks like he can "take care of himself", I had the rare experience of a bartender discreetly checking in with me to make sure an overly familiar patron wasn't making me uncomfortable. I was amazed and endeared to realize the bartender took it upon himself to ensure everyone's safety...

The Eddy is a little gem of Providence. Open late for drinks with a super lovely staff and very classic feel this is the perfect spot for a relaxed evening with a few friends or a date. The vibe is very sleek and the seating is cute and cozy - a couple of wood booths that could seat 5 or 6, lots of room at the bar, and little tables for smaller groups. The drink menu is nicely balanced with something for everyone and the drinks themselves are always gorgeously made and garnished! Do note that they stop serving food a few hours before close so definitely eat beforehand if you're getting there past midnight. I've heard amazing things about the food, though, so I will definitely be making a return visit soon to...