Two Forty Two in Providence Wows!
We were traveling to Providence for my b-day and after touring an oyster farming operation in Matunuck--which was fascinating and where a young aquaculturist is growing Matanuck oysters. We had an early reservation for dinner at Two Forty Two where we'd never eaten before but the menu looked promising.
It's on a busy street reminiscent of Boston's North End but nearly all the restaurants have free Valet Parking and you need it. Take advantage of it...
Our dinners were really excellent. I had two appetisers: An absolutely fabulous tuna ceviche with apple beautifully presented and delicious. I followed it by the beef carpaccio. Both were handsomely presented, very tasty, and prepared perfectly with big flavors and sophistication.
My partner had the ahi tuna entree which was great itself, but what put it over the top was the coconut jasmin rice with a touch of cracked black pepper that accompanied it. We could have eaten bowls and bowls of it!
They surprised me with a decadent not-too-sweet chocolate cake for my birthday. But the biggest surprise was when the chef came out: he's 21 years old!!! His last name is Bossi (cannot remember his first name) and he's a Johnson & Wales graduate. Friendly, eager, hard working and dedicated to serving his customers the best. We were wowed with everything and encourage others to try it out. Also, the wait staff was attentive, kind, warm, and completely on top of things. Make this a destination stop--it's a hop, skip and a jumo from Boston and worth the trip.
