Get creative when choosing a venue for the night before the big day.
1. Basta
Minutes outside of Providence, this recently renovated authentic Italian restaurant features a comfortable atmosphere and inviting private spaces. In addition to an indoor room, there is a beautiful outdoor patio complete with its own bar and stone fireplace available for rent in the warmer months. 2195 Broad St., Cranston, 461-2300, bastaonbroad.com.
2. CAV
This whimsical Providence restaurant is full of options, including seafood (lobster bisque and North Atlantic salmon) as well as pork tenderloin and pasta Florentine. Sit in a private area complete with servers devoted just to you and floral arrangements provided for your dinner. 14 Imperial Pl., Providence, 751-9164, cavrestaurant.com.
3. Chapel Grille
The Mediterranean-influenced menu includes locally sourced foods, and the garden terrace is the perfect place to enjoy this foreign/local combination. While brick-fired pizzas are a specialty, you can also order codfish, grilled chicken Paillard and an array of desserts. 3000 Chapel View Blvd., Cranston, 944-4900, chapelgrilleri.com.
4. Redlefsen’s
This small-town, European-style rotisserie and grill in Bristol can accommodate up to sixty for plated service, or host a cocktail-style event for a more intimate vibe. You can choose up to three entrees for your guests, and you have around two dozen options spanning chicken, fish, beef and pork.
444 Thames St., Bristol, 254-1188, redlefsens.com.
5. Spain of Narragansett
The exquisite menu features everything from filet mignon and veal to paella and lamb chops (and the best sangria around). A private room is available for parties up to 150 and the decor is upscale. Outdoors, the scene is more intimate: A small fountain serves as the centerpiece for romantic al fresco dining. 1144 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, 783-9770, spainri.com.
By Kristina Reardon and Jennifer Steffy Swanson