Second Home?

So, just to start off, I will introduce myself!

I am 22 years old and am originally from the south, but decided to come up to the New England area to attend college. Previously at another school, but realized that the direction I was going in was not my desire. My desire, my dream...my passion laid in the kitchen. So, here I am, living in Providence going to my dream school. I am loving every minute of it, minus getting homesick, but that's just something to be expected from me. (Side note: I am very close to my family, so it's hard on me momentarily...it's called learning to grow up)

Anyway, I've been living up here for the past, let's see...about 7 months now. I will have to say, experiencing a real fall and winter has been amazing! Seeing the seasons actually change is such a delight. Back home, it's either "hot" or "hotter"!

Another thing that I have been getting used to is actually making a life for myself. I came here knowing no one, only my cousin and her family an hour away in Boston. It was depressing at first, but to get by, I explored what Providence had to offer. Don't worry, I have friends now!

Anyway, I tried to see what was out there and what I could make my own. Some of the places I found that I absolutely fell in love with are:

1. Tazza (Westminster St/Downtown/restaurant/bar)
Awesome cafe/restaurant/bar! My first discovery after moving here. The environment and decor is so modern and fun. The couches that wind around the back wall make for great seating. They also offer live music majority of the nights. If there is not live music, you will definitely find a DJ spinning there. I recommend their bar (great liquor selection, although they didn't have Disaronno when I had gone *sad*). As far as eats go, definitely try their spinach salad....soooo good!!!

2. RISD Works (Retail)
Love this place! I bought my IPod case from here :) The products in this store are made up of products produced by RISD Alumni or RISD Affiliates (instructors, etc). They range from crazy practical art like purses or things for your home, to Family Guy memorabilia, to RISD totes. I will say, I am in love with the chocolate brown and teal RISD tote. If you are into supporting local and upcoming artist and designers, GO HERE! Profits earned go back to the University.

3. Wild Colonial Tavern (South Water Street/restaurant/bar).
If you want to go somewhere dark and not too crazy busy, but just enough people where you can have fun, go here! They have an amazing selection of locally brewed beers, domestic and international beers. My new favorite thing to get there is a Stella Artois. Given I can get it back home, I still like to get it here, along with any of my German wheat ales :) Also, for those who like their beer sweet, you can order a snakebite! It is a mix of a cider and a wheat ale. I am not quite sure of the name, but I'll get back to ya'll on that one. Mostly RISD students and others that live in the area, including some Brown U students that venture down College Hill.

4. Trinity Brewhouse (Fountain St. Across from the Dunkin' Donuts Center/restaurant/bar)
Love, Love, Love! If you are into locally brewed beers, pretty much brewed in the same establishment you are dining in, this place is for you! They brew about 4 to 5 different beers, my favorite being the Patriots Ale. They are reasonably priced, especially since it is brewed onsite. The location is great if you are going to a concert or show over at the DD Center, especially if it is a Monday! 20 cent wings! Can't get better than that eh? Well probably could, but we'll stick to this for now. Their wings are huge and when I went, I had two other friends with me. We barely eat the 50 wings we ordered and it only costs 10.00! I mean hello? CHEAP! The rest of their menu is just as good, especially their burgers...mmm...

5. The Red Fez (Right by McFaddens/restaurant/bar)
I swear, this place is a hole in the wall! If i didn't have a friend who took me there, I would never know about this great establishment. It has a dark, Arabian feel to it. Lots of reds and lots of monkeys wearing a fez. It is small and intimate, especially for that first date when you are trying to get to know someone, yet not so intimate where you feel intimidated. Their menu is so yummy! I love goat cheese and I love quesadillas...who would have though they would be amazing together! Also, their baked macaroni and cheese is to die for...never seen so much cheese used for one dish. Their menu changes every so often, so don't always expect to see those quesadillas on the menu, but you will with the mac n cheese! Also, another staple on their menu is their hummus, which is made on site! Fantastic, eh? Such a fresh and clean flavor, it was great! Their bar selection is just as good, offering both liquors, wines and beers.

6. Bowl and Board (Westminster St./ Retail)
I swear, if you are on Westminster St. no doubt, I will love you! Anyway, Bowl and Board is a retail shop that sells items for your home, ranging from kitchen, to living room to the bathroom. They also sell jewelry that up and coming artists make, it is so great! I have a necklace from there that had a charm circle with the words "Serenity" engraved...brings a sense of calm into my life during hectic times. I also love how they carry many many Umbra products :) The kitchen section is not too shabby either...I would love to buy all of my equipment there!

7. Bank of America Fleet Center Skating Rink
In the winter, this ice skating rink is open to the public for a fee, about 4 dollars to skate, 6 for rentals. If you are a college student, Wednesdays, you get a discount, $6 total for skates and entrance. It is a great way to meet new people and mingle. As well as bring your own group of friends and just have a gliding good time! No pun intended :) No whipping the rope on the ice! It's a no no for them :(

That is all I have for now, but if I think of more or come across more places, I will definitely post more!

So overall, I am really loving living here, but I am also looking forward to going home for the summer. I meant to start this blog when I first got here, but I just got so caught up in things, but hey...better late then never, eh?

I hope my information helps you out! Believe me though, I won't always just be talking facts and reviews. I am going to warn you now, I will bitch and complain from time to time. You know what though? It's my blog, so I'll do what I want! HAHA

Until Next Time :)