Simpatico Jamestown

Simpatico Jamestown Restaurant Review:

The closing of Trattoria Simpatico, a favorite Rhode Island restaurant, was a disappointment to its fans. But Simpatico Jamestown, in the same location but significantly expanded, is a more than worthy successor. A cocktail (or two) at the outdoor bar is too enticing to pass up on a fine summer day. It's a fun place to linger: framed by long communal tables and featuring live acoustic music and a happy, sun-soaked crowd of locals and out-of-towners. A carefully crafted blueberry vodka cocktail infused with fresh fruit is an appropriate match for the standout fried calamari. While there was formerly a streetside tent for diners, current owners Amy Barclay and Ben Brayton have built a pergola filled with tables. A deck offers the option of outdoor seating under cover, while the surprisingly lush grounds wrap around to a four-season porch. In less convivial weather, the indoor Chart Room is the better bet. The dinner menu includes seafood, chicken, beef and pasta entrées as well as reasonably priced grilled pizzas. The chocolate torte, served with fresh berries, is a lovely ending.