Hemenway's Restaurant

Reviews

• MT

  Mia Taylor

  4 days ago
  1.0
  I had late lunch here yesterday, and the food itself was just alright, though I suspect our experience was heavily influenced by our server, Michael P. who claimed to be having an “off day.” From the start, he shared his dislike of seafood and that being around it is “exposure therapy” for him—information we didn’t really need, especially since it was our first visit. He also mentioned he had one too many beers the night before. He mentioned being “on the struggle bus” several times. When our drinks finally arrived, I had to get up to grab our own straws from the bar. When our shellfish platter came out, we had to ask for the oyster spoons, and warm butter for the lobster. We didn’t even bother asking for forks at this point. During payment, he asked if we wanted to take the empty shells from the paella home, sharing negative anecdotes about other customers also complaining how some people even bring their own containers for leftovers. This crossed a line for us and left us completely turned off. Our bill was over $180, so this type of service was especially surprising and disappointing. As much as I wanted to talk with a manager I decided to pay by QR code and leave, to limit further contact. Even when settling the bill, he asked whether we were ready to pay in a manner I found inappropriate and inconsistent with basic service ethics. I think it’s reasonable to expect that servers understand professional standards when it comes to handling the check. To be clear, the tip we left was for the kitchen—not for our server, Michael P. Unfortunately, this experience has left a lasting impression, and we will not be returning.
• CW

  Claire A. Wheeler

  Feb 24, 2026
  5.0
  This is now definitely my favorite restaurant in Providence. I had liked it very much before based on a few consistently great dining experiences. But recently I went with my 80 year old father, his partner, and my 1 year old baby. The level of attentiveness and care for all members of our party really left me so appreciative and heart warmed. There was absolutely no eyebrows raising at our being there with such a young child, and the maître d took great care helping us find a table that could easily accommodate stroller and/or high chair, and couldn’t have been more helpful trying to set us up comfortably. The wait staff were all really courteous and when my dad needed some things repeated and so on, were very helpful. The food was, as before, excellent. I find a lot of places in Providence do a good job but somehow just miss the mark. Here they nail everything, from lighting and music/sound level, to presentation, to service, and obviously, food. I will say they were a bit heavy with the salt on my monkfish but this really was fine dining. Staff obviously have a good rapport amongst each other and like their jobs. The fact you can feel that makes such a difference to the experience. I look forward to going back, hopefully soon.
• LP

  Lynn P.

  Feb 20, 2026
  1.0
  Edit: The food was incredibly drying to the point where it was hard to eat and shallow. I’m a Rhode Island foodie and have taken culinary courses myself to spice up my own home cooking - we felt completely underwhelmed given the restaurant’s marketing. Rhode Island prides itself on their food, our experience wasn’t a great representation of that. The greeters/staff weren’t friendly. If the brand is upscale, we expect an upscale experience in all areas.
• MC

  Marcellin Chedid

  Feb 14, 2026
  5.0
  I had an amazing experience! The food was absolutely fresh and delicious, and every dish was prepared perfectly. What truly made the visit special was the staff, they were incredibly professional, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Their service elevated the whole experience, thank you Mia and Diego as well for the best Chef Austin. I’ll definitely be coming back!
• JL

  James Lemire

  Feb 10, 2026
  5.0
  Not only is the food incredible, but the staff is even more amazing. They are always so welcoming, accomodating, and friendly. While the quality of the food/menu always keeps us coming back, the hospitality always makes us happy we did. This photo displays a complimentary dessert provided by the generous staff when we were too full to order one during a celebratory birthday dinner. And just like everything we always have here, it was absolutely delicious. 100% recommend if you are ever in the area.

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