Rhode Island's reputation for high-quality restaurants is the result of the talent and work ethic of its chefs, many former students here at Johnson & Wales University, but many also trained at some of the world's best schools and eateries.
And in a corollary of "the rich get richer" line of reasoning, the Ocean State is looking at many more years of outstanding food thanks to the next generation of chefs, 10 of whom are highlighted in this week's edition.
Naming 10 chefs under the age of 35 who are already making a difference in the state is, in one way, a fool's errand. The number 10 is arbitrary, and it would be difficult to argue that all the talent in Rhode Island's many fine-dining establishments are recognized for their artistry. But the nature of the challenge should not keep us – a proxy for the food consumers of the Ocean State and environs – from trying to identify many of the assets that make Rhode Island a unique place among the 50 states.
Sure, you could argue that the 38 Studios fiasco also makes us unique, but in this case at least, it's more satisfying to accentuate positive achievement.
So if you haven't already frequented the restaurants that these talented young people oversee, it might be time to do so. It might also help you understand why so many plans for Rhode Island's economy make supporting the food scene such an important part of economic-development strategy.
But in the end, it also would be a good way to cleanse the palate of all the unpleasantness we endure on a regular basis. •
Actually, “Rhode Island” does not have a reputation for high quality restaurants – PROVIDENCE does. It is Providence that is nationally recognized as a culinary center, not Rhode Island. Check the record.
Of course, the recognition could be applied to some of Providence’s ” environs” – that is, the Providence Metro.
Which, one should recognize, consists of Rhode Island and southeastern MA.
So, I would suggest a recognition that it is Providence with the national recognition or reputation cited uand due the appropriate article title and narrative.
Would you cite Massachusetts as a drinking destination or Boston – I suspect Boston, because it is.