Rhode Island Chef Is Quietly Serving One of New England’s Best Meals

Some restaurants earn a reputation because of their location. Others become destinations because of the chef behind the menu.

After spending Wednesday morning broadcasting live from DeWolf Tavern in Bristol, Rhode Island on Fun 107's MGM Show, I can confidently say this historic waterfront restaurant falls into the second category.

My cohost Michaela Johnson has known Executive Chef Sai Viswanath for years, dating back to her time on The Rhode Show, so trusting her judgement, I already knew I was in for a treat. During our conversation, Viswanath spoke about growing up in India, learning to cook alongside his mother, and how cooking is still what puts him "in a zone."

That passion is present in every dish that leaves his kitchen, but what makes his food so approachable is that he isn't trying to recreate an Indian restaurant in Rhode Island.

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Instead, Chef Sai has created something that's entirely his own. He takes inspiration from Indian flavors and techniques while harnessing fresh New England seafood and blending in Italian and French influences. The result is food that feels familiar enough for almost anyone to enjoy, yet exciting enough to surprise even someone who spends a lot of time eating professionally (speaking for myself, of course).

A Shakshuka That Welcomes Everyone

Our first dish of the morning was Chef Sai's take on shakshuka, and if you've never experienced this North African breakfast staple, you're missing out. It's already one of my favorite breakfast dishes anywhere, built around a rich roasted red pepper and tomato sauce with perfectly cooked eggs (don't forget to mix the yolk with the red sauce for the full flavor experience) that invite you to soak up every last bite.

Rhode Island's DeWolf Tavern Has One of the State's Most Underrated Menus

What impressed me most was how approachable Chef Sai made this dish without taking away its identity. Traditional shakshuka can sometimes feel intimidating if you've never ventured into those flavors before, but his version welcomes you in instead of challenging you. It's authentic where it counts while remaining incredibly comforting, making it the perfect introduction to the way he cooks.

The Seafood Stew That Stopped Me in My Tracks

Then came the seafood stew.

For $39, this may be one of the best values you'll find anywhere in Rhode Island. The generous bowl arrives loaded with shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, local fish, a half lobster, broccoli rabe, coriander, and everything swimming in an unforgettable coconut Thai chili broth that immediately fills the table with an incredible aroma.

Rhode Island's DeWolf Tavern Has One of the State's Most Underrated Menus

The beauty of this dish isn't simply the quality of the seafood, although Chef Sai proudly sources much of it from New Bedford. It's the subtle Indian influence that transforms what could have been a traditional New England seafood stew into something completely unique.

\The gentle curry notes never overpower the dish, while the coconut milk creates a velvety broth that somehow both cools the palate and amplifies the natural sweetness of every piece of seafood. I've eaten seafood all over New England, and I can honestly say I've never had anything quite like it.

During our live broadcast, I joked that the food gave me a "body high," and honestly, that's still the best way I can describe the euphoric feeling. Every bite made me want another, and by the time I set my spoon down, I wasn't just impressed, I was already thinking about when I could come back.

More Than Just a Great Meal

One thing I appreciated while talking with Chef Sai is how much he embraces the entire DeWolf Tavern experience. The historic building, cozy fireplace during the colder months, waterfront patio in the summer, live music on Wednesday nights, Monday dollar oysters, and regular specials all make the restaurant feel like more than just a place to eat. It feels like somewhere you settle into for the evening.

Rhode Island's DeWolf Tavern Has One of the State's Most Underrated Menus

If you're coming from the SouthCoast, Bristol is the kind of town that's just far enough away to feel like you've escaped for a few hours without committing to a long road trip. Grab an early dinner, take a walk along the waterfront, explore the charming downtown, and head home wondering why you don't make the drive more often.

Only Two Dishes Were All It Took

Here's the part that says everything.

I only tasted two dishes during our visit, and that was enough for me to know I need to come back. That's a pretty rare feeling, especially when you've spent years eating at restaurants for a living. If Chef Sai could leave this kind of impression with just a plate of shakshuka and a seafood stew, I can only imagine what the rest of the menu has waiting.

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Sometimes the best restaurants aren't the ones making the most noise. They're quietly tucked away in beautiful little towns, letting the food do all the talking. DeWolf Tavern is exactly that kind of place, and after one morning in Chef Sai's kitchen, I have a feeling it won't stay Rhode Island's best-kept secret for much longer.