Matunuck Oyster Bar serves outdoor meals for last time before new location opens
SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WJAR) — The Matunuck Oyster Bar is serving up dishes from its temporary tent in South Kingstown for the last time until spring.
The tent, which features plenty of room for a large crowd, opened in June weeks after a fire destroyed the popular restaurant.
Visitors of the temporary setup on Saturday said it's clear everyone is making the most of an unfortunate situation, with signature fan favorites in a temporary setup that still offers quite an upscale experience.
"The fact they've got two bars in here as well as the ability to serve basically the same menu that they had for the restaurants, it's hard to believe and it's a testament to the quality of the staff and also the sourcing of the food," said Mark Baglin. "I think they've done a phenomenal job over the last few months."
The setup was made possible thanks to a new state law allowing restaurants impacted by disasters to continue their operations with fewer restrictions.
Families who have been enjoying Matunuck's food for years are grateful they still have a place to go - it may not be the location they're used to, but the memories return when dinner is served.
"Life changes, you move here, there and everywhere, and this has always been a very stable location for visiting and celebrating wonderful moments," said Haley Barravecchia-Cohen. "Things we're proud of and excited about, even tonight, we're here celebrating my dad's birthday. It's just exciting that we have the tent available and they didn't stop operations, just kept them going. It's very special to us."
Their new restaurant, Matunuck Atelier, is currently under construction on Old Tower Hill road in Wakefield, with more details and reservations coming soon.
But whether they're eating in a tent or a brand new building, those who came out Saturday are excited for their next visit.
"I'm definitely the biggest scallop lover there is, and I don't order it anywhere else but here," said Rachel Baglin.
The temporary location will be open again on Sunday before shutting down until the spring.
