RI Eats: Ellie’s in Providence

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — If you walk down Weybosset Street, you’ll find a thriving arts community, and along with it, the first stop on our Rhode Island Eats tour–Ellie’s.

“Which was a great little bakery in Providence, which has expanded and moved so it’s across the street from PPAC,” said Kristen Adamo of the Providence-Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau. 

When you walk in here, it feels like you’re entering a Parisian cafe. 

“Really inspired by French bistro, classical French fare,” said executive chef Matthew Varga.

What’s in that French fare is as Rhode Island as it gets. Just about everything here is locally sourced. 

“We’re part of a network of restaurants that is committed to changing our menu and doing what it takes to bring in fresh fish and fresh produce. So I think we’re kind of one of many who have a voice to deliver that to the public,” said manager Max Hodge. 

The bright, bustling eatery came from humble beginnings. 

“Ellie’s opened its doors six years ago in the Biltmore parking garage as a tiny 800-square-foot bakery,” said Hodge.

They quickly outgrew that space, and three months ago moved to a one-time drugstore on Weybosset Street.

“We had the opportunity and the capacity to expand our menu,” said Hodge.

Manager Max Hodge says the progression to full-blown restaurant was natural, but Ellie’s is still very much a bakery, with a huge on-site pastry team whipping up everything from macaroons to croissants.

“We did drop bakery from our name, but it is still a strong backbone of what we do,” said Hodge.

My co-anchor Doreen Scanlon joined me to help try some of Ellie’s signature dishes, meticulously crafted by Varga.

“There are so many flavors and layers that are involved that it’s important. It really does set us apart from other places,” said Varga.

The ingredients come directly from local farmers, which means the menu changes with the season. 

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019