Not Rhode Island, but if you are roadtripping through Maine, check out the Eartha Globe in Yarmouth, ME. It's not far from LL Bean.

It used to be a Delorme Atlas and Map store, which closed. But as far as I can tell, it's still open to the public.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eartha

I did Nazi that one coming.

We recently went the Crepe Corner in Pawtuxet Village. All crepes are $2 extra as GF. We didn't opt for GF, but pancakes are one GF food that I prefer over Gluten types. I only use Red's GF pancake mix at home. Their thinner and crisper - which I prefer.

We're planning a trip to Paris, and this was like a short visit there - without speaking French.

GF is not an issue for me or my SO, but my favorite celebration restaurant is Los Andes. I believe they have GF options.

I wouldn't go there on the day, since it books up well in advance. If you and your SO can celebrate on another day, I'd go then.

I avoid Valentines Day reservations at all costs, but I have gone to a BYOB place or a nice brewpub (that doesn't take reservations) when it absolutely, positively had to be on Feb 14.

GF is not an issue for me or my SO, but I will second O'Dinis. It's small and doesn't take reservations, which may be an issue on V Day.

Also, for nearby Indian, I like Not Just Snacks (casual lunch) and Rasoi (nice lunch or dinner).

Both are nearby India, which I also like. Go to India when you can sit outside or for the buffet/brunch.

I had Pickerel on my short list for my Sunday birthday. We ended up going to Lamei Hot Pot, and a brew after at Moniker. It was great!

Buy a state beach pass, and go in the late afternoon. A season pass is only $30.

Which reminds me... I'm going to buy mine today!

https://beachparkingri.com/season-pass/

The To Good To Go app is available in Providence. I installed the app, but haven't tried it yet. It's a great idea, though.

It's a win win for businesses and customers. And a win for the environment.

https://toogoodtogo.com/

There's a sex shop on Wickendon. I took some visitors to The East Side for cocktails and oysters. When we came out, they noticed it. So we went up and took a look. 😮

There's a local houseplant exchange group on The Face Book. I joined it, but haven't participated yet. They allow for selling, as well as giving away for free.

Also, look into a local Buy Nothing group. I have participated in mine, both giving away and receiving. It's a a very positive worldwide movement!

I joined my group on Facebook. Look yours up here:

https://buynothingproject.org/find-a-group

I have a car, but it stranded me in Pawtucket one time. I had never used RIPTA before, but downloaded the Transit and RIPTA wave apps. They worked well. I got home, and then back to pick up my car on the bus, using just my phone.

My car died in Attleboro during COVID and was towed to a shop in Pawtucket. I had never used RIPTA, but the shop was on the bus route.

So I downloaded the Transit app (Google maps also has the info). I paid cash, but took the bus to Kennedy plaza and switched to one to take me home. Worked great.

The next day I installed the Wave app and took RIPTA back to get my car.

My only problem with the app was that it had trouble reading it on the bus. They probably improved it since then, but turn up the screen brightness if it fails to read.

The Compost Depot at Frey Gardens serves Elmhurst and Smith Hill neighborhoods. They don't do home collections, but they have set up a collection bin during farmers markets, at least in the past.

https://eaorganics.com/contact-us/

I do my own backyard composting, which I would recommend if you have the space. Use a compost bin and just do veggie and plant composting. Mine has a lot of coffee grinds, too. It's pretty easy.

Chinese restaurants are typically open on Christmas day. It's a tradition for Jewish people who don't celebrate Christmas.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish-American_patronage_of_Chinese_restaurants?wprov=sfla1

I'm not Jewish, but I know about this tradition. A few years ago, I introduced some family members to it.

Our family Christmas was put on hold because my dad was in a nursing home and we visited him. We had no plans for after, so I suggested that we go to the local Chinese restaurant.

I have nice memories of our feast. I picked out the dishes and explained the history. No one else knew....

I later mentioned it to a Jewish friend, who said - "Yes, the secret is out".

Happy Hanukkah. Merry Christmas.

I go to The Italian Corner for their wildly popular grinders (featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, BTW).

But every time I pick up I notice the amazing looking deli meats, cheeses, etc. They also sell prepared meals and sauces that look great.

Give them a call.

https://www.italiancorner-ri.com/

Chinese restaurants are typically open on Christmas, as many Jewish people will attest.

https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2018/12/21/18151903/history-jews-chinese-food-christmas-kosher-american

Marty Ballou brings an A-list trio (or more) most Tuesdays to Nick-A-Nee's. 8pm, free. Tips appreciated.

It's also Taco Tuesdays, and they're good. It's a "heavenly dive bar".

There's also jazz there on the 4th Sundays, 4-7pm.

The Royal Bobcat and Courtland Club are cool, but the music is better at Nick's.

Nicely done. I'm an Athenæum member and have taken many photographs there.

I have bought and colored in adult coloring books of architecture. Adult as in complex, not... Well, you know.

Anyway, I'd definitely buy a coloring book for Providence, if you are looking for a way to monetize it.

You could sell originals and prints, too.

WPRI reported that his defense was that he "couldn't recall" being there. It was one of the biggest events of our lifetimes, and the dude can't remember being there.

There's stupid, and then there's whatever this guy is.

I found it! They had both red and white miso at my old go-to - Market Basket in Attleboro. I haven't seen it at the Johnston store.

I got one of each. Kabuto 1lb package for $3.69.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll definitely check out the other recommendations.

I like the Farmers Markets Saturdays and The Providence Flea Sundays (and sometimes Fri eves) at Farm Fresh RI. In fact, my SO and I had our first date there.

There are places to eat and drink nearby. Pizza, coffee, and industrious spirits.

Also, check out what's going on at Waterfire Arts Center, a relatively short walk (or drive) away. Most exhibits are free, but you can help support them by donations or buying stuff in the gift shop.

https://www.farmfreshri.org/

I should check out the new one! Is it crazy busy? I could go weekday mornings.

That's where I've always gotten it in the past, but I haven't seen it in the past month or so. I don't think I've ever seen it at the Johnston store. Hence the question...

I'll check again. Maybe it was a holiday thing.