DINING DETAILS
FROM LEFT: Birch & Bay blends coastal cuisine, brunch favorites and vacation-worthy vibes.
PHOTOGRAPHY( THIS PAGE): COURTESY OF BIRCH & BAY INSTAGRAM / HONEY BUNS SOCIAL.( OPPOSITE PAGE): JAMIE COELHO.
Vacation State of Mind
Birch & Bay offers island-inspired vibes, crowd-pleasing fare and a fresh gathering place on Wakefield’ s Main Street. By Edelinda Baptista
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IRCH & BAY BOASTS vacation-worthy vibes yearround in Wakefield. Owners John and Shannon Brito, who opened the Main Street eatery last November, also own Wickford on the Water in North Kingstown, JB’ s on the Water in Jamestown, River Falls in Woonsocket, and the latest addition, Sombra Eatery and Lounge in East Greenwich.
Guests can visit for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus brunch on the weekends in the same spot where Phil’ s Main Street Grille used to be, rooftop deck and all.
“ One of our sayings is,‘ You’ re officially on vacation,’” John says.“ We really try to push for that vibe throughout the restaurant with the decor, drinks and the food; everything makes you feel like you’ re on vacation.”
With three bars, there are many creative and delicious cocktails to quench your thirst. The boozy coffees alone are a fun time for brunch( choose between the Almond Joy, Fruity Pebbles, coffee Oreo or chocolate pistachio iced coffees). Popular morning dishes include classic or fig and prosciutto eggs Benedict topped with herb hollandaise sauce and served with crisp home fries or the sweet apple Belgian waffle. But the lunch and dinner menus are crowd-pleasers, too.
“ There are so many dishes to choose from. The short rib dinner is definitely one of the crowd favorites,” John says. Burgers and other handhelds are can’ t-miss choices as well.
Birch & Bay team members feel welcomed as Wakefield newcomers and aim to live up to the lively coastal charm that draws both locals and summer visitors alike.
“ We just want to add to what already is a great existing community,” says John.“ We want to be there for the locals and tourists that come during the summer months and provide the absolute best service and food we possibly can.”
The new eatery also has event space for bridal showers, birthdays and other occasions. And come summertime, guests can enjoy live entertainment while the sun dips below the horizon. 323 Main St., Wakefield, 284- 1200, birchandbayri. com
124 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY I MAY 2026