Big King

Big King blew past my high expectations. I had looked forward to visiting since their opening, and finally got my chance once fully vaxxed and back in town. The wait was worth it. Every dish was immaculate, and the attention to detail by the small but passionate staff was constantly apparent. Courses are served on stunning tableware crafted by local artists, across a natural walnut counter that is too beautiful to describe. I can’t stress enough how spectacular the personal, intimate service was, particularly when it came to the sake pairings. If you’ve ever thought you disliked sake, this restaurant will turn you into a sake fanatic. The locality and seasonality of star ingredients is unmatched, definitely in Rhode Island and perhaps even in New England. This is the kind of restaurant I would eat at regardless of what’s on the menu at the time. Just trust the chefs. Perhaps more importantly than the unique atmosphere and amazing food and drink is the chef/owner’s commitment to social justice and creating a workplace free of the low pay, lack of benefits, and toxic behavior that have typified the hospitality industry for far too long. This is all done while somehow providing incredible value for money to patrons. It would be a good thing for workers, communities, and especially diners if more restaurants were like Big King.

I’m upset I never found this place earlier. Outstanding creations from friendly, knowledgeable staff. The sake pairing goes perfectly with the delicious, daily, hand written tasting menu letting you sit back and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Fully accommodating if you have any allergies or aversions. The food is incredible and bound to have you wanting to book your next reservation before you even get to the second course.

What a hidden gem. Big King is a tasting menu only (roughly $60-$80pp)! The menu changes constantly and the sake pairing is to die for. The atmosphere is intimate but feels extremely safe with vaccine requirements or negative test proof. Every dish was made with such love and care. Highly recommend for that date night or special occasion, or just when you want to be blown away by deliciousness!

Perhaps one of the best restaurants in New England - fresh local ingredient thoughtfully balanced with Japanese inspired flavors. A handwritten tasting menu that changes with the ingredients they source. Solidified as an amazing experience for sake lovers - who get the benefit of a thought out paring of 3 or 5 different sake. Not excessively expensive and amazing service and food will make you want to come back ASAP.

An incredible an unique experience. The restaurant is very intimate, every course is treated with the utmost attention to detail, and James is a wonderful and very educational host. Eating here is a very humbling experience, and you can see the pride that everyone takes in their work. I would come back everytime I am in Providence.

An incredible experience and one of the best meals of my life. Exceptional service. Comprehensive sake menu which is incredibly well-thought out. Everything was perfect. I visited a few years ago on holiday from England. This was on of the best highlights of my trip! A true fine dining experience without the pretentiousness. Exceptional quality and fine gold star customer service. Stunning.