PROVIDENCE – As part of continued efforts to support growth of the local food economy and in honor of Rhode Island's fishing heritage, Governor Gina M. Raimondo today declared March 20 – 25, 2017 Quahog Week in Rhode Island. Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit joined state and food-industry leaders at a special celebration to mark the quahog fishery's importance to the state's history, culture, and economy.
"Rhode Island's seafood is core to our identity," Raimondo said. "Like many Rhode Islanders, I have fond childhood memories of watching the fishing boats come in at the Port of Galilee. We love our seafood, and as a state, Narragansett Bay is at the heart of our economy, history, and quality of life. Quahog Week is an opportunity to celebrate the many riches of the Bay and, in particular, the vitality of our shellfish industry. We have a thriving local food scene, world-class eateries, fishermen, and food-based businesses all in one place. I can't think of a better way to celebrate our top-notch quality of life in the Ocean State."
Rhode Island is known for its food and diverse food cultures. The state's booming local food sector supports more than 60,000 jobs and continues to attract and inspire the imagination of entrepreneurs and innovators. The local fishing industry has been, and continues to be, a vital part of the equation. Last year, more than 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port – with an export value over $1 billion. And more than 28 million pounds of quahogs (off-the-boat value of $5.5 million) were harvested from Narragansett Bay and local coastal waters. Quahogs have long been a local favorite, with dishes from stuffies to chowder making popular fare, and quahogging continues to be a beloved pastime and family tradition.
"Rhode Island seafood is among the best in the world," said First Gentleman Andy Moffit. "It drives tourism, supports our traditions, and nourishes our families. By working together to foster innovation and growth of our commercial fishing industry, we can strengthen our economy and address the food insecurity issues that plague many communities. Having access to healthy, locally sourced food is critical for all Rhode Islanders; the health of our local waters and fisheries is an important part of the equation."
Throughout Quahog Week, over 30 restaurants across the state - from Westerly to Newport to Providence - will offer special menu selections that feature the native Rhode Island clam. Dishes range from traditional preparations to the adventurous. Special events are also planned during the week, including the Official Beer of the Clam Wrap Party at the Narragansett Beer Headquarters at The Guild in Pawtucket on Saturday.
"Whenever I dine out, I look for fresh, local seafood. And I know I'm not alone," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "We take pride in our seafood in the Ocean State and the hard-working fishermen behind it. And nothing is more Rhode Island than the quahog. I hope everyone takes a moment this week to indulge in their favorite quahog dish or sample one of the many tasty offerings of our partner restaurants and markets – from a traditional clam zuppa to a savory quahog hash. We are fortunate to have amazing seafood and award-winning eateries in Rhode Island. Let's get out there and enjoy them!"
Participating Restaurants & Markets
15 Point Road – Portsmouth 22 Bowen's – Newport Andrade's Catch – Bristol Avvio Ristorante – Cranston Boat House – Tiverton The Capital Grille – Providence CRU Café – Newport Dave's Marketplace – Rhode Island Diego's - Newport DiMare – East Greenwich Federal Taphouse & Kitchen – Providence Fluke Wine, Bar & Kitchen – Newport Gas Lamp Grille – Newport The Greenville Inn – Greenville Forty 10 North – Newport George's of Galilee – Port of Galilee The Gulf Stream Bar & Grille – Portsmouth Gracie's – Providence Harmony Lodge – Harmony Hemenway's – Providence Massimo – Providence Matunuck Oyster Bar – South Kingstown McCormick & Schmick's – Providence The Mooring – Newport One Bellevue – Newport Pane E Vino – Providence Providence Oyster Bar – Providence Red Stripe – East Greenwich The Sea Goose Grill & Raw Bar – Westerly Statesman Tavern – Bristol Tavern on Main – Chepachet Tavern on the Water – Greenville Timmy's Legendary Grilled Pizza – Providence Trio – Narragansett The Vig – Providence Waterman Grille – Providence The Wharf Pub – Newport
Scheduled Events
School of Fish Cooking Class Hope & Main – Warren Monday, March 20, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. More Information
Official Beer of the Clam Wrap Party Narragansett Beer HQ at The Guild – Pawtucket Saturday, March 25, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. More Information
Quahog Week partners include Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Dave's Marketplace, Discover Newport, Eat Drink RI, Eating with the Ecosystem, Go Providence, Granny Squibb's Ice Tea, Iggy's Doughboys & Chowder House, Isle Brewers Guild, Johnson & Wales University, Narragansett Bay Lobsters, Narragansett Beer, RI Commerce, RI Department of Environmental Management, RI Shellfishermen's Association, Save The Bay, Tomaquag Museum, the University of Rhode Island, and Yacht Club Soda.
For more information on Quahog Week, visit www.seafoodri.com. Follow us on Facebook at @RISeafoodRocks and join the conversation using #QuahogWeek. Share recipes, quahogging stories, and/or your favorite eateries and dishes.