You may already be familiar with Scales & Shells on Thames. It’s the kind of restaurant that Newport residents and tourists alike rave about. And if you don’t see your friends (both the real life and the online ones) checking in from there on FB or IG, it’s probably because they don’t want word about how awesome the food is to get out - because THAT would make it more difficult to get a table.

Change is brewing at Scales & Scales (Hint: We had espressos and beignets there yesterday morning.), however, and it’s something really marvelous that I thought you might want to know about - especially since we’re on the cusp of the nice weather when you’ll probably want to spend more time in the City By The Sea.

So, yesterday we motored over to Newport for a special invite-only preview of the brand NEW weekend brunch menu that’s being rolled out officially on May 4th from 10am to 2pm in their Half Shell Oyster Room & Bar space. It was our first time in that room and I found it quite cozy. Also, we were thrilled that the two tv’s over the bar were turned to off and we could just chillax over our mocktail versions of their Pimm’s Cup cocktail. (Shoutout to the bartender for mixing up a non-alcoholic version for us!) We also found plenty of options for just about every kind of eater - from those who live for shell fish (Yes, there is a sampler.) to that person who wants more traditional am fare (fruit juices, toast, eggs, lemon ricotta pancakes…more about those in a sec).

We ordered several mains, including the Eggs On Thames and the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, both of which were absolutely delightful. In fact, we spent a lot of time comparing notes about why and how much we loved those pancakes. We wrapped up the meal with two single espressos and their signature beignets, pastries inspired by the owner’s trip to New Orleans. The best way I could describe them is dough boy meets an outer layer reminiscent of an italian Sfogliatella, only without the filling. Nothing like a nice java jolt and sweet treat before heading out the door.

If you’re interested in giving it a whirl, it’s kicking off this coming weekend at 527 Thames Street. It’s first come, first serve - no reservations - so you may want to get there early. For additional information, go to ScalesAndShells.com/brunch.