Every time we would walk by Portside in Bristol, it looked as though absolutely everyone — from the staff to patrons — was having a fantastic time. It was usually on a Sunday when they would have live music outside (off to the side) and all the people seated on the patio were talking, eating, and laughing it up.

And most definitely NOT glued to their screens, always a great sign.

Anywho, we got ourselves a table there recently and I had one of the BEST meat-free (bean) burgers ever. The salad and dressing were very tasty, too. The dressing actually had a little kick to it which was perfect back to the burger. Our wait person told us later that the burgers are actually made in-house which is big plus and frankly you can taste THAT in every bite.

Don’t despair, however, if you are a carnivore because the menu has beaucoup options for you and your crew. Drink wise, we had tea and coffee but the fall drink menu did look intriguing — I could see kicking back with a close friend in the not-too-distant future, ordering a few Pumpkin Martinis or Spiced Pear Margaritas, and having a good old fashioned complaint fest.

Also, I feel as though Bristol is a wonderful destination on any given week or weekend day this fall. You’ve got water views, lotsa great looking old houses to admire and walkable streets to wander, and some standout small businesses for holiday shopping.

Portside Tavern is located at 444 Thames Street in Bristol, Rhode Island.

As always, if you take a Rhode trip over after reading this, please do let them know you found them via Patty J and PattyJ.com.