Providence is now a city that falls into the same category as New York City, the city that never sleeps. That is exactly how I felt the night my sweetie and I strolled along Providence’s many streets, holding hands, bathing in the sunset and enjoying the sights and aromas of Providence. We decided to stroll along Federal Hill, which you’ll find on most maps labled simply, “Atwells Avenue”.

Making our way up “the hill”, as it is normally called, was like walking into Little Italy, with exquisite Italian cafes, bakeries, and famous Italian restaurants complete with valet service.

As we entered Atwells Ave, we were greeted with a stone arch over the entrance to the hill, embossed with a pineapple in the center that means, “welcome” to all visitors. Since we were on foot, we didn’t have to compete for a parking space but there wouldn’t be any problems finding one, since there are plenty of parking lots, and some restaurants even offer valet service. I quickly noticed the first of many famous Italian cuisines, The Old Canteen Restaurant, which had an appearance of elegance with its old Victorian style and delectable Italian menu posted outside. Since we weren’t quite hungry yet we decided to continue on our journey up the hill.

Hand and hand we strolled along the hill, experiencing “li’l Italy” every step of the way. Just imagine, everywhere you looked, exquisite Italian cuisines at its best. Little intimate cafes outdoors, with a bottle of wine, a basket of bread, and a plate of pasta with your special someone, makes for a wonderful night of romance. Each restaurant had its own special ambiance, with spicy Italian dishes, elegant surroundings, and a healthy serving of hand holding.

Breads in a real Italian bakery (Staff photo)

Our walk continued past the Blue Grotto, Mediterranoe, Naissance, Camille’s, Opa, L’Epicureo, Costantino’s, and seemingly endless more restaurants. Italian bakeries, delis, boutiques and florists were at your beck and call.

I remembered from my youth, the Scialla bakery, which offered those famous Italian cakes, bread, and I was particularly fond of the Italian cheesecake. Next-door was an old store, with its display window complete with mannequins, clothing, and (even better yet) prices from the 1960’s.

Around the corner, we walked into a courtyard, complete with a water fountain, Italian cafés, and even music that made us want to dance in the street. Each one offered a variety of Italian meals, delectable desserts, and tantalizing after dinner drinks. My mouth was watering at the thought of tasting these wonderful meals and sharing it with my favorite person.

A little further down, we entered a cozy little café, with Italian pastries, coffees, and even better yet, Italian Gelato. My sweetie and I couldn’t resist, and we decided to sample some, sitting on the couch, feeding it to each other. Oh, how romantic!

The night was coming to a close, and we were about at the end of the road. The Italian section was now turning into different styles of restaurants, some Mexican and some Portuguese. My sweetie and I decided to keep the memory of “li’l Italy” alive and headed back to our car, holding hands, while we could still savour the aromas of Italian cuisine.

The atmosphere was right, the prices were affordable, and even better yet, the company made the evening complete. Remember, “Wednesday is Prince Spaghetti night” up here in Federal Hill!

Outdoor dining at Constantio's (Staff photo)

Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state. Her passion for life shows in her writing.

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