Reviews

"Old menu favorites’ survival no accident," Providence Business News
...frequent diners at Aspire wanted their favorite back again. So the chef, along with hotel General Manager Patrick Jordan, put it back on the menu this winter. It is again among the guest favorites night after night. read the full story

Aspire Restaurant Voted 2010 Diners’ Choice Winner

"Earth and Ocean"
[...] The menu here isn't large, but it is well chosen. Three soups and three salads, for example, bracket most appetites and taste preferences. New England clam chowder is for the traditionalists, Gruyere-topped three-onion soup for the especially hungry, and roasted pumpkin and butternut squash soup, laced with brandy and crème fraîche, for the imaginative. Seven appetizers are listed as small plates, distinguished from twice that many main dish large plates, including the evening's special.

"Absolutely Perfect"
I went to a wedding reception here recently and it was absolutely perfect. They had roving waiters serving appetizers during the cocktail hour and the food was actually delicious. The meal later in the night was also really good. The staff were all really friendly and seemed to be having a good time as well. And there was a rooftop patio area that we gathered on for awhile so there was outdoor space as well.

Nearly two-dozen wines are offered by the glass, and several by the half-bottle. A split of Lunetta prosecco, only $8, provided each of us a glass of bubbly taste bud awakening. We continued with what were listed as traditional Johnny Blue mussels ($10), choosing that among the four shellfish choices, over the New Bedford-style mussels, with chorizo. They were small but plentiful, the white wine and broth doused with a splash of cream in addition to the added garlic and shallots. Sprigs of thyme on top and three slices of grilled bread protruding from beneath completed the display. Needless to say, we enjoyed more than looking at it. [...] read the full review...
  Bill Rodriguez
  The Providence Phoenix

"Right On Target"
We had purchased tickets for a play at the Providence Performing Arts Center for a Saturday night, and made reservations at Aspire Restaurant at the same time, a month prior. We arrived at the restaurant and were quickly seated. Within minutes the staff was at our table for drinks and to take our order. The food, service, and restaurant staff in general were extremely professional and helpful. We would return to Aspire for another fabulous dinner.

"Great Food, Great Night, Great Service at Aspire"
I recently attended an event at Aspire. The food, atmosphere and service were right on. First off, keeping the festivities in the lounge was a wise idea. The dining room can appear (though it really isn't!) a bit intimidating with its large chandeliers and straight-backed, upholstered chairs, so the laid back vibe of the bar area was quite fun and relaxing. Next, keeping the food to numerous and diverse appetizers was smart and kept the evening rolling smoothly. The apps themselves were consistently, for lack of a better word, delicious. Among my favorites: the silky, decadent foie gras. The texture was so smooth, the saltiness just right, each bite disappearing in an ethereal little vapor that left you wanting more. The grilled calamari was so simple, smoky and tender. And our table was evenly split amongst tentacle and non-tentacle eaters, so everyone was happy! Then my all time favorite, the sauteed foraged mushrooms. I'm thinking there must have been some duck fat in there because they were so rich, meaty, and satisfying, their wild and musky flavors shining through in a savory glaze. Again, so simple, yet so good. Throughout the evening we got to compare and contrast Welsh sea salt and dried miso flakes (elegant and intriguing!) enjoy some of the largest and most reasonably priced glass pours in Providence, and sample dark chocolate and candied ginger. My table of six left quite happy. And I haven't even mentioned the Karaoke!
  Andrea Sloan
  Providence, RI

"Wonderful Dining Experience! Hidden Gem (For Now)"
We were lucky to get a table on the beautiful courtyard. We were greeted by our server Greg. Great service without being overbearing. From our appetizers of New Bedford Mussels and amazing shrimp dish. (they were so good we ordered another) My husband had the Rib eye and I had the Scallop Dish, I have to say it was the best scallop entree I ever had! My husbands steak was cooked and seasoned perfectly. (take note) this was a complete dish, he did not have to order sides that jack up the price. Refreshing! He travels often and is sick of paying 15 dollars extra for a boring potato and vegetable. For dessert we shared the creme brulee. The wine list had a nice selection of wines. We cant want to go back and try there Lobster. The table across from us had it, it looked amazing.

"Great Food at Aspire"
Recently went to Aspire for a foodie event.. all the apps/finger foods were so yummy and the space is absolutely beautiful. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this restaurant.