Walk down Broad Street on any given evening and the aromas tell the story of a community: roasting pork, frying plantains, simmering beans, fresh-baked pan dulce. Providence's most famous Latin corridor is also one of New England's most extraordinary dining destinations, and it deserves far more recognition than it typically receives.

The Dominican Influence

Dominican cuisine dominates much of Broad Street, and for good reason — Providence has one of the largest Dominican populations in New England. The staples are hearty and satisfying: la bandera dominicana (the Dominican flag) — rice, beans, and meat — appears on nearly every menu, but the real treasures are the specialties.

Mofongo, the iconic dish of mashed plantains stuffed with seafood, chicken, or pork, is done exceptionally well at several Broad Street establishments. La Paloma, at the corner of Broad and Carpenter, is widely regarded as serving the best mofongo in Providence.

Puerto Rican Traditions

Puerto Rican cuisine has deep roots in Providence's Latin community, and the influence is everywhere. Lechón asado (roasted pork), pernil, arroz con gandules, and pasteles are staples at family restaurants throughout the corridor.

Guatemalan and Central American Flavors

One of the most exciting developments on Broad Street in recent years has been the growth of Guatemalan and Central American restaurants. Dishes like pepián (a rich seed-based stew), kak'ik (turkey soup), and tamales wrapped in banana leaves offer flavors rarely found elsewhere in New England.

The Bakeries

No tour of Broad Street's food scene is complete without a stop at one of its panaderías. Pan dulce, tres leches cake, and flan are available fresh daily, and the quality rivals anything you'll find in major Latin cities.

"Broad Street is not just a street — it is a living museum of Latin American culinary tradition, and it is right here in Providence." — Chef Ricardo Soto, culinary instructor at Johnson & Wales University