Newport Restaurant Group announced Tuesday that it will open a new, employee‑owned restaurant at Garden City Center in Cranston, Rhode Island. The 5,000‑square‑foot venue will occupy the former Applebee’s space at 24 Midway Road, across from Kaffeology.
Local impact and job creation
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring our brand of hospitality to this space,” said Mick Lamond, CEO of Newport Restaurant Group. “We look forward to adding to Garden City’s vibrant dining scene, and as an employee‑owned company, we’ll be adding dozens of meaningful jobs in the community.”
The new restaurant will be the 19th location in Newport’s portfolio and the second at Garden City Center, joining Avvio Ristorante, which has operated there since 2016. By expanding its footprint, Newport aims to strengthen the local economy and provide stable, employee‑owned employment opportunities for Cranston residents.
Background on the site
The Applebee’s that previously occupied the site was destroyed by a fire on October 16, 2024. The Cranston Fire Department declared the building a total loss after flames engulfed the roof and caused a partial collapse. No injuries were reported, and neighboring Bistro 22 and Chaska temporarily closed while the fire was contained.
Garden City Center General Manager Susan Walsh praised the partnership, noting, “We are thrilled to continue our successful partnership with Newport Restaurant Group, a beloved Rhode Island‑born brand that has been part of Garden City Center since 2016.”
Newport Restaurant Group’s regional presence
Newport operates a range of restaurants and hospitality venues throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, including the Castle Hill Inn, The Mooring, Hemenway’s, Waterman Grille, and Iron Works. The company’s employee‑ownership model means that staff share in the success of each location, aligning business growth with community well‑being.
While the specific concept and opening date have not yet been announced, the company indicated that the new venue will complement the existing dining options at Garden City Center and provide a fresh choice for shoppers and visitors.
Community response
Local residents and business owners have expressed optimism about the development. Many see the project as a sign of recovery after the 2024 fire and a boost to the center’s foot traffic. The addition of new jobs is especially welcome in a region where steady employment remains a priority for families.
As the project moves forward, Newport Restaurant Group will work with city officials and the center’s management to ensure a smooth construction process and timely opening. The community looks forward to seeing the new restaurant become a staple of Garden City Center’s dining scene.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
