Persimmon
31 State St, Bristol, RI, 02809
Persimmon Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Bristol for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Bristol for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Bristol for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
31 State St
Bristol, RI, 02809 - Phone (401) 254-7474
- Website https://www.persimmonbristol.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :Closed
- Mon : Closed
Tue
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Dressy
Ambience : Intimate
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Jeannie E.
Second time to this fantastic restaurant in our quaint, little town and it is by far my favorite! I have been to Persimmon with a group of great friends and on Saturday evening with my parents--both dinners were simply extraordinary! The food is not only flawlessly prepared but it is presented as a true piece of art and the service is attentive, knowledgeable and never intrusive. My rib eye was perfect (and enough for lunch the following day), the cheese platter is a must and the lobster squash soup was amazing! Enjoy!!
(5)Dee Dee D.
Unimpressive! Not worth the hype.... After almost a year of discussing a dinner outing to the "great" Persimmon, we finally made our way there a few weeks back. First, let me begin by saying I was anticipating this dinner for months. I loved the vision when I read about the restaurant and the menu, but was left greatly disappointed. The waitress was unfriendly, the food was average and the prices were high. I have no problem spending money on an amazing meal, but this was far from great. If you are in Bristol, go to Dewolf Tavern... Guaranteed good service and good food.
(2)Louise R.
The service is as amazing as the food!
(5)elizabeth c.
Like many others before us, we very much enjoyed our meal at Persimmon. Atmosphere is great - clean, modern and very small. The mirrors used within the decorating scheme are a fantastic touch - they really open the place up. A menu that changes nightly is always a great sign, and the man and I were seated immediately on a Sunday night despite our total lack of reservations and somewhat casual attire. For our meal, we both adored the scallop crudo appetizer, and for mains we enjoyed the local bass and the vegetable tasting plate (4 veggies - the local roasted corn and mixed sauteed mushrooms were both AMAZING). All of our dishes were prepared expertly - without dairy, and with very little oil - just the way I like it. Service was efficient and capable, if a bit brisk/breezy. As we were leaving, we ran into some regulars who commented that they sometimes eat a little bit before dining at Persimmon. I can understand why. We do not eat big portions as a rule, and respect and prefer spots that don't serve family-size portions on an individual plate. Yet we left Persimmon with $100 less in our pockets, but with a bit of hunger remaining in our tummies. The meal was amazing, but bananas at home after were critical to overall satiety before bed. That fact and the brisk service rendered this a 4* rather than 5* overall experience for me.
(4)Rob B.
Imaginative food with great execution in a charming ambiance at a pretty seaside town. 'nuff said.
(5)Oleana B.
I do not really possess the vocabulary to describe this place but I suspect it may be excellent. I cannot even list what I ate there without consulting the menu because I cannot remember what ingredients were in each dish there were so many and each one was carefully prepared and blended perfectly into the total ensamble. The only thing I did not like were the size of the portions but I suppose this is how it is for the people who lead the high life. I thought the prices were reasonable because what they served us was absolutely delicious from appetizers to desert. I think the chef is a true artist. For some reason I was surprised to find out that he was only 35. I assumed such creativity could only come from an older chef.
(5)Deb A.
My husband and I ate here last Sunday with our two 20ish daughters and two of their friends. They were excited to try a "fancy/nice restaurant" close to home. The entire evening was phenomenal. Our 20 year old told us "I don't recognize anything on this menu". We asked the server many questions and not a single one of the 6 of us was disappointed. The chicken dish was so moist and tender as was the steak. I had a salmon special that was heavenly. We all had appetizers and desserts and they were great too. The small portion of corn chowder between courses was delicious. We wanted an entire bowl full rather than a sample! I can't wait to return and try something else. I think I have found a new favourite restaurant. Make a reservation as Persimmon is small but it is well worth the trip.
(5)John D.
So far this has been one of the best restaurants I've been to in Rhode Island. Extremely friendly from the hostess to the bartender to the servers. The food is very fresh and inventive. Started with the Warm Glazed Fennel Salad then the Long Island Duck confit leg and the chocolate mousse for desert. Finally a place that understands food, flavor and preparation. I can't wait to go back again!
(4)Meredith M.
Greatly enjoyed Persimmon on a recent weeknight. It's a lovely spot on a fall evening, and feels very chic for being in a small coastal New England town. We stopped in without reservations, and the staff was accommodating. Our waitress was excellent--very efficient and helpful without being too present. Nice wine list with many options at a variety of price points. As we perused the menu, the smells from the kitchen were incredible. When the food arrived, I could not believe how good everything smelled. The amuse bouche was a sweet potato coconut milk soup. Complex, earthy, and delicious. The agnolotti was incredible, the highlight of the evening. My dining companion had the risotto to start, which was also fantastic. I had striped bass for my entree, and she had duck. Each had a lovely array of vegetables with a variety of color, almost all pastels amazingly enough given that it is November--it was an exceptionally appealing and thoughtful presentation. Both portions were quite large, and we struggled to finish them. While we decided against dessert after indulging in other parts of the meal, we were served very good truffles that were a perfect sweet treat at the end of the meal. Certainly fairly priced, especially considering the quality of the food and the service.
(4)Leanne W.
This restaurant was introduced to me by a friend of mine. I have had some nice meals in my life but this was one of the best. The staff is knowledgable, attentive. The food is classic yet new and interesting, everything is fresh and delicious. The town of Bristol is lovely and charming and its worth the drive.
(4)Beezer C.
Not enough superlatives to describe this place, and you'd get bored with too many superlatives anyway. #1. It is expensive. $200 for two people, tip not included. (one of us had the tasting menu with wine pairing). HOWEVER a similar tasting menu at Daniel in NYC will cost about 3-4x as much, so this is a really good deal. Also, at Daniel (yes, we've been) if one person at the table has a tasting menu, EVERYONE at the table has to have it. Here they are more flexible. #2. Hands down the best steak tartare I've had #3. The five-course tasting menu seemed more like 7 or 8 courses with all the add-ons/amuse bouche/palate cleanser etc #4. Everything was delicious #5. Wine pairings were phenomenal #6. Service was top notch. Okay I used superlatives. Anyway if you have the means and are celebrating a special event and you are a Rhode Islander, I promise it does not get much better than this.
(5)Cristin S.
I have been putting off this review for a while because I really do not know what to write. We came here for restaurant week. I have heard so many raving reviews I was expecting this place to really knock my socks off. I was impressed with the presentation but something about this place did not take me to those orgasmic levels everyone was telling me about. The food is so beautifully plated. Literally the Chef makes art on your dinner plate. However the plates are very small. So if you come here make sure to get an app, dinner, and dessert or you will leave hungry. The food was all prepared perfectly. The fish has a crispy crust that was sublime. My beef was rocking my tastebuds. Some negatives were the rosemary chocolates they tasted way too strong. The service was ok. The hostess was welcoming. However I did get the vibe that the servers are used to a older clientele and as a younger person there for restaurant week we did not get treated the same way. Also when we were leaving we had to wait for our coats for a while. Overall good experience that I would suggest to anyone who wants a nice night out.
(4)Eric C.
We have been meaning to go to Persimmon for a while. We heard a rave review about their food by a friend of ours who has a much more sophisticated palate than mine. She says "must try" and I say "will do." Luckily for 2 people, I managed to get a same day reservation for the evening. I had never been to this side of town but it's really neat! Little stores by the water. As soon as I step outside the car, I can smell the saltiness in the air. The street dividers are painted red white and blue. I turn the corner and there was this little innocuous unassuming sign that says "Persimmon." You step in and you encounter an ambience fitting of this type of restaurant. The area is slightly dim with modern decor. Light fixtures that are creatively designed and table cloths that are ironed flat. There is real OCD to be seen here but it set the mood for the evening to start. As many of you know, the restaurant's chef is a James Beard nominated master cook. If you don't know what James Beard Awards are, shame on you. Go look it up as my attendings would say. You have two choices of ordering styles. There's the 5 course chef selected menu or you can order a la carte. I am always up for surprises and I wanted to be told to try new things so I opted for the 5 course menu. I should have known that it's never just 5 courses. We were given 3 small amuse bouches to kick off the night followed by 5 courses of amazing food. Each dish had been carefully crafted to consider the local ingredients, what is in season and only the freshest produce was used to prepare each. While each complimented one another, they were as different from each other to really allow you to explore the technical mastery that this chef has developed. This place is truly and experience and as I understand, each time the dishes in the 5 course tasting menu is different. We took a stroll by the water afterwards and it really topped off the evening. This is easily one of my favorites in Rhode Island and I encourage you all to give it a try!
(5)Rachel E.
My fiancé and I have been eyeing this place ever since we discovered it (probably 3-4 years ago). We have been dying to go, but never had a good enough excuse! So finally, we decided to go to celebrate "a year until our wedding." We both love food and consider ourselves "foodies" (my fiancé doesn't like that term), so we figured this was the perfect place seeing as we live in Bristol - super easy to get to. Looking at the menu, we discovered so many interesting appetizers and entrees and just couldn't decide, so we ended up going with the Chef's tasting with the wine pairing. Let me just say ah-mazing. A bit on the pricy side ($230 in total excluding tip) but SO worth it. Every plate was delicious as well as eye-catching and the wine they paired along with everything was perfect. We'll definitely be coming back!
(5)Alicia V.
What a find! A small, cosy little treasure of a restaurant.. We have now eaten there five times and each time have done the tasting menu which is my recommendation. I have taken overseas guests and my parents there who have also been very impressed with the quality, taste and marvelous presentation of the many beautiful dishes...and there are many! The service has always been spot on and the food is always delicious. A must visit if you are a foodie of RI.
(5)Hayley H.
For the last couple of months I have held off on sharing my experience at Persimmon because I wanted to craft a review that would do Persimmon justice, but the fact is I cannot. My dinner at Persimmon on Aug. 5, 2014 was far and away the best meal I have ever had. The restaurant boasts an intimate interior, a gorgeous bar and fabulous wine list, and - most importantly - incredible food. Our party of four shared four unique appetizers, four unique entrees and two unique desserts. We passed our plates like a game of roulette, drooling over each and every bite. The presentation of each dish was artfully and thoughtfully prepared, and while the portions appeared small, each dish was incredibly rich, decadent and filling. I highly recommend the octopus, beef tartare and foie gras appetizers. For entrees, the duck breast was incredible as was the lamb three ways. My husband really enjoyed his lamb chop, too. The peanut butter dessert was phenomenal and we loved the crunch from the peanuts. We also enjoyed our 'safer' choices like the fluke, broccoli soup, and chocolate cake, but I think the more adventurous dishes are where Persimmon really shines. For those who are unfamiliar with Bristol or are unsure how to dress, Bristol is a very seasonal (summer) town and at most places you can get away with shorts or jeans, a tee and flip flops.Though Persimmon does not have a dress code (at least not one that I could find) I would suggest upscale/modern casual. For men, a jacket is not out of the question but is not necessarily required either. Both men in our parties opted for one with a nice crisp button-down shirt and khaki pants. For women, a nice dress with sandals or flats or blouse and pants would be fine. While I did wear them, I felt a bit overdressed in heels, and I typically wear them daily to work. When in doubt, I feel it's better to be overdressed. I can think of no better place than Persimmon to spend a fancy night out or to celebrate one of life's milestones. I can't wait to return during my annual visit next summer.
(5)Alanna B.
Awesome place. You will dine at another restaurant like it...well maybe you will but not very often. The flavor combinations and designs are equisite. Portion sizes are great, and I left there feeling satisfied. I read all the reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor and thought that I needed to experience this place. You can visit Blithewold by day (since you are already in Bristol) and enjoy a memorable meal at Persimmon at night (again in Bristol). The ride up from Newport is enjoyable with a nice scenic view. Prix fixe meal style available along with a Chef Choice too. You must go here. I need to go back. I wish i didn't live hours away. Enjoy!
(5)Tio F.
My wife and I came here for our anniversary. I'm not exactly sure how to start this review As I have never been so wowed by a restaurant. The food was above exceptional and the service was 5 stars in itself. Do yourself a favor, Make a reservation and go, persimmon will speak for itself. Thank you to the chefs and staff for making our anniversary dining experience one we will always remember. We can't wait to go back.
(5)Ryan B.
Tip: Come on a weeknight. My gf made the reservation the same day. I feel pretty silly writing a review for this place because it was AMAAAAAZin'! My partner took me here for my birthday and it was honestly the best meal I have ever had! The decor inside was lovely; each picture/painting represented the restaurant's namesake: persimmon--nice touch. Even the bathroom was beautiful! And the food, OMG, the FOOD!!! So good! We both chose the 5-course tasting menu; it was priced out at $69 per person, which is more than fair considering the exceptional service, presentation and taste. Dinning at Persimmon is truly an experience, they treat you like a King! See my pictures for visuals of our courses. For more details on the food see Lisa R's review of our meal.
(5)Toby H.
Persimmon is Perfection. You've toured all the fine restaurants in Providence; that is to say you've been Grace-ified, Cooked & Browned and Pascal'd enough to know the "z" is silent. So what's next? Broadway has some great restaurants, but your skinny jeans are getting their annual laundering and while the hill seems the obvious to many, you are a connoisseur and know that what they serve is for the tourists and the Fa-talians. So head south to Bristol and be prepared for a new level of romantic dining. The cocktails are a delight, the dishes are perfectly portioned and the menu always has a fresh look with a selection of dishes to fit all appetites. I enjoyed the Tempura Soft Shell Crab and the Peking Duck (cooked perfectly medium rare). I noted my dairy allergy at time of reservation and I was so pleased that it was handled so graciously. Our meal was perfectly paced at two hours and we would have happily sat there about hour enjoying our Aperol. Eat Well Providence .... Visit Bristol
(5)Sarah E.
Easily one of the best meals I have ever had. I started with the white asparagus and fried oysters. I would have licked the plate if it was acceptable. It was delicious. Their menu changes daily. The presentation is beautiful and the food decadent. It's small so make a reservation. But it's just do cozy and lovely. I highly recommend it!
(5)Sasha A.
The best foodie spot in Rhode Island. I have been a fan of this chef, Champe Speidel, since I was 12 years old when he was first employed at Gracie's. He has grown into what I believe chefs across the country aspire to be and he keeps getting better. The food is impeccable and he cooks his meats to perfection no matter the dish. The wine selection is fabulous and Kevin behind the bar is going to make your drink to perfection. It is a small restaurant so make a reservation. The noise can be on the quiet side and the ambiance is so lovely for a evening with family or a loved one. This is a 5 star restaurant hiding in little Bristol, RI. Make the trip.
(5)Helen D.
Drove over from South Dartmouth with high expectations for a family wedding anniversary celebration. We were happy to find a small,elegant, quiet place but then disappointment set in. The menu looked promising but some of the offerings seemed unnecessarily complicated. The courses were nicely presented on large white plates which made the small portions served look even smaller. Our main course choices were delicious.The chocolate dessert, which we planned to share, was so small it was a joke. The white wine was not properly chilled. The wait staff was very good. There are many restaurants in Bristol, we cannot really recommend this one to friends without caveats.
(3)Emma W.
I absolutely love this restaurant. Everything about it from the food to the decor hits it out of the park. It is without a doubt in my top three favorite restaurants, and is perhaps number one. The food is top-notch. Every morsel on your plate will be savored. Though the menu changes frequently to reflect what is in season, the same players are usually present. Duck, lamb, some type of fish. It is always hard to decide, but I have ended up ordering the duck several times and it is consistently fantastic. The cocktails and wine selection are also out of this world. The service is also impeccable. They really have it down here. You are always greeted immediately and with warmth, and are never left in your seat waiting for your server. The ambiance is also excellent. The seating is comfortable and the decor is inviting and chic. If you're lucky, you'll get one of the cozy, private corner tables. All in all, dining at Persimmon is a delightful experience from start to finish. Make sure to make reservations well ahead of time, though, as the space is tiny and fills up fast!
(5)Lisa R.
Wowsers! This place is phenomenal. Came here with the bf for his birthday and easily made reservations on the same day on a weeknight. The decor is simple with cute persimmon paintings on the walls. All the servers (who happened to be all female) were so lovely and attentive. We went with the 5-course tasting menu for 70 dollars each and we left extremely satisfied. I don't know why other reviewers seemed to be dissatisfied with the portions, because our 5-course tasting was really an 11 plate meal if you count the 3 amuse bouche and the intermezzo, plus theres complimentary bread. I would highly recommend doing a tasting. You won't be disappointed! Here is a run down of the 5 course tasting (My partner Ryan B. will be posting pics). It's highly likely that I am missing components of the dishes but I think I remember the gist of it: 1. Quail egg with sturgeon caviar (amuse bouche): Amazing creamy texture and saltiness from the caviar. One of my fave parts of the meal. 2. Potato crisp with goat milk yogurt topped with a roasted mushroom (amuse bouche): Ok. Probably my least favorite of the night. 3. Sweet pea soup with beech mushrooms and snow crab (amuse-bouche): So fresh and yummy. Perfect spring dish. 4. Scallops in many forms (Dish #1)- Kombu cured scallop, scallop chip, avocado, lemon aioli: This dish just melts in your mouth! Fantastic flavor. The smoothness of the cured scallop contrasts nicely with the chip. 5. Locally caught tautog with asparagus and fiddlehead (Dish #2): Solid dish. 6. 35 day aged beef served with ciopollini onion, beef fat powder, trumpet mushroom (Dish #3): WOW! trumpet mushroom was my fave component. 7. Local vegetable salad, pickled mustard seed, buttermilk herb dressing (Dish #4): Just okay for me. A bit underdressed. Visually very nice. 8. Frozen yogurt, olive oil crumb (intermezzo): I could eat a huge bowl of this. 9. Narangansett creamery fritter with grapefruit curd (Course #5a) 10. Chocolate bomb with banana and peanut butter flavors and hot fudge (Course #5b): This was my fave thing of the night. 11. Cheesecake, strawberry sorbet, rhubarb (Course #5c): Cheesecake shaped into a ball. Sorbet was sensational. 12. A plate of confections on the house to finish the meal. Consisted of meringue kisses, fruit pate, hazelnut chocolates, and tarts. The chocolates were divine! Long story short, don't think twice and as soon as you have an excuse to go out for a fancy dinner, go here!
(5)Michael M.
We've had Persimmon bookmarked "to try" on Yelp for a while, and we finally made it out there last night! It's a bit of a hike for us coming from the other side of the bay so we wanted to turn our visit into an event. With the reviews here celebrating almost everything on the menu, that's what we decided to try! Persimmon offers a "Grand Tasting" menu that let us sample some of the best they had to offer. Last night, the tasting was a 20 course epic that brought quail eggs, caviar, foie gras, and beef tartare among other more common fare. Each of the courses was a small bite served artistically and expertly paired with the wine tasting menu (as a quick aside, i always wonder how a small restaurant has room to store so many unique plates). And the service - wow! For a restaurant of only a dozen or so tables, there seemed to be an army of waitstaff. Each time a new course or a new wine tasting was brought to the table, the staff did a great job of describing exactly what we were about to try. The staff maintained a great pace to the tasting as well; we never felt like we were rushed, and were able to enjoy some great conversation over about two and a half hours of wonderful food that didn't leave us feeling overly full. I would highly recommend Persimmon to anyone living in or passing through the Ocean State. The wife and I will certainly be back, and we hope to try another night's version of the ever-changing grand tasting with some friends!
(5)Polly A.
Exceptional. Food as art - delectable, amazingly delicious art. If you are in the mood for dining and not just eating - this is the place. Service, atmosphere, and above all the creative and extraordinary food is spot on. Relax, enjoy, and indulge.
(5)Karin K.
Went to Persimmon to celebrate my birthday. My husband and I both had the 18 course Grand Tasting menu with wine pairing. It was soooo good. I can't wait to go back to try there spring and summer tasting menus. Highlights for me included the quail devil egg topped with caviar and Maine sea urchin with ouzo lime. It was such a treat.
(5)Linda B.
This is, in my opinion, the very best restaurant in RI. Great small intimate surroundings in beautiful Bristol, RI. The service is outstanding, and the food, well, sublime! I cannot say enough good things about the food. Locally sourced food plated to perfection. A work of art on your plate. We just went there for Valentine's Day, where they had a prefix menu. It was outrageously delicious, creative, and beautiful! Well done!! A+++++. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Richard B.
We had greatly anticipated and were very excited to go to Persimmons this past week. Our food was deliciously prepared, artfully presented and we enjoyed the small but cozy atmosphere. In our humble opinion there are two major flaws with this establishment: 1st Flaw - Drinks are overpriced and shaken to death. We ordered a bone dry martini and this is how it was made; Our server (who also was the bartender) meticulously measured the alcohol into a shot glass to ensure we would not get an extra drop of alcohol in our drinks. No doubt this must be a house policy that he religiously adhered to. If the measured pour wasn't painful enough to watch he then proceeded to shake the ice and vodka intensely. I counted one, one thousand,two, one thousand, three, one thousand. I thought he would never stop shaken the drink but he finally stopped when I hit ten, one thousand. A little shaking is one thing but a ten second vigorous shake, high above his head is heartbreaking to witness. He changed the vodka's personality from robust to weak in a matter of a few seconds. He then poured the vodka into a small glass. Problem is this small glass still was way to big for our watered down vodka. Our drinks looked like a man who wears a size 42 jacket but was given a size 46 jacket to wear. Our poor watered down vodka looked lost in this small glass. Perhaps if our martini was placed into a vintage 1950's martini glass it would not have looked so lost. Even though it still would not have come close to the rim but would have looked like a size 44 jacket on a size 42 person. Best part was when the bill came and we saw a price of $13 for each of these pathetic drinks. Order wine not a martini for sure. 2nd Flaw - Our server had a full, very long Paul Bunyan type beard, ugh! I guess if this was a restaurant with a rough and mountain man theme restaurant it wouldn't be so out of place. We were both so thankful that a runner brought us our food. Because if our full and long bearded server brought us our food his beard would have been extremely close to our food and I would have had to say no thank you. Plus, our runner had a warm and friendly personality compared to our server who no doubt had a very high and haughty opinion about himself. Due to the above reasons we will not be dinning here ever again. It's a shame, as the food is excellent but this place falls far short of an ultimate dining experience.
(4)Jack K.
Newfound American Master Chef! Every plate that is prepared here at Persimmon is an art piece that has superb amount attention, care, ingenuity and creativity put into it. It is not only visually beautiful and inspiring, but also tastefully adventurous and pleasing. I commend Chef Champe Speidel for creating this amazing dining experience for foodies like myself. The attention to details was exceptional. I truly enjoyed every moment of every plate served.
(5)Claire C.
I enjoyed my experience here during Newport restaurant week. My party and I arrived a few minutes early and ended up having to wait past our reservations time which was the only negative of the experience. Flawless service and excellent food. I loved my beef tartar with the anchovy mayonnaise and bread crumbs. The softness of the beef and crunchiness of the bread crumbs made for a perfect bite. I also had a food geek moment when it appeard that the beef brisket had been sous vide instead of traditionally braised like I was expecting. It is a place for celebrations or special occasions unless you have really deep pockets but I wouldn't hesitate to return for an important occasion.
(4)Marcy L.
Champe Speidel, can we be friends? Sure you're a culinary mastermind (young owner/chef, a magician with local produce)...but you're just plain cool. The beau and I saw you at Eat Drink RI last month, inspiration struck, and he took me to Persimmon as a birthday gift - - - he knows me so well. A chic, intimate space in Bristol. A beautiful, beaming hostess greeted us and showed us to the table of our choosing (on a Tuesday evening, there were only four other parties for the 7p seating). Our server was Kevin (kind, charismatic, and very helpful in our menu deliberation!), my beverage order was the Bee's Knees (smooth, tangy, sweet), and I sat back along the banquet taking in the view. As an amuse bouche: the Westport cheese curd agnolotti with grilled ramp leaves, breakfast radish, green garlic, asparagus ribbons, mustard green flowers, goat's milk and herb emulsion ($13). If you thought that the title was a mouthful, wait until you get a load'a the FLAVOR. The dish was served for two, I savored every morsel, then I soaked up the remaining sauce with a piece of house-made bread. While this wasn't a particularly classy move, you would understand if you were to taste that emulsion you would understand my desperation. Main courses: for the gentleman: the veal shoulder with glazed spring vegetables ($28); for the lady: hand-rolled gnocchi with roasted root vegetables ($23). The servings appear delicate, but the meal was perfectly filling. My plate was elegantly arranged, the textures coupled with the flavor of the FRESH vegetables was absolutely superb (I've never tasted a potato that tasted so much like....a potato!). I eat each morsel piece by piece (teeeeeny tiny yellow carrots). Dessert: strawberry-rhubarb with shortbread crumbs ($8). I've never tasted rhubarb like this in my life; the dish was tart and sweet, light and with a slight crunch (the mint leaves were an excellent touch). As a birthday surprise, a 3-inch chocolate cake. I saved this until the next day, and was SO very pleased by the flavor and texture. Fans of fresh, local produce which is honored through preparation and presentation will adore this Rhode Island gem. It was a beautiful evening, a perfect evening. So perfect that I'm relatively certain that I'll start using the phrase "I've died and gone to Persimmon" (it.was.that.good). I'm so excited to return to taste another "season"!
(5)Anna B.
So I... tend to have high standards. This leads to a lot of disappointment in my life, which I should probably talk to a therapist about and consider how this relates back to my mothers treatment of my father when he didn't like the way she toasted his bread... Anyway, hands down, fabulous service, divine food, tasty wine choices and the ability to cater to a wide variety of food preferences/ restrictions. If you're willing to spend the money, you will not be disappointed.
(5)James L.
I can't think of a restaurant with better food or service in Rhode Island. The food is always presented beautifully and cooked to perfection every time. Ingredients are always fresh and local. The drink specials are extraordinary and original as well. I really love coming to this restaurant, sitting at the bar and enjoying an unbelievable meal. Kudos!
(5)Alex B.
Coming from NYC, and having had the pleasure of dining at institutions like Per Se, Danielle, and a number of restaurants by Keith McNally, Danny Meyer, etc... , I was surprised to find that there was a restaurant in Bristol, RI that could compete at such a level. The food is phenomenal, but the service is better, and that's what I want to write about. From the outside of the building, there is nothing that indicates that Persimmon is anything exceptional. Inside, one finds a small, dark room of maybe 10 tables and a bar. Again, there is nothing that stands out on the inside either...but that seems to be their appeal. The small setting enables Persimmon to set itself apart from popular, metropolitan fine-dining restaurants. Upon arrival, and having had reservations, the hostess immediately greets you and your party by name (as if they had met you before) and remembers little details about the group, mentioned when the reservation was made. 'So nice to finally meet you. How was your drive from [...]? I can't wait to hear what you think of our restaurant.' Etc. Try finding that level of service in New York! I wish you luck. When a young couple at the table across from us began speaking at a high volume, our waiter immediately noticed our reaction and let us know that he would turn the music up a bit. (I mean it when I say that the cocktails and food were incredible, but that that waiter made our night. You know who you are if you're reading this!). Everyone knows the dishes Persimmon's chef/owner prepares are to die for (the filet may have been the best-cooked piece of meat I've ever had), but the service is what sets them apart from the best!
(5)Chris K.
Went with the hubby last night. It was easy to get a table, impeccable service, and great food. The appetizers shined - I had the corn and crab soup which literally tasted like angels in heaven having a party in my mouth. The entrees were less impressive (scallops and fluke) but still solid. I would visit again!
(4)Jeff M.
I'm so excited about the food I was served last night at Persimmon, I'm getting up early to write this. Certainly the best meal I have had in recent memory. The Scallop Crudo, delicate and bright sweet flavors brought out all the best notes of the perfectly fresh shellfish. Only to be outdone by the just so pink and warm Pheasant. The caramel skin, rich and silky fat, and pleasantly hearty bird married with soft roasted mushroom sauce. Had the rest of my party not just finished their plates as well, I may have ordered a second serving. Bravo maestro, bravo.
(5)David L.
Fantastic...go and ENJOY! Persimmon Restaurant from where we have just returned this very evening, and as total foodies, we had a really noteworthy dinner. Good value, tasty and creative cooking served with flair in a busy but not noisy restaurant setting. Very impressed! Must return soon to try the $65.00 tasting menu. The oysters and halibut were excellent, the wine selection good, but perhaps they might do a few more whites by the glass? Some folks might think it looks a little on the pricey side but it offers BRILLIANT value for money.
(5)JR B.
I have been dining at Persimmon since they opened. It is truly a great find period. That it is on the East Bay is a blessing. This restaurant features one of the best savory chefs in the northeast.
(4)Tracy E.
Wonderful, to say the least. Persimmon may be the best restaurant I've been to in Rhode Island so far. It's a quaint and intimate place that requires a reservation if you want guaranteed seating, but it's well worth the effort since you're guaranteed an exceptional meal. The menu also changes daily based on what is locally available - something I absolutely adore about Persimmon. Some dishes we ordered include the warm salad, crab and native melon combo, and the risotto. The risotto. The RISOTTO! It was hearty yet not too filling, summery with a bit of summer corn yet classic enough to serve throughout the coldest of winters. A surprise helping of broccoli soup was also served on the house before appetizers came out along with warm chewy-on-the-inside-and-crunchy-on-the-outside bread and salted butter. Salted butter! Who thinks of this stuff?? It was a perfect start to the evening's meal for sure. Entrees were wonderful. If you love seafood, you're in for a treat. The black bass was a new addition to the menu last night and it was seared in a way that left the fish crunchy on the outside without being burned. Excellent. And my vegetable and gnocchi dish was amazing. Seriously. I was afraid that it would just be steamed broccoli tossed in with some gnocchi but it was far from that. The vegetables were all cooked in a way that almost changed its consistency so much so that I had a hard time determining what I was eating but not in a way that was disturbing. The chef at Persimmon has a way of throwing flowers into all of this dishes, but it's important to note that everything on your plate is edible. There aren't leaves on your plate that are just there for decoration. And dessert: literally EVERYTHING on the menu was excellent. With the size of my party, we practically ordered one of everything. My favorite part of their dessert menu was that their sorbets were all churned on site. Words of wisdom to fellow foodies who also happen to be students with little cash flow: portions are small and prices are high, but if you want to treat yourself to the occasional high-end meal or have families who are willing to take you out, come here. You won't regret it.
(5)Xiao Z.
Wow! just wow! Stop reading and make a reservation today! not convinced yet? alright, continue reading on: btw, I'm really bad with the names of the dishes, so please bear in mind. This is, by far, one of my favorite place in all of RI, hands-down and without competition. What sold this place was not just the exquisite and delicate (and ever changing) dinner menu, but the top notch, friendly service that kept my family and I smiling and enjoying every last morsel of the delicious meal. A couple of caveats before I dive into the details of my meal: 1) This place is $$$ and I strongly recommend visiting this wonderful establishment with a bit of dinner pregaming. The portions are...delicate and REALLY....tiny. 2) Make a reservation! For non-fancy food goers like myself, I'm not big into planning ahead for food, but it is almost a prerequisite for deserving restaurants such as Persimmon. Alright, time for my detailed review Service: 5 stars The service is still amazing, from the moment we sat down, the waiter was attentive and offered his sage advice after hearing all of our unique taste preferences. The water-replenish rate was a bit slow, but quite frankly, that was not an issue at all. The owner of the restaurant even stopped by towards the end of the meal, and after we had told her of all the celebratory reasons that had brought us to her little food paradise, she had ordered a complimentary dark-chocolate-mousse-whatever-it-was-delicious cake. You just don't see that anywhere. Food: 4 stars (portions were a bit small) As a family, we ordered 2 appetizers (carrot-lobster bisque scallops and Japanese octopus cerviche, sweet-potato gnocchi) and 3 entrees (lamb cooked in 3 ways, OMG-succulent duck, and blackened sea bass). Let me just say that the sweet potato gnocchis melted in my mouth and left me with such a euphoria that the rest of the meal paled in comparison. The carrot soup was tenderly prepared and blended well with natural saltiness of the lobster. The scallop cerviche was a bit of a disappointment, only because there were so few of it that I inhaled half of the plate without even noticing the delicate flavors. The OMG-succulent duck (not the real name) was, well, OMG melt-and-explode-in your-mouth delicious, I've never had duck prepared so well and I strongly recommend having it prepared "rare." The lamb was also very excellently prepared (although the braised portion was a bit nondescript) and the sea bass just a bit overwhelmed by the shell-fish. The fish was tender and fresh, but I just couldn't appreciate its taste. Drinks: 4 stars Excellent home-designed cocktail selection. I had the Silver-something-delicious drink with the egg white base. Really complex flavors and not too expensive for a high end restaurant. Decor: 5 stars Persimmon really has a little hole/comfy home feel to it. Great for dates. Enough said. Overall, I had a great time dining here and should my wallet ever expand 3 times its size, I'd come back again.
(5)Paul Y.
You must take the plunge and do the Chef's 16 course pairing tour. Absolutely unbelievable. The portions are perfect for a multi course wine pairing meal.
(4)Nikki I.
My fiance and I were brought here by our friends to celebrate our recent engagement. The entire experience was amazing! This was one of the best dining experiences I have ever had...ever! Do not miss out on a chance to try this place if you are in the area.
(5)Justin B.
This is hands down my Favorite Chef in Rhode Island. I became a huge fan of Chef Champe Speidel when he was the Chef of Gracie's on Federal Hill. When he opened his own place in Bristol I was even more excited. Champe and his wife Lisa have created more than a restaurant, it's an experience! His menu changes with the season like many other great restaurants, and he utilizes the freshest local ingredients. One of my favorite dishes on this Fall/Winters menu is the Crispy skin Long Island duck breast with Tarbais bean cassoulet, bacon lardon, glazed carrot, turnip and radish; rich duck sauce with rosemary. The portion was very large, a sliced duck breast over a whole duck leg, and it's not about how big a dish is but how the dish comes together. Everything in this dish worked, the richness of the duck, the earthy veggies, and the bite of the rosemary, pure perfection. Flawless service, from the second you enter to the end of your meal. The waitstaff are extremely friendly and make the whole experience even better. At no point did we ever feel rushed, other restaurant owners should take notes! I wish I could convince Yelp to give Persimmon 6 stars!
(5)Hilary H.
How can I begin to describe the perfection of the dining experience at Persimmon? Well, let's start at the very beginning... a very good place to start. We were immediately greeted by an extremely friendly and elegant woman upon entering the small, cozy and romantic space. Our jackets were taken, and we were seated right away. Not bad for a Saturday night. The service was as impeccable as it was timely. Water, wine list, and menus all came at once, and the darling waitress took her time discussing what was best to order, and what was best to drink with said order. Since we were first-timers, her helpful tips were most appreciated. As a result, our meal was flawless. The wine service was so well done and subtle that I didn't even notice when my glass was refilled. The key to good service in a joint like this isn't to talk people up and schmooze -- it's to give them the intimate, romantic and heady experience they came for. But let's talk about the food... oh my stars, the FOOD. We began with oysters in a truly unique and completely astonishing seaweed soup. I've never had anything like it in my life, and the mere thought of it stops me in my tracks. That little appetizer was the highlight of the meal - and quite possibly of my year. Our entrees were both fish - mine was Red Drum, the hus had Branzino. Each was perfectly cooked, seasoned and portioned, was as beautiful as it was delicious and completely unique. Chef Champe Speidel has a very special vision that translates into dishes with great depth and complex flavors that still allow the main component of the plate to sing - and that's not easily done, especially with delicate fish. I don't understand the complaints about portion size - there was the perfect amount of food on each plate, and I can pack it away, kids. I would not hesitate to make the 30-minute drive from the PVD to come back here again - Persimmon is truly special!
(5)Anna T.
Persimmon was our new adventure during Newport Restaurant Week. We were truly impressed with the atmosphere and the food. It is an amazingly romantic restaurant for the foodie couple. The quite low light setting is perfect for a romantic date night of experiencing food. Everything was cooked perfectly and was an adventure for the taste buds. Our wait staff was extremely welcoming and friendly. We need a place like this in Newport!
(4)Dave L.
Went for our anniversary dinner recently, and it was superb! The foie gras appetizer was the finest I've had. It was velvet smooth, rich and amazing. My wife and I also shared a warm spring salad which was creativity on a plate. Champe Speidel is a chef of rare talent, and this beautifully prepared dish was a perfect example. I'm not the type to go on about a salad, but then salads don't generally rise to this level of flavor. My entree was lamb, which was served as braised, sausage, and lamb belly. Wow. I loved the different preparations which all had their own textures and flavor, each of which was excellent. The belly was the best of the three though. Tender, perfectly seasoned and chosen with care as could be told be the perfect pieces on the plate. It's the attention to detail, and the incredible pairings of flavors and textures that set Persimmon above any other restaurant in Rhode Island that I've been to. Everything is on the plate for a reason, and the balances and contrasts of ingredients combine with that attention to detail. We finished with a cheese plate, which is far more complex and creative than the description indicates. Each cheese paired or combined with a palette of salty or sweet or fragrant accompaniments to elevate all the parts. The only thing that wasn't perfect (for me) was that some of the plating choices were just a bit too precious. Other than that, this is as good as it gets, not just for Rhode Island, but anywhere. Inspired cooking at its finest!
(5)Charles L.
As you would expect from a master like Speidel, all the protein preparations were top drawer; and of course he used interesting ingredients throughout the meal like chorizo powder, EVO powder, and dried black olive crumbs. But forget all that because it's just par for the course in a high-end meal. Instead, the uncontested stars of the meal were the extraordinary local vegetable preparations found in nearly every dish. From the amuse bouche crudites, to the shaved carrots and purslane served with the lamb, to the shiso with the tuna crudo, to the bed of vegetable ragout under the halibut, to the corn in the risoto, these delicacies were all given the high level of attention that they deserved. Naturally chefs want the last pre-sorbet course to be one of their strongest dishes so as to leave the diner with a lasting impression of the meal. Chef Speidel clearly knows the power of his vegetable skills because he had the guts, the chutzpah, to present his warm vegetable salad as our last savory course. You wonder how a salad could be the strongest dish on the menu? No joke.This dish is the real deal. It edged out the risoto as my top pick of the meal (L chose the risoto followed by the salad). Vegetarian entrees can be the black sheep of a menu and the joke of the kitchen. Not in Speidel's house. [Note to yelp censors: the web site below is my own blog -- not a commercial site. This link is provided as a service to your readers so that they might read more about my experience at Persimmon.] The rest of the detailed review, including pictures can be found by going to www dot itsthefood dot net slash persimmon.
(5)Steve H.
This place is hands down the best restaurant I've been to in Southeastern New England. It's important to me to try places several times before I give 5 stars for consistency reasons. I'm a foodie, so to me the creativity behind each dish is important. Permissions is the most creative place I've ever dined at. Here's the best example I can give for that: A mussel with an edible shell!! The shell tasted like a Pringle but looked exactly like a shell! We also ate, edible dirt (a mixture of delicious things). I've had many items here, but my most recent favorites are: the carrot soup and veal dinner. Their desserts are good, not amazing, but they're priced perfectly for what they are. One of the other reasons why I love this place is it's not "stuffy". You can wear jeans or a suit and they don't care. It's just a great place with a great staff. Give the tasting menu a try. It's AMAZING. Hopefully the Chef will have their Buffalo Chicken dish that night. It's unbelievable!!
(5)Daniel L.
I soooo wanted to give Persimmon five stars after reading the many rave reviews and wanting to go for quite some time. Perhaps making our first visit during Restaurant Week was a mistake, given that adhering to that menu limited our options and prevented me from trying items that would have pushed me from 4 to 5. Nevertheless, apparently we were lucky to get reservations at all during Restaurant Week, at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening. We were greeted by a very charming woman and given the choice of several seating options in the intimate dining area, which was a nice touch (and there was only one other couple already seated when we arrived, so I guess if we arrived later, we wouldn't have had a choice). Our server arrived promptly to offer water choices (Pellegrino please); she was on her game all night, attentive without being obsequious. My wife had the halibut carpaccio, the pollock and the rhubarb mousse, while I had the leek and potato soup, the pork two ways, and the confit pineapple with coconut sorbet. They also started us off with a lovely amuse bouche, a dollop of crab salad on some tasty sauce. Overall, the meal was very good. . . but. . . not the over the top fantastic that we were expecting given the reviews. I thought the amuse bouche was the tastiest part of the meal, while my wife did really enjoy her entree. My soup was very nice and the carpaccio's presentation was very pretty. I think what took points off for me was the pork tenderloin in my entree. It was a fist sized tenderloin and I think in an effort not to overcook it, it was a little undercooked in the thickest, innermost portion of it, definitely on the medium-rare-minus side of things. The flavors of my entree were great, but the tenderloin was definitely a bit chewy. Desserts were just okay; they tasted fine, but again, didn't blow us away. I hate to say it, but we would be hard-pressed to make the 45 minute drive (and driving past Providence and say, Gracies) to return here; I guess we are true Rhode Islanders in that we have difficulty driving more than 30 minutes :). I'm sure if we lived in the East Bay, not the West Bay, we'd be more likely to return and try the full menu.
(4)Shannon J.
I would give Persimmon 6 stars if that were an option. This is my fiancé and my favorite restaurant ever, bar none, and we are fortunate to have many opportunities to dine at fine restaurants around the country. We tell everyone that will listen about the beautiful, expertly prepared food, and every guest who has ever accompanied us for dinner, from the picky eater to the gourmand, has been truly impressed. My personal favorite items in multiple visits have been the gnocchi, which melt in your mouth like clouds, the seared lamb breast, which almost caused me to have an inappropriate When Harry Met Sally type moment, and an apple dessert soup with cinnamon ice cream that almost cannot be described. Even a simple BBQ-style sauce or sorbet tasting is elevated to a different level with complex favors and stunning presentation. Persimmon's food is the standard against which I compare all other food. It seems diners that are unimpressed with portion sizes may not be familiar with fine dining. I always order my own appetizer and entree and never leave hungry, and I have a very hearty appetite. If I stay for a tasting, I leave absolutely stuffed. It is only a matter of time before the chef receives a James Beard award. So make the drive to Bristol, order a creative cocktail, and treat yourself to a wonderful meal in a cozy atmosphere before this place is booking up 6 weeks in advance. Don't forget the foie gras.
(5)Anne K.
I was in Newport and stopped here on the way home for dinner. I was quite impressed. The yellow fin tuna with mint herbs and melon was unique and delicious! The halibut was fresh with a light crunchy top. I have to say I wasn't a huge fan of the potato that came with it and wished there was more of the red wine sauce because it was so good. Presentation of the food was beautiful. Would return for sure if I am in Bristol but wouldn't drive from Boston again.
(4)Ruven R.
Excellent service along with inspired food. Highly recommend this restaurant and I plan on going back very soon.
(5)Sarah V. M.
This day in age my salon doesn't even do confirmation calls. A restaurant that does, with a smile? Hello, let's be friends. This cozy nook is worth every minute of that 20 mile drive. The service can be summed up as refined. A young and beautiful staff talks with you about everything from food, to family dynamics, philosophy, and bourbon. When dishes are ready, it's all hands on deck and they know exactly who ordered what. Each entree was artfully presented, the amuse bouche and lychee sorbet pallet cleansers were above and beyond, but it was our appetizers that stole the show. I could have been done after my butternut squash soup made complete with homemade lamb sausage, apples, chestnuts and petite sage. What my pumpkin tart lacked in flavor, my Manhattan (shall we say my real dessert) over shadowed. Kudos to the designer because it's such a small place - a wall of mirrors made to look like windows, and clever use of banquets, pillows, and half walls allows almost every table to feel separate and unique. This was my first visit, but it certainly won't be my last.
(5)John S.
Good but a little too cute to be great. I thought the front of house was attentive and well instructed. Definitely a good experience. Apps were solid. Soft shell crab was very good. Pea soup was a fresh explosion. Entrees duck breast over duck confit. Duck was perfect maybe a tad undercooked-- I was not given the option of doneness but I over heard another table get the question. Duck Confit was a disappointment. A little stringy and there was some over cooked hard bits too. Wife got the Veal which was a little too fatty but tasted good. Now here is my complaint other than the protein the entrees were identical. Same veg, presentation, similar sauce and taste-- just different meat on the top. I would say this was a bit lazy-- Dessert was chocolate with malt ice cream. Sublime. Wine list was well represented
(4)Kevin M.
Persimmon is my favorite Rhode Island restaurant and my current standard against which I measure other dining experiences. I've visited Persimmon many times and not once has the food been anything but perfect. The ingredients are fresh and every dish on the menu is well designed. The food is always presented beautifully. Service is good and the staff is very friendly. If you prefer a more formal dining experience (one that might be described as stuffy) you may find Persimmon lacking. That said, the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and eager to please. I have not been disappointed. The restaurant itself is fairly small with lighting and decor that give the dining room an intimate feel. The tables are close together but not too close together. Comfort-wise the seats are average. Most tables have chairs on one side and a padded bench on the other. Overall persimmon is an excellent choice. I cannot recommend the restaurant enough!
(5)Jeff D.
This was my favorite restaurant in the greater Providence area, but for the price, I think there's better out there. I had the full chef's tasting the other night with my wife, and while there wasn't anything particularly wrong with the dishes, they just didn't wow us like they have in the past. And for a $350 tab for two tastings and one wine pairing, I don't know if we'll be back for awhile. The biggest concern I had was the wine pairings. Back-to-back white wines from Austria, followed by a dessert wine right in the middle of the pairing. Other than the Prosecco to open the tasting and the second dessert wine to end it, they just didn't complement the flavors of the dish and seemed selected at random. Opening with a caviar-topped quail egg after watching the movie "Chef" might have done it for me, too. The ambience is great, the service is still spectacular, but the food just isn't what it used to be. Still a 4 star spot, though.
(4)Lila A.
Found this gem while using Yelp and passing through Bristol. Wow, were we impressed! We returned for another round a few days later. The lamb trio was amazing and the service was prompt and polite. Definitely one of the best meals we've ever had. If you are in the area, be sure to check out this restaurant!
(5)Alex K.
i am a chef & my dinner here was the best meal of my life, period. extreme attention to detail & amazing flavor profiles
(5)Lottie S.
In 30 years of fine dining, we have only complained to a restaurant twice, and Persimmon unfortunately is one of them. The manager of the other restaurant was deeply apologetic and sent us a generous gift card. Persimmon's reply was a bit different, please read on..... We had our anniversary dinner there in June '12, ordering the 7-course tasting menu with wine pairings and everything was wonderful. We wanted to return and experience it a second time before writing a review, and we are so glad we did. Champe Speidel has a lot of talent, that's for sure, but either he must not have been there this past June 7th or it must really have been an off night. The three of us paid $ 135pp for the 7-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Only one course, the beef, was enjoyable, as was the wine with it. The pasta course did not have the texture or flavor of homemade, the wines were lackluster (one cheap Portuguese white was not even on the wine list). One course was a tiny breaded portion of halibut, like a mini-fishstick. Another course was a chicken wing. The other three courses were spoiled by a puckery mix of radishes and grapefruit. Wait, the pasta did not have grapefruit, it had radishes with herbs and goats' milk. Does that sound appetizing to anyone? Well, it wasn't. When the owner's wife Lisa asked how everything was, we complained about the puckery first course. All we got was a dirty look, and afterward two more courses were similarly flavored. Only one dessert was edible, the chocolate cremeux. After much deliberation, we decided to write Champe and Lisa a letter detailing how much we enjoyed our meal last year, and how disappointed we were in contrast by this year's meal. Written in a similar tone to this review, Lisa replied that our letter was "mean spirited" and wished us "good luck in our dining endeavors elsewhere".
(2)David P.
Simply the best restaurant in S.E. New England. If you haven't eaten here yet, go now!
(5)Jean F.
What a romantic little gem nestled in the heart of Bristol. We were greated with an amuse buche after ordering and my steak tar tar app was delicious. I ordered the special fish for dinner and it was very good and fresh but didn't wow me like the tar tar. For dessert we split the peanut butter and jelly IDK what and it was the perfect deconstruction of a true peanut butter and jelly sandwich with peanut butter mouse and a jelee. The ambiance is chic, dark and romantic and if you're in the mood for a wonderful evening full of well crafted and prepared food and a NICE NIGHT OUT, this is your place.
(4)Mark A.
One of the best and most consistent chefs from Boston to new york!!! Everything on menu is great. Great knowledgable waitstaff. Downside-not enough veg and starch for protein. Tiny bar.
(5)Thommee H.
Un. Be. Lievable. The usual superlatives just aren't adequate to describe how wonderful the experience is, so I won't even try. It'd been about 5 years since our last visit. My wife and I went there to mark a special occasion and weren't disappointed. We had the seven course tasting menu (which had 3 freebies thrown in for good measure). Each course was fantastic, imaginative, perfectly seasoned, amazing balance and depth of flavor. Wow.
(5)Richard C.
Brought my wife out last night for a much deserved date night, everything was perfect especially the duck. Thank you for everything last night!
(5)Barbara B.
Not only was this the best meal we've had in ages, the service was top notch too without being pretentious or stuffy at all.We started with a warm celery root soup as an unexpected amuse bouche which was excellent and just the thing on a cold fall night . I then had the salad of cruciferous vegetables with toasted pine nuts, golden raisins, Medjool dates, Madras curry vinaigrette. The veggies were perfectly roasted and the dates and golden raisins added just the right touch of sweetness. My husband started with a warm salad of roasted, smoked and glazed beets with house-cured bacon,navel orange, Banyuls vinegar, lemon aioli and barrel-aged maple syrup. Also wonderful. For his entrée my husband had the Vermont lamb tasting: roasted loin, braised breast, shoulder rillete and grilled lamb sausage with slow roasted and glazed carrots, parsnips; light lamb jus with garlic and rosemary. Superb! The lamb sausage was the highlight.I do make lamb at home, but I don't make sausage. My entrée was also excellent-- the 48-hour braised beef brisket with whipped Yukon Gold potatoes and red wine braised mushrooms and pearl onions. For dessert I had the crispy skin milk chocolate panna cotta with dark chocolate tuiles and cocoa nib streusel. A dessert lover's dream. The table next to us had done a seven course tasting and shared half of their dessert plate with us. It had the most delicious unusual small confections ranging my chocolate to a fresh apricot gellee like I've had only in Europe. The wine list had a lot of interesting choices and the owners wife Lisa kindly let us taste one of the wines we were considering. We really enjoyed the Ripasso della Valpolicella Superiore Classico, Santi, Italy, 2010, and found it the perfect choice for our meal. If you want wonderful creative food, warm and unobtrusive service in a cozy restaurant then you can't do better than Persimmon!
(5)Rob P.
One of the best meals we've ever had. Visiting from the Boston area for the weekend and staying in Bristol. Great service. Loved the fois gras and chocolate carmel dessert. You need a reservation. Enjoy!
(5)Alexia S.
Went here on 11/15 for a birthday celebration with my girlfriend. We had a phenomenal time. We started with the 5 course meal and wine pairing but with all the treats they were offered us in between it was basically a 10 course meal. Not one dish disappointed me. I live in NYC and I have never had such a beautiful experience at a restaurant. And that's also because our server Cara was wonderful. I have no reason to go back to RI but I definitely will be just to keep dining at Persimmon.
(5)Michelle D.
Had dinner there last night. One of the best meals I had in Rhode Island. The specialty drink with sparkling wine was fabulous, the appetizer, dinners and deserts great and a nice wine selection.
(5)Henry C.
Unbelievable meal. I've eaten at fine dining establishments all over the world and this is a really special restaurant. Only seats probably 25 or so patrons. Oyster/seaweed app was great as was octopus app. My gf and I both had the rib eye and it was amazing. Love how they iron the table cloths while they are on the table. Expensive but worth it.
(5)Carly B.
How truly fortunate we are to have a restaurant that can simultaneously present phenomenal food and service while being so relaxed and accessible. Food prepared with the technical culinary precision of Champe Spiedel does not compare to any other meal that has touched my lips, but my very-fine dining experiences are limited. So it's awesome that I can be comfortable in a place like Persimmon, afford it now-and-again, love it, and not be treated like an ass for asking for a lay-person's translation of fancy preparation methods or "lardo" because the staff is so friendly and cool - in the good way. I ain't right for me to tell you who your dining companions should and shouldn't be - but in my Persimmon experiences - I do not want to talk about ANYTHING but this incomparable food for two hours straight, and moan. a lot. Anyone who doesn't adore/appreciate food or is a reluctant, even hesitant sharer is not welcome at my table. The menu changes every season. The desserts are sublime, always different, beautiful house-made ice creams and sorbets. The chicken sous-vide takes chickens to places you didn't think chickens could go. The soups are so complex with the flavors changing on you so much with each bite you'll think they slipped a hit of acid in your drinking water. OK, final point. Everybody out there does a special New Years Eve and Valentine's Day menu - guaranteed packed house, ratcheted up prices on prix fixe menus, but we know these holiday$ are all about raised expectations that usually crash with nothing that special. The Persimmon experience on these nights truly *are* special because the food (the unusual and fine raw ingredients used, experimental preparations) and wine pairings are made to be special - divine!
(5)John P.
My wife and I, along with another couple, had such a spectacular dining experience here this weekend that I wanted to share it. All four of us chose the 5-course chef's tasting menu ($65) with wine pairings, which brought the total cost to $100 per person. We also ordered two courses of foie gras, which the table shared. From an amuse bouche beginning to the conclusion of the meal (creme brûlée for dessert), the food was almost impossibly delicious and well-prepared. The tastings included halibut belly, which was fried in a very light and airy batter; perfectly seared scallops over a bed of sensational glazed and candied carrots; and grilled shishito peppers, just to name a few. Our server, Sarah, could not have been nicer, and she guided us expertly through the night's courses. Each dish arrived from the kitchen with a perfect presentation, and it was obvious that the chef and his kitchen staff took great care in delivering a meal that would be noteworthy in New York or Boston, not only Bristol, Rhode Island. All in all, one of the best dining experiences we have ever had.
(5)Alma C.
very cute intimate space, very very good food, very very very expensive for what you get. check it out the very's if you like, but for me, this is more of a special occasion splurge than a frequent visit.
(4)Scott B.
There are a lot of good restaurants in RI, but to me Persimmon is the place to beat. The wife and I are making up holidays and special occasions to take the trip out to Bristol. great food, great bar, and great service. 5 stars all the way.
(5)ho h.
UNBELIEVABLE! i've been trying for eons, twice a year during the newport restaurant week, to get into persimmon's...and this spring we finally got to go! and it was UNBELIEVABLE! before our meal actually began, we were treated to an amuse bouche of a single bite of a citrus marinated ceviche that was so totally stellar, that i used the bread to sop up every drop of the marinade that was left in the dish that it was served in - i can see having this as a starter this summer with a salad for dinner! for my first course, i chose the gnocchi with the braised lamb shoulder. the word that caught my attention (and stumped me) in the description of this dish was "migas" - which our very attentive, knowledgeable, yet not-condescending wait person (she was a she) informed us was bread crumbs that was drizzled with lamb fat that was then baked and sprinkled on top of the dish. i think this dish alone, would make me want to come back for more - the portion size and the unbelievably tasty and the tender and melt-in-your-mouth shreds of lamb, coupled with the fluffy nuggets of potato gnocchi...i had a food-gasm! i want to see this dish in the fall and winter! one of my other dining companions also had this dish and was equally wowed by it! for the second course, i chose the pork belly. if you love pork, as i do, persimmon's take on pork belly gave me my second food-gasm! the pork belly had obviously been braised for umpteen hours, so that not only was it incredibly favorful, but it was like, as they say, tender like BUTTA! wait it gets better, the skin was crisped up so well, that if i had closed my eyes, i could easily have mistaken it as having come from a freshly roasted suckling pig! the combination of the crispy skin and uber tender meat and fat was the perfect combination, that sent me off the edge! not to be outdone, the braised red cabbage was incredibly well done and had that perfect balance of agrodolce that made it, the perfect accompaniment to the richness of the pork belly! KUDOS to the chef for envisioning and executing this non conventional pork dish! before dessert came, we were treated to a lychee sorbet/granita that was again stellar...the heady fragrance of the lychee, served on a chinese soup spoon, with the brilliance of an italian ice - how wonderfully cross cultural! and we need more of that in rhode island! for dessert every one else on my table opted for the chocolate mousse tart (i had a bite and it was great) but i think i made the better choice - it was tartlet filled with passion fruit curd, topped with fresh fruit with coconut ice cream on the side. where do i begin to explain why i had my third food-gasm of the night? the pastry was not only beautifully thin but unbelievably crispy (kudos to the pastry chef) and the balance of the tartness and that sweetness of the passion fruit curd, made it light and airy. then there was the unmistakable floral scent of the passion fruit, made this one of the best desserts that i've had in any restaurants for a long time! now on to other things i liked about the restaurant. the service was wonderful and attentive without being stuffy. our food was brought out by runners that knew where what went where and there was no "auctioning" involved. the space was incredibly cozy, yet sexy at the same time...the lighting, the black-cushioned banquets, the numerous paintings of persimmons (check out the one with the red background by the bar) and the highly debated color of the walls - gives persimmon an almost asianeque and definitely zen feel. the drinks were wonderful! sorry to say that i have forgotten the martini i had, but it had an earl grey scented alcohol in it...and it was tasty! my one gripe was that we were seated right by the hostess stand, that whenever anyone came in, we heard "we're so and so for the 7pm reservation". that coupled with the phone ringing (can you blame the callers for trying to get in? and yes it was Friday night as well) was my negetaive for persimmon's. however the friendliness and genuineness of the hostess, which we found out was the co-owner (her husband's the chef) made it bearable. if you're thinking of having some great food, be sure to try to get in to persimmon's, if you're aiming for fall 2012's restaurant week, book early...i did and had an UNBELIEVABLE experience!
(5)Kay R.
Exquisite. Persimmon is where we go to celebrate something big or romantic... or when someone buys a second 'toy' motorcycle while his or her significant other is out of town and needs to 'soften' the news... Not that that has ever happened. But if that did happen, and I were the one getting the news, with a phobia of bi-wheeled vehicles, it wouldn't seem as bad. Why is this where you should go to share good (or bad) news? Superb menu, wonderful wine list, and the service is out of this world. Owned by a husband and wife team - Champe is innovative and way beyond proficient in the kitchen, and Lisa creates a charming and welcoming atmosphere in the dining room. The entire staff is like a family - they really seem to work together with the shared goal of creating a wonderful experience for their guests. Not too many places where you feel like people really like their job. This is one of the few.
(5)Bill O.
All things considered - the best meal in Bristol. Maybe not the best value - as it can get pricey - but the quality, presentation & flavors are all top notch. Seasonal menu changes often - but some staples remain. The sous vide chicken is amazing (and I almost NEVER order chicken out - preferring to be a bit more adventurous by default.) I notice reviews (skewed negatively) that mention the service - I've never had an issue. In fact, one of the last times we dined there they made room for our newborn in his car seat (one of the first places the boy ever "ate out") even in the middle of a busy night. The place IS small - so expect a bit of crowd noise and some close tables - but trust me, the food is worth it.
(5)Jovian Y.
Persimmon is OK, but only OK and in our opinion, not worth the price of the tasting menu. The good: the chef seems to have some knowledge of fine dining and does put effort into presentation and exploration of different combinations. the service is attentive. the atmosphere is home-y, which is surprising for a place in this price range. The bad: Many things could be improved upon in the 5 course tasting menu! 1. a small two-piece cheeseplate has no place in a short tasting menu and did not showcase the restaurant's abilities. 2. the portions were extremely small. Yes, it's a tasting menu, but we had to go have another full meal afterwards to feel satisfied. Many of the dishes seemed like they belonged to a much longer tasting menu. 3. this place needs more variety in the combinations of ingredients. 3 out of the 5 dishes included the same diced carrots and other root vegetables. This made for a very dull meal. Specific dishes: 1. the best dish was the first course, which was an almost-poached oyster in lamb broth. However, the dish prevented us from actually eating the whole thing because the bowl was so small and deep. It was all downhill from there... The main course was a slow-cooked pork that was extremely tough and tasted like jerky. It was a struggle to cut through the slab even with steak knives. Perhaps this chef is not ready to offer tasting menus and the a la carte is a better deal. I would NOT recommend anyone paying for the 5 course tasting menu and can hardly imagine how the 7 course would be better.
(3)J P.
My husband and I went on a Thursday night. From the moment we walked in the door, it was a fantastic experience. The service was impeccable. Food was absolutely divine; ceviche, soup, rabbit, dessert. We will definitely be back!!
(5)Andrew S.
Recently went here on a sunday night because in providence, there is not much nice open on a sunday. We made a reservation so we were promptly seated in the small space. Our waiter was a bit awkward but nice and attentive. We started with the corn soup and cold gazpacho, both were the right consistency and full of flavor. Another member of our party had the risotto which she said was one of the better ones she had tried on this side of the atlantic. For mains, we had the duck, bass, and veggie trio. The duck was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The bass also was a definite hit and went great with the fresh sides. The veggie meal was four items, 2 of which were on the menu. Some were hot and some were cold, and although fresh and tasty there was not much cohesion among them given that it was one plate with 4 bowls and not 4 courses. The desserts actually looked liked a let down compared to the food so we only had capuccino. All in all this was one of the best meals we have had in the state in a while and would recommend especially in the summer season.
(5)David B.
Unbelievable dining experience. Went here for my wife's birthday two nights ago and had the five course tasting menu with wine pairings. To say we had a spectacular time doesn't do it justice. The hostess and waitress were friendly and knowledgable. The food was superbly cooked and presented. The wine pairings were perfect. There were extra surprises in addition to the five course meal. The foie gras was one of the high points as was the mussel served in the "edible shell". But everything was great. Can't wait to take my parents here in three weeks ( we made the reservation before departing)
(5)Allan P.
Persimmon was, without question, one of my top dining experiences in my life. I took my girlfriend here for her birthday on a quiet Wednesday night. Aside from us two, there were a couple in the corner doing a tasting menu, and three people at the bar. Upon arriving, we were given a warm welcome with a small taste of a seafood dish. It was one bite, went down quick, and got my engines revving for what was to come. I ordered a scotch, and my girlfriend ordered one of their signature cocktails which she enjoyed immensely. We started with some ceviche, and then shared two dinners - the seasonal vegetable medley and a venison filet. Absolutely exquisite in every which way, the craft and dedication put in by the chef was apparent in every single bite. We were also given a complimentary dessert because it was her birthday, something the restaurant definitely did not have to do. Will I be back? Hopefully, yes. However I might keep it to once a year or so due to the pricetag on the meal. Persimmon is definitely one of those "special occasion" restaurants.
(5)Kathy H.
Persimmon is one of the best restaurants I have ever experienced. The menu is truly extraordinary, the dishes defy description, and the ambiance is welcoming and cozy. Persimmon's owners, Champe and Lisa Speidel, provide a dining experience second to none in Rhode Island- or perhaps New England and beyond. The menu has an abundance of creative dishes made of fresh local offerings that are not only delicious but beautiful to behold. Everything is done to perfection and the creative thought behind the unique and delicious ingredients is impressive. In addition to the memorable ambience of the small venue and the terrific culinary offerings, you will find that the prices are right in line with any of the area's fine restaurants. I can't say enough good things about this gem of a restaurant. You must go to Persimmon; it is an experience you will not soon forget!
(5)Peter C.
One of the best restaurants in Rhode Island in cozy Bristol, Small and intimate and although near the waterfront no views. But don't come for the views which you can soak in after your walk on the board walk. The food is about as fresh as it gets due to their grocery store in nearby Barrington which is a gem of a place with the same name. Hard to categorize, American and international gourmet. Not cheap but well worth it. Not the pretentious "French" treatment. Very American using local seafood and produce. A must for an important date like popping the question. I would recommend an intimate dinner for two, Groups could work but you lose the intimacy. Fabulous wine list. Never got to desserts as we were too full, Hard to go wrong here. Check out menu before you go and go with ingredients you like. Very recommended.
(5)Tanya S.
Lovely service; innovative approach to locally sourced seasonally fresh ingredients, including local RI wines. A June meal included crisp peas for warm vegetable salad giving a nice taste of early summer; Narragansett Creamery for panna cotta desert was taken tropical with Macadamia nuts and mango/pineapple. Experiment with a tasting menu and you'll get a great variety of what's on the chef's mind. Lovely quiet ambiance is great for couples, families, and solo diners alike. Ask for recommendations if you're unsure about the choices.
(4)Meg M.
Persimmon is my idea of food heaven. I am absolutely in love with this place. A couple weeks ago I had the meal of my life at this intimate nook of a restaurant that is Persimmon. My boyfriend surprised me with reservations at this gem and I was elated as I had dined here once before and found it sublime. After the first sip of our delightfully strong mojitos, he decided maybe we should each have the seven course tasting menu that we had been daydreaming about trying since our first time at Persimmon. I of course did not need to be asked twice before enthusiastically agreeing with this idea! First course was a single oyster topped with roe and seaweed, a delicious bite. Second- An absolutely wonderful seasonal root salad dressed in a dill vinegrette, big dill fan so I was very happy. Third- Pork belly topped with egg--an innovative take on breakfast, one of my favorite courses. Fourth- We were feeling decadent and added a foie gras course, so rich and amazing. Okay at this point wine was flowing so the rest of the meal I will summarize--sous vide chicken (the most tender and scrumptious chicken I have ever experienced), Halibut, Lamb lollipops, coconut sorbet, cheese course, olive and sundried tomato breads, a heavenly chocolate dessert accompanied by caramel ice cream, another citrus dessert, chocolate truffles, wine, champagne.....THE most amazing and decadent meal of my life! I must note in conclusion that between the third and fourth course my previously mentioned boyfriend got down on one knee and proposed, everyone in the room applauded, champagne was sent over, and even Champe came out to congratulate us! All of this, coupled with the food, made this the most memorable culinary experience I have ever had and maybe ever will. Definately do not miss out on having this experience yourself! (maybe sans proposal, maybe not, who knows?!)
(5)Alastair H.
Persimmon has some high and low notes. First, the location, staff, and ambiance are flawless as far as I'm concerned, so my review is about the food. I took a client here. We both tried the tasting menu AND wine tasting menu with our meal. Overall, the tasting menu we had was very short on a robust protein which would have helped balance the rest of the fish/vegetable courses. I'd say 30% of the courses were spot on. There was one that was simply perfect, and a few of the wines that went with the courses were a perfect match. 40% of the courses were adequate, and the final 30% made me think there was a lapse in judgement on the chef's part. If I could give them a 3.5 star rating I would. Mind you, I am judging them very critically within their category of fine dining. If you want a great place to impress a friend or have a nice night Persimmon is great. If you are trying to impress a foodie who has had plenty of tasting menu experiences, I'd set them up for a mediocre meal and hopefully their expectations will be low enough to really enjoy it. I remember it as a good experience that just fell a bit short.
(4)Charlie F.
Exceptionally good. Had the five course tasting menu with wine pairings plus an additional course of pan-seared foie gras. Everything was delicious, and our server was both attentive and knowledgable. Can't wait to return!
(5)Sophie R.
persimmon is hands down the best restaurant in bristol. i would like to say in the state, but i just haven't tried all that many restaurants in providence. could it REALLY get any better than persimmon? my boyfriend and i would actually joke (i think it was joking anyway) about kidnapping the chef/owner, champ, and handcuffing him to our stove, so that he would always be available to cook us gourmet cuisine. anyway, on to some specifics. it is rather challenging to get into the dishes that we had because of the constant utilization of the words "amazing", "ridiculous", "incredible"; words which just wouldn't do any of it justice. how does one describe "poulet sous vide?" chicken cooked in a vacuum seal at 110 degrees for 8 hours, served with chicken-liver stuffed morel mushrooms? my mouth was so happy it was confused and disoriented. plus it couldn't shut up and just eat it.. every other bite it was "oh my god.... oh my GOD!" we had some other just crazy, crazy dishes. but equally challenging to describe... you just need to check this place out. it is a dining experience. it is what le central wishes it could be, but, sadly, never will. now that i am a vegan, i cringe at the idea of ever eating foie gras (hey i didn't know how that stuff was produced)... but i have to say, i would get the foie there every time i went... and it was just unctuous, buttery, heaven in my mouth. there are dishes here that will blow your mind, and inspire even the most jaded palettes. i just can't rave more insanely about this place. if for some reason the chef ever started doing even just ONE vegan dish per menu... i would love to come back and eat here. but i wonder if like many chefs he holds the world of seitan and tempeh in disdain. that is my one suggestion. to summarize: go to persimmon!
(5)Carrie S.
My budget doesn't really allow for regular visits to Persimmon, but seriously, this is probably the best food I've ever eaten. Flavor combinations you would never think of on your own but deeeeeelectable. Our party of four all had the tasting menu, seven courses. At first, that sounded absurd to me. I mean, who eats seven courses with amuse-bouches in between? Well, we all did. The only thing that didn't get finished was dessert. While we didn't do the wine pairing, we did share a couple of bottles of wine that were delicious! I highly recommend trying the tasting... it's adventurous and completely at the chef's discretion, but they're very accommodating in terms of food allergies and preferences (ex. one person in our party didn't eat pork, so they eliminated it from her tasting menu). Wish I could come here weekly, it's so good! Tiny place, so reservation is advised. Plenty of parking.
(5)Abdulmohsen A.
Must try the $65 menu! Servies and food are amazing
(5)Bob A.
I loved the food but the arrogance of the servers I can , and will, do without.
(2)L M.
Fantastic place, totally worth the drive to Bristol. One of my top three restaurants in RI. Beautiful, thoughtfully prepared food with very friendly and unpretentious service. Usually I'm not that into it when an upscale place puts together several of their vegetable side dishes as their vegetarian entree, but in this case I'm definitely not complaining -- I've been 3-4 times and every time it's different, plus exquisitely delicious. I'm just sad they stopped making the amazing chocolate + peanut brittle + banana dessert concoction. Bring it back!
(5)Jane C.
I can not begin to say how delicious our meal was. Six of us went for Restaurant week but decided to do the tasting menu with wine pairing. I was dazzled. The red pepper sorbet was an amazing treat to intrigue. I wish I could adequately describe the sensational food from a chicken"wing" to rabbit sausage to crispy fish to cheese plate and oh my God the pan seared Foie gras was as perfect as I had in Paris. I sat in anticipation with each dish that came out. I was never disappointed. The presentation on the plate was equally beautiful and the service was impeccable. I have been to some finer restaurants where the service did not match the food or price. This was definitely not the case. Our food was set in front of us almost synchronized and all the plates were perfectly positioned. The service was elegant and the staff professional. I cannot wait to go back and take my sisters. I have just moved back from NYC and this is now my favorite in RI.
(5)Randall R.
A winner once again. Returned for another Restaurant Week dinner this week; reception was warm and gracious, service was impeccable and food could not have been better. Portions were just the right size and delicious. Very solid and reliable; I cannot wait to go back
(5)