Finding a place to eat in Newport can be a total headache. Seriously. You’ve got the tourist traps on Thames Street where a lobster roll costs as much as a small car, and then you’ve got the ultra-fancy spots on Bellevue where you feel like you need a tuxedo just to order a salad.
But then there’s Jo’s.
Jo's American Bistro Newport RI is one of those rare spots that actually manages to be both "classy" and "chill" at the same time. It’s tucked away at 24 Memorial Blvd West, just far enough from the wharf chaos to feel like a discovery, but close enough that you’re still in the heart of things. Honestly, if you’re looking for the kind of meal where the staff treats you like a regular on your first visit, this is it.
The Story Behind the Name (It’s a Family Thing)
You can usually tell when a restaurant has a soul. Joann Carlson, the owner, basically has Newport restaurant blood in her veins. Her grandparents ran a fish packing company right on the downtown wharves, and her family owned the legendary Dry Dock Seafood for over two decades.
Basically, Joann knows seafood. She spent years at high-end spots like 22 Bowen’s before opening Jo’s in 2013. When you walk in, it doesn't feel like a corporate chain. It feels like someone's living room, if that living room happened to have a world-class mahogany bar and a chef who knows exactly how to sear a scallop. Recently, the restaurant joined the Heritage Restaurant Group, but that "family-run" vibe hasn't gone anywhere.
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What to Actually Order (Don't Miss the Burger)
Okay, let's talk food. Most people go to Newport and think they have to eat exclusively fried clams. And while Jo’s has great seafood, they actually won the inaugural Newport Burger Bender.
The Bacon Onion Jam Burger is a local legend for a reason. It’s messy. It’s got that sweet-and-salty thing going on with the jam, plus Sriracha and creamy cheese. It’s the kind of burger that makes you stop talking for ten minutes while you eat it.
If you’re leaning more toward the "Bistro" side of things, here’s the breakdown:
- Lobster Carbonara: This is arguably their most famous dish. It’s heavy, decadent, and they don't skimp on the lobster. It’s got bacon, peas, and tomatoes in a parmesan cream sauce that’s rich without being "I need a nap immediately" thick.
- Pan Roasted Cod: A solid choice if you want something that feels like New England but with a bit more flair. It comes with clams, fennel, and a romesco sauce that adds a nice kick.
- The "Dry Dock" Fish and Chips: A nod to the family’s old restaurant. It’s a huge portion of flaky fish with a light coating—none of that greasy, heavy batter that sits in your stomach for three days.
The Gluten-Free Game Changer
This is where Jo’s really beats everyone else in Newport. If you’re gluten-free, you know the struggle of being told you can "just have a salad."
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At Jo’s, they have a dedicated gluten-free fryer. That’s huge. It means the fries are actually safe. They use blue-rimmed plates for allergy orders so the staff (and you) can see at a glance that it’s safe. You can get the lobster roll on a GF bun, the carbonara with GF pasta, and even their famous burgers. It’s probably one of the most allergy-aware kitchens in the city.
The Vibe: Downstairs vs. Upstairs
The layout here is kinda interesting. It’s a two-story setup.
Downstairs is where the action is. It’s got that dark wood, mahogany bar feel. On certain nights, you might catch an acoustic duo playing Otis Redding or James Taylor covers. It’s lively but not loud enough that you have to yell at your date.
Upstairs is a bit more "hidden." It’s dimly lit, romantic, and perfect if you’re trying to have a real conversation. If you’re planning a rehearsal dinner or a small party, this is usually the go-to spot.
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Pro-Tip: The Prix Fixe
Newport is expensive. There’s no way around it. But Jo’s has a Prix Fixe menu that runs Sunday through Wednesday (and sometimes Thursday, depending on the season). You get three courses—usually a soup/salad, an entree, and a dessert—for a price that’s honestly a steal for the quality.
Finding Your Way There
Parking in Newport is usually a nightmare, but since Jo’s is on Memorial Blvd, you can often find three-hour street parking right outside.
It’s right near the International Tennis Hall of Fame, so it’s a great spot to hit after you’ve spent the afternoon looking at vintage racquets. Just make a reservation. Even on a random Tuesday, this place fills up with locals who know the menu by heart.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Days: They are often closed on specific weekdays during the off-season, or only open for dinner starting at 4:30 PM. Always check their current hours before walking over.
- Order the Bisque: Even if you think you’ve had enough lobster, the lobster bisque here is consistently ranked as some of the best in the state.
- The Bar Menu: If you’re looking for a cheaper bite, check out their bar menu. They sometimes do half-price deals on certain nights that make a high-end dinner very affordable.
- Ask for the Specials: Chef Matthew Preble often does nightly specials (like a Tenderloin with scalloped potatoes) that aren't on the regular menu but are usually the best things coming out of the kitchen.
If you want a meal that feels like the "real" Newport—without the tourist markup or the pretension—Jo’s is the spot. It’s reliable, it’s family-owned, and that bacon jam burger is worth the trip alone.
To make the most of your trip, call ahead at 401-847-5506 to snag a table, especially if you want to sit near the live music downstairs. You should also verify their current Prix Fixe offerings on their official website, as the menu rotates seasonally to keep ingredients fresh and local.