Carousel Grille

If someone said 20 years ago that Warwick’s Oakland Beach would develop into a notable culinary nook, we would have laughed while running from the oversized seawall rats. The OB boasts a handful of quality year-round seafood spots, from Iggy’s bustling take-out to the snazzy Top of the Bay (formerly Cherrystones). Now welcome newcomer the CAROUSEL GRILLE (“where Groucho’s usedta be”), a recession-friendly and consistent winner, led by a former chef from the Governor Francis and Cowesett inns. Start with the kicked-up calamari, fantastic stuffed ’shrooms, or behemoth (and fresh) fried mozzarella triangles, and get the fryolator crackling with the fried clam and scallop combo platter ($14.99). All entrees include chowder as well as pasta or potato and veggie. Small plate options and a $5 kids menu enhance the family-friendly atmosphere; the priciest plate is a mere $20 for the Baked Seafood Platter, an all-encompassing steal, with a giant stuffie surrounded by baked stuffed shrimp, clams casino, scrod, and scallops. The Carousel also has live music most Friday nights. | 859 Oakland Beach Avenue, Warwick | 401.921.3430 | TheCarouselGrille.com