Providence reaches out to Matunuck Oyster Bar to use space owned by the city

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – After a devastating fire last month, support continues to pour in for the beloved Matunuck Oyster Bar. Local fundraisers have helped rally the community — and now, state and city officials are stepping in too.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley is reportedly offering the restaurant a temporary home in Waterplace Park, in the former location of Skyline at Waterplace.

The vacant building, which once hosted weddings, galas, and waterfront events, has been without a tenant since Skyline closed in 2023. The city had already been marketing the space and plans to issue a formal RFP this year.

Meanwhile, at the State House, Rep. Carol McEntee and Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski have introduced a bill that would allow Matunuck Oyster Bar to set up seasonal outdoor seating in the parking lot across from its original South Kingstown location — giving the team a chance to keep serving during peak summer months.

Do you think this would be a good temporary home and possibly second location?

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