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 Smiley offers space to the restaurant in the form of a temporary home at 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?