Iconic Old Canteen sign officially replaced

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — On Wednesday afternoon, the iconic Old Canteen sign, a culinary landmark in Providence’s Federal Hill neighborhood for decades, was officially replaced with a sign for the location’s new restaurant, Wally’s.

The Old Canteen, known for its pink interior and classic Italian fare, was purchased earlier this year by the Heritage Restaurant Group of Newport.

The acquisition, finalized in January, is part of the group’s ongoing expansion across Rhode Island.

Over the past few years, Heritage has acquired several well-known Newport establishments, including La Forge Restaurant, Brick Alley Pub, Newport Craft Beer, The Red Parrot, Flo’s Clam Shacks, Audrain Automobile Museum, Audrain Motorsport, Audrain Park Place, Audrain Hospitality, La Costa Lobster and Tacos, Wally’s Wieners, Newport Lobster Company, Hilltop Inn, The Cluck House, The Cluck Truck, Amano Pizza, Newport Life Magazine, The Reef, and Caleb & Broad.

The group recently expanded into Providence and Cranston with its purchases of The Old Canteen and both Olneyville New York System locations.

The Old Canteen is the only restaurant in the group’s portfolio where the menu and theme were not retained, leaving locals outraged.

Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen opened its doors in 1946, under the ownership of Joe Marzilli, who quickly built a reputation for serving generous portions of traditional Italian-American dishes made with fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes. Situated in Federal Hill, a neighborhood known for its strong Italian-American heritage, the restaurant found itself at the center of one of the most dynamic dining areas in Rhode Island.

At the time, Federal Hill was known for its thriving Italian community, and Old Canteen became synonymous with the neighborhood’s rich cultural traditions. The restaurant was designed to evoke the warmth and comfort of a traditional Italian kitchen, offering a rustic yet inviting atmosphere where families could gather to enjoy a hearty meal. Whether it was a birthday party, a family dinner, or a celebration of any kind, Old Canteen was the go-to place for an unforgettable dining experience.