Wine & Food Expo a Gourmand’s Delight

Ocean Cliff Resort, a limestone landmark

Newport Seen went out Ocean Drive to the Second Annual Food & Wine Expo, held in the Grand Ballroom at Ocean Cliff Resort and Hotel, Newport, to benefit the Opera House Restoration. It was a ravishing affair for the ravenous, and a gourmand's delight, with numerous purveyors showcasing artisan cheeses, meats, breads, olive oils, gelato, and other food and beverage related goods. Local and international wine and beer producers, including Sakonnet, Newport, and Greenvale Vineyards, handed out samples of their products, the Firehouse Theater Bit Players put on a vignette, and the Dick Lupino quartet played in the background. All this in the majestic building that is constructed from the same limestone as Rough Point, Doris Duke's mansion.

Kellie O'Connor with Mayor Richard Sardella

& Kathryn Farrington

It was quite a party, co-chaired by former Mayor Richard Sardella and Patrick Golden, with the view of the Bay at sunset as a stunning backdrop. The food was provided by the new Marina Café & Pub on Goat Island, and Tallulah on Thames Street, Newport.

Among the fortunate patrons who attended a wine tasting dinner, were Allison and Bill Vareika, she the chair of the Opera House Restoration Committee, and Mr. Sardella Two newly decorated reception rooms, done by Lisa Klinger and Jesus Gallegos, both students at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), were unveiled. Ocean Cliff donated its staff for the evening.

Seen at the fair were Mayor Jeanne Napolitano, Donna and Jack Maytum, Joe Rocco, he of the Newport Summer Comedy Series, Lisa Cohane, Liz Taber, Ann McMahon, Paul Roselli, Kate da Costa, Kellie O'Connor, Jennifer and Rick Wells, and Wendy Barry.