A wet and rainy spring has swollen the waters of the Pawtuxet River, feeding the waterfall that cascades under the bridge of historic Pawtuxet Village. The sound of the rushing water creates the perfect backdrop for diners who have gathered outside on a lazy afternoon at O’Rourke’s Bar & Grill. The patio of this pub-style restaurant in the village is crowded with diners who have emerged from the spring-time gloom and out into the sunshine.

O’Rourke’s Bar & Grill has been an enduring presence in Pawtuxet Village since 2005 when it was restored to present glory by Laurie O’Rourke and her late husband, Michael. Today, it stands as a reminder of a time when townsfolk gravitated to their favorite “watering hole” to swap stories and to raise a glass to life.

With the advent of summer, guests of O’Rourke’s Bar & Grill find themselves basking in the sunlight of the tavern’s patio while they munch on the comfort foods that the restaurant is so famous for ~ juicy fresh (never frozen) burgers and succulent steaks sizzling on the grill, classic sandwiches and wraps such as their Corned Beef Reuben, Chicken salad, BLTs, shaved steak and grilled cheese (or try “The Fenway”, a perfect home-run of sweet Italian sausages, peppers and onions on a crusty torpedo roll).

Start your meal with something off the appetizer menu, including their signature “Irish Tacos” (very indulgent, but you deserve them). There are chicken wings, potato skins, quesadillas, gourmet stuffed quahogs, onion rings, curly fries, and so much more. Some of the most requested items off the entrée menu are their Shepherd’s Pie, Baked Scrod and their famous Guinness-battered Fish & Chips. How about a chunky Lobster Roll? It’s yours!

One of the best things about O’Rourke’s in the summer is the “Music in the Park” summer concert series which is sponsored by owner Laurie O’Rourke. Live music regales the crowds every Wednesday night from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, right next door in Pawtuxet Park. The concerts feature artists from across the region, beginning on July 10th with the sounds of Shawn Reilly. On July 17th and August 7th, the music is provided by Warwick Parks & Recreation, with concerts by Sean Connell on July 24th, Gooseberry Road on the 31st , Brian Twohey on August 14th and Norman Bernard on August 21st.

Mark your calendars and invite your neighbors! Bring your lawn chair, grab some appetizers-to-go from O’Rourke’s and enjoy the live entertainment while you take in the view of Pawtuxet Cove. It is Rhode Island at its finest.

O’Rourke’s Bar & Grill is located on 23 Peck Lane on the Cranston/Warwick city line. For more information, including hours, you can find them on their website at www.orourkesbarandgrill.com or at 401-228-7444. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Don’t forget Breffney’s, the private function room on O’Rourke’s second floor! The perfect place to host your own celebration, no matter the reason, no matter the season.