Rhode Island's independent coffee scene thrives in Providence's Federal Hill and downtown areas, where historic mill buildings have been transformed into artisanal roasteries and cozy neighborhood cafés that reflect the state's strong Italian-American heritage. The Ocean State's coffee culture embraces both traditional espresso preparations alongside New England's preference for lighter roasts, with many shops sourcing beans from small-batch roasters and emphasizing the kind of unhurried, community-focused atmosphere that mirrors Rhode Island's close-knit, local-first mentality. Coastal towns like Newport and Westerly have developed their own distinct café scenes that cater to both year-round residents and seasonal visitors, often featuring locally-made pastries
