What to know about Best of RI event

The day that many Rhode Islanders have been waiting for finally arrived. The winners of Rhode Island Monthly’s Best of Rhode Island will be released in the latest issue on Thursday, July 26 at a big party held at Providence Performing Arts Center!

It took a lot of work to bring the issue all together. After months of research, and many revisions, staff at Rhode Island Monthly magazine was ready to release the most anticipated issue of the year.

“Best of Rhode Island issue is something that we do every year, it’s our largest issue of the year for Rhode Island Monthly magazine,” said President and publisher, John Palumbo.

From clam cakes to cupcakes and fun festivals to farmers markets, it’s a celebration of all things Rhode Island. Truly a "user's guide" to living right in the ocean state!

“Whether you’re thinking about where to go out for a burger, or where the best place to hang out and people watch, it all has to do with the food and the social life in the various communities,” Palumbo said. With over 300 winners, it’s still competitive, but chosen by votes from magazine readers and fans of local businesses.

“It's all based on simple math. A lot of folks will come to us and say, ‘how do I win a best of award?’ And we'll say it's like, ‘well you gotta campaign,’” Palumbo added.

And once they win, the celebration ensues.

“We throw a party for the winners. Well say to them ‘hey congratulations, you won a best of Rhode Island award, you and a guest are invited to come and celebrate’ and it really is a celebration,” said Palumbo.

It's a significant accomplishment. Chef Anthony Tarro, Co-Owner of Siena restaurant, has won several in past years and is a winner again this year.

"Honestly it is one of the greatest accolades we could receive from the people that support us each and every day in Rhode Island,” said Tarro.

Bragging rights displayed for years.

“So people do put them up as sort of a badge of honor if you will. It's a big deal to be named the best restaurant in the state” Palumbo added. Another big deal: the cover! Recent "Best of" cover images featured local food, a business boost for the companies behind the shots.

“The cover this year is kind of a cool and retro cover, it's done by an illustrator who's work is most notably on rolling stone magazine,” said Palumbo.

But no doubt , you'll soon be seeing it on the walls of businesses near you!

"The thing that I get a kick out of is when you get people that come into the state that you may be talking with on business or whatever, and they'll say ‘holy cow! I saw your magazine everywhere!’” said Palumbo.

The Rhode Show prime time special: Rhode Island Monthly's Best of Rhode Island airs Thursday, July 26 at 7:30pm on WPRI 12.