You know the saying: April showers bring more things for foodies to devour. Well, maybe that's not exactly how it goes, but that line does hold true for the SouthCoast at least.
The Greater Fall River food scene is serving up some exciting things, with eateries both familiar and new opening their doors this past week alone. Locals can also get pumped for the return of outdoor dining at some of their favorite spots, and the kickoff of festivals and food sales.
Here's a look at the latest in events, special menu offerings, meal deals and restaurant news to consider when planning your next outing.
Ice cream and carousel rides
The city's iconic carousel is turning once again, and fans of the Battleship Cove landmark are bringing life back to the seasonal spot. The Fall River Carousel and Creamery opened for the season on April 15, much to the delight of local residents. Looking for something to do with the family? Swing by and take a ride on the historic carousel, or enjoy some ice cream by the water while strolling along the boardwalk. There are over 16 flavors to choose from, including a vegan vanilla offering, to top as you please or mix into a frappe. They've event got something for your four-legged friends, with pup cups for $2. Carousel rides are $3 each. Hours are Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fall River Carousel and Creameryis located at 1 Central St., Fall River.
'Tis the season:A guide to your favorite Fall River-area ice cream and seafood spots
Spotlight on Roger's in Somerset
Roger's Family Restaurant was in the spotlight recently. The Somerset staple received a surprise visit from the Phantom Gourmet, which popped in for breakfast according to Roger's April 13 Facebook post. The experience garnered a shoutout on the TV program's Facebook page: "Cheesy home fries are taken to the next level by adding bacon and onion." Do the home fries live up to the hype? Visit 1229 Wilbur Ave. eatery and taste them for yourself.
Forestry and food trucks at Arbor Day Fair
This weekend, Fall River celebrates Arbor Day with a cleanup and a festival featuring a lineup of activities and eats. The second annual Arbor Day Fair, organized by the city’s Cemeteries and Tree Division, kicks off Saturday, April 22, with a cleanup at Kennedy Park, followed by a larger event with tree plantings, a free sapling giveaway, forestry demonstrations, children’s crafts and more. While nourishing the growth of green thumbs on this tree-centric holiday, you can also nourish yourself with fare from local food trucks. The cleanup will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the fair extends through 3 p.m. For more information, contact the mayor’s office at 508-324-2600 or email epevide@fallriverma.org.
New SouthCoast eateries open for business
The much-anticipated made its debut with a soft opening on April 7, bringing Latin American flavor to downtown Fall River at the long vacant former Sado Asian Fusion site, 159 S. Main St. Their menu features authentic Latin American cuisine from Mexico down through Peru, as well as classic American eats like wings and burgers.Just across the Veterans Memorial Bridge, Somerset welcomed a new cakery to town this past weekend as From Scratch Cakes welcomed its first customers to its 108 County St. spot on April 14. They'll be following that up with a grand opening on April 22, from noon to 4 p.m., according to their website. If you have a sweet tooth that needs satisfying - or are in search of a specialty cake or cupcakes for a special event - you can drop by this weekend.And a bit further down Route 6 in Swansea, the well-known Aviary Restaurant expanded its footprint with the addition of the Rookery pub as well as an events venue just next door.
Swansea's Aviary opens The Rookery:Here's what to expect at the new pub and events venue
Outdoor dining back at Davoll's
Davoll's General Store is gearing up for an exciting weekend, with the return of outdoor dining, and the introduction of some tasty cafe specials this week. Enjoy Friday night dinner at the South Dartmouth spot while taking in the view starting April 21, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. This Friday's menu features small plates such as clam chowder, local salad and chili roasted sweet potatoes, as well as dishes like Davoll's Burger, Tamari Chicken Udon and BBQ Lions Mane. Davoll's cafe - open for breakfast 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday - is also highlighting some specials this week: a Flying Carrot Farm Egg Breakfast Sandwich (chorizo, cheddar, English muffin, chipotle aioli, fried garlic) for $11, and Turkey Brie Melt (turkey, brie cheese, bacon jam, garlic mayo, greens, toasted onion roll) for $14. The cafe is located inside Davoll's General Store at 1228 Russells Mills Road, South Dartmouth.
Europa delivers
Want a delicious pastel de nata (Portuguese custard cups that are a proven crowd pleaser) or a savory cacoila sandwich without ever having to leave the house? Now it's easy to get the Europa Pastries & Coffee Shop experience anytime with free Doordash delivery on orders of $15 or more. Explore the popular Columbia Street bakery's tempting menu of sandwiches, signature drinks and desserts, and place your order directly on https://www.europacoffeeshop.com.
Polish Food Sale
Blessed Trinity Parish will hold a Polish Food Sale on Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., or until they sell out. The menu features homemade potato and cheese pierogi, cabbage pierogi, golabki and a limited number of babka breads available for sale. Preorders are suggested. You can email BlessedTrinityPolishFood@gmail.com or call 508-672-4854. Blessed Trinity is located at 1340 Plymouth Ave., Fall River.
The patio is open!
Ready to feel the cool breeze on your face while you try some new summer menu items at The Cove Restaurant? With the patio now open and the warmer weather heading our way it’s the perfect time to try some new menu items like the Chilean Seabass topped with a passion fruit and herb butter, served with rainbow carrots and cilantro ricefor $38; or the Honey Miso Baby Back Ribs which is fire braised ribs glazed with a red miso sauce served with fries and a honey Asian slaw for $28. Located at 392 Davol St., Fall River.
Do you have a special deal, menu item, or food-related events to entice the local foodies? Share it with us at aschuler@heraldnews.com.
