Swanky, but accessible. Intimate, but social. The Avery offers a dimly lit space with lovely drinks and cozy seating perfect for a cold night and small group of friends. The space isn't huge so it's not really ideal for more than 4-5 in a group. It's located in the middle of a neighborhood and if you don't look closely, you'll miss it! They have a great cocktail list ranging in style and variety. I love that we came after dinner, we asked the bartender for an after-dinner drink, and she made something up on the spot...it was EXCEPTIONAL! Even though you're on the West Side, it's hipster but offers a nice blended crowd - though typically an under 40 crowd. I would suggest getting a drink here before or after dinner at North across the street (since there's always a wait). The pictures of the space do it the most justice! read more

Alright, now - I'm back with a fresh perspective and a whole lot more to say... and it's all good, kids! Remember those first dates that you used to get all excited over, all gussied up for, and all nervous about? The ones you created so much hype around they couldn't be anything but mildly disappointing? Well, I may have done the bar equivalent my first go-round at The Avery. Luckily, I got myself together and took a little pressure of the guy... er, bar... and gave it another shot. I was NOT disappointed this time. I went on a Friday night, so as to have the full-tilt experience. The bar was lively, dim, moody but wicked fun and groovin' to a deck of tunes I was into. The charming bloke behind the bar recommended I try the St-Germain Cosmo, which at first gave me pause, but then I decided to take his word and drink my girly-drink like the girl I am. Ba-jezuz was it good. Cool and clean and not too sweet, I was tempted to order another but instead made chit-chat with the amusing trio of 'tenders. They were obviously having a blast, and that energy was going into the cocktails, and thus into the patrons all around us. The Avery was a party, a haven on a stormy night in Providence. I now understand what all the fuss is about - this little gem off the beaten path nestled into a hidden corner of the West Side has all the looks and class of an upscale bar, but the energy, charm and coolness of a local hangout. So, as promised I came right back to my previous review and updated with much pleasure to FIVE stars, because that's truly what The Avery deserves! read more

Dark but not dank. Hip but not overly hipster. Cozy but not crowded. Risque but not vulgar. Hard drinks, gentle pours. Last call always comes too soon (12 am). read more

The Avery is just great. It's cool in the afternoon. It's cool in the early evening. It's cool at night. It's cool 24/7! The lighting is great. The art is great. The location is off the beaten path and perfect. I love that there's always an eclectic mix of personalities to be found. I would marry this bar! Here's why The Avery makes my dreams come true: * The drinks are cheap. * The drinks are strong. * The staff knows their shit. * The owner, J.R., is super nice (and knows his shit). * The music selection is always great. Whether it's some Depeche Mode, Smiths, or some mid-90s hip hop, I often find myself singing along. * Oh. AND, I met the woman of my dreams here. One enchanted evening this past February, two star-crossed twenty nine year old kids who lived within five minutes of each other in "The Bucket" for the majority of their lives finally had their paths meet. Three cheers for The Avery! Go pay J.R. a visit and try the newest micro-brew that just got tapped. You may need some eharmony or plenty of fish action to find a soul-mate, but I can guarantee a good, strong drink in an awesome atmosphere surrounded by interesting peeps... read more

Ah the 'ol purple house on the corner. No food, but great drinks. This was the first time I went here. If I lived close by and didnt know this house was a bar, I would think it was a brothel of some sort, young chaps pulling up at all hours, going in, and leaving later at night with a smile on their face and pockets a little lighter. This building is the avery though, and that is CLEARLY written on the sign that is about 6 inches by 6 inches on the front wall outside. (Seriously the sign is about half the size of the monitor you're looking at.) Though the outside looks a lil rough to me, you walk in and are greeted by a SHWANKY interior. I'm talking dim lit, leather seating, sexy glowing woodwork of artsy nude women. I didn't know if I should order a drink or sit back and light up a cigar in a business suit. Needless to say the drinks are very nicely priced. I even ordered an 'old fashioned' since I watch the show Mad Men too much, and the bartender charged me $4.50 for it. And this drink is legit a little mashed fruit and a full glass of whiskey. Now that is CHEAP. This is also a perfect place to go with a small-ish group, especially on a non busy night. I hear it can get pretty crazy during the weekends. You could even go alone and have a good time. Or if you're single like me you can do what I did; order an 'Ol Fashioned, and drink until the women on the walls come alive and molest you with their wooden lucious bodies. read more

This is one of my favorite bars in Providence. Perfect for dates or just hanging out with your friends, I go here when I want something different than a dive bar or sports bar. You can dress up or dress down, all are welcome at this bar. The setting is very lush. The bar itself is a work of art. From the furniture, to the wall art and lighting, everything was well thought out. The beer and specialty drinks are great. This place makes one mean Manhattan with Rye Whiskey. I highly recommend it! read more

The Avery is a very unique experience to say the least. First, there is no big flashy sign that says "The Avery". It is actually a tiny 7x5 (...or maybe it was a 6x4...?) sign behind a window near the door. Totally cool. As you walk in, it is like you just got transported out of the West End neighborhood of Providence and into a bar that has a great atmosphere and decor. I can't say enough how good the lighting is here. Some bars are too bright, some are too dark, but The Avery just got it right. Also the artsy semi-nude outline of women blend in great too. The bartenders are friendly, helpful and knows their menu too. The bar seating is great and one detail that I noticed is that there are hooks at the edge of the bar rail for your coat or purse near every seat! Don't see that too often in a bar. The seating is as cozy and intimate as you make it. There are soft bench seating along the wall and small tables to put your drink and opposite are pleathery soft chairs. So if coming with a bunch of friends, it is a great place to get to talk and hear them at the same time. ;) I would definitely recommend coming here and soak in the ambiance. Yes I used a pretentious word, but this place is hardly, which is perfectly cool in my book. read more

The Avery is a great spot if you are looking to grab a quick drink before dinner or just want a place to hang out for a bit. The bartenders are always nice and are very engaging. They are willing to go through all of their drinks and explain them to you. Their recommendations are usually on point and always have something you are in the mood for. The bar sort of reminds me of a speakeasy where it is dimly lit, and the music whenever I go is usually some sort of Indie Rock or Jazz music. The bar attracts all sorts of people from old to young the crowd is never the same. I would recommend this bar as a bar to begin or end at. It isn't really a bar to hang at for hours on hours. Not that you couldn't do that, but that's not the vibe I catch when I'm there. Whenever I go it's usually for an hour to an hour and a half. The place is relatively small with bar seating, and table and sort of like booth seating with tables. I wouldn't recommend taking a large group here, but 4-8 people is definitely possible. I always seem to end up at this bar whenever I am on the West Side of Providence. It's cool and inviting, and I've never had any sort of problem here. Always a great time and always serving up great drinks. I definitely recommend checking this place out! It's low key and casual. read more

Had the most amazing beer here last night. I think that everything great about this place has already been covered so I am just going to reiterate: Dimly lit? Yes, very much so. I don't necessarily see that as a bad thing in a bar unless you are on the prowl and want to get a good look at what you're about to take home. Music - played a really neat selection of indie music. One thing I noticed though is that the music is on the louder side and when you are talking loud due to the music, and the music stops, you are most definitely going to be THAT guy yelling something that is probably contextually appropriate/embarrassing out of context in that moment of silence between songs. Food? Doesn't exist here. Move on. Beer - a crazy good selection. I asked the bartender for his input on what to get and I was extremely happy with the choice. Prices were great - I think the 8 beers we had came out to about $38 Location - yeah there really is no sign and I drove past it twice before parking my car and crossing my fingers that I was walking into the right place. Overall, definitely a great establishment. I would go back here in a second. It's great for a date or just to hang out with friends. Just eat before you go. read more

I wandered in here one Friday night with a few friends (literally, I was wandering the streets since I had to park several blocks away). Swanky setting with the dim lighting and naked lady carvings all around. The bar is beautiful and feels like the kind of place you'd sidle up to as you remove your trench coat and fedora a la Humphrey Bogart. Ordered a St. Germain Cosmo -- yum! Well mixed and with a good kick. Observations: - This place was packed! Took a while to get service at the bar, but didn't mind as much because there were a lot of interesting people to watch and a serious drink menu to study. Come earlier if you want to canoodle in a booth. - The women's restroom is massive. I think it was the size of my college dorm room. - This review probably states nothing new about The Avery. read more

Been here twice in consecutive weekends, and something is 'off' with the place. The atmosphere that used to seem cool without saying "we're so cool" now is sort of doing that. Maybe this is the result of getting familiar with a place so it starts to become mundane but I think it's the bar. The drinks are still good, but the attention to detail is not what it used to be. Probably due to a higher volume of business, but wouldn't that indicate that they need to hire more or better bartenders? It's still a good place to go if you want to chill with friends, but I'm kind of getting over the really dim lighting, retro disco soundtrack, and slow service. One last thing is that in both recent visits there was a weird smell, like foot odor or something. Strange but true. read more

Wow. This ain't the Decatur, for damn sure. Although I loved the D because it was dog friendly and Red Sox nutty, this is an improved animal. I will have to re-review after a weekend night, but I was impressed. Dark wood tones, intricate wood work coupling Providence landmarks with abstraction, great lounge beats, beautiful bar, classy seating arrangement and well appointed furnishings, this could become a regular watering hole. Providence needs about ten more of these bars, preferrably one on Hope street so I could stumble home after beating my liver to submission. A Makers rocks, white russian (not for me) and Gansett...$13?!?!? Terrific deal. As a note, the milk was spoiled and they were out of bloody mary material, but it was a slow Weds, so Ill let it slide. read more

I signed up for Yelp just to respond to the previous review. The reviewer, Rachel H., has no idea what she's talking about. The Avery is the best bar around. The "paunch belly" belongs to JR, who couldn't be a nicer guy. It's not his fault the law requires him to close at midnight. I can just imagine a bunch of snobby New Yorkers whining about having to leave the bar so that JR doesn't get fined. I'm not affiliated with the bar in any way, I just don't like seeing local gems tarnished by ornery dolts. Also, can anyone verify this "25 minutes to finish any drink" line? Smells like b.s. to me. read more

Absolutely the best bar in Providence. Hands down. Classy without being pretentious, The Avery attracts quite a mix of people. I had a couple of mixed drinks off the cocktail menu (yeah, I'm THAT girl) and they were amazing. AMAZING. And the bartender was just so sweet- you can tell that she loves her job. We had a great time. In case you didn't know, I am a West Side girl, and The Avery embodies everything I love about it: hip but with a soul. read more

The Avery sits in a peculiar corner, surrounded by residential homes. Once you cross the threshold, you will be transported to a different place. This place is from a different age. The dark decor conjures up images of prohibition-era speakeasies, sly gangsters, and sassy flapper girls. Their cocktails are good and their beer selection is wide enough to keep most people happy. Come here when you are on the lam after your big bank heist. Park your Tin Lizzy out back, cut the bushwa, and have a drink at The Avery. read more

It was my first time here last night with my fiancé and I loved it. Love the vibe, the decor, the lighting, and my cocktail! Great spot for date night or a chill night with some friends. The bar is very cool and I love that there are coat hangers under the bar counter! So cool! Many of the cocktails had ingredients I've never heard of. Fortunately, I love trying new things. I got the "Aviation cocktail" and it was delicious! My fiancé got the "Hanky Panky" which was strong and earthy. And "Lovecraft's Lament" was also a winner. Cannot wait to back! Only downside is it could easily be missed when trying to find it and parking can be a pain! I can't imagine how difficult it must be on weekends. If you're lucky, maybe you'll score a sweet spot right out front! read more

I hate giving this place only two stars but I need to. I have been to the Avery before and have loved it, but I will never be back. Where has the customer service gone? If you work at a bar you should know the inventory and if you don't you should check and not be arrogant. When the customer calls you out on having something you said you didn't, don't tell the customer" hey deal with it". I only asked a simple question but received tons of attitude and was told many times to "get over it". I will not be back, and will tell others not to go. If you go avoid the bartender Mark! read more

Ohhhhhhh dear. What to say. Well let's start with this, the good stuff. The place is very lovely. I love the out of the way off Federal Hill location, and the wood carvings and Art Deco interior are lovely. That said, whoever was my bartender tonight, doesn't know how to make a cocktail. At all. I mean AT ALL. I had something called a "Kentucky Cooler" which I'm sure is their angst riddled variation on a Whisky Smash. Generally these things are made with bourbon, lemon or lime juice and mint, of course....variations are abundant all over cocktail culture. What I was served was a green (this being one of the most.....disturbing of things) glass of club soda. Tasted like a green glass of club soda. a) Mint bitters do not substitute for mint. They don't. b) There needs to be a taste.......of the base spirit in the drink, that is discernible to the palate. I tasted none of the gorgeous Four Roses Bourbon advertised in the drink. c) There was almost no syrup, so basically this drink tasted like unsweetened toothpaste. Sad. This is the first place in Providence I haven't loved. And I so WANTED to. read more

What a cute little spot right there on the west end! We had put our names in for dinner across the street and knew the perfect spot to kill an hour before our table was ready. Tonight was my first time at the Avery and I loved everything about it! The ambiance is dark and eclectic. I wish I could recall the music selection but I honestly don't remember what was going on or if anything was even playing. I had the Avery martini on the rocks because who really wants to deal with a martini glass? It had grapefruit in it and I was sold! Such a great place to start or end your evening! Wonderful cocktails and a great ambiance nestled in a residential community! read more

Waitress. Not that sweet. Tonight Had not been here im a while. Will stay away for now.

I wanna give this place, 6 stars! It's like a classy oasis from 1970s in the middle of Providence's up-and-coming West Side neighborhood that's still in the process of gentrification! Great cocktails, amazingly cool dimly lit atmosphere and cool bartenders! Actually, tonight, our bartender was the owner of the awesome clothing boutique in Downcity Providence (Queen of Hearts). I heard it gets kinda busy on the weekends though, so it's best to go there before 10pm during the week! LOVED it! read more

We stopped in here during the arctic blast on a Saturday night after dinner and there was not a soul in sight besides the bartender. Super dark 1930s vibe we enjoyed all to ourselves. I ordered the Aperi-tion, a gin drink with a sweet kick. She put a lot of effort into perfecting the lemon twist - I will give her credit for that! I imagine it gets crowded here during the rush, but the unique mood makes it worthwhile to check out. read more

The Avery - Dark but not gloomy in the Avery. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

See all

The bartenders totally have your back here. I recently went on a horrible date and when my date went to the bathroom the bartender came over quickly and offered his help -- thank you! Also, the music is usually on point -- anything from Echo and The Bunnymen to Ratatat. Get the Rhody Coyote. read more

The atmosphere is cool and it is in the perfect location to wait for a table at North. BUT, the cocktails - at least the vodka based ones - are terrible. The Moscow Mule was one of the worst ones I've had and the Blueberry Vodka drink tasted like a shitty hangover (sugar and cheap alcohol). I know some might be against generalizing the vodka drinks to all their cocktails, but if a bar makes these taste cheap and yucky, then I think it's probably safe to assume that the others aren't going to be so great. Maybe stick to beer or wine? read more

The Avery is this awesome little bar tucked away in Luongo Memorial Square. It's a welcoming environment, where it seems like everyone knows everyone and the tables and chairs seemed to be gathered together. The decor and lighting is darker for a more intimate setting and the music is always pretty awesome. Don't know what you want? Tell the bartender what you like and be amazed at how perfect they appeal to your tastes! read more

Ah The Avery, a Providence staple. It's situated right in Luongo Square, across from North. There's not really a visible sign so you'll jus have to know that it's the building right in the middle of that weird intersection. Inside you'll find a lounge-like kind of bar, dark wood and equally dark lighting. Hope you like some ladies on the wall. The place gets pretty busy as dinner time goes on, due in part from the people coming in while they wait to be seated at North. It should be noted that The Avery is far, far more than just a place to wait for a table at North. When it gets especially busy (say, after 7pm) it can start to get challenging to order drinks since there's usually only 1-2 people behind the bar. The bar stocks a variety of spirits and a decent beer selection. Cocktails are always well-crafted and tasty. Well cocktails are about $5 each so it's priced fairly well (no pun). Signature cocktails are also very tasty and change frequently. I love coming here whenever it's weather-y. Being in a dark cozy bar with a cocktail has its merits. It also helps that I'm nearby. read more

A splendid destination. Five stars would be awarded if more dicks were present. I beseech The Avery to make an addition of dicks.

Don't be a Decatur-hater. Although, by comparison, the Avery lacks that certain dog-at-your-feet charm and best jukebox, like ever, it more than makes up for things by virtue of it's scariness and smoovness (no typo). Read any other yelp review of this place and it will surely highlight the hand-carved bar features and low-key vibes, but I want to talk about the basement. And how scary it is. The first time I was in this particular building (that is, after it had been magically transformed from the Decatur) it was when the bar had just opened (not as in "grand opening", but opened for that particular day/night of service). Although I can not seem to recall the exact hour, I know the sun was still shining and the few patrons holding on to their drinks were there, not by choice, but as a requirement. You see, folks that go to the bar this early is akin to their going to work. Anyways, the basement. A friend of mine was preparing for his short-lived "sangria night" (a traveling vino showcase of sorts) and asked if I wanted to tag along to cut strawberries or whatever. I obliged. After first being struck by the fanciful decor, I was whisked away into the bowels of Luongo Square. If you have never been in a basement designed by Armenians, you ain't never lived. With a narrow, steep stairwell leading to a surprisingly (surprising considering how steep the stairs are) low ceiling, Armenian basements give you just about enough room to steal someone's shoes - nothing more, nothing less. I proceeded to mix booze and fruit in wild concoctions - as dictated by my mixology-obsessed pal - before pouring it all into glass pitchers for deep refrigeration. When I returned later that night, it was safe to say I got quite smashed off of the red and white varietals. This was quite a few years ago and I like when things stay in place. I've been known to return to the Avery, where you may find me being held in place by a tulip-filled draft, lost in my own scary-Armenian-basement thoughts, while pretending not to stare at the backlit cut-outs of unnamed ladies, whose bare-chested displays mock my drunken swagger from behind the bar. If you happen to stroll in here, you will surely know which dope is me, for I am the one who refuses to make eye contact until after the sun sets. read more

Wow, my first review in Yelp. Okay I just moved here a few months ago from Boston and I missed southend style type of place. A friend told me about this place. He was right! They have awesome bloody mary and great selection of beers. It is a small a little in the middle of nowhere. The atmosphere is awesome and bartender/own is supper nice. In 3 weeks I've been here over 3 times. read more

The Avery - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

We stopped in here while waiting for our table at North across the way. I am not exactly the best bar judger, given that I asked for a diet coke (hey, don't judge me, i'd already had a glass of wine at home and was saving my limited alcohol capacity for dinner). Also, said limited alcohol capacity is the other reason I am not the most reliable opinion here--I don't know much about what makes a good cocktail, and I know nothing about beer. BUT. It's a pretty, quiet, tasteful place that is not overrun by guidos or hipsters. And in a town like Providence, that's really hard to come by. read more

Hey hey...Providence...a speakeasy bar in a speakeasy town...isn't that divine? The Avery has a nice tap seasonal tap selection and idiosyncratic bar maids who will either inflame jealous rage at their anachronistic beauty and acerbic wit, or will please you with intoxicating concoctions of their own. The bar is of the solid, dark wood variety. The couches are of the plush leather standard. The chairs are of the velour variety. Sit by a window if you wish to see your guests...if not, usher them to the back, and recline on a couch....beckoning your male friends to buy you another round. read more

Love The Avery - decor, drinks, ambiance, music, everything. Definitely the best bar I've found in Providence (although I probably wouldn't take my parents here if they were in town - I love the art but they are a bit prudish). The martinis are strong, watch out! I just selfishly wish it was on the east side so it would be easier for me to get to (and from). read more

If a zero star could be given.; I'd do so. The service from the female bartender there is horrible. Felt discriminated against from the very beginning with my shorter female friend; calling her a "child"! Ask for an ID; No problem! Call her a child! Then you definitely deserve less in tip. When deciding to leave a littler tip; was instantly called out in front of the whole bar; the lonely female customer that clearly goes there every weekend wasnt making the situation any better. This place is not accepting of outsiders. Highly not recommended! read more

Bar staff are always friendly, no matter how busy it is. It can be as busy on a random Tuesday night as it is on a weekend night. The decor is beautiful with dark woods and carvings. I love the hooks on the underside of the bar to hang a handbag. (It really is the little details.) Varied and interesting offering of beers with a small wine list. (I am not really a liquor drinker). More than once my boyfriend or my friends and I have been asked to try a new drink creation to give feedback. Also happens to be in walking distance to home. Closes at midnight per neighborhood rules. Love this place. read more

One of my favorite Providence bars. Small, intimate, and cool. The Avery draws a good mix of folks, and whatever the circumstances I never feel too over or under dressed there. The real star of The Avery is the decor. The beautiful art-deco carvings covering the walls are the one thing everyone who's ever been to The Avery notices and remembers. Even though the lighting in there is so low it's sometimes darker than a black steere's tuchas on a moonless prarie night, you can't help but appreciate the time and talent that went into creating such a beautiful interior. Other than that, it's got the same stuff as most other bars. You know, you give someone money and in exchange they pour you a beer or mix you a drink. The bartenders have always been friendly, and the drinks have always been alcoholic. The prices are good, especially when you consider that in a bar what you're really paying for is the ambiance. In this case, you get so much ambiance that your drink is a god-damn bargain. read more

The Avery is an Olde Time Saloon that you've been looking for in Providence. This is the bar you want to bring your coworkers to when it's your turn to pick the happy hour location. With a full page of specialty drinks that will class up any occasion and a large selection of beers will help if no "classing-up" is desired. read more

I was in town with my fiancé and another couple, it was Monday night and we were starving. Thankfully my friend found this place on Yelp. From start to finish it was hands down a 5 star night. We were greeted by a very friendly server who sat us right away. It's simple here, one menu with food, cocktails, beer and wine all on a little menu. We all ordered a different cocktail and decided to just share a much of different things from the menu. The server helped us select some of the items. Highlights- Duck Drumlets (I think that's what they were called, we kept calling them Duck Joints). They were so good we had to ordered another serving. Fall of the bone good! Toasts- we ordered the mushroom and crab salad toasts but were solid and tasty. I would say the mushroom was my favorite. Mac and Cheese- We got this served to us at the end of what felt like a meal that never ended but I was still able to find room for the cheesy goodness. Order it, you won't regret it. Literally everything was good, we ordered about 5 other things. Looking forward to going back next time we are in town! read more

Ah, the Avery. Stop #1 on my favorite West Side pub crawl. What a wonderful way to begin the night. Relax from the long, hard day you just had and ease into the night. Soft, black leather couches pressed against the warm, wooden walls of the Avery offer an intimate, yet comfortably spacious setting to chat (or perhaps flirt) over a couple of martinis. The dim, almost amber lighting just barely reveals sensual carvings of nude women covering the walls. You sink a little in your chair as you relax, just listening to the music. Stevie Wonder, and then that Pixies song you had almost forgotten about. The biggest question on your mind: should you try something from their wonderful craft beer selection, or have another martini? read more

Every citizen of or visitor to Providence should visit this iconic bar. Super cool, intimate atmosphere and reasonably priced cocktails--what more could you want? Even around 6pm it was pretty busy, especially since it seems to serve as a kind of overflow for the North crowd on chilly nights. There was only one person working the bar so don't expect a cocktail waitress. You know the party scene in The Shining? I kind of felt like I was being transported to that set. If that sounds appealing to you, find your way to The Avery (and go early)! read more

I always feel a little too scummy for the Avery, like I need to run a comb through my hair and pinch my cheeks in the rearview mirror before I step out of my car and into the sleek bar with its golden lights and dark wood paneling. Lately when I have been to the Avery it has been packed. This is a shame as I think this bar is at its best when it's nearly empty. It's a nice place to bring your pals who are swanky and/or distinguished, the sorts of folks who cringe at sticky tabletops and $2 beer. If only they offered artisan cocktails with muddled basil and blackberries (etc!)! If you stay til closing, they always aim a couple of floodlights directly into the bloodshot eyes of the patrons and play "Blinded by the Light" at top volume. I can't decide if this quirk is charming or annoying, but it doesn't matter either way. It's a given. read more