I've been to The Guild a couple of times now, and it's become one of those places I like having on the list when we're wandering around downtown Providence. It's located right next to the Providence Pedestrian Bridge, so the location is excellent, particularly if you're already walking around the riverfront. You get some beautiful views of downtown Providence while you're sitting there with a beer, which is a pretty good way to spend an afternoon or evening.
The beer selection is solid, with plenty of different options to choose from, and I've always found the service to be friendly and efficient. Prices are pretty much in line with the other breweries around Providence, so you're not paying some ridiculous premium simply because you're sitting next to a scenic view. I've never had an issue with the staff, and the overall experience has been consistently pleasant.
The outdoor seating is probably my favorite part when the weather cooperates. Being right on the waterfront with downtown Providence in the background gives the place a really nice atmosphere. There is indoor seating as well, although both areas can fill up when they're busy. If you show up during a popular time, don't necessarily expect to walk in and immediately grab the perfect table.
One thing that's changed considerably since I first remember this location is that The Guild used to feel more like a temporary beer-tent setup. Now it's a permanent physical building, which is a definite upgrade. You have an actual indoor space, real bathrooms and a much more established brewery feel rather than the sense that you're drinking beer at a temporary outdoor installation that might disappear when the season changes.
Overall, I'd give The Guild four stars. It's a great location, the beer selection is good, the staff are friendly, the prices are reasonable, and the views of Providence are hard to beat. It's not necessarily the place I'd drive across the state specifically to visit, but if you're already downtown, walking the Pedestrian Bridge, or doing a brewery crawl, it's absolutely worth stopping in for a beer.
And when the weather is nice, grab a seat outside. That's really where The Guild shines. read more