Lili Marlene’s
422 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI, 02909
Lili Marlene’s Menu
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Address :
422 Atwells Ave
Providence, RI, 02909 - Phone (401) 751-4996
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Opening Hours
- Mon :4:00 pm - 1:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Late Night
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Hipster, Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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Marty S.
This place is great - very dark even during the middle of the day, which was great because it really resonated with the darkness in my heart. Friend said it was one the best gin and tonics she'd ever had. I had a beer. It was good. Tasted like beer. The music is nice, a very casual mix of quiet smooth jazz and loud Dave Matthews Band which alternates quite unpredictably. Bartender was very friendly. I will be back for the free pool - left my bathing suit at home the first time.
(5)Emily W.
I went up to the bar and asked if I could see a drink menu, which was obviously extraordinarily bitchy of me because the bartender looked at me and said "No." End of conversation. (They don't do drink menus, I guess. Or they do, but I wasn't cool enough to have one). Every review that says the people working here are annoyed that you're there is 100% true. My friend shrugged and said "yeah they don't like outsiders." The pretentious level is HIGH. And apparently the French fries are supposed to be a big deal.. There was nothing distinguishing about them. I went to Taco Bell the next day and had a better time. 2 stars for cool ambiance and music.
(2)paula c.
Our favorite secret vice. Always great cocktails and music. We love the food...limited menu but well done. Yummy warm pretzels , generous and tasty/meaty shrimp, great burgers, love the sausage sandwich. We go again and again , always leave happy. Don't be afraid of the dark store facade.
(5)Barry N.
By far, my favorite bar on Atwells, but that's because it attracts a slightly different crowd than the rest of the Fed Hill strip. I go here because I love being able to sit at a cozy bar and grab a fancy cocktail with a friend who's never been there before. It's inevitably a great night. What's keeping this from five stars? Well, for starters, there's not enough seating, and what seating there is gets in the way of the walkways. Rarely is Lili's so busy that many folks are standing, but considering you go there for a good drink and to relax, it defeats the point. There's also a fair share of scruffy 30-somethings who go in for a two buck beer, so there's a dichotomy in their clientele. Finally, despite having the best pool table around, it sure does take a long time to get a chance to play, and even then, sometimes the folks around the table don't seem very willing to share... The food isn't spectacular, but they aren't trying for five-star cuisine. Not really a dinner spot... more of an afterthought/"oh man, I could probably go for an appetizer" kind of eatery.
(4)Lisa O.
I ventured to this place after a hankering for grilled cheese and a yelp search. I had a bit of difficulty finding it, mostly because I didn't know the building wasn't vacant. Once you step inside, you discover a nicely decorated, cool atmosphere complete with leather chairs and a pool table. Their is table service as well as bar service. I ordered a grilled cheese and salad, no drinks as I was ill. The food was tasty, simple, and cheap. The bartender, Bob, was nice and attentive. I will definitely be returning to try some scrumptious cocktails and enjoy the atmosphere. My one complaint is smokers frequent this place and lotter outside the entrance.
(4)Alicia K.
Tonight made it real that this is a five star joint. My boyfriend and I sat at the bar and Nell (sorry if I spelled that wrong) our bartender was a sweetheart. It's true that I can't go wrong with the St. Germain cosmo. In my previous post I was upset that the peanut oil was not mentioned on the menu--I stand corrected--it is, just not obvious to find. I ordered the grilled hamburger with sautéed onions and cheese with a side of fries. For those who complained about the DOLLAR up charge for fries--seriously? The burger is only $5, and add ons like cheese and bacon are only 50 cents apiece! If you went almost anywhere else you'd be paying at least double. I figured for $5 my burger wouldn't be so great, but it was one of the best burgers I've had. Juicy at medium, onions perfect, cheese not overpowering. The bun was grilled just right, lettuce crisp, and I didn't need mustard to add flavor. This was like a five guys burger--not that thick, but juicy--AND not as messy. You guys already know about my love of Lili's fries, but second time around was just as good. I'm going to probably be back here a lot.
(5)Thomas K.
I wanted to like this cozy looking hole-in-the-wall. I really did. It had all the makings of my type of place. Cheap beer, no tv, good music. Unfortunately, there's more to a bar than the beer and building. The workers, and especially their owner, fit right in with their $2.00 Genny Cream Ale. Uncouth, gruff, curt, uncivilized. One moment as I look up more words in my thesaurus. Yeah, barbarous too. Anyways, this is not a good bar. Nobody would say this is a good bar, unless they had a brainslug on their head. I wasn't saying Boo-urns. I was saying Boo.
(1)Mandy D.
I've always loved Lily's, but I don't think they're worthy of the 5 stars after my last visit. I went with a bunch of friends when the place was dead empty. The service seemed to be annoyed with us for some reason or another. We're weren't annoying 21-year-old screeching and hollering... We're a pretty chill, eclectic group. We were told by the bartender "no doubles, house rule" on the pool table, even though we had been there and played doubles a bajillion times. And the place was DEAD. Maybe I'm just not hipster enough for this place anymore?
(4)Lisa F.
My favorite bar in Providence, hands down. Recently took a friend here and he asked me if I had joined a private club to gain access. That's just the type of place it is. Awesome ambience, quiet, and comfortable. I think it's probably the definition of "saloon". The staff is always helpful and friendly. The drinks are strong. As far as Federal Hill goes, this is your best bet for cheap eats and good drinks. Definitely bring someone here if you're trying to impress them ;-)
(5)Jess B.
Ask for Nell! She's into prohibition style cocktails and makes a mean "Aviation". Cocktails are good, average price. The food menu is very limited and very inexpensive. But, I've never had a bad experience here.
(4)Claire C.
The drinks are solid, but honestly like Mandy D said the service does tend to seem a little annoyed that you are there. The last time I was there, the place was pretty empty. The bartender didn't seem to keen to offer any advice on what to order, despite the lack of a cocktail menu and another waitress simply stood next to the bar instead of tending to other customers. If you aren't going to have a set menu, you should be willing to talk with customers and help guide them towards a good choice.. They don't seem to want to do that here.
(2)Rebecca V.
As others have noted, the servers are pretty much openly hostile. This, along with cheap drinks, delicious french fries, and super dim lighting is what makes Lili Marlene's Lili Marlene's. Love this place.
(5)Sarah C.
I came here right before Christmas for a little reunion with some friends from high school. It was SO dark inside that it was somewhat comical looking for people as they came in. There is no sign, only some lettering on the door, so you really have to know where it's located. I had a delicious drink the bartender recommended that had grapefruit juice and vodka. Yum! They have free pool (one table) and serve food. A friend ordered some fries and they looked really good. I would definitely come back here for drinks, maybe before a dinner on the Hill.
(4)Charlotte S.
Don't get me wrong, I love Lili's but it's just not my go-to place. This bar is more of a 'go there to get things started' rather than a 'let's end up here after a night on the town.' Their drinks are moderately priced and just all right with the pour. I like that it's dark, like a well-kept secret on Atwells, and we often come for the pool table alone, which is fun. The service has never really been outstanding but my primary gripe is that, for food, the menu is really lacking. I've gotten the Shrimp Po Boy which is pretty good but that's pretty much my only option that I can recall, as a pesky pescatarian. Come on, give me fried goodness I can eat. Their fries are alright - certainly do hit the spot for a greasy craving - but I would suggest not playing your cards on food here. Instead, I would grab dinner first then meander over for some drinks after.
(3)Bradley D.
My favorite bar in Federal Hill. I live in the neighborhood and moved here 2 years ago, and didn't know this was a bar for the first 6 months. That's one of the best parts of it. It's hidden, it's small and quaint, it's quiet, and it's a great bar. I kind of got off the kick of going to bars for the sake of going to bars, but whenever there is an event I want to celebrate, or friends are coming, I love taking them here. A few more things: GREAT FOOD. And it's so cheap! My girlfriend and I wanted burgers last week and we didn't want to drive anywhere, and we tend to hit Julians for food often (not knocking them, they rule!) but wanted something even closer so I suggested Lili's. I've had the burgers before and they didn't miss this time either. 2 burgers with bacon and cheese, a side of fries, a basket of pretzels and 2 beers for $30 (including tip)? WHAT A DEAL! I love this place, and though I haven't had it, friends sat the Shrimp Po Boy is awesome too. I suggest this for a cheap, delicious dinner or just a few beers with friends. HIGHLY recommended. A+ P.S. The pool table is free!!!!!
(5)Xiao Z.
Definitely a nice finding down on Atwell, neatly tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the mainstream soulless bars adjacent to the hanging acorn. If you weren't guided by an internal (or external) GPS, you'll easily walk by this place without batting an eye. But once you enter, you're in for a comfy night amongst friends. The dinner menu is not too impressive, and there isn't really much of a cocktail menu, but that being said, the staff are really friendly and they'll be happy to make you any drink your sober hearts desire. My friends ordered their fav's, and it only cost them $6 per drink. I ended up choosing a sippy bourbon, and the bartender even gave me a little shotglass of the alternative bourbon, just because I took so long deciding between the two. The seating is very relaxed, cozy, and it was a really quite Sunday night, so I don't know what this place looks like when it's busy, but I'm sure it's not too terribly loud. Overall, I had a good experience and hung out with my friends. I'd recommend it for people looking for a quieter night out.
(4)Rich B.
Best burger in town. For real though....I know! Seriously though. Get some burgers and soft pretzels! As long as you don't mind hipsters, you will love Lilis...
(5)Billy M.
I've been coming here for years, always pleasant staff, they make a mean old fashion, and the Shrimp Po boy is delightful. Ive seen some complaints on here and I feel like people don't understand the aesthetic. Its a beautiful, dim lit, clean bar, without T.V.s because your phone is enough of a distraction, if the bar staff come of stern its because you are at a real bar, not dave and busters. Pool table available. they have large sitting areas for large group outings but don't be mistaken this a great place for a first date as well.
(5)Sean K.
If I wrote this review before my last visit I would've given 4 stars. But no longer. On a positive note, their burger which has always been solid was just what it was supposed to be. However... was a very confusing experience. When my wife and I sat down there was a couple playing pool. Another 2 people came in together, making up the only 6 people now in the entire place, and they started playing doubles with the other couple. The bartender felt he had to walk up to them and tell them "no doubles allowed here". Why? It's not a pay table, so they're not making any more money off it. Not to mention the couple who had been playing left immediately after, and probably would've stayed for another drink if they weren't told they "weren't allowed". It was one of the more strange things I've witnessed. The other major problem, is I ordered the shrimp po'boy, which I used to rave about. I don't know if there's a new chef or what, but this wasn't the same po'boy I remembered. First of all it wasn't a shrimp po'boy, it was a sweet pickle sandwich with a garnish of shrimp. Shrimp that was breaded so poorly it fell off the second you took a bite out of it. By the time I got to the second half of the sandwich I had to pick off some of the pickles and tomatos cuz it was just took much to take. And when I did the tomatoes were cut to different thicknesses. Also the sauce wasn't as good as it was before. And as has been pointed out several times in other reviews the staff almost seems annoyed that you're there. You work at a bar in Providence.....there's a thousand of them....working at a bar in Providence doesn't make you extraordinary and supercool....
(2)Diane M.
Wow!! was all my mouth could say,after the St Ruby martini hit my tongue. I was in drink heaven. Now I know I'm so hooked! The hamburger was cooked to perfection ,with its buttery bun. I ordered sautéed onions on it but I think it was mushrooms instead. It is sooo dark in there, who knows. It was so delicious , I didn't care. Warning though!! Don't sit too close to pool table. My daughter almost sustained brain trauma and my friend nearly had his eardrum punctured by a pool stick. Duck and weave!
(4)Jessica S.
From the outside this place may promote some questions but once you step inside not only is it dark and beautiful but comfortable and surprisingly clean. Top that off with the fantastic bartender and it's a must.
(5)Ben S.
Dark and sumptuous Generous, delicious drinks Cool, comfortable environs So, you roll up in front for the first time, mildly unsure if you've got the right spot - Lili Marlene's could easily paraphrase DJ Shadow; "self-promotion isn't my strong suit." But you head for the right door, let your eyes adjust to the cool dimness even on the sunniest summer afternoon, and you take it in - a sturdy bar that draws your eye with an understated bottle selection, a modest beer tap, and a few cool accoutrements, like an old cash register and rotary phone. A small parlor-style seating area to your left, perfect for reading a newspaper in, or waiting for an accomplice, or for smoking a bubble-pipe contemplatively. Around the corner, comfortable booths with fine capacity for boisterous catching up, imbibing, and other goings-on. And then, the fine billiard table around which the good people gather and rack 'em. Space-wise? That's pretty much that - it's a cozy but decently commodious and inviting place. Location-wise? A sort of Federal Hill, Olneyville, and Route 6 drive-by vertex situation. Cocktails are done well here - and they're not stingy with the pours. A few beers make the scene here - and they're solid offerings. The food is tasty. The servers I've encountered have ranged from above-average to among my favorites to trade stories with anywhere. So stop in. Get used to the lighting. Order your favorite beverage. Ask bartender Kevin about his time in Japan, or how long he expects his well-worn sandals to keep providing comfort on his shifts behind the bar. Order some food. Be glad you came in, and repeat in the future.
(4)Meghan O.
I honestly had high hopes for this place, because I know it had become one of my close friends favorite little spots. Maybe something about amazing fries? I don't remember. All I remember is meeting up with a group of people for a drink, walking into a dimly lit room trying to squint to find my buddies. The atmosphere wasn't exactly inviting. And then the staff wasn't overly friendly... And definitely not attentive. It's been a while since I've been, so maybe it was one bad experience. But I wasn't able to order a drink the whole time I was there... Because the waitress never came back to the table. But there's free pool I think? One table.
(3)Pouya A.
Visited while passing through Providence. This place totally feels like you're walking into a house initially, then the dim lighting gives it an old school mafia bar feel. There was only one bartender and he was super friendly; we ended up telling stories and joking with each other a bunch. Menu is limited but food was great. Got the shrimp po-boy with fries. The shrimp was delicious and non-breaded, sauce was nice, bread was soft and well toasted. The sandwich was big - if you're not that hungry, you can probably split it. Fries were cooked perfectly. With 2 draft beers, the bill ended up at just under $25... but the po-boy is the most expensive thing on the menu ($10). Overall, I really enjoyed myself. Wish I had a bit more time to partake in the free pool table, but it's cool because I have a feeling I'll be back! :-)
(4)Brent R.
Was invited here tonight got a drink. Loved that there's no sign but anyone looking can tell its a bar. The reddish glow inside is charming. Will definitely make time to go back and soon. The kitchen appeared to be open but didn't have a chance to eat there.
(5)Becky F.
First experience: "Am I about to walk in to someone's house? Oh well, let's try it anyway." ... "This is great! It's like a bar in a house! Yeahhh!" My second experience there made me feel a bit older. You know how your parents used to complain about the dim lighting in restaurants as they pulled the flickering candle closer to the menu to see? Well, I never considered myself old until I did that same thing with my cell phone at Lili Marlene's. I get it, it creates ambiance and atmosphere and mystery. But I can't read your food or wine menus or even see what beers you have on tap! Fortunately, I persevered and we ordered a basket of fries, a sausage plate, and a few rounds of drinks. The food menu is limited, but good, and everything is pretty inexpensive. Our fries were plentiful and the sausage was great! I have only ever sat at the bar which is fun -- friendly bartenders and you get to spy on the folks "on the other side" in the booths and playing pool from the cover of the shadows. It's certainly not a pretentious place, and I suppose this would also be a great spot for the nights you just don't want to put much effort in to how you look. I mean, it is seriously dark in there.
(4)Hairy K.
This place doesn't deserve anybody's patronage. Bartender just lost a 10 person table and bill because he couldn't work with us. His handling of our group was verbally rude and insulting. We were not given the chance to try any drinks or food and cannot comment on their quality.
(1)Jackie B.
Found this place by Yelp but drove by it several times trying to find it - there's no sign or anything and the building looks very dumpy; it's towards the wrong end of Atwells near the highway. However, once inside it is dark and moody which I just absolutely love. Service was fine, food was fine, drinks were fine, prices were reasonable. This is a not a 5-star establishment by any means but it's a beautiful, sort of moody, art nouveau inspired bar tucked away from the outside with curtains blocking the windows and everything dark. I will definitely be going back, it's a nice little hang out to have a few drinks while unwinding from a long day. I love the character of this little bar.
(5)Peter C.
This is easily one of the best bars in Providence. Not much to say that hasn't already been written -- it's small and dark and very nondescript. The drinks and food are great. I recommend the cheese burger with grilled onions, the shrimp po boy, and of course the fries. The fries are some of the best I've ever had.
(5)Tara L.
Definitely a little strange to find. I am glad for the Yelp reviews that said it was like you were about to walk into someone's house. Great bartender who made me a custom cocktail with gin, soda water and grapefruit liqueur. We chatted with the bartender about Providence, Queens and Idaho and he was very nice.
(5)Allison R.
Easy to miss, but not forgettable once you've been there. A low lit heaven for those looking to listen to a fantastic selection of tunes, yet still carry on a conversation. Lili's is my warm comfortable cocoon in the bar scene of the west end. The waitresses slink out of the darkness to take an order or clear away an empty glass, though on busy nights sometimes it is hard to get the attention of the lone server. Fantastic inexpensive food offerings (though they need to add one other veggie friendly item even if its hummus & cheese on a roll), the fries are always hot and tasty and perfect for a couple (or threesome) to share! The drinks are poured liberally and served up in heavy, appropriate glassware. Don't be afraid to ask for sometime complex either, I've been served fantastic old fashioneds and manhattans as well as simple PBRs without the bartender batting an eye either way.
(5)Max H.
Nice spot on atwells to pop into every once on awhile on a weekday. Nice atmosphere with a no fuss, nothing too exciting bar. My last visit was tainted by a waitress who aside from staring at us constantly, stoped by every few minuites to remind us on all of the rules of pool in the bar. Where to break from, how many people can play, etc.. it kinda killed our mood. If you need a decent place to goto for a drink, maybe come here?
(3)Lyd M.
For some reason, I never think to come here on my own but it's a great spot that's always suggested by friends and I'm never hesitant to meet them here! This is a nice late-night spot further down Atwells (I usually take Broadway and cut down because the main area of The Hill is always ridiculously busy) and I've never been unable to grab a table or a seat at the bar. The drinks are good, strong, and cheap ($8 for my go-to Ketel One martini!) and they have tasty food late. My favorite are the warm pretzels with mustard...yum! They also make a really good ruby red grapefruit martini...I forget what it's called but they know what you mean when you ask about it. The decor is dark but warm...it's almost like a creepy Victorian parlor. I love creepy Victorian parlors! Service is good...table service all night. Pool table if you play pool (I do not). Definitely a solid option.
(4)Jordan D.
Free pool, reasonably priced and tasty drinks on Federal Hill (a rarity), and, as my friend commented, it looks like a really nice funeral parlor.
(5)Jessica S.
Love the colors and dark lighting, great atmosphere. Great hamburgers and soft pretzels with mustard. Good music. Nice staff. I wish they had a couple more small tables in there, maybe in place of the big one near the pool table. Best to keep the bigger seating areas near the wall. We really liked it here though and will definitely return
(4)Alice V.
I agree that bars can have a "over 21" policy but this place is ridiculous since they do not accept foreign IDs. So if you are an international person and you do not have your passeport because of course you do not plan on travelling the same day, you cannot hang out with your friends. EVEN IF YOU DONT ORDER ALCOHOL. This is pathetic.
(1)Cindy M.
Disbelief is all I can come up with. My husband and I go here a lot- usually spending between 80.00 and 100.00 with drinks and food. We also frequent the owners other location that is a speakeasy type bar. All I can say is never ever again. We walked into the bar around 6:30 on a Tuesday and there were roughly 6 people there including the owner. We ordered drinks (8 dollar each cocktails) and sat up at the bar. We had menus in front of us to order but while we were enjoying our drinks we had a tiny, and I do mean tiny lunch box size Baggie of peanuts. There were maybe 30 peanuts in the bag. The owner saw us eating a couple nuts and said very awkwardly and rudely "is that outside food " my husband said " yes, we have a few peanuts we are eating with our drinks but we will be ordering, is that okay?" The owner said "not really, that's why we have a menus!" REALLY? Dear owner- perhaps you're independently wealthy, but treating us like this was completely uncalled for. We will no longer be going to any of your locations, although we are unsure if you really care. Sometimes as an owner, you need to pick your battles. I guess us eating a 50 Cent bag of peanuts while we were enjoying our drinks was too much for you. I do hope it was worth it. Perhaps if you put peanuts on the menu like you have on the menu at your other location we would have ordered some like we normally do. Normally we order the pretzels at this location, but that night we weren't in the mood for them. Realize that your bar is nothing fancy, and you have a rather limited menu. Quite frankly your drinks are overpriced, Perhaps it comes with being on Federal Hill. Your behavior was uncalled for and embarrassing and all you accomplished was losing out on return customers and to me that seems foolish and just bad business. The fact is there's many many great locations for food in Providence. My husband and I ended up leaving this location and heading to Julian's. We had a great night there and before we ordered food we had peanuts, and they had no problem with that.
(1)Hilary H.
Cheap and tasty food, dimly lit bar, and AWESOME drinks. Lili's is my new crush, kids. Of course, the amazing Willa VanNostrand is behind the bar mixing my favorite cocktail, The Bitter Saint, to perfection so I can't give this place anything but 5 stars. Even though it's on The Hill, there's nothing cheesy, cheap or gimmicky about this place -it's a legit bar. My burger was $4.50, and while it wasn't the prettiest thing I've ever seen, it tasted scrumptious and I wasn't complaining. The beef was juicy, the lettuce and tomato were fresh and the bun was just a hint sweet. Yum yum, kids. Yum yum.
(5)Jordan A.
We stopped in here for dinner the other night as a last minute plan, and this is one of my new favorite places. Inexpensive, great food, a variety of drinks, free pool- a cute little spot all together. I'm excited to go back :)!
(5)Kevin O.
Pros: -very cute little place -dark -quiet -free pool table -good steamed shrimp Cons: -Guinness in pilsners glasses (WTF?) -Server seemed very unaware of what booze she actually had at the bar. -Po-boy was kind of a joke, it had maybe nine shrimp on it and had BREAD AND BUTTER pickles. That will get you stabbed down south (the pickles).
(2)Jordan Z.
I like this place. I really do. The ambiance is it's greatest aspect. The problems I have with this place is that the menu is very very rarely ever updated. They are constantly out of beers that you order, or the keg just so happened to kick. Which happens...but....for one beer on ever visit? No one is THAT good at picking the "just kicked keg lotto". The staff can be kind of pedantic sometimes. They just seem a little annoyed by your requests or questions. If they bring you the wrong beer, or drink, simply because THEY Misheard you, it's kind of scoffed at as if you're changing it on purpose. Beyond that...there is this ONE waitress. Light skinned, dark haired, girl. She just NEVER...EVER wears a bra. When she does, its clearly very thin, or it just came out of the freezer. Sometimes its hard to order because I have to clear headlights looking right at me. It's not that I look. It's just that your waitress is taking your drink order all night with rock hard nipples. I'm only looking for that kind of service over at Foxy. Beyond that I'd thank her to keep the cardigan on.
(3)Theresa M.
Writing this review a while after my initial visit, but I can't stop thinking about this delightful little hole-in-the-wall. I came here with a group of 5 this past August, and was immediately surprised by the outside decor...so nondescript! You'd think it was an apartment building that no one lived in anymore, or some off-the-beaten-path art studio where the hipsters flock. HOWEVER, when the door opens, the beautiful interior is revealed: really low lighting, a chill, beautifully sculpted bar, ample and comfortable seating, mostly booths, colorful glass lamps, and Mucha prints adorning the walls. The menu is divine: not even CLOSE to over-priced, and all of us agree that you should get the cheeseburger, cooked MR, grilled onions on the side. Yum-sauce. We're a lively, humorous bunch, and the waitress was awesome at handling us and playing along. A little shaky with carrying a tray of drinks, but she was good-natured when we helped her, and I'd certainly be overwhelmed if I was serving us. Speaking of the drinks, they were super tasty! I played it safe at first, and ordered a G&T, but one of my friends went to the bar, and the bartender concocted a special drink for him, based off of his preferences! Great service. Another friend ordered a couple different drinks for us to share, and both were delicious. Admittedly, we did get loud, but I'm docking a star for the way management (at least, I think it was management? Might have just been a random patron) handled asking us to keep quiet. Large dude with weird hair passive-aggressively told us to keep it down. Seriously? There are better ways to ask paying customers to turn the volume lower. One way or another, I live 1000 miles away from this place now, but will continually return every time I'm on the east coast!
(4)Eric G.
Hands down my favorite bar and favorite burger. The bartenders pour generous drinks with liberal booze. They'll make your custom requests and make recommendations with enthusiasm. Everything about this recent visit lives up to past glories, except for one teeny detail- it was not quite as dark. One of the greatest things about sitting at a booth is looking around, seeing almost nothing but inky darkness and wondering to yourself 'where am I?" My other favorite burger is a $14 California burger. It was grass fed farm raised and massaged by naked elf women. You order it rare and the flavor is deep red filet. At Lili's it's a different flavor, but every bit as delicious. I have to restrain myself from eating it in two bites. with sauted onions and cheese.
(5)Holly S.
Pool table and bar food, I'm in! I went back again last night, it's dark, beware of focusing on ur food! But I still like it!
(4)Jessica P.
Lili's is my absolute favorite bar in Providence! This dim lit bar at the bottom of The Hill isn't the easiest find. I think that's part of its charm. Once you find it though the cheap drinks, craft beers, and surprisingly yummy food will keep you coming back. Pros- *The drinks are cheap and strong. They make a mean rum & coke. *The menu is limited, but everything on it is scrumptious (Shrimp Po Boy, tomato & mozzarella salad, and don't forget to try the fries). *There are big comfy booths and plenty of seating. *The bartenders and servers are pleasant, and know what they're talking about. *Clean bathroom. *Free pool table *Great atmosphere! I for one love how dark Lili's is. *There's always an eclectic group of people there. Yes it's on The Hill, but it doesn't attract the type of crowd most places on The Hill does. *Oh, and the music! How could I forget! Yes it's loud, but not to the point where I find myself screaming to be heard. Plus, they play good music, and a variety. Cons- *Owner is strict when it comes to pool rules. *Street parking (not too bad though) Lili's is my go to place. Even if I have plans to go elsewhere, I almost always end up at Lili's. You can't go wrong!
(5)Peter A.
Sweet little bar on the hill. You might walk by a few times because there's not a single sign. Once you found that gem, it's hard to leave. They have a great bar selection, a pool table and also delicious food! It can get crowded at times and usually pretty hot. It's a very dark place but one of the few places you should come visit.
(4)Annie J.
Overall, I liked the atmosphere here (especially the booths) but thought it was a little more run down than some of the other Yelpers who called the place "gorgeous" and compared it to a "classy gentleman's study." Lili Marlene's isn't a dive bar, but it isn't the Avery either. The biggest disappointment? The po' boy sandwich. Mine was cold (and this was on a not very busy Friday night), but even ignoring that, the bread was just way too thick for a sandwich like that. Plus, I resent having to pay extra for french fries. Still, it was a pleasant surprise to go to a bar/restaurant in Providence and NOT see a grilled cheese on the menu...
(3)Jennifer S.
Love this place! Used to live just across the bridge from Lili's and went all the time. The drinks are strong. Love their fries. And most of all, I love the ambience. Always well air conditioned in the summer.
(5)Johanna C.
One of my favorite places to grab a drink in Providence! The atmosphere is perfect for having a few drinks with friends and catching up. Great music selection and it is never overly loud - it is nice to have a conversation without having to yell at the person next to you so they can hear you. The free pool table is great, and the food is always awesome for a late night bite. Bar service is quick, no waiting for drinks and the staff is friendly.
(5)Rebecca F.
Cheers to a non-douchey place on the hill where friends can meet and imbibe without club music, LED lighting, or "free" valet parking and without the pressure of running into former Jersey Shore alumni. Jeers to all the talk about "amazing cocktails" and there not being a cocktail menu. Or any mint leaves on the premises. Nor any other boutique liquors worthy of "best cocktail of my life" boasting. Cheers to greasy non-pretentious bar food. Jeers to no sides with said food. Cheers to pool table, dining booths and other dark spots worthy of nefarious ne'er-do-wells. Jeers/cheers to jittery awkward service. Cheers to cheap dates and a great spot for girls' night. Jeers to parking anywhere near Atwell's Avenue with a car you don't want stolen or side-swiped. There is promise, and room to grow. I will be back, but with a book of cocktail recipes I want replicated.
(3)Mike K.
Good place to finalize your life if you need a place where nobody cares. This place expects you to pay them for being in there. Its devoid of happiness and actually sux happiness from u. Maybe thats ok for the too cool to interact but I wanted some shrimp and wine, You think the shrimp is on ice? No, they micro'waved it and it stank up the whole bar. I ate some cuz I was starved and paid 15$ for shitty shellfish. Thanks for almost getting me a Emergency Hospital Visit. Terrible experience. Horrid. The shrimp sauce was good but all human interaction was as if you should pay them for being in their coool place, Its so cool cux no one can see anything and that's so so cool. All it does is piss off everyone and everyone tries to over compensate and ends up sounding sarcastic which pisses you off more cuz the place is near pitch black and everyone is PISSED OFF.
(1)Aina B.
Great bar, good food, good prices- casual and classy without being trashy or bland.
(4)Jordan T.
This place is smooth-real smooth. Great food, free pool table, and a variety of excellent drinks makes this my favorite bar in Providence.
(5)Katie A.
Nice ambiance, good music, friendly staff. Not very packed on a Thursday, so it was easy to find a seat. There are a lot of comments on how dark it is, but I didn't think it was exceptionally so - at least not compared to The Avery! Now that it is wintery outside, it's cold in there when the heat is not actively blowing - so bring layers.
(4)Lisa D.
Time for a second visit and the place is still great. Kevin makes the truly best St Germaine martinis in the area. For some reason (perhaps the martinis) the simple burgers tasted incredible and the fries were perfectly cooked. This is a place where you can lose the stress of the day and leave feeling great. Low key, just a nice place to hang.
(4)David G.
Like all of Mike Sears' spots, Lili Marlene's is small, dark, beautiful, and almost a bit mysterious. Lili's has no signage, and it's so dark inside you'd be forgiven for going right by it assuming it was just an abandoned storefront near the bottom of Atwells. Seating can be hard to come by at Lili's. There are a few large round velvet ensconced booths that seem like they come out of a fifties gangster movie and a couple smaller wooden tables. If you're there on a date, do yourself a favor and *don't* sit in one of the big booths. They seem romantic at first, but you'll feel like a total jerk when there's group of half a dozen people standing with no place to sit while you take up a booth designed to fit a crowd of people listening to Tommy DeVito tell a story about that one bank job in Secaucus. Lili's serves mostly smaller brews and usually has one cheaper beer option. Good burgers (not to be confused with Goodburgers) can be had relatively cheaply, and they have like two other things on the menu. I think one of those things is a tomato. If you're looking for a big dinner or a good variety of food, you can walk out the door and find any number of restaurants on Atwells (or over on Broadway). For whatever reason, Lili's has never made it to the top of my list of spots to hang out, but I've been coming back occasionally for close to a decade. I guess that says something.
(4)Dave L.
This is a cool bar. I feel like it would be THE place to meet if I were a CIA spy and was looking to pass documents to Natasha. You know the details about what they have here, but beyond that, the vibe is what makes it. If I lived within walking distance, my liver would be hating me.
(4)Kimberly M.
Loved this place. It was dark, comfortable and delicious. We each had a burger and fries and numerous martinis - St. Germain Martini (yes, you should try this one!) My sister was "in the know" about the martini, and I love a good burger. All around, we laughed, we cried, we ate and the crowd did their thing...mellow and comfortable. Great music was spinning, too. Our food bill was 13.00, the bar bill 48.00 but I did not resent forking over a penny of it, pun intended. The "sign" is a dark laminate with the business name on the glass door making it very easy to walk by the large, curtain covered windows and not know there is something going on. Don't walk by, go in and have a St. Germain Martini and a burger. Thank me later.
(5)Lizz W.
This place is too dark for my liking...But, the food is cheap, good and the server was good. There is a pool table... seemed odd for the ambiance of the place that it would have a pool table. Its almost too relaxed in there to play pool. I probably wouldn't be back here, but I have a bunch of friend who LOVE it there so I'd recommend giving it a shot and see if its for you!
(2)Josh A.
Poor beer selection. Told to leave if we did not order rounds of drinks each half an hour. Rude service okay place
(2)Sarah V. M.
I was skeptical, but this is EVERYTHING you could want in a dive bar: no sign, dark, loud music, cheap eats, and the bestest bartender in PVD, Miss Willa formerly from Cook and Brown. She will concoct a big, delicious pour, so be ware. Two manhattans later and I feel like I'm back in college.
(5)Steven S.
The manager got pushy when we slowed our drinking at the end of the night. He got outright threatening when we hadn't bought drinks for twenty minutes. As a designated driver I was pressured to buy a drink. When I did not I was kicked out of playing pool in the middle of my game. I will never go back to a place that does not know the meaning of customer service.
(1)Carol B.
Extremely dark, incognito bar about 1/4 mile past the hub-bub of Federal Hill. This is a laid back bar that draws hipsters both young and old. Good, strong drinks at great prices! Nice retro/deco furnishings. Cool, spacious ladies room. Great place for vampires and quiet conversation. Me likey!
(4)Alma C.
cheap food and strong drinks. since i don't typically keep a flashlight in my purse to read the menu (as other reviewers have mentioned, it's dark here, as in stalagmites, stalactites and maybe the random bat would fit right in), i typically wander over if I'm in the mood for a cheap burger and crispy fries to soak up the creative cocktails they serve here. just tell Willa what you want, or if you're not sure, describe what suits your fancy, and voila! a delicious and expertly crafted cocktail is served quicker than you can say mmmmmmmm
(4)Chris J.
Lili Marlenes should be an awful hipster bar but its location and the pool table help keep it sane. The location way towards the end of Federal Hill and lack of parking (but don't they all ride fixed gear bikes nowadays?) probably keep the hipster masses at bay, though they still make up a good portion of the visitors. The free pool table seem to attract a nice varied crowd of excellent pool players which brings a nice mix to what might otherwise be a kind of blah bar. The service is consistently good, the burgers are great, prices on everything are reasonable. Its nice and dark, and has great booths with comfortable seats. The beer selection is a little boring but not bad. Fairly friendly bunch of patrons as well. Not really the sort of place to go out of your way for, other than the pool table, but its a great place to stop at before or after dinner on federal hill.
(4)Lisabetta P.
I have to say I came here with a friend and we were not comfortable going in, once we even FOUND this place. Honestly, don't know what we thought other than a complete dive; maybe suspicious underground activities. We went somewhere for dinner, and after we really wanted to sit and have a drink, so we ventured back with another friend out of curiosity. We were SO surprised and happy to have gone. Great place. All these reviews are spot on. Great night out and definitely will go back :-)
(4)rhodyram o.
The first rule of Lillys is we don't talk about Lilly's!
(5)Julie A.
I love Lili's. A great casual date place, or a classy bar to meet with your friends. (Come here on a Friday night and Vanessa will be your server! Cutest chick eva!) I admit it took a while for me to get used how dark it is in here! A few things to love/appreciate: 1. The Atmosphere: The lamps, the red wood, the music. 2. The good drink prices. 3. The employees are always super nice, friendly, and charismatic. 4. The Burgers and fries. Everyone always talks about the lighting... The darkness is uncomfortable at first. It takes a long while to get acclimated to the dimness. But there's a charm that it provides as well. It makes it very easy to have a private rendezvous or hang out by yourself and not be bothered. I occasionally come here, sit at the bar, and enjoy some time to myself. About once a month I crave a juicy, delicious Lili's Burger. I order it medium rare, with a side of fries and a Guinness. I'm not sure what it is, but the burgers are so scrumptious! If you're new to this town, come check out Lili's. You might see me in the corner stuffing my face with yummy beef. :p LOL
(5)Briana M.
First time I walked into Lili Marlene's, I wished I was having a sordid affair. It's definitely THE place to take an illicit date. I love this bar and all of its very intentional details. I love that it looks sketchy on the outside and is a world unto itself on the inside. Mike was doing the speakeasy thing before the speakeasy thing was a thing. I love that it's dark. I love that the front door opens on the inside and is not on a hinge, but it needs to be closed manually. I love the always-polished wood and the brocade-y red wallpaper. I love the well-maintained furniture. I love the high-quality, heavy, and crystal-cut high- and low-ball glasses (like WEAPON heavy). I love that the beer is always very, very cold. I love the small and simple menu (grilled cheese with fries is like, four bucks!). I love that there are always fresh flowers in the ladies room. I love that it smells like musky unshoweredness on a busy night. For me, this is one of the places that makes Providence Providence.
(4)Jen S.
Cocktail bar that's rather nice in the early evening, but can get crowded once people start getting out of work. The bartenders are always wonderful, polite and efficient without being intrusive. They REALLY want you to eat there, too, offering menus to everyone starting at six sharp, when the cook gets in. Don't understand the french fry raves. They're good, but I much prefer the ones at Stanley's. Also the grilled cheese never seems hot enough.
(4)Steven L.
This has quickly become one of my favorite neighborhood bars in Providence. It is great if I want a quick, easy snack. Or just a spot to sit and have a beer before walking home. It isn't large so it gets crowded quick. Prices for food are sick.
(5)Shane R.
Great, great little place. No sign on the door and if you didn't know it was there....you wouldn't ever find it. Very laid back & casual....perfect for a evening with a few drinks. The $ burger is simple & no frills.
(5)Adrian B.
I really... really... really want to give this place a bad review but ONLY because I don't want anyone else going there! I love it, and I love that it's never incredibly packed. It's juuuuust right. And I dig that they play the whole album, not a mix, whether or not you like the band that's on. This is one of those "If you don't like it, get the F out" places. Yes. I like it. (PS - $4.50 cheeseburgers? Yeah! but I'm still not sure why a grilled cheese is only $.50 less...)
(4)Nathan M.
Great atmosphere at this local spot. Their cocktails are a definite plus and the food is always good! Be sure to just walk right in.
(4)Leslie P.
Two words: Shrimp Poorboy You won't regret it!
(4)Mark S.
I love this place. It's definitely a very unique spot. There is no TV and they play good music. I actually like not having a TV because I find myself staring at it even when I could care less what's on. The inside is dark and very cozy. Drinks are a heavy pour and served in nice crystal rocks glasses. It's not a very big place - a few booths, few tables and maybe 15 seat bar. The pool table is nice and best of all it's free. The food is delicious too. Try the burgers, they rock!
(5)Dave K.
Stopped in here one night before a P Bruins game. My friend who lives in Providence tells me, "I have the perfect place to grab a burger before we go. It's called Lili Marlenes." I'm thinking it would be a Trinity Brewhouse sort of place. NOT. It's dark. Very dark. The vibe is relaxed. We grabbed a couple of beers and waited for the kitchen to open at 6pm. Bartender made enough small talk to be interesting but not intrusive. We eventually ordered food that was cheap, delicious, and served by a very cool and efficient gothy kind of girl. I dunno, maybe she wasn't gothy. I could barely see her. We almost missed the game. I really, really didn't want to leave. I can't wait to go back.
(5)Danielle W.
I've been going to Lili Marlene's for over 7 years now. It used to be a great, quiet and unknown spot to visit, however; it seems like every time I go in there as of late it's packed to the brim w/ d-bags. I used to be able to walk in there and know 80% of the clientel. Now? Not so much. Regardless of the lack of secrecy Lili's used to have and be able to maintain, it's still a beautiful bar to visit; dark and mysterious, even sexy. Huge round tables for seating, gorgeous velvet curtains decorate the windows and an old fashioned table patrons can use for FREE. The drinks are reasonably priced and the food is really effin good for bar food.
(4)Kate A.
This place is just great. Great atmosphere for just grabbing a few drinks with your friends after work. Nice place for a date (low lighting, no one bothers you, beautifully decorated, very comfortable place). There are some pool tables for those that feel the need to do something else. Drinks are decently priced and delicious. Waitstaff/bar tenders are always pleasant. I am always impressed by the food selection. Get a grilled cheese and treat yourself! Not by any means a bar you want to chug Gansett at and pump your fist. Plenty of other places on Atwells for that noise.
(4)Holly L.
First off it seems like if you don't work there you're treated like a second rate citizen. There were people playing pool that weren't drinking or eating for the whole time I was there,so I assume they worked there or were a friend of some one who does. Whom ever check off "good for groups" lied. I met up here with a few of my friends for my birthday to get drinks. The checks are hand written but the waiter couldn't split any checks. He was actually rude about it. The female attending to us was rather quite sweet. Before any more of my guests could show up we went else were. I didn't get the chance to try any food. I might consider coming here if I was with only one other person and if finding a parking spot wasn't horrendous. Overall I'd rather spend my money at a bar where people aren't snooty or rude.
(1)Taylor T.
Yes, yes, yes! I have renewed my love for Lili Marlene's with two visits this month alone. I think one of the best parts is that it is so UN-Federal Hill like, which makes me happy from the jump. It's a diamond in the rough and Julia mixes the absolute best grapefruit martini in Providence. The combination of fresh ruby red grapefruit paired with a splash of St. Germain really puts it over the top, and for $8 a piece, you can still get good and toasty on a budget. I also noshed on the shrimp po' boy and it was way better than your standard bar food fare. There were loads of crispy shrimp and shredded lettuce with a zesty remoulade-type sauce piled on a crusty french bread roll. Yes, please. My companion enjoyed a perfectly-cooked burger with a pile of hot and crispy fries and some Anchor Steam beers. It was one of the best Friday nights I can recall in a long time and I can't wait to do it again. Get yourself to Lili's as soon as possible.
(5)Jaki G.
I know everyone loves it (assuming that at least because its always crammed) but I stay away for that reason. It's dim, small, and over crowded. They should just ditch the pool table to make some room. But again, everyone else seems to love it (hipster crowd). I have nothing bad to say about the place, it's service, or the patrons, its just too packed for my liking.
(3)May N.
Great bar, set apart from the business of Federal Hill/Atwells Ave. We were the first people in the joint on a Saturday evening, shortly after they opened, but we wanted a cheap, quick bite before heading downtown to check out the Waterfire. It's a very dark bar with dark wood paneling with the only natural lighting coming from the 2 doors. The middle of the place is divided by a staircase leading to 2nd floor apts. There are a few round tables with chairs and a few semicircular booths. The bar food was ok. My burger was cheap and you get what you pay for. Decent selection of appetizers to accompany the booze. Not a lot of vegetarian options so my SO got the tomato-basil-mozzarella-basalmic vinagrette and basket o' fries. The fries were really delish - perfectly hot and crisp from the fryer with a touch of salt. Free pool table, but we didn't get to enjoy as we were heading elsewhere. Don't make it a dinner destination (I'm sure there's better along Atwells), but good choice for a drink and snack. Lots of regional beers on tap.
(4)Lou P.
Way out-of-the-way Right in the middle of town Wow, it's dark in here Me: "I'll have an old-fashioned, no fruit." Bartender with pinup-style hair: "That how your grandmother used to drink it?" Always classy, these folks. For Providence, it's almost a rarity to find a place with apartments anywhere nearby that's open past 1 am. Lili's does (open until 2), and they do it with style. I can appreciate that, especially when I'm in the mood to just chill on a cocktail and not worry about sports scores or being elbowed out-of-the-way. It's definitely one of the better bars on the Hill, and there's a discernible hipster speakeasy feel to it. There's lots of tattoo's and beards, flannel in the winter and cutoffs in the summer. It's like some secretive lounge; no velvet ropes out front, but velvet curtains keeping the light out and the people in. The place is dark, with the lone bright spot above the pool table. No loud music, but the conversation can reach a din when it's packed. It's sort of hard to grab a table here because most folks hang out for a while, but the end of the bar is a good bet if you're there with a ladyfriend. The best part about the place is there's no pretense of being a sports bar, a restaurant, etc. It's a place where people go to drink in the dark that isn't their own basement. Love it.
(3)Michael S.
I never would have found Lili's if not for an acquaintance telling me there was a goth bar at the end of Atwells. "A goth bar," I thought, "in that neighborhood? No way!" I went to take a look, and instantly fell in love with the place. Now, first off, it's important to note that this IS NOT a goth bar. What it is is the perfect neighborhood joint, dark, quiet, and full of atmosphere. The drinks are cheap, the burgers are outstanding (order with sauteed onions!), and the pool table is free. What more could you possibly want, really? I brought some out-of-town friends to Lili's, and now they're less interested in visiting me than they are in going there for a drink!
(5)Leah W.
I was reluctant to write a review of Lili Marlene's for fear that it would be discovered by too many people. You have to really be looking for this place, and even then you might think it's a private club. Obviously, keeping Lili's a secret is not going to happen, despite how the place itself might try. My fellow Yelpers have not only stumbled across this little beauty but they love it too! The decor is like a classy gentleman's study minus the books. Dimly lit, dark wood and paint, seating hidden around corners, comfortable bar stools, and a few leather armchairs with side tables. I didn't feel like I was on display, which is difficult to achieve when you are sitting at a bar and eating a five-dollar burger with sauteed onions and fries. Shame on me for not remembering our bartender's name, but I think that just speaks more highly of him -- he was really doing his job. I appreciated his dry sense of humor, and enjoyed watching him nicely but firmly inform a table at the window that the curtains should stay drawn.
(4)Vanessa T.
Ode to Lily Marlene Just like I like my women cheap and gritty with a side of fries. / Lili Marlene's is boss. Dark, nondescript, free of douchebags. I'm a fan of its pool table, its cool interior, and the rad bartenders and servers. My new favorite hangout.
(4)Kay R.
Was craving a po'boy and took my AARP-eligible parents here. Don't know how I feel that they loved it so much... but I choose to believe that it adds to the charm. Still one of our favorite spots for a drink, to dine, or shoot some pool.
(4)Taylor V.
Po Boy Sandwich's, fries and beer - doesn't get much better than that. Although it's located on Federal Hill, you are definitely "off the beaten path" when you walk into the dark and mysterious Lili Marlene's. Great late night spot to go with your sweetheart or friends.
(4)TJ M.
I'll start by agreeing with everyone here and say it was super dark in there. My girlfriend and I walked up to the building and thought it was closed until we heard the faint sound of music. For what it is Lili's is awesome. We ordered a basket of fries and a mixed greens salad. The basket of fries was HUGE. Easily enough for four people maybe even five. They were cooked perfectly to, easily the best fries I have had at a restaurant. The salad... well lets just say stick to the fries. The salad was literally what its called mixed greens thrown on a plate, you could see the attempt to put dressing on it but it was just that, and attempt. The area was a lot smaller than I expected, but for a Friday night they were dead. For drinks my girlfriend had no idea what to get because there was no drink menu outside of beer/wine. She asked the waitress to make her something fruity and I just ordered a beer. The waitress was back within minutes with a delicious drink my girlfriend enjoyed (which was extremely surprising because my girlfriend is EXTREMELY picky so I was ecstatic about this), and my beer. After a little while I asked the waitress to bring me another beer as mine was almost gone, and she was back in literally less than a minute. Had I known the service was so good I would have waited until I finished it off first before ordering another! All-in-all for what Lili's is, it's great. Not so much for a crowd of my age, as we were easily the youngest one's there by at least eight years, but definitely a place to bring your co-workers for a Friday afternoon drink. I will probably be going back at one point when I feel like relaxing with some cheap drinks and maybe playing some free pool.
(4)Jess Z.
This is my favorite bar! The drinks are great and the food is great. They are always playing good music. I like the fact that it's dark as hell in there too. What do I need to look at? The shrimp po boy is all you need. And get a cosmo, they are the best in Providence at this place.
(5)Cat G.
Decent place to grab an early drink with some friends. Atmosphere is great and as a RI native, either a friend or I will typically run into folks here. This isn't really too much of a college bar (as far as I can see), which I like. Artsy types hang out here, but not the seriously annoying kind that make you feel weird and like you want to leave.
(4)Erica F.
Lili Marlene's, you sure are cute. You drive by a couple times, you're pretty sure that's where Lili's is supposed to be, but that place doesn't even look like it's in business and there's no sign. So you park your car, get out and walk over. The lettering on the door discretely reads: Lili Marlene's... and the door's open. The space is a dark, ruby lit space with a barroom that opens up to a small lounge, adorned in good tunes. There are a couple tables, some large round booths and a pool table. The booth's have an amazing ability to fit an infinite number of people around them. the later the night goes on, the more chairs are pulled around the booth. It's dark, it's swanky, it's intimate. The bar has a number of good beers on draft, and while they no longer have the $1.25 Genney Cream Ale on draft, the do have the PBR. So as long as you're cool, not a loud obnoxious embarrassment, and don't have a buttoned up shirt with the top 3 buttons undone showing off your chest stubble, bring your entourage, grab a PBR or Pilsner Urquell and a heaping plate of french fries, and be completely awesome. /run on sentences
(4)Andrew U.
This is a great out of the way spot on Atwells that works if you are flying solo or with 8 people. Lili's is located at the end of Atwells right before you head over the 6/10. There is no sign and it's very dimly lit inside the red building so go slow. I have only been here for drinks never the food, but I have always heard good things. They have about 7 beers on tap consisting of a few staples and a couple season's. The bar sits about 12 people but there are plenty of large oval booths. One very cool things about this place is the free pool table. If you are looking to play pool on a Monday or Tuesday night I would head over here for the cheap drinks and free pool. On the weekends people usually play winner stays on and is either doubles or singles. I enjoy going to Lili's on a slow night or when I want to take it easy. Lili's is usually not my first pick but it is fun, clean, cheap, and the music is not break your ear drums loud.
(4)Becca K.
So we went to Lili Marlene's hoping for dinner. While I wouldn't necessarily recommend this spot if what you're really hoping for is a meal, I have to get on board with other fans and say this is a great bar. Although the food menu is very small, the options are all tasty and very inexpensive. Drinks are delicious and also reasonably priced. Everyone was very friendly, and even ready to recommend other local eateries for a more substantial meal. The atmosphere is lovely, not quite a dive bar so much as a bar from another era: very dark, with large and comfy leather booths and pretty (although not very illuminating) chandeliers. And the utter lack of television sets was a refreshing change.
(4)John N.
A great little bar on Atwells, really one of those key hangouts that everyone needs to know, a great pool table and excellent burger, the Bartenders and staff are great as well. Also they have a few of those beers that you just cant find at other places
(5)Sam G.
Hands down the best burger and fries in Providence (and cheapest at $7 for a cheeseburger with bacon and onions and a generous side of fries). A gem among the over-priced and mediocre restaurants on Atwells Ave. The beer is cheap ($2 PBR) the decor dark, but pleasant, and with cushy booths. Free pool is great, but the rules (no partners, 8-ball only to name a few), are a little obnoxious; I was actually stopped while setting up 9-ball in an empty bar with no one waiting to play. But all in all a great place, the caramelized onions are amazing.
(5)Boston S.
Went to Lili Marlenes on suggestion of a friend. We opened the place up and the bartender/owner was a bit surly but warmed up to us after awhile. We all had martinis which were very good and very generous. The place has a dark bar feel with round cozy booths. I would love to go back when the place is hopping. Overall I liked the vibe and will come back again.
(4)Ricardo M.
i've gotten a mixed reception from the staff at lili's. mostly because they know me from other places. nevertheless, the shrimp po' boys are fucking awesome and worth the trip alone. DO NOT pick up anyone here. it's way too dark, if you know what i mean. great place to meet people if you're not the best looking in regular light. drinks are reasonably priced and MOST of the people are fun.
(4)Robyn G.
Every time I go to Lili's, I wonder why I don't go more often. It's a great place to grab drinks and a bite with friends, and very reasonably priced. Although my friends' nickname for Lili's, "Dark and Loud," is pretty accurate, it adds to the charm. The burgundy pressed-tin style walls, dark wood, and tall booths make it seem like you're stepping into a time warp, in a good way. I think for the price (starting at $3.50, 50 cents for each add on) Lili's has the best burgers in town. They're grilled, not fried, and when I ask for it rare, they actually serve it that way. Their fries are also perfect-- hot and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside (one drunken night we special requested a basket of fries covered in cheese, and the kitchen happily complied). The menu is small, just bar food, but everything is excellent. The mixed drinks are generous in size (my current fav is Absolut Ruby Red and tonic, although they also make a great gin and tonic) and reasonably priced, and the beer is also cheap. Whenever we get the check after being there for many hours and drinks, we are always shocked at the low total.
(5)Sophonisba G.
Pretty much what everybody else said: great burgers, neat decor, good staff, and DARK. I will also add that the kitchen opens at... now I forget. I think 5, but it might be 6. My first trip i showed up over an hour before that craving a burger, and was the only one there, and had a few beers and some intelligent conversation with Kevin the bartender while I waited. A nice time and a very reasonable bill. I will say that another time i was there this winter it was incredibly overheated and we kept ducking out the door so we wouldn't get heat stroke. We definitely didn't stay long that time. Overall a good experience, and it definitely helps that I live within stumbling distance.
(4)Peter G.
Great Little bar at the End of Federal Hill. Different and great Value for Money. Very dark inside, decked out not unlike an early 20th century brothel - red walls and lots of wood. We had a Sandwich, burger, 5 Heinekens and 2 excellent bloody marys for 40 bucks. Oh, no signs outside, so those who dont know its there will miss it.We'll be back.
(4)JP D.
Love this bar. I love its location and how far it is from all the other riff raff of the other bars. The bartenders and servers are always great. I heard they have a great po boy, perhaps one day I will venture out early enough to try it. This is a must go place. I don't see it as a tourist bar but more as a locals bar but it is superb!
(5)Suzanne M.
This is a great place to grab a drink/appetizers after work or hang out with friends on the weekend. (In the spirit of full disclosure, I will admit upfront that somehow in the twists and turns of my family tree I am related to the owner but that does not change my review! In Prov, we're all family!) When I last went the decor was dark and sort of antique French with velvet draperies and crystal glasses. One pool table was full all night long. Patrons were fun, food and drinks were good, and the prices great!
(3)Mrs. H.
One of the best kept secrets in Providence. If you're a first timer, good luck finding it. No exterior signage or lighting make it difficult to find, but definitely worth it once you are inside. Great drinks and an awesome lounge atmosphere. Always good music playing. Generally a "douchebag free" zone... which is always nice. Like other reviewers, i highly recommend the burger with fries. One of the best i've had.
(5)Danielle B.
Really great for Dark & Stormy's, cheap but delicious burgers (order the carmelized onions on the side, so good), peel and eat shrimp & miller high life's. A good alternative to typical federal hill bars. Nice decor, cool music etc. Its better when you can find a table though, so you can enjoy the tasty food as well.
(4)B K.
I used to frequent this place when I lived in Providence. I lived about 50 yards away, but even so, I'd still travel to go there. The atmosphere is excellent. It's dark and relaxed, like bars should be. I hate walking into a place to get a beer and relax with people shoving, screaming and pretending like they know how to dance. Granted this place can get a little crowded on Friday & Saturday nights, but still, the crowd there is pretty calm. Sundays were my night of choice, because real alcoholics drink on Sundays. The menu has but a few selections for food, all which are great. The waitstaff and bartenders are excellent. Seriously, I drink whiskey, gin and beer. So just imagine how talented the bartender must be to get me to sip the night away on a sugar rimed, fuity, Sidecar Martini. That's right, pretty damn talented. The owner is usual around. He's always making sure things are going well and will come and say hello when he notices you've come back. The whole place is just great. Check out their other place on Westminster. More food and the same above excellent service.
(5)Sugar G.
Dark and mysterious best describes Lili Marlene's. Even the location is away from the fray on Atwells so when you're searching for parking that happens to be a wonderful perk. I've never eaten here, just sat and drank. The martinis are good. They taste like no other. My friends and I found them to be quite suitable as we've gone back several times. Prices are reasonable, as well. It's particularly nice if you have a small group of friends with you; however, be sure to arrive early enough to snag a table. If you arrive around 10, you'll be fine. One night, several of us sat at of the window tables. So, while we were sitting there, we took pictures. In the darkness, we had no idea what the decor looked like, but once I uploaded the pix onto my computer, I was pleasantly surprised. There's a pool table for added fun. I like LM's for it's darkness and you never know who or what you might find there.
(4)Amanda R.
Great and inexpensive burgers and drinks. The lighting in this spot is great for a chill hang out.
(3)Tawana B.
REWRITE: I will still tell everyone about the excellent french fries (fried in peanut oil) and the shrimp po' boy, however; if it aint broke don't fix it. The shrimps were battered, most likely in flour, so it took a bit away from the taste of the shrimp and also causes them to be fried longer which will lead to over-cooked shrimp. Secondly, battering seafood is so "shack ghetto-rific".
(3)Mike F.
Manageable on a Friday night, cheap cheap cheap, good fries, nice beers, dark as a basement (though a really nicely appointed basement), gruff service. I'll go back.
(3)Rob M.
Good food from a limited menu. Great service, decent prices. Free pool, although the line to play can get long as the night goes on. Too dark in my opinion. I know what you're thinking - "I like dark bars". Me too, but this place is DARK. Bring a miner's helmet.
(4)Hilary K.
A perfect date night location. Dark wood, colored glass chandeliers, oldies and soul music, a free pool table. Extra points for delicious and inexpensive burgers (I agree with previous reviewers, get the sauteed onions) on toasted buns and the exquisite basket of fries. My date enjoyed the Guinness (on tap, and very well poured); I had two very good martinis for an excellent price. We'd definitely return.
(5)