The Abbey
686 Admiral St, Providence, RI, 02908
The Abbey Menu
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Address :
686 Admiral St
Providence, RI, 02908 - Phone (401) 351-4346
- Website https://www.92beers.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :12:00 pm - 1:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : 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 : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Drive-Thru : No
Caters : No
Categories
Burgers
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
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Chris C.
A year ago, I posted a not so promising review about The Abbey. I guess they read that and the other reviews around that time because things have gotten a lot better since my previous experience. I'm happy to say that The Abbey "has its swagger back". This is The Abbey that I remember. Fast and friendly service, good food, nice atmosphere, just an overall good experience. The bartender was very courteous and helpful; asking how everything was every so often without seeming neglectful or overbearing, which is always a plus. The beer menu seems to have a few updates in terms of selection ; looking forward to having a few of the highly rated Beer Advocate beers listed on the menu. I came back to The Abbey on a tip that wing night had returned, a fact I've known for a few months, just without the time to actually stop in. I'm glad I was able to find the time to stop in as the experience was a lot more pleasurable than my last experience there. The bar was quiet for a Tuesday night, but I'm not complaining. My only gripe was the sauna that was a bathroom. As soon as I walked in, I felt they were a bit early for the winter months. Holy hell it was hot in there. Despite the steam room, I had a favorable experience at The Abbey and look forward to returning soon for their amazing burgers. Hopefully those have only gotten better!
(4)Kim W.
Been here twice. First time with friends. Great menu, great beer offerings. Food is good. But the kitchen is slow. The reason for fewer stars is because we used the bathrooms the second time we were there. The restaurant wasn't busy at the time as we were there at an off hour. But both bathrooms were very hot, and disgustingly dirty from top to bottom. So one has to wonder what else is dirty that the customers don't see? May not return because of the non-cleanliness of the place - does it make its way into the food?
(3)Laurie B.
This was my second time visiting the Abbey for dinner. My boyfriend, roommate, and I waited about 10 minutes for a table, it was a Friday during March Madness and Providence College was playing that night. We sat down in a booth. We checked out the regular menu, the burger menu, and the beer menu. Our server came by and the boys ordered some beers. I just got a water (I'm the rare soul that doesn't like beer...oops!) Dan ordered the Lumberjack burger with fries, Joe ordered the Honky Tonk burger with onion rings, and I ordered the the Friday special - Fish & Chips! Our food came out surprisingly fast. The place was jumping but our food was ready in about 10 minutes. They gave me so much fish! The coleslaw was delicious too! They gave you tartar sauce on the side and it's delicious. I couldn't help but dip my french fries in it too. Dan's Lumberjack burger was huge! Three pieces of bread, two burgers, and toppings galore! He somehow managed to clean his plate. Joe's Honky Tonk burger is like a rodeo burger with onion rings on it! He almost managed to finish it but took his small leftover to go! Our server was great he came over and checked on us. He refilled my water with out me needing to ask and asked if the boys wanted more beer. I can't wait to come back and try some more delicious food!
(5)Albert S.
I really like The Abbey. They have a very extensive burger menu. They also Offer 1/2 price on certain menu options for lunch! I laid $7 for their delicious meatloaf with two sides! The burgers are very good and very creative. I would honestly suggest trying a burger if you go here. Both the sweet potato fries and the onion rings are to die for! I will definitely be returning here for lunch! Also, try the bacon appetizer, you won't regret it!
(4)Linda S.
I had the honky tonk and it was amazing! My boyfriend had the roadhouse burger and it was great!!! Definitely going back!!!
(4)Barry N.
Oh, the Abbey! Oh, the Abbey. The pros: Great dive in an otherwise cuisine-less area. There's not many places to go around Providence College if you're looking for a place to sit down with slightly older friends and enjoy some brews and the game. There's a lot of burger options--great! The nachos are on point. Never change your nachos, Abbey. The cons: Customer service is awful. Because they're a cash cow, being located so close to PC, they get to be rude and get away with it. Their attitudes would not fly at a restaurant in another location. I'm sure dealing with drunk college students is a bore, but most of the people who go there aren't college students. The payment system is terrible and I don't know who designed it. Two cards per table? At a dive? That regularly serves groups of 4 or more? Oh, come on. The seating system is not strategic to maximize seating. The bathrooms are filthy. I don't think they've watched the tables with anything but a soggy rag in years. You can literally scrape the grime off the table. Why'd I keep going back? (Great question!) It was so close to PC that as a grad student, it was nice to grab a drink and a late dinner with the gang. We had some wonderful nights and made great memories there. It was our home base. For the record, it is a great lunch spot. Their lunch service is terrific.
(2)Rachel M.
I went in expecting a divey PC bar, which it was, so as I flipped through the torn menu of burger options while sitting on a ripped vinyl seat, admiring the eclectic, beer-stained decor, I was already envisioning the Tums I would have to consume post-meal to keep my chest from being engulfed in acid-reflex flames. To my horror, my husband suggested we order the coconut shrimp. This did not look like the kind of place you ordered shellfish from. But we did, and as I hesitantly clutched the crispy, golden shrimp and held it to my lips, I prayed. Much to my surprise, the soft, succulent, and sweet crustacean melted in my mouth. As did the veggie burger I ordered which followed. Just goes to show, you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. The one food item that lived up to appearances was the sad, soggy pickle that graced the side of my plate. Maybe people think pickles are just for decoration, but some of us really like them...if they're good pickles. I don't know what that was. I'm hoping it was just a fluke. Either way, I'll definitely go back.
(4)Dara R.
I went to The Abbey with a friend.. I got The Uncle Sam burger & my friend got The Gypsy burger.. Both were delish!! Christine the bartender was awesome... We look forward to coming back!
(5)Tony S.
Went for lunch today and we had great service....started with some nachos and they were great and very generous with the toppings. We all then got burgers......the burgers are out of this world. Check this place out if you haven't already----
(5)Michael V.
This is a nice bar to sit and watch a game or to meet with friends. Its a bit on the small side but the food is above average. Burgers and wings are highly recommended. I've been going here off and on for 10 years. The abbey has never dissapointed me
(4)Evan V.
Let me just say, right off the tap, to all the good-little Catholic students, neighborhood hangers and sports fanatics, be glad that this stack of bricks smells the way it currently does - which is far better than it used to in it's prior incarnation. The beer selection here is ideal for all you jerks who wake up one day and decide "I think I want to get into craft beer today". Good for you, come to the Abbey. Anywhere that serves Chimay ($9) knows exactly what is up. On a recent stumble in, I found myself accompanied by my heavily-medicated cousin. She yelps - a lot. In her review of this place she neglected to mention a very important detail - that within two minutes of our arrival she was in hysterics, crying inconsolably. This may explain why our waitress was not on her A-game. The service is always excellent and the food is decent. Solid Elmhurst tuck-away.
(4)Michael B.
Service was Horrible!! _Bartender was texting on phone the whole time) seemed like I was bothering her!!! Beer tasted funny on tap and the Burger was burned!! So not like a year ago!! What a shame!!
(1)Lauren M.
Nearly two years ago, I talked about how we'd probably become regulars at The Abbey. Welp, that is completely true. I will go there by myself, with my husband, with my family and friends... It's a go-to. I love that on any night the bar can be full of college kids and their families, young professionals, and older singles and couples. The food has gotten much better lately. The burgers are not as fatty and the buns hold together. The sandwiches are of higher quality. In the past things were hit or miss; now quality is much more consistent. The draft beer selection has gotten a little of weird (lots of shandys in summer and lots of flavored beers in fall and winter) but there's always something worth drinking on tap. The Abbey just finished a Two Roads month, which gave us the opportunity to try lots of beers we hadn't tried before. Some pointers: 1) Monday night burger night is a must. $4 burgers can't be beat. 2) Tuesday wing night is also clutch. $0.50 wings. 3) The Abbey has the NFL network, which came in handy last weekend when I wasn't getting the Ravens game! 4) Order the fries "extra crispy." You won't regret it! 5) Half price lunch on weekdays! My husband was recently surprised that the portions were so large for lunch.
(5)Mike E.
This place is so small you could easily drive right by it. That said, for a small place they pack a big menu of delicious pub grub and beer! Fun place to hang out with family & friends!
(4)Maximillian S.
Came here on a whim from Yelp after running errands this morning. I really enjoyed the pun atmosphere and reminded me and my girlfriend of our time in England based on the decor. The televisions they have up are very nice and they've setup them up correctly based on what they show here (sports). They have a lot of beer brands posted everywhere and they have my favorite, Stella Artois! Quite certainly burger place. I loved the burger I got, it was very tasty and I thought that the wait staff was pleasant and helpful, although we didn't really ask them a lot or have TOO much interaction with them, so there's that. My girlfriend was not overly fond of her food, but she's willing to chalk that up to picking the "wrong burger." And her teas came out inconsistently strong, which I thought was a little odd, but they all tasted fine. I really like this place a lot and I think I'd come here regularly and try all the different beers, especially for a game, but I think I'm not the only one.
(4)Mandy D.
I do really really really love the burgers and most of the food at The Abbey. However, their service is so horrendous (and keeps getting worse somehow) that I feel the need to take away one star. I went with a large group once and we asked for separate checks. I know this is kind of a pain in the ass thing to do, but you really shouldn't tell people no to that request (especially a group of regulars from the local college media with big mouths). They also would only let us use two cards for the transaction when it came time to pay the check. Obviously, the reason that we had all asked for separate checks in the first place was because most of us only had plastic, so this was a big problem. Some were able to get cash out of their ATM (for a fee), but then it went out of order. So one girl really got screwed on her credit card. It wasn't a fun night, and I know that a lot of those people swore that they would never go back (and most of them haven't). But I gave them another chance a year later. The food was tasty like I always remembered, and the drinks were strong. The waitress was nice at first, but then disappeared for a long time and seemingly forgot about us. We totally would have had another round after our meals, but whelp, we're old farts and it was getting late so we asked for the check. Go for a burger at lunchtime, and sit at the bar. I've learned now to just avoid this place entirely at night.
(3)Linda A.
I've had some mixed feelings in the past about the Abbey, but let me tell you, my last visit confirmed that this place is above average in most respects, and I need to give them lots of credit! The food is definitely better than the average pub grub. They pride themselves in their burgers, as they should. Ten ounces of hand-formed beef... tons of topping and bread choices... and AMAZING bacon (try the bacon appetizer, you won't regret it). The service this time around was super on point, despite the poor girl waiting on everyone in the joint. She listened and even suggested items based on my dietary restrictions. She took the order without writing it down -- it came out accurate, hot, and tasty! What else can you really ask for? I know -- HALF PRICED lunch items. We had a meatloaf dinner for half the price, and it was GOOD. Veal, pork and beef -- they know the score. Oh, and spring for the sweet potato fries. They are hand cut and seasoned perfectly. The onion rings are pretty legit too!
(4)Greg B.
While this place may strike some as being more towards the spectrum of being the "dive bar," I would simply tell them not to judge a book by its cover. This neighborhood bar has plenty of charm to it, from Bob the part-owner, part-time server, part-time bartender, to the amazing diversity of beers within this little joint. I went with my family on a Saturday and I could not wait to write a review about this place. If there is one thing this place specializes in its the burgers. Juicy, tender, full of flavor, and just the color of pink in the middle for anyone who likes it medium, or just a little less. I got the buffalo burger that had plenty of spice, but a ton of flavor. The burger was topped with a tasty amount of blue cheese. Too many times I have had a burger or a chicken sandwich like this that was topped with a kind of salad dressing that is found in your local supermarket, which can really defeat the flavor. If you are going to get a side, get the fries, and always make sure they are extra crispy. Definitely hand-cut too which lends itself perfectly to the burger. The bun was also sturdy enough to handle this very juicy and flavorful down to the last bite. I will be looking forward to this place every time I come to Providence that is for sure. Side note: This place does appear to cater to the local colleges, but there are plenty of families coming here so if you are middle-aged, elderly, or young, this place can always make you feel at home. Its a nice place to call your own.
(5)Kyle S.
I've been coming to the Abbey for a while now. It has always been a good place to get a great burger or sandwhich because the portions are always very generous and the prices are pretty reasonable. I will always be a fan of their homemade chips with gorgonzola cheese sauce. And for entrees their fish tacos are amazing. You wouldn't think of a burger place for fish tacos but the Abbey has probably the best in the state that I have had. While I do love the food and the beer selection here (great selection of bottles and diffeent rotating the drafts, the downside to this place has been the service. Now I know on Friday and Saturday nights it can get crowded in here (especially with PC students) but even on other not so busy nights the service can be pretty slow. The servers and bartenders have always been friendly to me but I feel like sometimes they need an extra person or two on to help out. The service used to be much better and I'm hoping it can get back to being that way. If you have some time and aren't in a rush and want to check out a cool spot for some good beer and food, then I'd say check out the Abbey.
(3)Allison R.
Good selection of beers, though I was expecting more to be on tap. Also, train your waitresses to know all of the seasonals or rotating taps. Also, a bar in New England running out of Sam Seasonal? Blasphemous!
(3)Chintan M.
This place has fancy looking burgers and a large menu, but food is average to subpar. Their beer selection lot smaller than they claim on their website. Staff was friendly. This place is popular with local college kids and that is why it might have high ratings.
(2)Jen V.
My boyfriend would constantly annoy me telling me I had to go to the abbey whenever I would tell him I was craving a burger. Well he finally got me there and I hate to admit he was right!!! I had THE BEST BURGER EVER!!! The bartender was extremely nice, patient, knowledgable and efficient. I ate the entire burger which I was a tad embarrassed about because it is ginormous... But I couldn't help it, it was so good. Staff was great!
(5)Patricia M.
Excellent food. We go here for lunch sometimes during the work week. The first time, all of us seriously talked about licking plates clean. The chowder in a bread bowl is amazing. All of the portions are a good size. They have a great beer selection as well. Highly recommend.
(4)Kimberly B.
My boyfriend and I were looking for a beer and pub grub kind of place when we wandered into the Abbey. The food did not dissapoint. I got the avobacon pizza. It was delicious. The pizza crust was crispy and light. The sauce was flavorful. The avocado was perfectly light and fresh. You could tell the whole pizza had been made from scratch. My boyfriend got the Havana burger. He's not much of a "let's talk about my food" guy but he has expressed he liked it. He also enjoyed that there was a separate burger menu with beer pairings. I'm no beer snob, but there seemed to be quite a few interesting and different beers on tap. The Abbey looses a star due to customer service. My boyfriend and I were sitting at the bar and it seemed that we got forgotten. The waitress/bartender seemed annoyed when we asked for things, like another round. I don't think she smiled once. We were great customers, we ordered two full entrees and several rounds of beer, you would think that would have earned us at least a "have a good one". Regardless, the food was so good and decently priced, I will succumb to a little rude treatment I guess.
(4)Jonathan H.
Bought a promotion for ri food Fights. The Abby was one of the restaurants but when I showed up they would not accept the coupon. No warning or email saying they were no longer involved in the contest, said they opted out. I fine if they want to do that but they should tell people and not waste peoples time going to their restaurant and finding out only when they get there. That is a classic bait and switch. So beware if you have any promotion or coupon with them, your chances of them accepting it is a toss up, since they can decide at any moment to opt out.
(1)Sam R.
This place is dirty, sketchy, and rude. There were mice running around the dining room, they overcharged our credit cards by adding their desired tips after gratuity was already added onto the check without telling us, and we had a different server half way through our meal which turned out to be the incompetent manager who overcharged us. The employees here are blatantly trying to pocket more tips than they're making. This place, the employees, and it's service need a serious wake up call. IF YOU WERE GOOD AT YOUR JOB YOU WOULDN'T NEED TO RESORT TO STEALING FROM GUESTS (which after reading other reviews, sounds like a common thing here).
(1)Bill C.
I'm shocked this place isn't 4 or 5 star rated. They have a plan and they execute perfectly. A dive bar with burgers and good beer selection. The execution on the menu is perfect. A flip chart with pictures of all the different burgers. There so many to pick from, I have yet to dry any of their dinners. I'm ask a big fan of the sides. The pasta salad is my go to. The wings are excellent as well. The only issue with this place is its size and location. Parking can be annoying (park down a side street) and sometimes a long wait. But other than that, it's top of the chain.
(5)Kameron S.
I like this place as it is pretty close to where I live and they have great burgers and fries. They are great for take-out or dining in. It is a bar with several TVs so sometimes it can be a bit loud, but if you don't mind that, it is a great place to watch the game with a buger and a cold beer!
(4)Michael E.
The Abbey is, well, great. First of all, they have an expansive beer list. And I mean expansive. I was pretty excited they had some good Canadian beers bottled up for my enjoyment. Reasonably priced too, at about $6 a pop. If you're looking for something a little cheaper, and for the "Hi, Neighbor!" in all of us, it's hard to beat $2.50 tallboy from Narragansett. The burgers are the centerpiece here. They are outstanding. I had a custom burger last night. The waitress lauded my combination: Buffalo burger with crumbled bleu, pepperjack cheddar, and bacon. It was utterly huge and flawless. A great combination for the hunger monster in all of us. I had to knock off one star because it was trivia night -- although our waitress was pleasant, she kept pestering my table at five-minute intervals to see if we wanted another round. Lady, I just took a sip the beer you brought me 45 seconds ago. Chill.
(4)Caroline M.
My first experience was memorable. The burger menu//beer pairings are worth the trip alone. I opted for the Couch Potato because it has strong flavors like blue cheese. I asked for medium. Sadly it was cooked well beyond that, but overall I was pleased. The beer they paired it with was the Trois Pistoles from Canada. My mouth is still watering - that was a damn fine beer. And with 92 on their menu, I could spend a good many years chipping away and still uncover new brews. Burger wasn't nearly as pretty as the picture, but it's way above average for pub food. Service was fab, but I was there alone on a Monday night - I didn't have much competition. It was a great place to work with my laptop for a few hours. Pleasantly surprised that it didn't feel like a PC bar. I'd happily return again on a slow night to enjoy some good beer and burger combos.
(3)Amy W.
THE best burgers around, hands down! I love the beer selection. I have a little game with myself to try and try them all ;) We always have great service. After just a couple of times of going there I felt like a regular. Staff is super friendly and does a wonderful job. I always look for a place that feels like home and this is definately one of the tops
(5)Jennifer D.
Great Burger and Beer Pub!! Service and atmosphere was excellent. Nice 72" tv to watch any sporting event especially with Football starting up!
(5)Robert M.
I am just not sure. I went for the burger and because they seem to get rave reviews from fellow Yelpsters. So the end result for me is that I will not be back. The burger was huge and I really enjoyed it. But I can find great burgers elsewhere where the place. So I was looking for that thing that made this place stand out besides a building. What I found was attentive wait staff that let empty glasses sit on the table. I also found what I think might be the most expensive glass of Guinness (very poorly drawn by the way) in Rhode Island. So, I am giving them 3 stars because I am trusting my fellow Yelpers that this truly was a one off bad night for the wait staff. The food was top notch and creative though.
(3)Mckenzie G.
5 stars for the beer list and the beer suggestions on the menu. 5 stars for the creative and extensive burger menu. I wish I had a bigger stomach for them 3 stars for the ambiance and decor, the TVs were a little too loud last time I was there However, only 2 stars for the actual burger. Both mine and my friend's were way over seasoned - in my case too salty, in his, too much pepper. The toppings were great and the fries were good, but a too salty burger is just disappointing.
(3)Daryl H.
In the last year i moved to elmhurst so ive probably eaten there about 5 times over the course of 13 months. Out of those 5 times, 4 of those times have really sucked. One of those times my fiance and i were eating at the bar and found a 2.5 inch sheet metal screw in her shepards pie, the bartender took her meal off the bill. Another memorable time was when i went with 2 other people for lunch, the whole ordeal to get 3 burgers took about 2 hrs! WTF?! The burgers are OK, nothing special at all. The place is usually packed with loud mouth college kids 7 nights a week and takes about 20 minutes before the bartenders ask you what you want to drink. Tonight we decided to give the Abbey one more try. My order was, "bacon burger-medium, with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and red onion...keep the burger patty separate from everything else so it doesnt get all the veggies greasy please."Instead i got a hockey puck patty on top of all the veggies with a greasy pile of cooked onions mixed in on the tomato, and a bun in a separate container. Just a greasy pile of mess. I called back and spoke to the same guy who took my order and instead of saying sorry, he just wanted tell me that it was loud inside and he couldnt hear me when i placed the order. In their defense he did offer to remake the burger, but by the time i got home i was already eating chinese that my fiance and son had ordered and didnt feel like going back out in the cold to get a burger somebody in the kitchen would probably spit in. Never again Abbey.
(1)Melissa M.
soooooo 35cent wings?! SURE! Wings were really good, service was good, bar atmosphere. Def a good spot for happy hour and wings.
(4)Erica C.
Great selection of ciders for the non beer drinker again! We went when it was dead so I would definitely go back at a busier time to see how it is. I hear the burgers are great. I've also heard to stay way clear of this place during the school year. So go there while the summer's still here. It had that musty bar smell is my only complaint. Maybe step up the cleaning.
(3)Chelsea F.
My friend brought me here a couple nights ago and I was SHOCKED that I had never been here! The menu is HUGE! Everything from seafood, to burgers, to sandwiches, to dinners and soups! EVERYTHING. There's even a specialty burger menu, YUM. Some of the prices are a bit high, ($7 for French onion soup...?) but I imagine they meet up to the standards. We got classic cheeseburgers and they were AMAZING. Every bite tasted better than the last. And the onion rings? Out of this world. The only two things that made my review one star short of perfect: service and price. Our server never came around. We had to track people down to get us things and felt like we were a bother. Usually service is a deal breaker for me, but not this time. The atmosphere here is laid back and casual---like a place I would go just to catch up with friends on my day off or hang out late night with nothing else going on. I would never go in a hurry, so it's not that big of a deal--but a little walk by or check back would be nice. My friend couldn't even eat her pasta salad because she dropped her fork and our server never came back to check on us. When we finally got someone's attention and asked for one, they forgot. Just stupid little things. But in the end, YUM. I will be back.
(4)Jarrod I.
Pulled up to the abby, a old broken down building with a cool exterior. Inside however is a eye sore. Sorry but it's dirty and after using the bathroom I was nervous to eat my burger. The staff were attentive basically sitting with themselves talking about their boss and throwing out the fbomb. The only reason why I'm giving this place is 2 is the bigg burger had potential but after my wife heard the cook singing in the bathroom while she was using the ladies room. She wanted to immediately leave after she said she didn't hear him washing his hands. I Have a rule. If you don't have clean bathrooms you normally don't have a clean kitchen. That's all
(2)Leslie N.
The things that really redeem the Abbey are the service and the atmosphere. They have really great people working for them. Plus the music was great (90s/00s alternative with some classic rock mixed in), and general atmosphere lively - and it wasn't too dark, which was nice. A group of us came for wing night. FYI the price is now 45 cents/wing. Not horrible but I've seen better. The main issue is the wings: they are sad. The sauces aren't too shabby (though the buffalo is nothing to write home about), but the wings themselves are the tiniest, puniest little things I've ever seen try to pass for wings in a pub. Barely any meat on there. Seriously like 2" wings. I couldn't believe it! As a wing girl, that was not cool. Then my friend and I split a pizza. We got the Avobaken, which sounded interesting. It was very bacon-y, which is never a bad thing, but thin like a cracker, and the toppings were not piled high. Reminded me a lot of a frozen pizza. Which it may have been. It also took a while to come out of the kitchen and from the looks (and smell) of the smoke, things were not going super well back there... I think our main mistake was not ordering a burger (none of us were in the mood for burgers - go figure). Those are apparently the Abbey's best item, along with their beer selection, which I will agree is great. Overall as nice as the people are (our server was spectacular!) I don't think I'll return to the Abbey too soon, unless I'm really hankering for a burger. Then we'll see...
(3)Rogaa S.
Here for the burgers great beer selection, nice bartenders/servers and the people that go are awesome too. nice clean restaurant/bar/pub which ever you'd like. But the burgers.... THE BURGERSSSS ohhh man the burgers are amazinggg. I've had the Havanna burger which was a twist of the classic cuban. Wisconsin Swiss cheese, 2 beef patties, sliced baked ham, fresh pulled pork, pickles, yellow mustard on a French loaf and pressed on the grill. tasted amazing definitely a lot more sandwich than i expected, had to save half which is unlike me. next time i was here i got the Mamma Mia which had Wisconsin Mozzarella cheese, Pepperoni, sauteed button mushrooms, pizza sauce, sauteed onions, mayonnaise on a crusty Italian loaf. Messy messy messy, absolutely the messiest burger I've ever had. But it was a very tasty burger for sure. sauce was running down my arms face legs shirt i just didn't care it was so good. But if you not into wearing your food definitely fork and knife it. now i want another one of their burgers BE RIGHT BACK !!
(5)Ricardo M.
The shepherd's pie chili thing I'm pretty sure has cut a few years from my life but was worth it. They don't split bills on multiple cards which is my only complaint, but it's a big one of you order food with multiple friends
(3)Melissa P.
I love the Abbey it's my favorite place to go. They have great burgers an sandwiches an a huge beer selection. The bartenders are very sociable. It's a great hangout spot with friends that like to have a few drinks and watch the game!
(5)Roger W.
Since RARE in North Providence went out of business, the Abbey has been my go to burger joint, even though they have a very full menu. The crowd is mostly Providence College students, although you will find actual locals in the house. The draw at the Abbey is burgers, and their specialty burgers are, in fact, very good. My only quibble is that when you order onion rings as a side with your burger, you get about five or six modestly sized rings. When you order fries, they give you like a half pound of fries. It's a little baffling. I saw some beer snobs being put out that, of their 92 beers, some of them are large American beers like Miller, Bud, etc. This is some First World Problems steez right here. They have my favorite (La Fin du Monde), and enough variety in the rest of the list to realistically satisfy anyone. I've also seen some complaints from other reviewers about the service. I've never had that problem, but I can see where it would be a problem once the place fills up. It can also get loud - real loud, so be prepared to shout across the table to talk. And be prepared to squint the relatively low level of lighting.
(4)Sarah C.
I really like this place as they have delicious burgers and other food items (potato chips with gorgonzola cheese sauce, helllooooo!). However, they tend to be very busy during the school year and the service can be slow because of that. Lucky for me it's within walking distance to my house, so I can pop over at less busy hours. Whatever you do, definitely try one of their burgers!!
(4)Kelly S.
One of my best friends is a self-declared beer snob, so when she's in town, we have to go someplace with a good selection. We both like good food, so places that have both a good beer selection and good eats are a must; The Abbey has made our short list. She was thrilled with the beer selections. Both of us loved our food. Pub fries- with Gorgonzola cheese sauce? Yes please! Cheeseburger pizza? Yum. Another friend had something called The Hair of the Dog that Bit You Burger- I'm not too sure what was on it, but he was beyond thrilled, stopping eating only to tell us that it was like having all three meals in one. The service was outstanding! Our waitress was attentive and helpful- even when we needed to move tables- twice- to accommodate our growing party. And apparently it was only her third day there! One star off for no mixed drink menu (but willing to make whatever you wanted), and parking's no fun. BUT lots of TV's, great for watching playoffs, and a warm atmosphere. I'll definitely be back!!
(4)R. R.
My boyfriend and I started coming here because one of our very good friends worked here and it was a local bar. We ate here regularly and brought some of our friends to try it seeing that the food was good. Our friend stopped working here but we continued to be regulars. We were waited on by the same person numerous times. One day, my boyfriend and his best friend came here for a drink and to watch a football game. When my boyfriend asked to open a tab, he was told that they would have to hold his card because he had walked out on a bill about a year ago. We had been to the abbey a million times in the last year, and they waited this long to address this if it were true? My boyfriend was very upset and embarrassed. We have never walked out on a bill. My boyfriend always over tips. I always tell him he just has to leave 20%, but he insists on over tipping especially at places we frequent. We have not been to the abbey since and have had some of our friends stop going there due to this. My boyfriends biggest problem was the fact that the bar tender blatantly told him that he walked out on a bill in front of a restaurant full of people when no one had any proof of this. It was a very unprofessional way to go about it. Treat your customers, especially your regulars with respect!
(1)Lizz W.
I can't believe I've never beeen here before! Strongbow on tap, 30 cent waaangs (on Tuesday) and very cool atmopshere. If your looking for me, I'll be shoving wings in my mouth here on Tuesdays from now on.
(4)Krystan S.
The food is awesome. Lots of beer choices. Friendly staff. Almost always playing random 90s music. I'm a fan. I need to get a burger next time. I never do and then I always regret it when I see someone else's.
(5)Ken C.
I had lunch at the Abby today (Columbus day) only to find out (when I received my bill) that the usual half price lunch did not pertain to holidays. I asked the waitress why and she informed me that it was a holiday (no half price) and that it was posted on the door. There was a note posted on the front door written in very small letters. I told the waitress that she should have informed me when I placed my order, her response was "yeah, probably should have". I calculated her tip on the half price amount. I wouldn't have killed her to let me know of the price change.
(2)Dave L.
Not sure what has happened to this place but the past two visits I have had here in the past year have been less than mediocre. I revisited it again about two weeks ago just because I wanted to see if my poor experience last time was a fluke but to my dismay it was not. Of course I ordered a burger as did my girlfriend and friend who were with me. All three of us were dissatisfied with our order. The bread, which all three of us had a different type, mine being sourdough, was over toasted making it far too hard. The burger was not very flavorful, a little dry despite the medium rare, and just overall not that great. The fries were ok, nothing to rave about but more enjoyable than the burger. The toppings for all of our burgers were scarce despite the appeal being the different types of topping a they offer and the crazy burgers advertised. I was really disappointed with this experience as I have recommended this place on several occasions, used to really enjoy it, and raved about it to my gf prior to taking her. I hope they can make some changes as this place has appeal and has been featured in magazines so will continue to draw costumers based on that.
(2)James F.
Cool, laid back atmosphere with a great selection of food. The Chimay and chips with Gorgonzola keep me coming back again and again.
(4)Henry J.
We went here looking for good beer and burgers and were disappointed on both counts. The Abbey advertises itself as a bar for beer enthusiasts, but it doesn't really live up to that claim. They do have a lot of beers (over 100) but a large number of them are crappy fillers like Michelob and Heineken. The "craft" beer they do have is still pretty mass-market, like Sam Adams and Magic Hat. The beer list looks like it hasn't been updated in 15 years -- there are so many great new breweries in New England, why can't they find something fresh to feature? Also there are no prices on any of the beer menus and of course the waiters don't have all the prices memorized, so you have to guess and hope you didn't order a beer that costs $10. For food we got a burger and a BBQ chicken grilled pizza. The burger was enormous but otherwise unremarkable. Maybe some people like getting vast quantities of food but I found it off-putting and hard to eat. The pizza was basically inedible. First of all, we were disappointed that there was no tomato sauce, just BBQ sauce (the menu could've been clearer about that). But more importantly, the pizza looked like an entire bottle of supermarket BBQ sauce was just dumped onto the dough... when you lifted up a slice, BBQ sauce oozed out. Of course all the sauce made the crust soggy too. It would've been easier to just eat BBQ sauce with a spoon. Gross. Overall I would say The Abbey is fine as a dive / college bar, but I will not be going back either for food or for beer.
(2)Joe C.
This place has great burgers and very solid beer selection. I would bump this place up to 4 stars but I have 2 issues. The place is small and it makes it difficult to seat a party of 8. The other issue is the prices. I don't go in for lunch, because you try to grab a beer and a specialty burger and it is going to cost you at least 25 bucks with tip. I know they have a half price deal on the regular burgers on the menu, but it still adds up. I definitely recommend The Abbey. The burgers are very well crafted and the beer selection is excellent. Just remember to bring a few extra bucks, it's not overly affordable. Thanks
(3)Steven C.
Taking the advice from fellow Yelpers, we came here for burgers and beer. We went on a Sunday evening, knowing there wouldn't be too many people there. We had the wee-one with us. We're no strangers to the Abbey, we used to come here back in our dating years back in the late 90's. We always had a great time there. To us, it was a nice little place near PC with great beer and a cool crowd. We had no idea they had burgers that are AMAZING! As soon as we entered, the bartender told us we could sit anywhere. We chose a 4-top away from a couple already seated. Service was friendly and efficient. No complaints here. (They lost a star for not having a child seat. I know, its not really a place for kids, but if you want to attract diners as well as drinkers, you have to expect a little one every now and then...right? After all, they're serving the very catalyst of many pregnancies.......................................Â.Alright, next time, we'll get a babysitter.) I had The Roadhouse burger. Huge juicy burger cooked just above medium with Melted Gruyere Cheese and fried onion strings with BBQ sauce on an onion roll. Absolutely amazing! They clearly know what they're doing there and really serve up something special.
(4)Jennifer E.
Huge, delicious sandwiches and burgers, tasty side dishes, and a phenomenal list of craft beer choices make the Abbey a great choice for a awesome night out. I was craving red meat and knew that the Abbey had received stellar reviews on Yelp. I gathered some friends and headed out to the north side for a carnivorous treat. We arrived and were somewhat confused by the parking arrangement. There was a lot, but most spaces said no parking. The street parking was a little difficult to maneuver due to traffic. We finally made it inside and were greeted by a friendly server. She gave us our menus and were never to see her again. After waiting a little while, we were greeted (again) by another server who asked us if we had been helped. Since it had been a little while since we had seen the other lady, he gladly took our food and drink orders. I ordered the sandwich with the filet Mignon, cheddar, and onions on flat bread. They said they were out of cucumbers but that was ok with me. The sandwich was pretty damn good and their onion rings were pretty bomb too. I was quite delighted to try my husband's burger, which was topped with chili and was completely devoured within moments. As great as the food was, the service was less than desirable. Not only were we neglected by our original server, but my husband's soda was never refilled. I would go back for the great food, but I hope that the next time we go the service is a bit better.
(3)Krys A.
You havent had a real burger if you haven't been to the Abbey. They literally have a menu of JUST burgers. Crafty fun names for all burgers and they taste as good as they sound. Don't forget to try one of the many beers to wash that burger down!! Yes you have options of other food on the menu to try, but why try something else when the place is known for their delicious burgers? Trust me its a hard choice when choosing between all those burgers, but you wont be disappointed. The honky tonk and casanova are two of my top choices. ;)
(4)Jennifer H.
I think this is the first time Yelp has steered me wrong; I'm sorry, everyone. I was not a huge fan of The Abbey, and I was very disappointed as a result. I was expecting a bit of a dive, but not nearly as townie of a dive bar as this place is. Maybe it's target clientele is the nearby college students, and that's fine, but I'm not in college anymore. Regardless, I found a decent table near the front windows and settled in, determined to make the best of it and enjoy the burger I heard so much about. The service was cold, as Hilary said, and not very efficient. No one told us that we could sit anywhere. No one greeted us for a good 10 minutes. No one checked on us after our food was served to make sure everything was ok. The place was busy, but that's not excuse for blatant ignoring of customers. Now, the most important part, the food. I came here because I was craving a good burger, and that is the only reason why. I wanted a thick, juicy, flavorful beef patty to sink my teeth into and get my nom on. I left unsatisfied. I don't even remember which burger I got -- not memorable at all. It was overcooked, dry and not nearly as flavorful as I hoped. The fries were decent, but I wasn't there for the fries. I have had a better burger at Red Robin, and it pains me to say that. The Abbey is loud and bare bones with pub food appropriate for people who have already slammed back several of their great beers -- the one thing they have going for them. I'm so sad that I didn't enjoy The Abbey as much as I had hoped.
(2)Hilary H.
I went for the burgers, I got myself a burger.... a HUGE one. I've been hearing people sing the praises of The Abbey since moving to the PVD four years ago, and I finally snapped myself out of my Ivy Tavern burger obsession, hauled my ass across town and found a stool at the bar at The Abbey. Harpoon IPA on draught was my beer of choice out of the 92 available, and the Buffalo Burger was my pick out of the huge selection of beefy goodness on their massive menu. I added an order of onion rings and a side salad cuz, you know... one does need something heart-healthy to wash down all the naughtiness. My beer was tasty, and my burger, while a little under-done, was good. It was enormous and heavy-laden with accoutrements like bleu cheese and buffalo sauce and the bun was really, really good and the perfect texture. While I thoroughly enjoyed my first onion ring, they quickly became much too rich and I wasn't able to finish them. They have a fluffy, cakey batter and are unlike any onion ring I've ever had. Service was efficient, if a little cold, ut the bar was packed and he was quite busy so I can't complain. The Abbey was a fun place with good food and I'm so glad I finally tried it.
(3)Jeremy S.
2nd best hamburger I've ever had from a restaurant. They even have beer recomendations based on your burger. In a weird part of town, but absolutely worth it. Probably the best burger in the northeast states
(5)Jean F.
I've heard so much about 'the abbey' that I just had to go. First of all, lets start off with their 92 beers - WOW! This even included one of my favs, Newport Blueberry on tap. For food we enjoyed a nice spread of wings, pizza and the usual bar food and everything was very good. The service was pretty great too. I was also very impressed that there was always a constant crowd of people coming in yet it was never too crowded and uncomfortable. Looking forward to hitting up this dive again!
(4)Steven S.
The other night I came in with some friends to eat. We all wanted huge messy burgers and beers so the Abby seemed like a no brainer. I enjoyed myself and the food but the service is what ruined my meal. I work in the industry so I fully support a server being tipped and tipped well but I don't appreciate getting gratuity added to the bill and not being told about it. Anyways after closing out our tabs my girlfriend looked down to see a tiny mouse scamper by her feet. It was crazy because the thing practically posed for a picture.(which we posted) We left and I wasn't pissed but when I checked my bank statement the next day I was charged an extra $10 for what I assume is the server trying to double down on her tip. I would fully be prepared to give the Abby a great review but after the front of house pretty much robbing me and then a mouse bidding me a goodnight I don't think I will be returning. If you read this and decide to go to the Abby just make sure to read your check carefully because the servers are shady there.
(1)Will Y.
This place is great. Nice little neighborhood pub feel. I went to a Providence vs UMaine Hockey Game and pre-gamed here before hand with some friends. Decent selection of beers, although not a lot on tap. The food was great. The burgers are KICK ASS. Definitely get one. 4 Draft craft beers and a burger only cost me $26 bucks...nice and easy on the wallet. The staff and bartenders were nice too. Great way to kill a couple hours before a game...Next hockey season I will be back for sure.
(4)Meghan L.
Great place to listen to music or watch a sporting event with friends. There beer selection is huge love it. I love there burgers my favorite is the hair of the dog it's a must try last but not least there staff is very upbeat and friendly we will definitely be back
(5)Kisha T.
Nom nom NOMS! I stumbled into The Abbey once before with some girlfriends and I was silly enough to not order anything else but beer. Silly girl. After a fabulous Yelp event at the newly opened American, I had some time getting to know their owners (who happen to own The Abbey as well). She convinced me that I had to try it again but this time, try the burgers. I'm always up for trying new places and on a quiet night, Ryan and I trekked to The Abbey. This place looks the part of a dive bar but it has something very special about it: The food is amazing. As Kay D brought up, the onion rings are fantastic. The batter is different and causes for a very crunchy onion ring. One thing to note, they use red onions which has a very distinct flavor. Overall, very yummy. I went with the Southern Belle Burger (you know, since I'm from Texas and all that). It was massive, greasy and amazing. Meat was perfectly cooked, placed in two pieces of Texas toast, freshly made coleslaw..all the goodies. I overheard that it was also wing night...so OBVIOUSLY we ordered wings too. Haha. Wings were fantastic and were 35 cents each. Their Spicy Thai Chili sauce is spicy deliciousness. If you're hungover, feeling like a guilty pleasure or just want a great burger, go to The Abbey, it'll make your belly happy.
(5)Ryan D.
So my GF Kisha T and I decided to wander over to the PC area to hit up The Abbey. On the outside, The Abbey looks like a typical dive bar in the area but the inside has a nice pubby feel to it. But be prepared because this is all a massive disguise. The Abbey has the best burgers in Providence that I have ever had. Coupled with an excellent beer selection, these burgers are so good they are making my mouth water as I am typing this. The homemade sides also too really make the pub food here really really good. We also hit up wing night and their selection of wings was different but in a good way. After flipping through their gourmet burgers, I didn't see one that I didn't want. Trust me you really can't make a bad choice at The Abbey. I dare you to try.
(4)Tom D.
Words cannot describe how I feel about the burgers here. I literally crave them, like salivate at the thought of them kind of crave. That supplemented with an extensive beer list with ever changing seasonal selections and you have yourself a winner. Service has always been decent, but I also don't come here for the conversation so I can't really judge- my mission is usually simple: Get in, stuff delicious burgers in my face and go home so full that I'll be burping up the tastiness for the next day or so. Things to note: Make sure you choose a dipping sauce! And out of the 10 times I've been here so far, twice my burger came to me overcooked - the flavors were still good, but an overcooked burger is a serious letdown. Luckily this didn't occur on my first two trips there so it didn't sway me from returning. If this happens to you, Definitely go a second time, otherwise you'll regret it!
(5)Adrianna G.
Great burgers and beer. I'm a burger gal, and this is a great burger place; they have quite the selection to choose from. They also have 92 beers available too. It is very close to PC, so expect a college crowd, and it's pretty small, so it can get crowded quick, but the burgers and fries are worth it.
(4)Rebecca R.
Like many Yelpers, I was told the Abbey was a MUST. If you've read my other reviews you will know I am a burger and beer girl through and through. So what did I order, of course a pint of my favorite stout and a burger that would put any other burger to shame. I went all out, oh yes alllllll out. I ordered the Southern Belle. I don't love pickles, I don't love coleslaw. But what i do love is both of them on a burger. Served on texas toast and slathered in BBQ sauce. When I say I devoured that burger, I'm wanting one just thinking about it actually...................... Oh right, I was writing... delicious, hands down best burger I had had in a long time. Love the atmosphere and the 92 beers on tap. Can't go wrong choosing this place... "Come Hungry, Leave Full!"
(4)George T.
The burger quality and selection is unmatched. Better than any burger spot in the state. I also enjoyed the variety of beers they offered both on tap and bottled. Not much room to wait when busy but worth it. Bathrooms need updating.
(4)Sarah C.
1. Good beer 2. Cheap beer 3. Large sized beers 4. They let you have pizza delivered
(4)Sarah G.
When I moved to Providence from Washington, DC last year I was devastated by the lack of transportation and walking distance to restaurants/bars in my neighborhood.... until I found the Abbey. (If I lived downtown I am sure I wouldn't have this problem, but what can I say, my dogs need room to roam) Within walking distance from my house this place has amazing burgers and a great and changing beer selection. Oh and their mud pie... it's delicious. It's usually bustling with PC students during game time and on weekends, but if you're looking for a great burger and beer joint to watch the game, this is a good one. They also have Trivia on Tuesday's or maybe it's Wednesday's, which has been fun too. I definitely recommend stopping in.
(4)Patrick L.
Best burgers in town. I've told others that they are the best and usually when you hype something like that, it disappoints. The burgers have not disappointed a single person. They have great choices and different types that people may not have tried before. But if you're looking for a great burger, the Abbey is the place to go.
(5)Karon H.
I want to like the Abbey - really I do. And I do kinda like it - the food is good, even if they can never get my order right. My husband and I order out a lot and they never get my order right even though I order the same thing every time: the Bacon-Swiss-Honey Mustard thing with cheddar instead of Swiss, raw onions only and the HM on the side. Doesn't seem to complicated - right? Well, it's come with the HM on it, no bacon, no raw onions, no HM at all, L/T as well as raw onions - I'm surprised they haven't forgotten the grilled chicken yet. Today when I got it, it had HM on an untoasted bottom roll (super soggy and inedible), on over-toasted top roll which was too hard to eat and HM on the side, also! Also, recently I ordered the Broccoli & Cheese soup breadbowl for my husband. I asked if they had it before I placed the order and when it came, it was a hot flour water mix w/two florets of broccoli from a salad thrown in and the bread bowl was a hamburger bun that the cook had used his thumb to pull a small gouge out of the top. Really - Really?? When my husband brought it back, the lunkheaded bartender actually asked if he wanted another one! Really - Really?? I'll probably keep trying the food as it's close to the house and since Rare has gone out of business. But it's only for convenience sake as the cook really needs to be replaced and apparently some of the bartenders need re-training in customer service.
(2)Brandon R.
Excellent burgers and a very good beer selection... sort of. So we were greeted promptly by a friendly gent. He asked us if we wanted to order drinks, so we both decided on some normal draft beer. The girlfriend orders a Blue Moon and I order a Harpoon UFO... well they're out of UFO, so I just get a Blue Moon too. My friend and his girlfriend arrive a couple minutes later. I can't remember what they tried to order, but they didn't have the beer he chose either. So the server, who was now someone different than we started with, recommends a similar beer. He says he'll try that. She comes back, and apparently they didn't have the one she recommended either. In the end, the food was good and we had a good time. The lack of beer on tap, when it seemed to be something they boasted about, bothered us. I thought the beer was a tad expensive as well, but not a deal breaker.
(3)Kevin C.
Food was delicious for sure, there's no doubt about that. Their philosophy on beer is pretty bad though. For a place that is clearly trying to be a 'beer bar' (the place is called The Abbey after all), they've gotta make some changes. I'm not allowed to get a sample of a beer? I don't care that you only have 1 log of it. Any good beer bar lets their customers 'shop' for the beer they are in the mood for. Of course this can't be abused, but 1-2 free samples for every purchase is totally reasonable and expected at good beer bars. Take down out-dated draft lists that are posted around the bar. It's confusing. Get a chalk-board and keep it up to date. They claim to only have 1 'beer of the month' tap and 1 seasonal tap. This is out of 15 or so. At least 5 of those taps should rotate with new and different beers. Pretty uninspired bottle list. Crap you can buy at any typical liquor store. Last but not least, when we got our tab our jaws dropped. How I ask, HOW can you possible charge $9.75 for a pint of Ayinger Oktoberfest??? There is no good explanation for that. A week prior we were getting pints of it at another bar in town for $5. All in all, 2 beers and a burger (no extra toppings or sides) came to $30. That's absolutely crazy. Some things have to change with you, The Abbey.
(2)Robert S.
I went back to the Abbey for the nachos and my verdict is........Get the burger !!! The cheese was not completely melted. The chicken was cold and bland, the overall dish tasted below average. I talked to one of the bartenders and they agreed....the thing to order is the Burger. Homemade Chips and Onion Rings are outstanding too. I'm still a FAN due to the excellent burgers they have...... :-)
(4)Rachel A.
Great burgers and the sweet potato fries were fantastic! Will definitely go back and try something else. The whole menu looked good.
(5)Matt L.
PC student? Former PC student? Future PC student with a fake ID and/or continuing your educational journey? You need to be at The Abbey. It's great! Good beer selection, great bartenders, and always the promise of interesting people (Disclaimer: promise of "interesting people" not made by anyone associated or affiliated with The Abbey). The story I always tell about this place is that I once crashed a Wednesday night birthday party here and was offered me cupcakes and T-shirts and shit. If you live in Providence/N. Providence, skip Applebees' and make this your neighborhood bar and grill (sorry).
(4)Lisa S.
Beer, my oh my! What a fantastic pub! Our neighbors have been going to The Abbey and finally invited us to join them and glad we were! What a great pub! We stopped in on a Friday evening and it was hopping, as expected. The service was a bit slow, but again, it was a Friday night. I enjoyed a few beers from the lengthy list and had the steak tip sandwich. It was made with tasty pieces of filet mignon. My only disappointment was that the filet was cooked to medium and I wasn't able to order it my usual medium rare. It was delicious, none the less. I can't remember what my hubby ordered, but it was tasty as well! If you're in Providence and looking for a beer and burger, I recommend stopping by The Abbey!
(4)Becky M.
The burgers are not for the faint of heart. 12 or so feature burgers loaded with toppings. All looked good. We decided on the Nashville and the roadhouse. Delicious. So big, we couldn't finish. Each had fried onions on it - love that! The sides come with options of dipping sauces -- the horseradish baed sauce is fantastic. Otherwise a neighborhood pub feel. Great beer selection in bottles. Straightforward selection on tap (but not Bud or Miller on tap....which is just fine with me). Although its a skip from PC, we went for dinner about 7 on a Friday night and there didn't appear to be a college hangout vibe (which is good for me). Will happily go back - but only when I'm in the mood for a heavy burger filled dinner.
(4)La C.
Anyone who lives outside the Elmhurst, Veazie, North End and Mount Pleasant neighborhoods........sorry your standards are too high! The Abbey is a neighborhood bar. They have a generous beer selection, full bar and its a bar so the place isn't going to comfortably sit your party of 8 unless you give them a heads up. They typically have 2 waitresses on a busy night and 1 bartender. Its small, they aren't going to have french style dinner service. Taking points away for that, is just too fussy! The real reason The Abbey exists is to be that place that makes OUTSTANDING FOOD! They don't have a copper top hood for no reason. Trust me! They make the most delicious food ever. Here are the specs: 1) They have entirely separate menu of burger selections. Too many to choose from, as you could probably go there a month straight and have that many choices, plus additional choices on their regular menu. The meat is so abundant that it hangs off the side of the monstrous bun. 2) They have hand-cut fries. And for anyone that knows me or reads my reviews I have a huge problem with bagged fries. PEOPLE potatoes are cheap! Don't scrimp on the good stuff. I digress, their fries are awesome. They can even chili-cheese that shizz! 3) If you are low-carbing it, they will do any dish without the bun without a funny look. The waitresses don't even flinch. So on my diet days I watch lovingly when the BF eats a tremendously delicious sandy, and I don't feel so bad when mine is bunless. 4) Their salads are shockingly good. They are of the chop variety so its not all wilted lettuce and depressed tomato wedges. The Asian is delightful and abundant. I always make my own salad; grilled buffalo chicken caesar. I haven't heard anyone in the kitchen complain about it so that made me really happy too! 5) I don't have to tell you how good the wings are. They have 5 sauce choices and the wings are the good kind, not those cheapo anorexic ones. 6) OMG the TENDER TIP SANDWICH! Prime steak tips, generous toppings, all the modifications in the world available without a fuss? Yes, please! 7) The non-meat eating folks out there can feast their fill too. They have a lot of those selections too but i'm an American, meat eating is in my DNA....anything else is unconstitutional! Seven reasons to go to the Abbey, all food related. That is the reason you go to The Abbey, at a minimum! When you live on the other East Side, you appreciate a watering hole like this! You might not make it a destination to leave the bubble you are living in but for those of us in the hood, its our gem! Its going to be busy on college night, football game days and wing night. If you don't like a cozy bar atmosphere and require an an airline terminal as your personal dining space, you go elsewhere. But if you are real foodie, you hear "want to go to the Abbey?" and you start salivating........then you get it. Drop the demands and dig in, you are going to need both hands! Don't hate on it. We need a bar like this in our neck of the woods!
(5)Stephanie K.
Well yesterday we tried the Ugly American and was impressed with the topping options. Well The Abbey blow our minds with their very own burger menu. With over 12 different burger combos to choose it was hard.I decided on the roadhouse and my husband had the couch potato ( very fitting for him) The burger was huge and they are very generous with the toppings. I recommend signing up for their email club and receive a free app. We decided on the homemade chips topped with gorgonzola cheese sauce, yum yum yum and free!! They have a large selection of beers too:) I also have to give our waitress/bartender/bus boy kudos since she was one person and with 5 tables and 6 people at the bar she was still very attentive. I just wish they had a local burger/bar in Riverside.
(5)Mike C.
Great food and beer. Their burgers are incredible and their fries/onions rings keep up. A very fun place to go out with friends. Have been there 3 times in the last month, including their trivia night. Lots of fun. If you like great burgers, then you need to try this place!
(4)Dan S.
Popped in for dinner on the suggestion of a friend - left 3 hours later...that pretty much sums it up... Decor is along the lines of American Pickers...not fancy, lots of tables, decent jukebox...Service was pretty attentive, ballgames on 5 TVs - parking is not as easy (read the signs for restrictions)...heavy on the PC crowd... A bevy of burger choices, so many so that making a decision is tough...runs the gamut from standard, classic burgers, to burgers with everything but the kitchen sink on them - want pulled pork and potato chips on your burger? Come to the Abbey... The beer menu is no joke either...good draught selections, massive bottled selection... And as mentioned on some other reviews, the potato chips with gorgonzola sauce are a must order... Best burger I've ever had? Not quite, but the selection of burgers and the selection of beers make this a no brainer... Thumbs up...we'll be back...
(4)Joseph H.
I always have a great time here the atmosphere is very very casual and the vibe is that of a neighborhood bar but that all works here. The burgers are the best the home made chips to die for!
(5)Vinny G.
I hadn't been since college but we popped in the other night to pre-game for the Friars eventual victory over UCONN. *go friars* It was 25 cent wing night (Tuesday) and half the party got the wings. They were great, and for 25 cents each were a great deal. I had a cobb salad (don't say it). The salad was TREMENDOUS. Perfectly chopped, dressed just right, came with nicely grilled chicken righ in there. This is a hidden gem on the menu... I'd highly recommend it. They have a great beer selection, I favored the Gunness and it was pouring beautifully. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Alma C.
Standard greasy college bar type of menu and scene. Heavy PC crowd, which is expected for being nearby. The food and drink menu is heavy on burger and options. Overall ok if you're in the neighborhood.
(3)Brian M.
We knew this place was small and we had tickets to an early show so we happily arrived a little before 5:30 on a Saturday to this place expecting to easily find a seat. The Abbey was still pretty busy, despite the early hour, but we managed to find the last available table, tucked away in the back. A funny thing happened while we were there. It was always completely full and yet there was never a wait. I can't say how it'd look around 7 or 8, but while we were there it was like clockwork; as one table left, another group arrived. A beer selection always piques my interest so I was glad to try this place. They have nearly 100 beers to choose from, although only about 25-30 are on tap. The selection is above average in size although it's not incredibly impressive if you're adventurous with your taste in beer. I've always believed that if you have something like Corona, Miller Light, Amstel, or Dos Equis on tap at a place that brags about their beer then those selections shouldn't be counted towards the overall number. So there are 25-30 on tap, but a lot of them are beers that you can get in any ol' bar. I'll never turn down a Harpoon IPA or a Sam Adams, but a place whose website is 92beers.com should be able to give me something different. What about a beer or two from Revival, Providence's newest microbrew or some sort of off the wall offering? Anyways, I'm getting carried away with a large paragraph on a minor complaint. With so many beers, you'll probably be able to find something you like. The place itself was great for watching a game. We were there during the NFL playoffs and even though the Patriots weren't on, all their tvs were tuned into the game and the speakers were on. Every seat in the house had a view of what was going on. We started the meal off with the homemade potato chips in a gorganzola cheese sauce. Personally I've never really found a homemade chip that I like. They're never thin, light, or crispy enough. But I know there are people out there who rave about a homemade chip and I know the girlfriend enjoyed them, so I won't knock them. Overall they're not my thing, but if they're you're thing, then give them a try. I was mostly here for the burgers and I wasn't disappointing. My Roadhouse burger (onion strings, gruyere cheese, bbq sauce, and garlic mayo on an onion roll) was fantastic. The size of the pile of fresh cut fries served on the side made me regret ordering an app. The entire plate made me a very happy guys. The service here was also excellent. How do I know? Because when the girlfriend dumped ketchup onto her perfectly prepared burger, the chef didn't come out to slap her. If you're in the area, in the mood for a burger, or want to watch a game while having a few beers then this is as good a place as any and it's better than most. I don't often find myself cruising down Admiral St, but if it happens again then I'll gladly stop in to try a different burger and I'm sure I'll leave the place happy again.
(4)Ryan P.
Great hole in the wall with really good beer and food. I love to go a few times a year.
(4)Andrew N.
Stupid awesome!!!
(5)Kel S.
I'd been to this place before, the fact that they have nearly 100 beers should get a beer-drinking person excited. I went on a Saturday night recently and it was very loud, sort of difficult to hear the person I was sitting right next to. I'd probably go back earlier in the day or mid-week next time. Supposedly they are known for their burgers, however I don't eat red meat, so I'll stick to the beer. :)
(4)Mike D.
Been here a few times and the service and food have been up and down. This visit service was excellent. Prior visit just ok. We felt rushed on a prior stop in. This time the guy behind the bar was very welcoming and had no problem getting us samples of beer. I had the Havana burger. Not that good. No kick to the spicy mustard. Pulled pork was very dry and bland. Should stick to sliced pork with this sandwich. The hamburg itself seemed ok. Had this burger once before at it was much better. House made chips are good. Draft beer selection is ok but nothing really stands out. The atmosphere is casual and the noise volume lends itself to good conversation. Overall I like this place aside from inconsistencies.
(3)Maggie A.
If you like boneless buffalo chicken, this is the place to go - OUTSTANDING!!
(4)Maura C.
Ummm... hands down, BEST burger in Providence! How did I live 2 minutes from this place for 4 years and never set foot through their door?? It's just tragic! So since, Byblos went and turned themselves into a fancy Hookah Bar, I've been left with limited options for a tasty burger in this city, that is until now! Thank you Providence Monthly for opening my eyes up to this great establishment in my neighborhood. I am sure to be a frequent customer. I've already been 2 times in the past month!
(5)Lou G.
They had a great beer selection, and the menu pairs food with a particular beer. Pretty neat. Food was good. Lots of people (went on Friday evening). I'll go again for sure.
(4)Valerie Z.
Went here for lunch and discovered that there are so many things on the menu for half-price! (Only Mon-Thurs, I think) I ordered a burger and it was cooked exactly how I asked and came with a beautiful sourdough bun. They have a ton of sides you can choose from, so you aren't stuck with just fries. Although their fries are amazing. Definitely will go there for lunch again!
(4)Shannon G.
Decided to check this out for a quick Friday lunch since we heard the burgers and beers were good. The service was fine, the burger was fine and the beer was fine. Nothing that I LOVED about this place but nothing that would keep me from coming back if I was in the area. Since I don't think we'll be in the area that often I doubt we'll make it back here. It was quiet when we went but I bet it gets packed by students during the school year.
(3)Kay R.
A neighborhood spot. Simple greasy-spoon food. Not a huge vegetarian selection, but that is par for course at most sports bars. Great beer selection, and hit-or-miss on efficient (but always friendly) service. The Abbey however is responsible for my one and only onion ring craving. Never liked them before, don't like them other places - but LOVE them here. More of a locals spot than a college scene despite it proximity to PC. Packed during sporting events and wing-night. I prefer the more low key evening when I don't have to shout to be heard and can easily sit at the bar or a table. Big plus? I can openly wear sweatpants, or swing by in a suit after work without being judged.
(3)Dan E.
Its your typical early 2000s Irish Pub concept you've been to many times before, located in the neighborhood close to PC and RI College. I have been here many times to meet up with friends. It's a place you go for cheap college eats - 25 cent wings on Tuesday night. They have TVs with the Bruins or Red Sox game on. It's all right. But there aren't a lot of draft beers here. The most interesting selection you will find on the draft beer list would be a Sam Seasonal offering. Shake my head, grab a Harpoon. The food... is pretty average. I mean I've had the burger, the fish and chips, the wings, their sandwiches. I've been there enough times that I've sampled everything on the menu on one night or another. Everything is consistently overcooked and not-that-great-looking on the plate. The wings and the french fries are always well done and that's just the way they do it. The service is cordial but they make mistakes and when you point it out they just don't have that sense of urgency to fix what they missed on. They just kinda say OK and see ya in 10 minutes. And the check usually needs a quick audit before you cash out. They may ring up an extra beer that never made it to your table, and you will have to point it out. The atmosphere is fine but the bathrooms seriously need to be updated. If you don't bolt the door closed, you could literally be hit by a swinging door and go head first into the toilet. Which if you're a bro in college, might actually be hilarious. The Abbey is all right, but if you don't find yourself in the neighborhood already, it's not worth the trip.
(2)Meg M.
Good food and excellent selection of drinks BUT poor service. The waitresses get annoyed when the place gets busy and crowded and basically yell at you to get out of the way. Trust me, I really like this place but they would be so much better off if their service improved. My advice - If the place is busy, that means you are making money - be happy!!
(3)Jeff M.
Friendly college bar blends in mix of local personalities nicely. Better than average burgers an added plus. Empty and hot most of Summer.
(3)Brandon I.
Perfect neighborhood spot with burgers that are to die for. One downfall though... The Abbey isn't the Abbey with Katie and Phil, so bring them back!
(5)Paul W.
I will definitely hit this place a few more times! My understanding is that much of the food is made on site and it's really good!. I'm really impressed with the specials that reflect the seasons and holidays. I had some great Oktoberfest food! Very had to find in Providence. The menu is fairly large and more importantly- interesting. Many favorites with a twist. I believe it is owner / chef scenario - always a plus in my book. I went with five friends and there was not a single complaint. All agreed to add it to our Saturday lunch rotation.I'd like to be here on St Pats day! Not a good place for kids. Thats why they have Chucky Cheese or babysitters.
(4)Sean B.
I had probably the worst experience I have ever had at any bar or restaurant here. The service was just so unbelievably clueless and inconsiderate that I can't believe this place manages to stay in business. Usually when I hear someone say "The Abbey," the first things that pop into my head is a place where welcoming monks make artisan beer and cheese or maybe an inviting, British pub where I might be able wile away an afternoon reading a book with a pint. Well, I'm here to put to rest any ideas that this self-professed "pub nirvana" is either welcoming or relaxing. I was lured here on a Sunday afternoon by the promise of the "best hamburger in Providence" and the reportedly largest beer selection in town. There were a few tables occupied, a few more that were just waiting to be cleared, and a couple of people sitting at the bar. Hardly busy. We scanned the beer menu - large, but not the biggest in town (Doherty's is better and bigger) - and ordered a couple of draughts. 10 minutes later mine was delivered but we were told my wife's selection was no longer available. So we put in an order of appetizers and my wife looked for another beer. The waitress did not return. Despite waving at the bar (she ignored us or was just off in her own world) we were unable to get her attention. 20 minutes later, someone else delivered our apps. We ordered the famous burger and my wife's beer and a new one for me. We watched our beers get poured and sit on the bar for 10 minutes. But we were starving, so we dug into the food. I wasn't sure it was possible, but BOTH the wings and the chicken fingers were burned. In fact, the chicken fingers had little pieces of something else fried stuck to them (maybe onion rings?). Both of us have worked in restaurants and it is damn near impossible to burn something in the fryer - it stops bubbling as much when cooked and most fryers have a timer. The wings were also supposed to come with celery and blue cheese, but forget about trying to track that down. At this point we were just about finished. Nothing we had ordered had been delivered on time, nothing we had ordered was prepared correctly, and the service was out in left field smoking a joint or picking their nose. But, we were hungry and we hoped that a juicy, medium rare burger would make everything better. It didn't. Medium rare? Nope. More like well done. And we were done, too. But not just yet. While my wife left to get the car I explained to the server that everything had been overcooked and that I was going to pay for the two beers we drank and the appetizers we tried. I pointed out the burnt chicken fingers with "extra friends" and she said the chicken fingers came that way because they were hand breaded (Did they drag them across the floor before they fried them?). So I waited another 10 minutes for her to bring the check. When she finally showed up, it included not just our appetizers and beers, but also the hamburger, the beer that was no longer available, and a beer that was still sitting on the bar. The waitress said that if I signed up for the email club I would get a free appetizer (YAY! Free crap is still crap!). I was about ready to just leave at this point, but held it together and said again, I am NOT going to pay for something that you did not bring me, nor am I going to pay for something you screwed up. Did she apologize? Did she acknowledge that they messed up? No and no. She said, "You don't have to make a scene!" If zero stars were an option, that's what I would give the Abbey. BTW, if you were wondering how much it costs to not eat lunch and be treated like crap, the answer is $32.
(1)Nancy L.
I've been here several times with my boyfriend now. He goes to PC, so we sometimes go after he gets out of his evening classes or to watch a game. Friendly staff (except for this one waitress), but sometimes it takes a while for them to come over to take orders (other wise I'd give them a full 5 stars). My fave beers are on tap, which is awesome for me. Good selections for bottled beers as well. Amazing specialty burger selections!!!! I've tried most of them and have not been disappointed! Highly recommend this place for a burger fix!
(4)Mike D.
I finally caved to my cravings and indulged in one of their tremendous burgers! Do yourself a favor and get one of these. There are so many custom burgers to choose from and if the need strikes you to make your own, you can do that as well. The only drawback of a bar called is Abbey is the lack of Belgian taps. There are only few places in the country that can truly wear this name but if your looking for a place to grab a beer, catch a game, and eat a damn good burger, this is your spot.
(4)Courtney C.
I've been to this place many times and the food and drinks are great. Unfortunately there are a couple servers/tender who don't know how to count money properly. I've been shorted change twice here and the first time it happened I was told I was wrong. They overcharged us for a beer and the waitress pocketed $20. I work in this industry and I'm extremely cautious about money when paying a bill, I counted enough times to know how much I gave, we payed the remainder of the bill on a card. She overcharged the card and claimed we gave her less cash than we did and they never took the extra beer off. The manager counted the drawer and said it was only $7 over so she took that out and handed it to me which did not suffice. The second time this happened I was sitting at the bar and we had been there for a while and had paid our bill with a card and decided the share one more beer, a Palm. I paid for this beer with a 20 and I received 2 dollars back. I didn't say anything because the person who waited on us was the same who argued with me about the other waitress the last time. This place is sketchy. There are a couple bar tenders who are great and trustworthy but a couple who are not. I'd pay with a card if going here and make sure to check your bill and keep track of what you've had.
(2)Jen S.
Would have given this place three stars BUT! You can sub a garden burger or portabello cap for a beef slab on ANY of their specialty burgers. How hard is that, ALMOST EVERY OTHER RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD?! Aside from that and other nice things on their menu, it's an ordinary pub. Fairly decent beer selection. I am a fan of Long Trail, so any place that serves it up is cool with me. You'd think this place would be crammed with annoying PC kidz, but it's usually a mellow older crowd.
(4)Todd C.
Let me start off by saying I really wanted to like this place as I used to live right down the street and was hoping this would be my local cheers. Sadly, after 5 or 6 trips I stopped going. Despite the reviews here I found the food to be below average, service sucks and for a dive bar the prices are outrageous.
(2)Andrew U.
Nice neighborhood beer bar out side of Providence. It's only a 5 minute walk to get there and I have been going more often lately. I went last weekend and it was relatively quite, which I didn't mind. The food is always great every time I go. Great portions for any hungry growing boy like myself :). The burgers are awesome and I suggest the sweet potatoes fries. Huge homemade battered fries that are nice and crispy. The pizzas are great too. I am really impressed with the food for such a small dive spot. Great beer promo stuff on the walls and other cool stuff. The beers on tap are not bad, not bad at all. I see other so called "beer connoisseur" say this is just a regular pub. They might not have as many micros as Sunset Grill but it is better than most bars. Some of the decent selection for tap brews are Otter Creek Imperial IPA,Old Speckled Hen, Harpoon, Magic Hat Circus boy, and Sam Adam's seasonal. They cater to the college crowd so of course there is Bud Light, Blue Moon, and Miller Light. There are usual some nice looking ladies in there which always gets a few extra points. They do have a good selection of bottles listed and they mix it up with different deals. I would say they certainly have something for all types. Service is friendly and they know a thing or two about the beer they serving. When college is in session this place does tend to get packed at night on the weekends. If you are in the area or looking for a new spot I would defiantly check this place out. If you enjoy beers but have not had a chance to try a lot of different ones you will really like this place. Overall I would recommend this bar.
(4)Neil B.
Just arrived in RI and went with my brother and dad to The Abbey for lunch. Burgers were 1/2 price (Monday-Thursday at lunch) and they are GOOD! They have that outdoor flavor and my medium rare burger was actually medium rare! The Abbey also has good fries. Since I am just visiting RI, I won't have a chance to try the rest of the menu but from what I tasted, this is a legit bar and restaurant!
(4)Marc T.
Food-Excellent, Beer Selection-Good, Atmosphere-OK, Service-Below Par In my opinion this place has the best bar food in the state! Strong words I know but there burgers are very good, sides are all homemade and amazing and menu is plentiful. I particularly like the burgers, phil's revenge sandwich and there amazing onion rings. I think the two biggest complaints I have are the high beer prices ($7+ for a 22oz Sam Adams) and the less than attentive service.
(4)Ted D.
Great beer list and a really good burger (they have recently added a Premium burger list). Good place to drop in for a bite or a beer before a PC Hockey game. At times, it can get crowded and they do cater to the campus/off campus crowd. The past 2 visits, there has only been one waitress and the bartender available which led to a little wait; but both times were on school break. Parking is a concern as the parking lot at River Ave and Admiral is not for The Abbey and street parking can be a challenge. Overall, of the 6-7 times I've been in over the past 3 years, I do not have a complaint.
(4)Tom M.
Great pub feeling at The Abbey, they have the absolute best burgers in Providence (forget Luxe Burger). 92 available beers at The Abbey, try all 92 and get a free t shirt and your picture on the wall. What isn't to like about this place!
(5)Jay E.
If you are looking for a pub like atmosphere, friendly service, and solid food such as wings, burgers, etc... this is the place for you! We have been going here since it was called "Gravity" back in the day, a go to place for wing night and beers! Highly recommend.
(4)Maddie J.
This bar has some of the best burger creations around. We come here a few times a year for the burgers. While the beef is average, the toppings and bread choices are the draw. My boyfriend's brother comes up from DC to visit, and we always come here. The bottled beer selection is good. The draft beer selection could be better. But you really, Really, REALLY want to come here for the burgers.
(5)Danielle W.
I'm only giving The Abbey a 3 star review because they only thing that I actually drank there, was Strongbow on tap; which by the way, is very hard to find, so thumbs up to them for having it. The Abbey is a little hole in the wall spot, one that I have been driving by for years, as I only live 1 mile away from the bar; I finally went last night to experience it. It's not a bad place, it is fairly small inside, and there are seats at the bar and several tables throughout. There are about 5 TV's in the joint, which is a bit ludicrous considering the size of the bar itself. The wait staff were okay, I've had better service. The wall decor is a modge-podge of beer/ale advertisements, so there is always something to look at. My only big gripe is that they lack some serious air conditioning. It's August, hot and humid outside and there was little to no relief stepping in there. If they're lucky, perhaps I'll grace them with my presence yet again to try their "so called" best burger in Providence. That's quite a statement they have to live up to.
(3)Brendan K.
Known for burgers, but the wings are why I come back. Many beer options, definitely a good spot.
(4)Adam P.
The Abbey is a great bar in the Elmhurst section of Providence. It's major flaw is being close to Providence College and catering to that crowd. Better place to go during the summers when most of the kids are back home. However if you can brave the college crowd it is a great bar. It has the common look of any Irish pub with Guinness signs and other "Irish" elements but this is not the focus of the bar. It's main claim to fame in my opinion is it's lengthy beer menu (bottle and draft) as well as it's burger bar. If you are a fan of beer, this is the place for you. You can drink your way through New England or have most domestic and imported beers. They even have a beer club if you want to drink a ton and try to win a free shirt or something of that nature. The burger bar is awesome and I have to say the best in the city, better than Luxe or Harry's. They have a great burger menu which is a tent card menu you can flip and read. The more you flip they get bigger and more outrageous. My favorite is the Gypsy and the Roadhouse but they are all good and deserve a try. The service is always slow especially when it is crowded full of college students. The burgers are the great but I have to say I am not sure about the kitchen. A couple of times during the summer I walked by to see the kitchen windows open and the burger toppings sitting in open containers on the window sill with flies buzzing around. I am hoping this was a few hot summer days that I noticed vs common practice. But all in all a great neighborhood bar well worth visiting.
(4)Emlyn A.
Eat here. More precisely: Eat a burger here. You see, I come from out west. Out west is where you get REAL burgers, not just with REAL flavor, but REAL texture...EATABILITY. They don't just slap a hunk o' cheddar onto some bogus, whatever roll and call it something fancy schmancy. Out west, burgers are made to taste great and to still look like a burger halfway through it. My friends, I am no college student, nor am I a snooty know-it-all foodie or even a burger connoisseur; I'm just a guy who loves a burger that loves him back. Behold The Abbey's BBQ Burger. It is PHENOMENAL. It didn't look like much but a standard, normal, unextraordinary burger. Boy was I wrong. A nice slab of meat (that didn't have that "taste, like it was a reject from the McDonalds factory), delicious thick slices of bacon that didn't go limp, nor shatter, just enough to cheddar to give you that satisfying taste, brilliant BBQ sauce that threatened to dribble out but never did, and--perhaps most importantly--a bun that wasn't over-toasted, that didn't fall apart and that I could HOLD, and that wasn't just plain wrong (you know, the pubs that serve up burgers on weird buns that just don't cut it). And to top it off? I sandwiched a couple of my onion rings and squirted a dollop of ketchup into the mix, just to remind myself of why I love western-style burgers so much. The pub itself is nuthin' special; it's a decent interior with a bar, tables, a good selection of TV panels, catering mostly to a college crowd. They could probably use a better heating system for colddd nights. But who cares. With a burger like this I'd let them flog me while I ate it. Fine don't go here. More BBQ Burgers for me.
(5)matthew l.
Solid pub food, great beer selection, friendly service, game always on. C'mon man!
(5)E M.
The reviews on Yelp guided us to this restaurant which does have the pleasant atmosphere of a neighborhood bar. First, the positives: 1) On a very cold night, it was warm enough to counter the blast of cold air entering from the direct entrance. 2) Nice small neighborhood bar atmosphere. 3) Homecut fries were good. Next, the neutrals: 1) Waitperson was disinterested and mildly arrogant, but attentive. 2) Beer offerings on tap were limited but they had something to please all of our party of 4. Last, the negatives: 1) At a place reknowned and celebrated for their burgers, my burger ordered medium rare was served well done. The "shroom" burger was not smothered with wild mushrooms and melted swiss cheese as the menu described, but closer to a few slices of portabella mushrooms laid on a slice of mostly melted swiss cheese....very disappointing. This negative element weighs more in my overall rating than the positives and neutrals since they are supposed to be known for burgers. I can get everything else at many other locations. If I lived in the area, I'd probably go back, but it's not worth going out of the way.
(2)John L.
In Providence and want a burger? Do not go anywhere else. Great beer list as well. Crazy Rooskie burger? Ridiculous.
(5)Kat F.
The Southern Belle burger is served on Texas toast and topped with coleslaw, pickle spears, and melted cheese, and I find myself daydreaming about it occasionally. Try the fries with a side of chipotle ketchup.
(4)Jason D.
Went to The Abbey for lunch and had one of their premium burgers (lumber jack) all I have to say is My God this thing was no joke the picture of the Burger did it no justice it was by far the best Burger I have ever had and with the over 90 beer variety it was very easy to find a beer to compliment it...I suggest this place to anyone who in enjoys a neighborhood pub atmosphere with friendly a friendly staff. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Kyle H.
I think if you didn't actually go to Providence College, and you didn't spend a large part of your senior year here, you can take a star off this review. That said, I did spend a large part of my senior year here (cause unlike most of the PC-area bars, when they card they mean it) so there's got to be some value here, right? Lets dissect. Ambiance: Dive bar. Seriously, I know this is the best place within walking distance of PC, but that doesn't mean it's nice, that just means the rest of Smith Hill is even dirtier. The furniture is wobbly and sticky. The walls are covered in beer promo stuff (but for Thomas Hooker and Unibroue rather than Bud Light). The bathrooms are straight out of that one scene in Trainspotting. There's a couple TVs and a projector for big games, though when I came in with a group of alumni on the first Thursday of March Madness games, most of them were showing a cheerleading event instead of basketball and it took twenty minutes for them to figure out how to change it. Also here's the thing - there's never the right number of tables. Come here between 5 and 9pm and you'll be standing around for a while waiting to sit down anywhere (and there's nowhere to do that without lurking). Come here late night and the tables just get in the way. Drinks: Oh yeah, they've got the fabled beer menu (and if you're new to micros, it's worth perusing the descriptions just to learn some things). I'm not sure if there are better beer bars in Providence now, since I haven't lived there in three years, but trust me that this place doesn't have the best selection in the world and that most places around New York, Boston, and DC will put this to shame without trying. Besides, I guarantee you they'll be out of half of what's on the menu anyway. Food: Actually, pretty good. The loaded nachos are loaded (almost to the point of being light on nacho), and the burgers are varied and filling (assuming you actually get the one that you ordered). The wings aren't bad, though a little fatty. If you want gourmet stuff, you're in the wrong place. Here's the upshot - if you're in college, over 21, and you like good alcohol, this place is more than fine. If you're not in college anymore, don't go here. And if you're an alumni, don't go back -- it'll just ruin the hazy memories with reality.
(3)Ben O.
Stopped here before a PC/UMass hockey game. Great Beer selection. epic burger
(5)U D.
I like the owners so it pains me to say this, but there's not much good going on here. It's loud, the food is below average, and the bartender (Friday night) is a miserable killjoy. This is the kind of place that I would love to frequent, but not until they tighten it up a bit.
(2)Jen G.
My favorite "go to." The staff in great and the food is a great quality. If you want the pub atmosphere without pub food, this is the place. Great veggie options and my friends always rave about the burgers. Try the gorgonzola chips!
(5)Tim D.
Great bottle selection, drafts are a bit lacking. The burgers are great, and the onion rings and homemade potato chips are amzing. Service is pretty horrendous.
(3)Doug S.
A couple of friends told me about this place so I decided to watch the Stanley Cup finals there and try it out. I had one of their specialty burgers which was so big I couldn't eat the whole thing and it was as good as avdertised. The wait staff was very friendly and the service overall was very good. The crowd was highly energized (due to the Bruins dominating the game) and everyone was having a great time. I have lived a couple of miles from this place for years and can't believe I waited this long to try it out. I will definitely be back!
(5)Joe M.
I'm probably biased seeing as I was a PC student and lived literally right around the corner off River Ave my senior year (which is to say I was here A LOT), but I'll always love this place. Haven't experimented much with the menu just because the burgers are fantastic. All of the appetizers I've tried have been great too, they definitely don't skimp on the portions. Nice beer selection especially if you're trying to branch out from the Bud/Miller/Coors rotation. It does get very crowded particularly on the weekends so I wouldn't plan on coming here with a big group during those times, but if its just you or a couple of buddies you can usually find room. Atmosphere is definitely not fancy and not luxurious, but that's probably not what you're looking for if you're going here anyway. Probably won't be able to resist stopping in next time I'm back in town.
(4)Sara K.
Went here last Friday with a friend who discovered this little gem. Got there about 6:30 on a Friday, place was packed! We did find 2 open seats at the bar thank goodness. The menu is your typical pub food but way better. they say they don't own a freezer so everything is fresh. I ordered the wild mushroom burger and my friend the french dip. My burger was served piping hot on a nice big buttered bun that was the perfect size for the large handpacked patty. I believe they season the meat as I found I didn't need to add anything to this burger, not even ketchup. It honestly didn't need a thing it was THAT GOOD! the burger came with hand cut fries which were good, not awesome, but good and also a large dill pickle spear. My friend raved about her French dip which looked like it was fresh carved roast beef on a toasted baguet and it came with a bowl, not a small cup, of au ju. The beer list is fantastic. they have more bottles than they do drafts and its a good mix of everything from local brews to imports all at very reasonably prices. $3.50 for a Rouge Dead Guy!? SWEET! and also unheard of! The atmosphere is cozy. Its not a very large place. It's all nice warm woods and dim lighting and some cool signage hanging on the walls. I can imagine the college crowd packs this place late night but I only saw worker types of the blue and white collar variety all mixed together getting a brew and some food after work. We had a great bartender who was right on top of things but after a shift change, the waitress looked like she was doing double duty busing tables and tending bar which made service slow. that was the only snag and its not that bad.
(5)R P.
Burgers & beer go together like bread and butter, peanut butter and jelly, Jersey Shore and vodka. It's that combination that drew me to try The Abbey, Admiral Street in Providence's PC neighborhood. Located on the corner of Admiral Street and River Avenue, if you're not looking for the place you might miss it. Don't miss it. Inside, it looks like just about any other "college bar" around. But have one look at the menu, and you'll realize The Abbey is not your typical college dive bar. Their website is 92beers.com - so that should tell you something right there. There are a couple of dozen beers on tap available, and lots more small-batch, imported, and craft beers available in bottles. According to the website, all the food is fresh, never frozen, scratch-made pub fare. But the reason I came was for burgers & beer, so let's focus on that for a moment. I ordered a Sam Adams Alpine Spring (from the tap) which was cold and refreshing on an unseasonably warm March afternoon. There are 15 "gourmet" burger combinations to choose from, everything from the Italian-inspired Mama Mia to the Cuban-inspired Havana burger. I opted to go simple on my first venture, as I wanted to get a feel for the flavor of the burger without too many toppings getting in the way, so I went with a double burger with cheddar and bacon, and chipotle ketchup, fries on the side. I ordered my burger cooked medium, and it came out more like well-done .. I did not see any pink whatsoever, even in the center of the burgers. However, the flavor of the burger was excellent. You can tell as soon as you take your first bite that the burgers are not frozen patties from Sysco. The cheddar was sharp and the bacon was crisp. The fries on the side were plentiful. Most of the burgers average in price from $9-13 or so, but trust me when I tell you it's worth it. Overall, the experience was positive, the food was very good, and I will definitely be going back to try out some of their other burger combinations - first up will be the Mama Mia, which is a burger served on a crusty Italian bread with Wisconsin mozzarella, pepperoni, pizza sauce, and sautéed mushrooms and onions (Hold the mushrooms and onions, please!) They recommend this be paired with a Peroni .. and I will probably take them up on that suggestion.
(4)G S.
When college is not in session, the Abbey is a great neighborhood pub. They always have a game on or will turn it on if you ask. The bartenders take the time to get to know their customers and will usually remember what you drink the next time you come. They have vegetarian options on their menu as well....plenty of pasta, salads, pizza, and a garden burger to name a few.
(4)N S.
First off, the neighborhood seems a little sketchy, but The Abbey is a good place to be after a local event. We went on a Saturday night around ten and the place was packed. The host staff was friendly enough, and they had plenty of TVs for sports and what-not. They have a pretty broad menu of standard bar food which is to say that it is good for what it is, but don't expect gourmet dishes coming from the kitchen.
(3)Ryan B.
I don't see the appeal. It is just not that fun of a place. Yeah they have a lot of beer options and they also have bar food that's just fine, but that's it. It is small. You feel like an outsider if you're not a die hard regular. It isn't a cool place.
(2)