With frosty temperatures now here, it’s a great time to explore Newport’s great indoors. If you haven’t checked out the cozy-yet-spacious interior at Surf Club, now’s the time.
Under renovation since November 2015, the space in Perry Mill that was the former home of Perry Mill Tavern/Rhino Bar officially opened as Surf Club on Friday, October 13th. The property was purchased by Surf Club LLC, also known as Larry Silverstein and Patrick Kilroy (co-owners of Midtown Oyster), from J.H. Enterprises LLC back in 2015. “The property has been under renovation for about a year and a half,” said Charlie Holder, General Manager of Surf Club and Midtown Oyster Bar. “The renovation involved stripping down to the interior’s original 1835 wood posts and beams and creating a social, adaptable setting that works for big groups.”
The result is a chill, relaxed atmosphere with no pretense. Though Surf’s Club name is a nod to a casual, beach lifestyle, Surf Club doesn’t feel like a bar you’d wander into off the beach. “Larry is a big surfer,” Holder said. “He wanted it to be upscale and not kitschy. – it’s more of a surfer state of mind here than surfer in the decor.”
With large booths can fit between 8-10 people, a large bar, long tables and high ceilings, Surf Club makes the perfect place to book a holiday party.
Another notable feature is Surf Club’s open kitchen and large, visible pizza oven. Holder said this “Cadillac of pizza ovens” is where Surf Club’s Neopolitan style pizzas – with homemade sauce and dough – are cooked to perfection. In addition to pizzas, homemade meatballs have also proven to be an early hit, along with other menu items like Hamachi Crudo and a variety of fresh pastas. The large bar is focused on craft cocktails and craft beer.
Starting November 11th, Surf Club will be open for Saturday lunch and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm starting on November 12th. Holder recommends the Japanese pancakes and stopping by the build-your-own-Bloody Mary bar. Surf Club is open five nights a week, Thursday – Monday.
Surf Club is located at 337 Thames Street. For more information, follow Surf Club on Facebook.