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Devastating Fire Hits Matunuck Oyster Bar in Rhode Island

Firefighters working diligently to control the blaze at Matunuck Oyster Bar, ensuring no injuries were reported.

News Summary

A significant fire at Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown on May 20 has caused extensive damage, leaving over 300 employees without work. The fire, exacerbated by strong winds, was reported at 3:44 AM and took about 90 minutes for firefighters to control. Owner Perry Raso expressed gratitude for community support during this crisis, while plans for a temporary location and outdoor seating legislation are underway to assist the impacted workforce. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Rhode Island – A fire at Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown on May 20 has resulted in significant damage to the popular restaurant, causing concern for the local workforce and community. The fire, which broke out around 3:44 AM, quickly escalated due to strong winds, and by the time firefighters arrived approximately eight minutes later, a large amount of fire was already visible from the structure’s rear and second floor.

Approximately 35 firefighters from local departments, including mutual aid from Narragansett, North Kingstown, Charlestown, and the Kingston Fire District, worked diligently to control the blaze. Within an hour and a half, the fire was under control, with the fortunate outcome that there were no injuries reported. The building was empty at the time of the incident.

Perry Raso, the owner of Matunuck Oyster Bar, expressed deep gratitude toward the firefighting teams for their prompt response and also acknowledged the outpouring of support from the community following this devastating event. In light of the fire, Raso is actively coordinating efforts with the Department of Labor & Training to assist the over 300 employees who are now without work due to the destruction of the restaurant.

Mayor Brett Smiley of Providence has extended his support, highlighting the significance of Matunuck Oyster Bar to both the local economy and community. Preliminary discussions are exploring the possibility of establishing a temporary location for the restaurant in Waterplace Park, where a previous establishment, Skyline at Waterplace, once operated. The city had previously settled a legal dispute with Skyline’s owners, allowing it to take over management of the property. A request for proposals (RFP) for the Waterplace Park facility is expected to be issued later this year.

In a move to facilitate the reopening process, State Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee and Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski have introduced legislation to permit outdoor seating for the restaurant in the adjacent parking lot. Legislative discussions are scheduled in both the House and Senate committees to further this initiative.

Recognized as one of Rhode Island’s most popular dining destinations, Matunuck Oyster Bar was listed among USA Today’s top 44 places to eat in America for 2024. Raso originally opened the restaurant in 2009 as part of his oyster farming business, which he began in 2002.

In the aftermath of the fire, community support has mobilized, with fundraisers underway to assist displaced staff. The Rhode Island Hospitality Association is facilitating efforts to help restaurant employees during this transition. Meanwhile, Raso has announced plans to open a temporary dining location under a tent starting June 30, 2025. This setup will feature a complete dining experience, including 30 tables, high-top seating, a raw bar, and luxury portable restrooms, designed to provide an appealing atmosphere for patrons.

Raso plans to eventually rebuild the original Matunuck Oyster Bar, with expectations set for a reopening by May 2026. The new establishment is anticipated to have improved service setups for an enhanced customer experience.

The fire’s cause is currently under investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, which preliminarily believes it to be accidental. Raso was alerted to the fire by a truck driver delivering chairs while he was preparing to head to the restaurant after receiving security alerts concerning the building.