News Summary
Newport Creamery at Garden City Center in Cranston, Rhode Island, will be closing after 63 years due to a lease renewal failure. The closure has left the community in shock as the restaurant has been a local favorite for its classic American fare and signature ice cream sundaes. As the closure date approaches, both customers and staff express disappointment. Newport Creamery is seeking new real estate options in the area to continue its service to loyal patrons.
Cranston, R.I. – Newport Creamery at Garden City Center to Close After 63 Years
Newport Creamery, a beloved establishment at Garden City Center in Cranston, Rhode Island, will officially close its doors on December 31, 2026, after failing to secure a lease renewal. This decision comes as a considerable blow to the community, as the restaurant has been part of the Garden City landscape for the past 63 years.
Janice Matthews, the vice president of Jan Companies, expressed disappointment regarding the lease denial. The closure has sparked concerns among customers and employees alike, many of whom have cherished their time at Newport Creamery. The restaurant is known for its classic American fare and signature ice cream sundaes, attracting locals and visitors for decades.
Despite ongoing speculation regarding a potential replacement tenant, the management of Garden City Center, owned by WS Development, has confirmed that no new tenant has been signed to take over the space previously occupied by Newport Creamery. There have been persistent rumors of an Apple store considering the location; however, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has stated that he lacks any information regarding future plans for such a store at Providence Place mall.
No specific reasons have been shared by WS Development for the non-renewal of Newport Creamery’s lease, with representatives only mentioning the existence of “a new plan” for the property. The lack of clarity surrounding this situation has left many in the community questioning the future of Garden City Center.
Newport Creamery is actively seeking real estate options in the Cranston area, indicating a desire to continue serving its loyal customer base despite the impending relocation. The staff was informed about the upcoming closure last week, allowing them time to prepare for the transition as the company navigates its next steps.
Impact of the Closure
The news of Newport Creamery’s closure is particularly significant given the restaurant’s longstanding history and its role as a gathering place for families, friends, and community members. Known for its friendly service and comforting menu choices, the establishment has been more than just a dining option; it has been a part of countless memories for residents over the decades.
As the closure date approaches, patrons are encouraged to visit and enjoy their favorite meals and ice cream treats one last time, ensuring that the cherished traditions associated with Newport Creamery continue until the very end. The company’s efforts to explore relocation alternatives offer a glimmer of hope that its presence may continue in some form within the local area.
Background on Newport Creamery
Founded in the 1950s, Newport Creamery has since expanded to include 10 locations across Rhode Island, with a reputation for providing high-quality ice cream and casual dining experiences. The brand has become a staple within the state, known for its classic “Awful Awful” milkshakes and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
As the restaurant embarks on this difficult journey, both the staff and long-time customers remain hopeful for a positive outcome. Newport Creamery’s commitment to finding a new home in the Cranston area reflects the company’s dedication to the community it has served for so many years.
Further updates regarding the potential relocation of Newport Creamery and the future plans for Garden City Center are anticipated as developments unfold. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to support local businesses and engage with their community as they navigate this change.
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Additional Resources
- Turnto10: Newport Creamery Loses Lease
- WPRI: Newport Creamery in Garden City to Close
- Fun107: Newport Creamery Awful Awful Contest
- GoLocalProv: Garden City Expands New Restaurants
- Cranston Online: Romeo Rat Pack
- Wikipedia: Newport Creamery
- Google Search: Newport Creamery
- Google Scholar: Newport Creamery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newport Creamery
- Google News: Newport Creamery
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
