
Clarke Cooke House
A historic Newport institution offering diverse dining experiences from casual to upscale, with stunning harbor views and renowned New England fare.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Clarke Cooke House

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Newport institution offering diverse dining experiences from casual to upscale, with stunning harbor views and renowned New England fare.
"Indulge in exceptional seafood and classic charm with breathtaking harbor views at this Newport gem."
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and busyness.
Opt for Upstairs Seating
Request a table upstairs for expansive views of the harbor and a more refined dining experience.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
New England, Seafood, French, Sushi
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summer Sushi with Harbor Views
Enjoy fresh sushi while overlooking yachts. A quintessential summer experience in Newport.

Classic Newport Charm
An elegant yet inviting atmosphere in a picturesque 18th-century building, offering a taste of classic Newport.

Exceptional Seafood Dishes
Indulge in fresh seafood like mussels, linguine, and unique specials such as peppered tuna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and busyness.
Opt for Upstairs Seating
Request a table upstairs for expansive views of the harbor and a more refined dining experience.
Casual vs. Formal Dining
Choose from casual fare at the Candy Store or upscale dining on the third floor with a dress code.
Group Bill Splitting
Itemized checks for large groups may not be available; discuss payment arrangements beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and busyness.
Opt for Upstairs Seating
Request a table upstairs for expansive views of the harbor and a more refined dining experience.
Casual vs. Formal Dining
Choose from casual fare at the Candy Store or upscale dining on the third floor with a dress code.
Group Bill Splitting
Itemized checks for large groups may not be available; discuss payment arrangements beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clarke Cooke House garners praise for its exquisite food, particularly its fresh seafood and unique dishes like the peppered tuna steak and the 'snowball' dessert. Diners often highlight the elegant yet inviting atmosphere and the beautiful harbor views. However, some guests have encountered issues with inconsistent service, including long waits and inattentive staff, which can overshadow the otherwise excellent culinary experience.
"I had an amazing dining experience at Clarke Cooke House! The Peppered Tuna Steak was absolutely phenomenal—perfectly pan-seared with a delicious sweet and buttery sherry vinegar glaze, paired beautifully with collard greens. The service was exceptional; the staff was attentive, warm, and made the evening truly special. The atmosphere is fantastic—elegant yet inviting, with that classic Newport charm that elevates the whole experience. I can’t recommend this place enough for a memorable meal!"
George Chalhoub
"Great spot. We had the crab cake to start, loaded with crab and no filler. I had the pepper crusted tuna, cooked just right, and my son had penne almond chicken he didn’t leave a bite. Finished with the famous Snowball for dessert. It is that good. Cool atmosphere, great service, not too stuffy. Would definitely come back."
Ted Pizio
"We came here at 1pm on a Wednesday in early Aug 2025. We sat alongside of the entrance to enjoy the beautiful weather and hustle and bustle of the wharf.
Our waitress was great. She was prompt. Drinks were quick to arrive and stay topped off.
We wanted a snack and not lunch, so oysters and heirloom tomato with burrata salad was just enough. Everything was so fresh. The chefs choice oysters were buttery and delicious, and the salad, bright, sweet, and the perfect partner to a beautiful summer day.
Can’t wait to return!"
John Raschi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Clarke Cooke House offers multiple dining experiences, including an upscale dining room, the casual Candy Store/Bistro, and the lively Boom Boom Room.
The upscale dining rooms on the third floor have a proper dress code, often requiring a sport coat or nice collared shirt. Casual areas like the Candy Store have no formal dress code.
Yes, making dinner reservations in advance is highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
The 'Snowball' is a famous and decadent chocolate dessert, highly recommended by diners.
Yes, there is a summertime-only sushi bar overlooking the harbor, offering fresh sushi options.
Yes, especially from the upstairs dining rooms, offering expansive views of Newport Harbor.
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Clarke Cooke House is the type of place where you’ll find couples taking a break from their yacht, CEOs power lunching in the downstairs dining room, and a summertime-only sushi bar overlooking said yachts moored nearby. There’s a lot happening, but prioritize a table upstairs where you’ll get a more expansive view of the harbor and a pricey-but-excellent meal. While this is the place for classic Newport-style food like local oysters, lobster, and native cod, the steak au poivre or sauteed filet of sole with caramelized onions and fancy French brown butter won’t disappoint either.
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Drinks at a bar favored by the sailing crowd, intimate dinners by the fire, and relaxing lunches overlooking Newport Harbor are a few of the experiences possible at this multilevel complex. The first-floor Candy Store serves casual fare and has a sushi bar; the second-floor offers casual dining in the Bistro and cocktails in the Midway Bar; and the Summer Porch and 12 Metre Yacht Club Room on the third floor have elegant fine dining requiring proper dress. For summer partying with the yachties, nothing beats the Boom Boom Room in the basement.
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Hit the Clarke Cooke House, especially for the Summer Sushi—which you can order no matter which menu you’re ordering from—and top-notch people watching. Book a table on the later side in the Sky Bar on the restaurant’s top floor; the menu, and the people, are fancier, but when it turns into a dance party around 11:30 p.m., you’ll have a prime spot. Pack a sport coat for guys—or at the very least a nice collared shirt—and always bring at least one outfit that’s not jeans.
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Some places that come to mind would be upstairs on the porch at the Clarke Cook House. This is a great spot in the summer - or on the deck outside Christies or upstairs at the White Horse Tavern. Christies also has a second floor inside that they use for parties.
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At Clarke Cooke House, a Newport dining institution, come for the oyster bar (and iconic chocolate roulade “snowball” dessert), stay for the people watching.
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You need to reserve a table on the deck for the best people watching. We ate here several weeks ago and it was great.
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But there’s also a proud sailing past with the iconic America’s Cup races that were held in Newport from 1930 to 1983, and legendary New England restaurants like Clarke Cooke House and The Black Pearl. Ask a local Newport expert or someone in the know on their favorite Newport beaches and you’ll be sure to get a different opinion, but one thing is for sure, whichever beach you land on is best enjoyed with a local frozen Del’s lemonade and fried clams from Flo’s Clam Shack (which has been a beloved favorite since 1936). Today, Newport is the ideal spot for a nautical getaway in any season, but particularly New England’s gloried seasons of summer and fall.
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The Clarke Cooke House has two different dining options: 1) their upscale dining room in a picturesque 18th-century building with fancy and more expensive New England fare, and 2) their Candy Store/Bistro, which is more of a casual indoor and outdoor patio setting with simple New England fare and no formal dress code. We dined at the casual bistro for lunch and enjoyed a plethora of seafood dishes and New England favorites such as oysters, clam chowder, and fish-based entrees. This comes off as more of a touristy-spot, but the food is still enjoyable and considering the location, the prices were not too crazy high!
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A Newport institution, the Clark Cooke House is located at the popular Bannister's Wharf and includes a wealth of dining and entertainment options, from the upscale Porch dining room to the Candy Store Lounge and rocking Boom Boom Room. Enjoy a formal meal with excellent views in the top floor dining room, dancing and a party atmosphere in the Boom Boom Room, and plenty of drinks and appetizers on the main level, the Candy Store. They offer an award-winning wine list with over 400 selections and menu selections such as butter poached Kobe sirloin beef and lobster ravioli with wild mushrooms and leeks.
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Set on the popular Bannister's Wharf in a picturesque 18th-century edifice, the Clark Cooke House is a Newport institution with several dining spaces that specializes in New England fare. Renowned for its innovative cuisine, the legendary restaurant offers a quintessential Newport experience with outstanding food, fine wines, gracious hospitality, and a warm and welcoming ambiance. Dining spaces include the upscale Porch dining room for fine dining, the Candy Store Lounge for laid-back drinks after work, and the Boom Boom Room for music and dancing.
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Probably the most iconic of all Newport’s restaurants, this 18th-century dining landmark with America’s Cup sailing sophistication boasts five dining rooms and bars. It’s not a visit to the Cooke House without an order from the raw bar, where oyster varieties are listed by harvest location. Casual diners are best suited to the wharf-level Candy Store cafe and Summer Sushi bar, where there’s a more relaxed vibe and a menu that includes a lobster roll ($27), sandwiches, and salads.
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Recognized as a legendary social venue for sailors, the acclaimed restaurant attracts both locals and tourists who want a raw bar, cocktails, and fine dining all under one perfectly located roof in downtown Newport. Most of the sailors are out of town—racing in the Caribbean or somewhere else far away from the New England cold—but Newport Restaurant Week is a great excuse to experience classic Newport without the summer crowd. 24 Bannister’s Wharf, Newport, RI 02840
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Clarke Cooke House is the quintessential Newport experience, featuring local New England fare with a French twist. In an 18th-century building, one can dine in romantic elegance on The Porch, high above the assembled yachts, or casually relax at harbor level in The Candy Store. They’re serious about food, the freshest seafood, the most flavorful beef, the best regional produce led by Chef Ted Gidley, utilizes these ingredients to create imaginative dishes.
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Another of the best places to eat in Newport, RI, is the Clarke Cooke House—an award-winning restaurant serving New England specialties along Newport’s beautiful waterfront. Although we didn’t get the chance to dine at the Clarke Cooke House, the reviews for this restaurant speak for themselves!. The restaurant also has a unique “upscale dining” experience on its summer porch and a “casual dining” experience year-round in the indoor dining room.
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On the other hand, take everything you think about a Newport dining scene and it's probably a mirror image of Clarke Cooke House. This Newport staple dressed in America's Cup prints and sailing memorabilia on Bannister's Wharf overlooks the Newport Harbor and offers up a prix-fixe Sunday brunch for $23.50 that includes chocolate mousse for dessert and a complimentary mimosa or bloody mary. Choose from entree offerings like steak and eggs, R.I.
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The Clarke Cooke House – Located in the heart of Downtown Newport, this quintessential waterfront restaurant, bar and nightlife mecca is the long reigning king of Newport Nightlife, catering to a Who’s Who of Newport and the go-to spot for New York society. Their strict door policy and uber exclusive Sky Bar helps weed out the undesirables and makes this the perfect incubator for trust fund love. Dress well and bring your best manners.
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Finally, if you want to go all out, your best bet for a nice dinner by the water is either the Clarke Cooke House or The Mooring. The Cooke House — with its clubby feel, historic building, and walls plastered with sailing paraphernalia — offers a classic Newport experience. At The Mooring, you may be surrounded by tourists, but the food never disappoints (especially their newly-expanded raw bar menu.)
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There are few places more synonymous with Newport than the Clarke Cooke House. To be fair, the structure itself has been around since 1780 (even still, it’s hardly the oldest restaurant location on this list!). The former Colonial-era home of a wealthy sea captain offers fine dining on the top-floor “Summer Porch” with white tablecloths, a jacket-clad wait staff and a strict dress code.
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Located in the heart of Bannister’s Wharf, Clarke Cooke House offers a luxurious dining experience coupled with vibrant live music. The restaurant’s cozy Loft Bar is famed for its nightly live music sessions, offering a mix of jazz, classic hits, and contemporary tunes. The Clarke Cooke House provides an elegant yet comfortable setting to unwind and enjoy quality music performances.
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What Makes It Unique: Experience the ambiance and harborside scenery at this iconic Newport restaurant with a Sunday brunch menu a la carte ($19.50) or Prixe Fixe ($25.50). Try the Eggs Homard – two poached eggs on portobello mushroom with lobster, spinach, mushroom duxelle, sauce americain, and beurre de champignon. The Clarke Cooke House | Bannister’s Wharf | www.clarkecooke.com
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Clarke Cooke House - no trip to Newport is complete without a meal at the Clarke Cooke House. Situated right downtown in Bannister's Wharf, this restaurant is resplendent in all of its Newport charm. You can now make reservations online — do, in the summer you can wait hours for a table otherwise — and should always ask for a seat by the window (for parties of 2-4 people, only).
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But, with romance on the hearts and minds of many this February, we thought it’d be a good time to feature the Clark Cooke House, one of the best Newport, RI restaurants for romance. The picturesque 18th-century building may be enough of a reason for you to dine at the Clark Cooke House – it oozes charm!. But, any visit here is truly all about the food – it’s simply delectable.
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There's nothing better than local-caught sushi at the Clarke Cooke House on a summer Friday. The seasonal sushi bar hosts a few heavily sought-after seats that have a straight-shot view of the incredible sunset over Bannister’s Wharf. If you can snag one, order the Rainbow and Lobster roll but save room for their famous “Snowball in Hell” for dessert—you won’t regret it!
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Yes, we hands down love the Snowball in Hell at Clarke Cooke House, but I hear locals ordering bloody bulls, the fish dish with the Ginger Soy Lime and begging for the caesar dressing more often than the famous dessert. Here's my rolling list of shopping and supporting local this Small Business Saturday, but if you live here, it's more of a year round routine.
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In the heart of downtown Newport on Bannister’s Wharf, enjoy a beer or a cocktail while getting an up-close and personal view of some gorgeous sailing vessels. Order from the main Clarke Cooke House menu or nibble at one of our other favorite restaurants in Newport. After a drink, wander around the downtown wharves to shop and people-watch.
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The Clarke Cooke House, a historic establishment, offers a range of dining and drinking experiences across its different levels. The SkyBar above provides a more upbeat atmosphere, while the Candy Store at the harbor level offers a relaxed setting for a drink by the water. It’s a central hub of Bannister’s Wharf.
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For a quintessential Newport experience, The Cooke House is a must. Go for the people watching, stay for the delicious menu and waterfront views. The Cooke House has several dining options including the Candy Store, a more casual experience, or the Porch Dining Room (jackets required for men).
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5.00 pm-9.00 pm on Monday -Thursday, Friday from 5.00 pm-10.00 pm, and 11.30 am -10.00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Clarke Cooke House is the definition of all-inclusive fun, from music to food and drinks. They have three full bars to attend to your parched throat, serving cocktails and beers.
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The Clarke Cooke House: In the heart of Bannister's Wharf, this famous 3 floor downtown staple serves up traditional 5 star New England fare.The third floor is jacket required, while the first floor after 9pm turns into an adult only cocktail space called The Boom Boom Room.
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This bar is typically not busy during the day, but it’s booming at night. Depending on the occasion, the Clarke Cooke House can be both a casual or a formal atmosphere for you and your party. It includes plenty of food and drink options to satisfy everyone in your group.
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Clarke Cooke House is an iconic Newport dining destination that seamlessly blends fine dining with a lively atmosphere. Located in the center of Bannister’s Wharf, this multi-level place has many dining options. You can enjoy the casual Candy Store and Bistro.
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As far as Newport restaurants go, it doesn't get more authentic than the Clarke Cooke House on Bannister's Wharf. Its SkyBar is also one of the only remaining restaurants that requires a jacket for gentlemen. Whatever you order, make sure to leave room for a
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Iconic and for a reason, Clarke Cooke is legendary and a social hub. Reservations are a NON-NEGOTIABLE. The Downstairs "Candy Shop" is more lowkey and offers delicious sushi during the summer, while the upstairs "Sky Bar" (pictured above) is more formal.
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Located on Bannister's Wharf in downtown Newport, there's something here for everyone. The Porch, The Candy Store, The SkyBar, The Midway Bar, The Bistro and The Boom Boom Room. Come experience the many layers of this renowned Newport hot-spot.
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The Clarke Cooke House is the setting for a Mediterranean-influenced American Cuisine meal. The hidden SkyBar upstairs and romantic candlelit summer porch are perfect for a date night. But the Bistro Room dining area and bar are just as cozy.
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The Cooke House is a Newport staple, with several different bars and dining areas to choose from. Remember the scene from Real Housewives of NYC where Leah throws a Ravioli at Ramona?. That happened at the Cooke House.
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Clarke Cooke House: Our favorite meal of the trip was this casual seafood spot right in the wharf area. The restaurant is located inside an 18th-century edifice. We brought the dog along and nabbed a table outside.
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24 Bannister’s Wharf, Newport, RI 02840Phone: 401-849-2900 Visit Website. A post shared by adrienne imbimbo (@swellcoastdesign). The Clarke Cooke House is a Newport dining landmark, and for good reason.
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While I did not have a meal here, I did enjoy a few cocktails at the bar. This restaurant is quite popular, so I recommend booking well in advance. I had drinks around 9pm and it was still very crowded!
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Clarke Cooke House: This historic restaurant and bar is located on Bannister’s Wharf and has multiple bars, including the famous Skybar. It’s a great place to experience Newport’s upscale nightlife.
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Clarke Cooke House, 26 Bannister's Wharf, Newport, (401)849-2900. A local favorite year-round but especially in the summer when the windows are out and you can view directly out on Newport Harbor.
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Clarke Cooke House —A Newport institution, I love going for a drink, a lunch with friends and dinner. We also do a lot of birthdays and special occasions here. Always a great scene, too.
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Clarke Cook House is the heartbeat of Newport and is know for it's innovative cuisine.The well preserved 18th century dining rooms make it truly and unparalleled Newport experience.
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Clarke Cooke House: A long-standing eatery in Newport, Clarke Cooke House first opened its doors in 1972. We're pleased to say its legendary dishes, however, has yet to slip.
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Evenings upstairs in the Clarke Cooke dining room, one of Travel and Leisure’s Top-Ten dining spots. Located at Bannister’s Wharf.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit