The biggest city in the smallest state: Providence, Rhode Island

On April 28, 2011, the biggest city in the smallest state will be participating in the international event of Dining Out for Life. Participating restaurants will donate 25% of purchases to AIDS Project Rhode Island , which provides HIV/AIDS care and prevention services.

Restaurants all over Providence are participating. You can go Mexican at the Cactus Grille, Italian at Il Fornello, or American at Johnny Rockets.

Or, since you’re in the Ocean State, you can go for seafood. If you’re looking for fresh, fresh, fresh, try Matunuck Oyster Bar. Originating from the Ocean State Aqua Farm, Matunuck Oyster Bar offers dishes made from the freshest ingredients gathered from Rhode Island farmers, harvesters, and bakers’ products. The menu includes Rhode Island and New England clam chowder, calamari, fried whole belly clams, grilled swordfish, and more. And while you’re watching oysters being shucked right in front of you on April 28, know that 25% of the proceeds are going to the AIDS project.

Regardless of where you chow down for lunch or dinner, you can definitely stop by Three Sisters afterwards for coffee or ice cream. Voted “Best Ice Cream” by Rhode Island Monthly, Three Sisters has a menu that includes breakfast, salads, wraps, paninis, and club sandwiches. And their ice cream is homemade with the help of local cows, and is offered in classics like brownie sundaes, banana splits, and ice cream sandwiches.