LOMA Wins First Rhode Island James Beard

Providence just lit up the national cocktail scene when LOMA, a tiny 16-seat bar with Latin American flair, snagged the prestigious James Beard Award for Best New Bar — the first ever for Rhode Island. Opened just a year ago in December 2024, LOMA’s classic cocktails and warm vibe earned them accolades before this big win, including a PUNCH magazine nod and recognition from the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation. Owners Leishla Maldonado and Osman Cortave poured their hearts into the project, driven by cultural pride and hospitality — not profit — and dedicated the award to their team, families, and anyone who dared to chase their dreams. While Rhode Island has had regional culinary wins before, this is a historic moment for the state’s bar scene, celebrated by Mayor Brett Smiley as proof that Providence is the Creative Capital. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8e36906fc604eeea