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EAST MATUNUCK, RI - On June 30, 2025, Governor Dan McKee signed legislation (2025-H 6392, 2025-S 1139) amending the state’s outdoor dining law and paving the way for Matunuck Oyster Bar to open a tented area for al fresco dining.
The newly signed legislation will allow the restaurant to use the marina parking lot across the street for a mobile kitchen and outdoor dining, keeping roughly 50 restaurant employees working during the busy summer season, following a devastating fire last month.
“Rhode Island may be small, but we always rally around our own. I was proud to join Perry Raso along with the Matunuck Oyster Bar staff as they reopened outdoor seating just in time for the summer,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I want to thank our state and local leaders who acted quickly to make this possible and to everyone who rallied around a beloved local business when it needed it the most.”
Governor McKee was joined by bill sponsors Representative Carol Hagan McEntee (D-Dist. 33, Narragansett, South Kingstown) and Senator V. Susan Sosnowski (D-Dist. 37, South Kingstown); bill co-sponsor Representative Kathleen Fogarty (D-Dist. 35, South Kingstown); South Kingstown Town Manager James Manni and Matunuck Oyster Bar owner Perry Raso.
“It is incredible that just over a month after the fire, we are now able to welcome guests back to our tables at Matunuck Oyster Bar,” said Raso. “We are enormously grateful to Governor McKee, General Assembly leadership, and the South Kingstown Town Council for their support in making our outdoor dining solution possible. We are looking forward to a busy summer season at Matunuck Marina while we continue working toward our primary goal of rebuilding and reopening our main restaurant as soon as possible.”
“The award-winning Matunuck Oyster Bar is a beloved part of the South Kingstown and Rhode Island community, and everyone was devastated when the fire broke out a few weeks ago. Its success elevates the town, and both locals and tourists alike have made this restaurant a true destination in Rhode Island. This legislation is the least we could do to help it weather the difficulties resulting from the fire, including keeping some of the restaurant’s workers employed during the busy summer season. Perry has been a tremendous partner with the town and state, and I am proud to help him and his employees out during this trying time,” said Representative McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett).
“Our community was heartbroken by the fire at Matunuck Oyster Bar, and so many people have rallied behind Perry Raso and his employees during this difficult time. The fact that this happened on the cusp of the busy summer season is particularly devastating for Perry, the restaurant’s workers, and our entire community. As this cherished establishment works to rebuild, it’s important we do everything we can to support that process and the many people who rely on the restaurant for their livelihood. Utilizing the successful approach of the ‘Take It Outside’ law is a common-sense step that will help immediately. I am grateful to Perry for his commitment to our community, and to the many people who have stepped forward to lend a hand following the fire,” said Senator Sosnowski (D-Dist. 37, South Kingstown).
"The Town of South Kingstown is very appreciative of the Governor, the General Assembly, and sponsors of this bill. This is an important first step in getting the Matunuck Oyster Bar back in business and its employees back to work. The Matunuck Oyster Bar is an important component of the local economy. The Town is pleased it came together so quickly to support tourism, especially this time of the year," said South Kingstown Town Manager James Manni.
"Supporting Matunuck Oyster Bar's outdoor reopening is a win for everyone—employees are back to work, customers can enjoy their favorite meals, and our community regains a vibrant gathering spot just in time for summer," said Town Council President Rory McEntee.