My neighbors, Patrick and Monica, raved to me about their favorite Portuguese restaurant, Phillips St. restaurant, just over the bridge in East Providence.

Their son Henry loves their 8 oz. steak with  egg.

Phillips St. Restaurant is hidden in the downtown neighborhood, just on few blocks off Taunton Ave. at 51 North Phillips St. (Take a right at Cobb to N. Phillips).

Their menu features standard Portuguese dinners, such as marinated pork with little necks, codfish, and shrimp, all under $20.

We ordered two of their specials for the evening: Joyce had rabbit, cooked in a delicious sauce with boiled potatoes. $13.95). I ordered fried red snapper with boiled potatoes and salad. ($18.95).

Appetizers are all under $10 and include calamari and chicken wings. We shared a delicious chourico (Portuguese sausage) served with pickled vegetables.

On Mondays there is a special buffet with bacalao. (Dried and salted cod).

Phillips St. has been a favorite of the Portuguese community for years. Our waitress quickly recognized that we were new and not Portuguese, and explained the dishes, many in the native tongue.

Three pluses: The breadbasket was huge, filled with fresh bread. The waitresses work together. “Ask any of us if you need anything.” Reservations are recommended. A card will be on your table when you arrive. (Call 434-3224)

One minus: Ask for water and you will receive a $2. bottle of water. This did not bother us as my bottle of Corona was only $4.50, but I fear this could become a trend in other restaurants as owners look for ways to cut costs.

Phillips St. Restaurant was a new and pleasant experience, one remaining true to the Portuguese culture.

We’ll be back.