Many of us have childhood memories of being handed a TV dinner on a tray, the different components of which had turned to indistinguishable mush in the oven or microwave. That said, there was something comforting about the tray with its little compartments – and the always-included dessert. One Rhode Island restaurant has taken the nostalgia of the TV dinner and turned it into a truly gourmet meal, one suitable for a date night rather than a night in front of the TV.

The Shanty in Warwick doesn’t look fancy on the outside, but a simple exterior hides an extremely charming restaurant that turns out amazing food.

Facebook/The Shanty

The gorgeous lights over the bar create an especially cozy atmosphere in the evenings.

Yelp/Mike K.

The restaurant’s best-known dish is its TV dinner, and it’s a far cry from anything you could find in the freezer section.

Yelp/David T.

With buttermilk fried Cornish game hen, smoke cheddar mac and cheese, slaw, a seasonal vegetable such as corn on the cob or sweet potato mash, and a dessert special, this dinner is sure to satisfy all your cravings.

Yelp/Ben H.

Of course, if the TV dinner isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other great choices on the menu.

Facebook/The Shanty

The seafood is especially tasty – and the whole menu has a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

TripAdvisor/JimShalvey

The lobster roll is fantastic too!

Yelp/Anda D.

If you have bad childhood memories of brussels sprouts, give them another try here - these are crispy and delicious.

Yelp/M H.

Another perk of a grown-up TV dinner? You can enjoy it with a refreshing adult beverage. Your parents definitely wouldn’t have gone for that when you were a kid!

Yelp/Vijay S.

You can find The Shanty at 3854 Post Rd., Warwick, RI 02886.

Facebook/The Shanty

Yelp/Mike K.

Yelp/David T.

Yelp/Ben H.

TripAdvisor/JimShalvey

Yelp/Anda D.

Yelp/M H.

Yelp/Vijay S.

Feeling nostalgic? Check out these 7 dishes you definitely love if you grew up in Rhode Island.

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