Providence is a strange place. It feels in many ways, well, New England. But in other ways it feels like a suburban town. And then you encounter a place like Little Sister. The kind of establishment that would feel just as right in any other mid sized city in America. One that carries the story of a different place and heritage through food that is a creative and personal take on immigrant culture, helmed by local residents in the neighborhood.

Stepping into the corner of the block footprint of Little Sister is like an instant transport to the warm island atmosphere of Puerto Rico even on a dreary Rhode Island day. Here, the coffee is strong, and the fruit jam skews tropical. The pastries are made in house and Puerto Rican weekly specials are served with fried plantains. It’s a small shop, but is alluringly special. The menu draws from Latin American influence and brunch favorites, with pastries that include sweet and savory empanadas and flakey quesitos and a decidedly delicious cardamom knot. An instant escape with each bite.