Prov. named #1 food destination in poll

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- In an annual poll conducted by a national magazine, Providence was named the top city for getting a delicious meal.

Travel + Leisure just released their 2012 "America's Best Cities" survey, and Rhode Island's capital was #1, beating out the likes of New York, New Orleans, Chicago, and Portland.

The poll encompasses a variety of food-related categories, and Providence was a top-ten finisher in every one except barbecue.

"Providence's national reputation as a culinary powerhouse is a cornerstone of our marketing efforts," said Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of the Warwick Providence Convention & Visitors Bureau in a statement. "The depth and breadth of our culinary offerings is phenomenal and we are fortunate to have so many talented people in our city."

Mayor Angel Taveras issued the following statement after hearing the news: “Travel + Leisure confirmed what we already know: Providence has the best restaurants and the best food in America. Congratulations to all the chefs, cooks, restaurant owners and culinary professionals who make our city the capital of American dining. Our restaurants, cafes, bars and food trucks are vital parts of our creative economy and make Providence a more attractive city for students, professionals and innovative industries.”

Outside of the culinary categories, Providence also ranked first as a "Base for Day Trips", fourth in "Theater/Performing Arts", sixth as a "Gay-Friendly Destination".

This may not come as a surprise to some, but the city also finished at 26th out of 35 in "Driving Ability".

For the full list of results, visit Travel + Leisure's website.