Story

Who We Are

Welcome to The East End, Wickenden Streets’ sanctuary for food spirit, and connection. We are a bistro with the soul of a world-class bar. Our philosophy is simple: create a space that feels right for every chapter of your evening. Whether you are settling into a leather booth for and intimate date night, gathering the group for a spirited ladies night, or looking for that perfect late night cap after a show, our doors are open.

AN AWARD-WINNING BAR

We are proud to be named one of the Top Whiskey Bars in America by Whisky Advocate- one of only four establishments in New England to hold the title. While our library of rare bottles and “unicorn” pours is extensive, our passion doesn’t stop at whiskey.

Our cocktail program is driven by a team of expert, knowledgeable bartenders who treat every drink as a craft. From botanical gins to agave spirits and curated wines, our beverage list is designed to be explored.

The Kitchen

We believe a great drink deserves a great meal. Our scratch kitchen serves elevated bistro fare designed to be shared and savored. We pair bold flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that stand up to our strongest pours.

Gather with us

With dark wood, warm lighting, and a moody aesthetic, The East End is the perfect backdrop for creating memories. In addition to being your go-to spot for dinner, drinks and late night bites, we aslo specialize in hosting Private Events that feel personal and stylish.

Our Team

Vanessa Larrabee has served as General Manager of The East End since October 2025, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience at respected New England restaurants, from chef-driven independents to multi-concept hospitality groups. Raised between Nantucket and West Palm Beach by parents with lifelong restaurant careers, she studied Management at the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. She is known for building high-performing teams, mentoring future hospitality professionals, and raising service standards while driving strong financial results.

At The East End, Vanessa has been responsible for launching Cocktails for a Cause, where bartenders create signature cocktails to benefit local nonprofits, and expanded the restaurant’s personalized private dining program.

Since leaving the islands during the COVID-19 pandemic, Vanessa now lives on the mainland with her husband, Jason, and their three children. 

General Manager

Vanessa Larrabee

Andres is a New England native, growing up in Willimantic, CT and getting his start in cooking early in life by taking culinary courses at a vocational school in high school and working the line in his town’s local brewery. He continued his culinary pursuits by enrolling at Johnson and Wales, working throughout his education at restaurants in Providence and most notably rising to the ranks of Sous Chef at Bayberry Beer Hall. Through all of his training and experience, Andres traces his most fundamental influences back to his upbringing in a Puerto Rican family and the family meals he was raised with. His love of exploring different cultures through food informs the decisions he makes when ideating new dishes at The East End, believing that food isn’t just for nourishment but for inspiration, exporation and connection. 

Executive Chef

Andres Rivera

In the press