Don’t worry! Dusty’s of Weekapaug will still be here this year for your ice cream fix when you are at the east end of Westerly’s beaches! Peter Silva, 38, is the new owner of the classic business with the Snowman Sentinel outside.

Peter is from Westerly and his business philosophy is simple: to embrace the locals and the tourists. He owns Quonnie’s Bait & Tackle, on Route 1 in neighboring Charlestown, and two years ago he was approached to see if he was interested in owning Weekapaug Bait & Tackle. He was indeed interested, and he made it happen. Then, the Dusty’s FOR SALE sign went up and he started envisioning his plan. Pete and his team have an infectious enthusiasm and like to share joy. Dusty’s of Weekapuag will open for the season on Memorial Day Weekend and hours will be 6am-9pm weekdays (a little earlier and later on the weekends). “We will be one of the first businesses. to open each day. We will start with ice cream and homemade baked goods, and grow our offerings through the season.”

He has teamed with family and friends to make his vision come true. One key ingredient is one of his mentors and dear friend Mary Belanger, who is an esteemed retired owner of The Upper Crust bakery which was long a Westerly favorite. Another key ingredient is his Cousin Kristen Wood who is an amazing baker – and Peter is her biggest fan. Dusty’s is going to bake grab-and-go goods from scratch for beachgoers’ convenience and delight!

Pete’s expertise in fishing and his youth in Westerly RI help him know that customers want convenient bagged lunches whether for an adventure at sea on a boat or an adventure in a chair on the sand watching the boats.
“Salt ponds are rare and we are so lucky to have them here. I welcome everyone to see how unique our home is. I say to everyone, ‘Welcome! You are now a part of this!’”