Cape Cod Developer Acquires Iconic Rhode Island Diner Chain

Mark Bogosian, known for Trader Joe's and Flying Bridge projects, buys Newport Creamery

Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:03am

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A photorealistic studio still life of a classic milkshake glass filled with a creamy, swirled vanilla and chocolate 'Awful Awful' milkshake, set against a clean, monochromatic background and dramatically lit to convey a sense of tradition and nostalgia.The iconic 'Awful Awful' milkshake, a signature offering of the newly acquired Newport Creamery diner chain, symbolizes the blend of tradition and modernization facing the regional institution.Warwick Today

Cape Cod-based real estate developer Mark Bogosian has acquired Newport Creamery, the iconic Rhode Island diner chain famous for its 'Awful Awful' milkshakes. Bogosian, who has expanded his business interests into Rhode Island in recent years, plans to update and potentially expand the 8-location chain that dates back to the 1920s.

Why it matters

The acquisition of Newport Creamery by an established Cape Cod developer signals a shift in the regional dining landscape, as local institutions face pressure from larger corporate chains. However, Bogosian's track record of preserving community-oriented businesses like the Flying Bridge restaurant suggests he may aim to maintain Newport Creamery's legacy while modernizing the brand.

The details

According to state filings, Bogosian's newly formed company, Newport Creamery Restaurants LLC, was incorporated in February 2026. Bogosian, the founder and president of Longfellow Design-Build, has expanded his real estate portfolio in recent years, purchasing the Red Horse Inn in Falmouth, the Flying Bridge marina and restaurant, and most recently, the Harbor Lights marina and golf course in Warwick, Rhode Island. He is also behind plans for a new Trader Joe's location in Mashpee. While Bogosian has not responded to requests for comment, he told a local TV station that he intends to update and potentially expand the Newport Creamery chain, which has seen two recent location closures.

  • Newport Creamery Restaurants LLC was incorporated in February 2026.
  • Bogosian purchased the Red Horse Inn in Falmouth in November 2025.
  • Bogosian purchased the Flying Bridge marina and restaurant in 2023.
  • Bogosian purchased the Harbor Lights marina and golf course in Warwick in October 2025.

The players

Mark Bogosian

A Cape Cod-based real estate developer and the founder and president of Longfellow Design-Build, a firm that has constructed and renovated homes and businesses across the region.

Newport Creamery Restaurants LLC

A newly formed company that has acquired the iconic Rhode Island diner chain Newport Creamery, which is known for its 'Awful Awful' milkshakes.

The Jan Companies

The previous owners of the Newport Creamery chain, having been at the helm since 2001.

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What they’re saying

“I have plans to update and potentially to expand the chain.”

— Mark Bogosian

What’s next

Bogosian has not provided details on his specific plans for updating or expanding the Newport Creamery brand, but his track record suggests he may aim to preserve the chain's legacy while modernizing the business.

The takeaway

The acquisition of the iconic Newport Creamery diner chain by a prominent Cape Cod developer highlights the ongoing shifts in the regional dining landscape, as established local institutions face pressure from larger corporate interests. However, Bogosian's history of preserving community-oriented businesses suggests he may seek to balance modernization with maintaining the chain's legacy and appeal.