Are you planning your next trip to New Hampshire? You’ll want to know where the best restaurants in New Hampshire are. This list of The 15 Best Restaurants In New Hampshire includes everything from fine dining to classic diners and a little bit of everything in between, so you’ll be able to find the perfect places to eat whether you’re on a romantic getaway or on a family vacation.
The best restaurants in New Hampshire range from casual, low-key establishments to some of the best regional eats New England has to offer. Many of these restaurants emphasize locally sourced ingredients, whether farm-to-table or fresh from the sea. These top restaurants are ideal for refueling while touring New Hampshire along scenic byways and discovering the best things to do in the state.
1. Republic, Manchester, NH – Best Restaurants in New Hampshire
Quality food is important to New Hampshire residents, and Manchester’s Republic caters to that desire. The state’s first certified farm-to-table restaurant sources its ingredients from only 75 farms and artisanal producers, and their daily fish specials are listed alongside the name of the boat that caught them.
Republic has become a neighborhood favorite as well as a destination dining experience thanks to its extensive menu of Mediterranean fare, familiar but unique cocktails, and desserts.
2. Cotton, Manchester, NH – Best Restaurants in New Hampshire
Cotton, a classic American joint offering “food, cocktails, and the potential for a really good time,” is stiff competition for Manchester’s best. A seemingly disjointed menu is a smorgasbord of diverse comfort food ranging from meatloaf to jambalaya. If you can tear yourself away from Cotton’s seminal, award-winning martini, a selection of over 40 wines by the glass guarantees a perfect match. Cotton’s clean, retro atmosphere and attention to detail make it a Manchester must-eat.
3. Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods
One hundred miles north of Manchester is the impossibly elegant Omni Mount Washington Resort, a National Historic Landmark that was once a luxury playground for Thomas Edison, Babe Ruth, and Joan Crawford. The opulent Main Dining Room at the resort serves dinner and dancing against an incredible view of Mount Washington. A relatively short menu features impeccable, seasonal plates complemented by a classically New England palate. Diners who stay the night can indulge once more with the “Art of Breakfast” buffet, which includes made-to-order omelets and waffles.
4. Row 34 Portsmouth – Best Restaurants in New Hampshire
Row 34 takes seafood seriously, with a raw bar as extensive as its fish-centric menu. The second iteration of the same-named Boston restaurant gives the original a serious run for its money. When you combine that with clean decor, an inventive cocktail menu, and drool-worthy brunch options, you have a restaurant experience not to be missed.
5. Firefly American Bistro, Manchester
Firefly American Bistro, founded in 2008 by a brother and sister culinary duo, emphasizes good food made from fresh ingredients, served in an ideal date night atmosphere. A stunningly comprehensive menu caters to even the most discriminating diner, while each dish remains detailed and unique.
6. Copper Door Restaurant, Bedford
Copper Door is one of those rare restaurants that will make you happy long after you’ve paid your bill. A fantastic children’s menu and gluten-free options ensure happy bellies on all fronts, and the company’s “Random Acts of Kindness” initiative could earn you a free appetizer, entree, or even a gift card to pay it forward. Varying seating areas, each cozy and inviting, provide each party with a sense of privacy while remaining a part of the family-friendly fun.
7. White Mountain Cider Company, Glen
In the best possible way, White Mountain Cider Company has a lot going on. Customers can enjoy inventive seasonal dishes, a casual fare selection at the bar, or to go sandwiches and apple cider donuts from the deli, which is perfectly set in a restored 1890 farmhouse. From mid-September to the beginning of December, on-site cider pressing creates an educational, nuanced experience for even the most jaded clientele.
8. MT’s Local Kitchen and Wine Bar, Nashua
From a VIP client club to gluten-free options on every dish, MT’s Local prioritizes customer satisfaction. There are plenty of vegetarian options on the menu, as well as wood-fired pizza and inventive takes on classic dishes like the excellent General Tso’s lobster. Previously known as Michael Timothy’s, the restaurant underwent a complete makeover to make it even more accessible and comfortable for its loyal customers.
9. The Carriage House, Rye
There may be no lovelier place on the planet than Rye’s Carriage House restaurant. Oceanside dining at its finest, with a comprehensive menu of fresh pasta and seafood and enough space to host your next function with a banquet buffet. Allow enough time to enjoy the scenery and the charming surroundings.
10. The Barley House, Concord – Best Restaurants in New Hampshire
A burger named best in state by New Hampshire Magazine three years in a row gets me in the door, and The Barley House’s other offerings keep me coming back. With a sister location in North Hampton, this gastropub exudes serious UK vibes despite its location. Every Tuesday night, Guinness beef stew and Smithwick’s curry fish and chips are enhanced by live Irish music.
11. La Festa Brick and Brew Pizzeria, Dover
A traditional pizzeria with a twist to keep things interesting. All pies are available with a wood-fired or New York style crust, as well as a regular or gluten-free crust. If you live in or visit the Dover area, you must try the endless grinders, salads, baked pastas, and a mind-blowing eggplant parmesan.
12. Café Lafayette Dinner Train, Lisbon
Café Lafayette is located on a train that transports you 20 scenic miles before serving a five-course meal and cocktails and safely returning you to the start. Enjoy some of the best service in the Granite State while admiring the Pemigewasset River Valley.
13. The Wentworth, Jackson Village
Built in 1869 as a wedding gift for a wealthy man’s daughter, this 61-room inn remains true to its traditional roots. The Wentworth is the epitome of hospitality, serving hyper-local cuisine in a cozy, romantic setting. Meet Bill the Mushroom Man, who delivers locally foraged mushrooms to the inn on Friday nights, or stay overnight and enjoy an impressive, hearty mountain breakfast.
14. Surf, Portsmouth
Surf Restaurant in Portsmouth is the ideal place to go for fish tacos or raw bar heaven. This Nashua location of the original Surf brings a seaside element to its quality dining experience, as well as some of the best fried clams in the state. Dazzle guests with a stunningly appointed dining room, private deck, and panoramic views of the Atlantic when you book The Surf Room for a special event.
15. Blue Bistro at the NASWA Resort
A resort nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee offers perfect views, incredible food, and a truly festive atmosphere. The Blue Bistro offers a more refined experience, while the Caribbean-inspired NazBar offers a more raw experience. Whatever your preference, expect plenty of seafood and handcrafted desserts by Resort matriarch Hope Makris.
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