2 minute read
26TH ANNUAL KITCHEN TOUR
Boston roll; then splurge with an entrée of chicken and shrimp pad Thai or chicken Dijon. Even simpler is plan B: Tuck into a brimming bowl of Korean comfort food, like ok dol bi bim bab, in which marinated beef plays a starring role. Or, given the loyal crowd this 20-year standby has attracted, you can always fall back on plan C: Ask what the regular sitting next to you at the bar is having. 150 Broad St., Nashua. 603-882-8337; youyoubistro.com
BAR FOOD TAVERN 27
At this 1781 farmhouse converted into a cozy bar and restaurant, the emphasis is on sourcing—especially from its own garden. Among the menu standouts are the pinchos , or small bites, presented on skewers, including one with chicken wrapped around dates stuffed with chèvre, local bacon, and almonds. Reservations are taken even for bar seats, so calling ahead is a smart move. 2075 Parade Road, Laconia. 603528-3057; tavern27.com
BREWPUB THROWBACK BREWERY
While Hank’s Pale Ale, Dippity Do American Brown, and other year-round favorites are usually on tap here, check out the half-dozen seasonals, too, like Rhubarb Wit, made with as many local products as possible. All are brewed in the same historic white barn in which you’ll find the rustic dining space, with its huge bar and lively atmosphere. Among the menu’s eclectic options are an Asian steamed bun, kale and couscous salad, and a bowl of house-made chorizo and rice with such tasty touches as avocado and poblano–goat cheese yogurt. In summer, enjoy the farm-field view from the outdoor tables, along with fritters made from squash grown in that same field. 7 Hobbs Road, North Hampton. 603-379-2317; throwbackbrewery.com
COFFEE
FLIGHT COFFEE CO. CAFÉ
Owner Claudia Barrett and her team roast their beans to bring out the most delicate flavors that can be extracted from the coffee berry (think kiwi, blackberry, and sweet red wine). At the pour-over bar, freshly ground coffee and filtered water are carefully measured for the perfect cup. Sip slowly, and enjoy pastries and breakfast sandwiches in the light-filled rustic-chic space. There’s Garrison City beer on tap, too. 478 Central Ave., Dover. 603-842-5325; flightcoffeeco.com
DINER
FOUR ACES DINER
Travel back to the ’50s in this Worcester Lunch Car Company diner with original wood booths and chrome details. There’s enough memorabilia—from Elvis tchotchkes to midcentury ads claiming the virtues of Coke—to keep your head turning as you tuck into a hearty breakfast of cinnamon roll pancakes, savory mushroom and garlic confit omelets, or creative Benedicts with North Country Smokehouse sausage. There’s even authentic poutine. 23 Bridge St., West Lebanon. 603-298-5515; 4acesdiner.com
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING
LOCAL EATERY
Devoted to all things local, chef Kevin Halligan takes seafood, beef, and lamb from nearby providers and turns them into entrées accented with beautiful salads and interesting appetizers. His “local burger”—topped with cheddar, bacon, and a fried egg—is legendary; he also runs a bakery and a meat market in town to keep the supply chain strong. 21 Veterans Sq., Laconia. 603-527-8007; laconialocaleatery.com
FINE DINING
CABONNAY
A multimillion-dollar project with roof deck, garden walls, and art collections, Cabonnay is designed to wow. The focus on excellence is consistent, from the wine collection to the locally sourced food to the striking decor. Menu items offered may include a seared scallop with spiced watermelon or a dry-aged rib eye with Brie and potato tortellini. Save room for dessert: The pastry chef is from a Michelin-rated French restaurant. 55 Bridge St., Manchester. 844-9463473; cabonnay.com
ICE CREAM
ANNABELLE’S NATURAL ICE CREAM
Thirty-five years after making its debut on Ceres Street, down by the waterfront in the heart of Portsmouth, this tucked-away gem is still scooping strong. Standbys like Mint Summer’s Night Dream and Peanut Butter Fantasy can be counted on to wow the taste buds, as can seasonal delicacies such as Caribbean Coconut and Pumpkin Pie. (In our opinion, however, nothing beats the punch of New Hampshire Pure Maple Walnut.) Though Annabelle’s can be found at other locations in New Hampshire and even Maine, the flagship is still our favorite. 49 Ceres St., Portsmouth. 603-436-3400; annabellesicecream.com
ITALIAN CUISINE
LOUIE’S
In Portsmouth, the state’s most restaurantrich city, you can pretty much point to a random spot on a local map and find yourself near a good meal. But it’s worth seeking out
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