Best Of 2017 Magazine

Where to find tasty eats, outdoor fun, shopping and more

Brought to you by:

Redefine the way you age Southern New Hampshire’s Premier Medispa since 2006 SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 17

Savor Every Season

There are many reasons to visit LaBelle Winery, all year long!

Enjoy Bistro dining, wine tastings, a vineyard and wine cellar tour, the gift and wine shop, browse the Art Gallery and experience unique LaBelle-presented programs. A visit to LaBelle Winery is a memorable experience – each and every time!

Tastings 2 BEST OF 2017 | INDEX

Restaurant

Tours

Events

(603) 672-9898 www.labellewinerynh.com 345 Route 101 Amherst, New Hampshire

1

p

r

o

p

e

r

t

i

e

s

Don’t just rent, rent in style.

Break out of your cookie cutter rental and get into an apartment with style and sophistication.

Each Brady Sullivan rental community offers beautifully appointed kitchens & baths, and many have convenient on-site amenities such as fitness centers, theatre rooms, indoor basketball courts & putting greens, rooftop decks, game rooms and more—that allow you to create a home that is comfortable, convenient and anything but run-of-the-mill.

Ask about locations and move-in specials available in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Call 603.622.6223 or visit www.bradysullivan.com for more information today!

114613

114639

Above: the Statehouse in Concord. On the cover: an ice cream cone from Hayward’s. Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

NEW HAMPSHIRE IS COOL. Every year in our readers poll, we ask about all sorts of cool stuff in the Granite State — about food, shopping and outdoor fun. (Find the winners of all the categories at hippopress.com. Click on “past issues” and go to the March 30 issue.) What is a particular treat for those of us who get to see not just the winners but all of the responses is what a great variety there is for everything from a place to hike to a place to refuel with a donut or two.

In this magazine, we’re excited to share

IN THIS ISSUE

6 Best Restaurant 14 Best BBQ 20 Best Donuts 24 Best Cupcakes 28 Outdoor Eats 30 Best Ice Cream 38 Best Salads 42 Best New Eatery 48 Best NH Hard Liquor 54 Night on the Town 56 Best Clothing Store 62 Best Book Store/Comic Book Store 64 Best Art in a Public Space 70 Favorite Farm 72 Best Hiking Trail 82 Cool Things to do in NH 4 BEST OF 2017 | INDEX

some of that variety with you. Here, we’re taking a deeper dive into several of the categories, giving you not just the winners but as many as the top 20 vote-getters. (And being No. 20 is something to brag about — thousands of readers offer their opinions, writing in their own ideas about the best cupcake or their favorite farm.) We give you the readers’ top picks for places to cool off with some ice cream or heat things up with barbecue, where to do a little shopping and where to golf.

Best of 2017 A publication of the Hippo Published by QOL Publications 49 Hollis St., Manchester, NH, 03101 603-625-1855 (First copy is free; second copy costs $1) Publisher Jody Reese jreese@hippopress.com Executive Editor Amy Diaz adiaz@hippopress.com

(A note: Much of the information about the locations mentioned here comes from the locations’ websites. Call ahead to verify hours or that the dish you’re craving is still on the menu as things can change.)

What should you do this weekend?

Where should you eat tonight? Where can you take your visiting relatives? Keep this magazine handy to help you discover and show off all the cool things New Hampshire has to offer. And the bests, as decided by our readers, are...

Managing Editor Meghan Siegler Copy edited by Lisa Parsons Advertising For questions regarding advertising, call Charlene Cesarini 603-625-1855, ext. 26 Editorial Design Ashley McCarty Production Emma Contic Katie DeRosa Haylie Zebrowski

Reported by Matt Ingersoll Angie Sykeny Kelly Sennott Ryan Lessard Photos All photos by Sid Ceaser of Sid Ceaser Photography (ceaserphotography.com) except on pages 72-79 and page 82.

Photos in the Best Hiking Trail section, pages 72-79, are by Emma Contic of Contic Creative.

rewarding years!

The place the New York Times calls “hip”. One of the top ten neighborhood restaurants in the Northeast - Bon Appetit Magazine.

One of New England’s Not-To-Be Missed Restaurants and Best Martinis in New England - Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide To New England.

Best Chef, Best Restaurant Overall and Best Date Place in Manchester - Hippo Press Newspaper. Diner’s Choice Best of New Hampshire - Open Table.

Best Martinis in New Hampshire 8 years in a row - New Hampshire Magazine. Best Restaurant, Southern New Hampshire - Taste of the Seacoast Magazine.

The best retro meatloaf around - Phantom Gourmet’s Great Ate for Comfort Food. Named a TV Diner Hot Spot - NECN’s TV Diner.

C O T T O N Chef/Author/Owner Jeffrey Paige

FOOD • COCKTAILS 603.622.5488

Still got it after

In the Historic Millyard District at 75 Arms Street, Manchester, NH • Lunch: Mon- Fri • Dinner: Nightly at 5pm w w w . c o t t o n f o o d . c o m 114378

Inspired classic American fare in a warm, inviting atmosphere

22 Concord Street. Manchester, NH | 603.935.9740 | www.fireflynh.com

114550

Brunch | Lunch |Dinner| Patio Dining

BEST RESTAURANT From savory steaks to signature sushi, New Hampshire’s dining scene offers something for every taste.

Here are the restaurants readers picked as their favorite spots to enjoy a meal.

6 BEST OF 2017 | BEST RESTAURANT

1. THE TUCKAWAY TAVERN & BUTCHERY BEST OF THE BEST

58 Route 27, Raymond, 244-2431, thetuckaway.com.

The Tuckaway puts a modern twist on traditional American pub fare with playfully named dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and meats from its onsite butchery. Its menu includes starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, burgers, baked and grilled entrees, fried seafood plates, pastas, desserts and more. The tavern also features 24 beer taps, typically filled with New England brews. Other Hippo Best of 2017 awards for The Tuckaway are Best of the Best for Best Chef (Bobby Marcotte) and Butcher Shop, and Best of Manchester for Best Steakhouse, Burgers, Mac and Cheese and Menu Item (Fat Boy Steak Tips). The Tuckaway Tavern is open Sunday through Thursday, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The Butchery is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

2. REPUBLIC BEST OF MANCHESTER 1069 Elm St., Manchester, 666-3723, republiccafe.com Republic is a farm-to-table Mediterranean bistro offering a wide selection of small plates and antipasti, entrees including unique vegan and vegetarian dishes, paninis and flatbreads, salads, desserts, coffee and espresso drinks, fair trade organic teas, beer and wine on tap and creative cocktails. Daily blackboard specials feature fresh seafood, free-range proteins and seasonal produce from dozens of local farms and artisan food and beverage producers. Other Hippo Best of 2017 awards for Republic include Best of the Best for Best French Fries, Bartender (Jack Wholey) and Waiter/Waitress (Josee Bilodeau); and Best of Manchester for Best Chef (Edward Aloise) and Cocktail (Moroccan Old-Fashioned).

Republic is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

3. PURITAN BACKROOM 245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 669-6890, puritanbackroom.com This year marks the Puritan’s 100th year of business since it opened as an ice cream parlor and candy shop in Manchester in 1917. Currently run by third- and fourth-generation owners, the Puritan is now a full-service restaurant with an ice cream window, offering classic American cuisine with Greek and Italian influences, including appetizers, soups and salads, entrees, burgers and sandwiches, pizzas, desserts, wine, beer and cocktails. The Puritan is best known for its chicken tenders, which it claims to have invented in 1974. The tenders were named Best of the Best for Best Menu Item in Hippo Best of 2017. The Puritan also won Best of the Best for Best Cocktail (mudslide) and Best of Manchester for Best Salads, Ice Cream and Restaurant for Kids. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight. Takeout is available daily starting at 8 a.m.

All photos in the Best Restaurant category are of The Tuckaway Tavern.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

DISCOVER THE WALL STREET TOWER DIFFERENCE!

Extraordinary Amenities • FREE Garage Parking for Residents • 24/7 Concierge Services • Water/Trash/Gas/Sewer Included • Modern Open Concept Kitchens • On-site Salon & Massage Therapist!

• Stunning Views of the Sunrise or the Sunset • Washer/Dryer included (3 out of 4 floor plans) • Private Balcony (92% of units) • Fitness Room/Function Room /Billiard Room • Walk to Fine Dining & Entertainment

Pet Friendly - WITH NO MONTHLY PET FEES! (some restrictions apply)

1 & 2 Bedroom Luxury Apartments Call today to schedule an appointment!

603.668.0855

555 Canal Street • Manchester, NH LiveAtWallStreetTower.com 114611

4. THE BARLEY HOUSE | BEST OF CONCORD 132 N. Main St., Concord, 228-6363, thebarleyhouse.com Set across from the gold dome of the New Hampshire Statehouse, The Barley House offers American pub cuisine with small plates, soups and salads, entrees, burgers, sandwiches, pizzas and comfort food favorites like mac and cheese, Guinness beef stew and chicken pot pie. It has around a dozen craft beers on tap, wines and meads, cocktails and a wide selection of whiskeys and whiskey flights. Other Hippo Best of 2017 awards for The Barley House are Best of the Best for Best Burger and Best of Concord for Best Pub, Beer Selection, French Fries and Bartender (Jonathan Emmons). The Barley House is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. On Tuesdays from 7 to 10 p.m. it’s home to live traditional Irish music. The Barley House has a second location at 43 Lafayette Road in North Hampton.

5. HANOVER STREET CHOPHOUSE 149 Hanover St., Manchester, 644-2467, hanoverstreetchophouse.com The Chophouse is an upscale steakhouse with an elegant urban design in a fine dining atmosphere. Its menu features starters and sides, soups and salads, a raw bar, steaks and chops, filet mignon, seafood, desserts and house specialties like hanger steak, Chilean sea bass and lamb shank. The Chophouse offers a wine list with more than 200 labels, cocktails including a build-your-own Manhattan bar, beer and a wide selection of whiskeys. In Hippo Best of 2017, the Chophouse was named Best of the Best for Best Steakhouse and Fine Dining Restaurant. It’s open for lunch Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and for dinner Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. The bar opens at 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and at 4 p.m. on Sunday.

114366

7. MINT BISTRO

6. COPPER DOOR RESTAURANT 15 Leavy Drive, Bedford, 488-2677, copperdoorrestaurant.com

1105 Elm St., Manchester, 625-6468, mintbistronh.com

With a custom-made copper door, Copper Door Restaurant offers new American cuisine and comfort food in an environment that’s “not too fancy, not too casual,” according to their website. The menu features lunch and bar food like soups and salads, sandwiches, tacos, burgers and sliders, pizza and flatbreads; dinner entrees including prime seafood, butcher cuts and house specialties like Duke bourbon bacon beef tips and tenderloin shepherd’s pie; desserts, cocktails, beer and a wine list with 140 labels. It also offers seasonal and holiday specials menus, a cupcake and martini of the month, and Sangria Sundays, which include $15 pitchers of sangria, $12 pizzas and live music. Copper Door was named Best of Manchester for Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Hippo Best of 2017. It’s open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. A second Copper Door location is projected to open this fall at 41 South Broadway in Salem.

Mint Bistro is a sleek, contemporary fusion restaurant with a sushi bar and globally inspired dinner selections prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients. The sushi menu features sushi appetizer plates, sushi a la carte, sushi large plates served with soup and salad, and signature sushi like the Elm Street Maki and the Monarchs Maki. The dinner menu includes salads, tapas and entrees like maple-glazed sea scallops, field mushroom ravioli and pepperberry rubbed delmonico. For drinks, Mint offers bottled and draft beer, an extensive wine list with sushi pairing suggestions, and creative cocktails like the Japanese sake mojito and the Tipsy Tea, made with Jameson, chilled green tea, honey syrup and fresh lemon. The restaurant was named Best of Manchester for Best Date Place in Hippo Best of 2017. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 11 p.m.

(Left) Bobby Marcotte, owner of The Tuckaway Tavern.

Photo by Sid Ceaser Photography.

Celebrating Our

The

46th Season

BARLEY HOUSE SEACOAST

Eat Better. Drink Better. Have More Fun.

The Best View of

Hampton Beach • LUNCH, DINNER & COCKTAILS • INDOOR / OUTDOOR OCEANVEIW SEATING • LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT COME CHECKOUT OUR EXPANDED MENU & NEWLY REMODELED DINING ROOM

Best Restaurant Overall . Best Bartender Best Pub Trivia . Best Pub . Best Fries . Best Burger Best Beer Selection at a Bar or Restaurant!

OCEAN VIEW DIN ING

OU TDOOR DECKS

127 OCEAN BOULEVARD • HAMPTON, NH • SEAKETCH.COM • 603-926-0324

114346

603.228.6363 | 132 North Main Street, Concord, NH 603.379.9161 | 43 Lafayette Road, North Hampton, NH

thebarleyhouse.com

(at the LL Bean/Lafayette Plaza) 114068

8. COTTON 75 Arms St., Manchester, 622-5488, cottonfood.com “Sophisticated and eclectic American comfort food” is how Cotton, the millyard restaurant owned by chef and cookbook author Jeffery Paige, describes its approach to its menu on its website. At lunch, there are burgers and sandwiches, and dinner entrees include lobster scallop ravioli and almond-crusted turkey schnitzel. The menu at both meals includes salads, small plates like baked goat cheese and Asian potstickers.It also features more than 40 imported and domestic wines by the glass and is well-known for its classic and signature martinis like spice pear nectar, lavender gin and chocolate butter cookie. Cotton serves lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., lighter fare Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 5 p.m., and dinner Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m.

9. MT’S LOCAL KITCHEN & WINE BAR BEST OF NASHUA 212 Main St., Nashua, 595-9334, mtslocal.com MT’s concept is fine-dining-level cuisine in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The menu features new American dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. It has salads, wood-grilled pizzas, sandwiches and burgers, small plates like warm spinach and artichoke dip, pork belly tacos and foie gras popcorn; dinner entrees like golden beet Bolognese, braised lamb meatballs and clam spaghetti, and desserts. The wine bar includes an extensive selection of local wines and unique national and international varietals, weekly themed wine flights and customizable wine flights, and an onsite wine retail shop carrying hard-to-find labels. MT’s is part of the Michael Timothy’s Dining Group, helmed by chef Michael Buckley, who is also chefowner at Buckley’s Great Steaks in Merrimack, Buckley’s Bakery and Cafe in Merrimack and Surf (which has locations in Nashua and Portsmouth). MT’s also won Best of Nashua for Best Restaurant Wine List in Hippo Best of 2017. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. (pizzas available until 9:30 p.m.) and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m. (pizzas available until 10:30 p.m.)

10. NEW ENGLAND’S TAP HOUSE GRILLE 1292 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 782-5137, taphousenh.com The Tap House Grille serves classic American grill cuisine prepared with local fresh ingredients, in a sophisticated pubstyle atmosphere. It features over 50 craft beers on tap, many of which are local and hard-to-find varieties, and often hosts beer dinners and tasting events. The food menu includes soups, salads, wraps, flatbreads, sandwiches, burgers; starters like beer fondue, poutine and jalapeno poppers; entrees such as Guinness beef stew, baked honey thyme scallops and buttermilk chicken; and unique desserts like chocolate ganache Guinness cake, chocolate stout cake and maple-bacon ice cream. In Hippo Best of 2017, the Tap House Grille was awarded Best of the Best for Best Beer Selection. The Tap House Grille is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

10 BEST OF 2017 | BEST RESTAURANT

Best Dine-in

Pizza

Made with the freshest locally sourced organic ingredients 449 amherst st. nashua 603-864-8740 pigtalerestaurant.com 114486

NEW HAMPSHIRE’S

FAVORITE Since 1935!

Featuring our world famous Swiss Fudge in limited edition New Hampshire boxes as well as other legendary treats.

Perfect for business gifts, fundraisers and special occasions.

16 Years Running

341 Elm Street | Manchester, NH 03101 | 603.627.1611 | www.vanotis.com 114619

11. SURF RESTAURANT 207 Main St., Nashua, 595-9293, surfseafood.com Surf is a seafood restaurant offering the freshest possible fish and shellfish in creatively prepared dishes. Its dinner menu features salads, seafood soups and chowders, seafood sandwiches and tacos, small plates like Parmesan fried calamari and chourico braised mussels, and entree specialties like horseradish haddock and portabella-stuffed flounder.

There is also a raw bar with oysters on the half shell, oyster shooters and seafood cocktails; and a sushi menu with traditional and American maki. Surf is part of the Michael Timothy’s Dining Group; a second Surf location is located at 99 Bow St. in Portsmouth. In Hippo Best of 2017, Surf was named Best of the Best for Best Seafood Restaurant and Best of Nashua for Best Clam Chowder. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4:30 to 10 p.m.

12 BEST OF 2017 | BEST RESTAURANT

12. BUCKLEY’S GREAT STEAKS

438 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, 424-0995, buckleysgreatsteaks.com As its name implies, Buckley’s is best known for its steaks, which are seasoned and seared on a custom wood-fired grill.

The menu includes classic cuts like filet mignon, bone-in ribeye and slow-roasted prime rib, as well as salads, appetizers and entree specialties like beef tip stroganoff and the avocado burger. The full menu and additional lighter fare is offered at the restaurant’s more casual space known as Riddle’s Tavern.

Buckley’s is part of the Michael Timothy’s Dining Group. In Hippo Best of 2017, Buckley’s was named Best of Nashua for Best Fine Dining Restaurant and Steakhouse. Buckley’s is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 4 to 9 p.m. The tavern opens at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

13. CAMPO ENOTECA 969 Elm St., Manchester, 625-0256, campoenoteca.com Campo Enoteca is an Italian restaurant and wine bar offering contemporary Mediterranean-Italian cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients in an urban bistro-style setting. The food menu features small bites and antipasti, charcuterie and cheeses, salads, pastas, paninis and classic entrees like polpetti, shrimp scampi and chicken Marsala. The bar has an extensive selection of red and white wines on tap and a small selection of beers and cocktails.

Campo is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m.

SOPHISTICATED MENU WITH CONTEMPORARY FUSION RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR

PLACE! VOTED BEST DATE New Spring Menu & Beer Selection

15. FRATELLO’S ITALIAN GRILLE 155 Dow St., Manchester, 624-2022, fratellos.com Named for the Italian word meaning “brother,” Fratello’s is an ItalianAmerican restaurant featuring classic fare. The menu includes soups, a wide selection of antipasti, dinner salads, seafood entrees, pastas, chicken and veal dishes, steaks, sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas.

Fratello’s was named Best of Manchester for Best Italian Restaurant in Hippo Best of 2017. Fratello’s is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fratello’s also has locations at 194 Main St. in Nashua and 799 Union Ave. in Laconia.

Get Hooked on

Manchester’s BEST seafood restaurant

Bar & Grille

hookedonignite.com

100 Hanover St. Manchester | 644-0064 |

114355

Firefly features classic and upscale American bistro cuisine in a warm, comfortable atmosphere. Its menu features soups and salads, starters and sides, land and sea entrees, pastas, burgers, signature lunch sandwiches, desserts and dessert martinis, local microbrews on tap and an extensive wine list. Firefly is known for its large selection of unique cocktails, which includes seasonal specials, classics with a twist, margaritas, mojitos, sangrias, sparkling wine cocktails and Firefly originals. Firefly is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The bar and lounge may remain open later. Brunch is served on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

114546

Thank You

Concord!

Best Steakhouse Concord Best Restaurant Wine List Concord Best Mac and Cheese Concord

AW

breakfast

It is our pleasure to serve you.

SE

Steaks & Seafood 11 South Main St. Concord 856-7925

www.magicfoodsrestaurantgroup.com

ARD WINNING

breakfast

RVE

A D ALL D

Y

- lunch - catering - open daily

114633

22 Concord St., Manchester, 935-9740, fireflynh.com

1105 Elm Street, Manchester |603.625.6468

114631

14. FIREFLY AMERICAN BISTRO & BAR

603.232.1953 • 124 So. River Rd. Bedford • PurpleFinchCafe.com

BEST BARBECUE You don’t have to live down south to enjoy barbecue favorites such as ribs, pulled pork or smoked brisket. Here are 10 local restaurants and smoke shacks that bring those flavors to the Granite State.

14 BEST OF 2017 | BEST BARBECUE

Eat Sunshine catering • chopped salads • raw juices functional smoothies • soups

Two to four pounds of beautiful produce go into each of our nutrient-dense juices. The result? Delightfully unexpected.

114487

live juice.Open Everyday 5 S. Main St. Concord | 226-3024 | LiveJuiceNH.com

1. KC’S RIB SHACK | BEST OF THE BEST 837 Second St., Manchester, 627-7427, ribshack.net This southern barbecue restaurant has been around for more than a decade and is famous for its hickory-smoked ribs. Other popular options include a full barbecue sandwich menu with your choice of pulled chicken, pulled pork, barbecue brisket and more.

For special barbecue-style entrees, try the Texas beef brisket, which is smoked all night long for 14 hours, or the barbecue chicken breast that is smoked for two hours before it’s grilled and juiced to order. If you can’t choose one kind of barbecued meat, build your own combo: two for $18, three for $23 or four for $29.

It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m.

CHALIFOUR’S FLOWERS SERVING NEW HAMPSHIRE FOR 75 YEARS

CHALIFOURS.COM 46 ELM STREET 603.623.8844

2. GOODY COLE’S SMOKEHOUSE BEST OF MANCHESTER 374 Route 125, Brentwood, 679-8898, goodycoles.com Goody Cole’s is a southern barbecue restaurant that opened its doors in Exeter in 2003 and moved to a larger space in nearby Brentwood three years later. Recipes are cooked using an Oyler Barbecue Pit, which is fueled by 100-percent hickory wood and capable of holding 1,200 pounds of meat at a time. Try their famous St. Louis-style pork ribs for $19.99 per full rack, $13.99 per half rack or $8.99 per quarter rack. Briskets, pulled pork, smoked turkey and chicken are also available by the pound or half pound.

It’s open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday until 7 p.m.

Barbecue photos are of KC’s Rib Shack. Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

114612

3. SMOKESHOW BARBEQUE | BEST OF CONCORD 89 Fort Eddy Road, Concord, 227-6399, smokeshowbbq.com Owners Matt Gfroerer and his wife Heather opened Smokeshow Barbeque after more than 14 years of working at several barbecuestyle restaurants in Texas, according to the Smokeshow website.

The restaurant offers several traditional southern-style barbecue meats by the half pound, like ribs, brisket, turkey and pulled pork. Pair it up with a side like macaroni and cheese, cornbread, potato salad, baked beans or coleslaw. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.

4. RIVERSIDE BARBEQUE COMPANY BEST OF NASHUA 53 Main St., Nashua, 204-5110, riversidebarbeque.com The Riverside Barbeque Company is a barbecue lover’s dream. The restaurant offers several original meal options like the Pig Pile, which includes pulled pork, bacon, cheddar cheese and coleslaw on grilled Texas toast, and the Cajun Catfish Po’ Boy, a grilled catfish with shredded lettuce, diced tomato and cajun remoulade served in a soft hoagie roll. You can also build your own barbecue platter, choosing one, two or three meats like sliced brisket, sliced sausage, pulled pork, pulled chicken or sliced turkey, as well as any two sides from macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, collard greens, barbecue baked beans, mashed potatoes, cinnamon apples, fried green beans, hand-cut fries and more. It’s open Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday until 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 1 a.m.

ITS Best of the Best Pizza Hippo Winner

HOT IN HERE! Award Winning Dishes

Rated Best Pizza in New Hampshire

9 YEARS RUNNING 2008-2017

From Wood Fired Pizza to Mac N Cheese, Mouth-Watering Martinis and a Great Rustic Atmosphere!

This award is very special to us.

It signifies Excellence in Customer Satisfaction - 4 YEARS RUNNING

Best of NH Winner

9 YEARS RUNNING 2008-2017

7

NEW LOCATION IN PORTSMOUTH, NH

50 DOW ST. MANCHESTER, NH 603-641-0900

1 BRICKYARD SQ. EPPING, NH 603-734-2656

LUNCH & DINNER | DINE IN OR TAKE OUT

900DEGREES.COM

114407

COMING SOON!

5. ARNIE’S PLACE 164 Loudon Road, Concord, 228-3225, arniesplace.com Arnie’s Place opened its doors in the Capital City in the summer of 1992, but owner Tom Arnold, who had previously worked at Friendly’s and Dairy Queen restaurants, has experience in perfecting barbecue dishes that goes back much further than that, according to the Arnie’s website. The restaurant offers several signature barbecue dishes, like the pork spare ribs, which are available in three different rack sizes, for $9.99 per quarter, $13.99 per half rack or $24.99 per full rack. You can also get pulled pork sandwiches, grilled Italian sandwiches or the “slawsage” sandwich, with spicy link sausage, coleslaw and cheddar cheese on a potato roll. It’s open Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.

Arnie’s Place also won Best of Concord for Best Ice Cream.

6. GABI’S SMOKE SHACK 217 Rockingham Road, Londonderry, 404-2871, gabismokeshack.com Gabi’s Smoke Shack specializes in Texas-style slow cooked barbecue dishes, using a hickory-smoked barbecue pit. Anthony Martino launched the mobile barbecue kitchen in 2011. Martino had worked in the restaurant business for more than 20 years before moving to the Granite State in the year 2000. For a few years, the trailer only catered to special events, but Gabi’s opened its doors as a permanent storefront last year. In addition to beef brisket, pulled pork and pulled chicken sandwiches, you can try them as tacos, which are served on flour tortillas with sides of coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni and cheese or beans. It’s open Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday until 8 p.m.

7. SMOKE SHACK SOUTHERN BARBECUE & ICE CREAM

146 King St., Boscawen, 796-2046, smokeshacksouthernbarbecue.com Every dish made at the Smoke Shack Southern Barbecue is made from scratch and apple-smoked, from its pulled pork sandwiches to barbecue steak and cheese subs. Side dishes include homemade macaroni and cheese, baked beans, sweet potato salad, coleslaw and sweet potato and Cajun french fries. You can choose from four flavors of dipping sauce for any of your barbecue favorites; there is a sweet barbecue sauce, a vinegar-based Carolina-style sauce, a mustard-based sauce and a chipotle barbecue sauce with smoked jalapeno peppers. The Smoke Shack even has a selfcontained building on the grounds of the Deerfield Fair that it operates out of every year, as well as on the grounds of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon. Its Boscawen location is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.

8. THE TUCKAWAY TAVERN & BUTCHERY 58 Route 27, Raymond, 244-2431, thetuckaway.com Led by head chef Bobby Marcotte, the Tuckaway Tavern & Butchery offers several original southern barbecue-style recipes made from scratch, like the smoked barbecue baby back ribs, barbecue pulled pork with mashed potato and cheddar cheese, and a steak bomb macaroni and cheese recipe, containing steak tips, peppers, onions and mushrooms. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. The Tuckaway Tavern also won Best of the Best for Best Restaurant Overall and Best Butcher Shop, and Best of Manchester for Best Steakhouse, Best Burgers and Best Macaroni and Cheese.

EXPERT IN NON-SURGICAL AESTHETICS Dr. Lisa Vuich, owner of Renew MediSpa in Windham, brings to New Hampshire over a decade of experience in advanced nonsurgical aesthetics. An expert injector of neurotoxins and dermal fillers, she is also a leader in the field of platelet rich plasma (PRP) procedures. Dr. Vuich is board certified by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine and is recently back from England where she participated in an elite training program in Thread Lifting - a minimallyinvasive procedure done to correct sagging eyebrows, aging neck tissues, and deep furrows between the nose and corners of the mouth, and to stimulate new collagen in the skin. For more information about Thread Lifting at Renew MediSpa please visit our website and call to schedule a Free Consultation to determine if you are a candidate for this advanced non-surgical lift.

Redefine the Way You Age at Renew MediSpa 29 INDIAN ROCK ROAD, WINDHAM, NH 03087 WWW.RENEWMEDISPA.COM 603-894-0070

113189

9. BEEFSIDE RESTAURANT

10. PHIL’S OLD-FASHIONED BBQ

106 Manchester St., Concord, 228-0208, beefsiderestaurant.net

589 Elm St., Milford, 831-9238, find them on Facebook

The Beefside Restaurant is known for its roast beef sandwiches and southern-style barbecue pork ribs, which are served with beer-battered fries, coleslaw and cornbread.

You can also try their barbecue beef brisket sandwich, made with a homemade barbecue sauce, or get a sampler plate with ribs, brisket and pulled pork. It’s open Monday through Saturday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Beefside Restaurant won Best of Manchester for Best Sandwich with its roast beef sandwich.

Phil’s Old-Fashioned BBQ offers all of its products dryrubbed and oakwood-smoked, including beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, smoked sausage and full spare ribs.

Sandwiches, dinner plates and pulled pork, beef brisket and sausage are also available by the pound. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

18 BEST OF 2017 | BEST BARBECUE

Serving continuous skewers of beef, lamb, poultry, pork, and more.

Now Serving the Area’s Best Brunch,Too! 603-669-9460

62 Lowell St, Manchester, NH www.gauchosbraziliansteakhouse.com

114357

Over 50,000 Vinyl records in Rocsk,tock High Quality, Deep Catalog in es.

Country, Jazz, Folk, Soul/ R&B and Blu ntory.

inve CDs, Vinyl and Extensive 45 RPM singles

Independently owned by genuine music lovers.

Gift Certificates Available in any amount

Closed Mondays • 603-644-0199 • 1711 South Willow St. Manchester Next to the Mall of NH | musicconnection.us 114489

114493

BEST DONUTS Donuts are made fresh every day at bakeries and other shops all over New Hampshire. Cake or yeastraised, iced or sugared, there are donuts for every taste. Here are readers’ 10 favorite spots.

20 BEST OF 2017 | BEST DONUTS

1. KLEMM’S BAKERY BEST OF THE BEST 29 Indian Rock Road, Windham, 437-8810, klemmsbakery.com Klemm’s Bakery is family-owned and has been around since 1978.

It is known for carrying more than 40 varieties of freshly made donuts, which are available for purchase in the store individually, by the half-dozen or by the dozen, as well as to order as part of special custom pastry platters. Varieties include honey dipped, buttercrunch, sugared jelly filled, chocolate frosted, vanilla cream filled, Boston cream, maple cream filled, glazed jelly and glazed lemon. They’ve got several seasonal flavors too, like apple cider and pumpkin in the fall and gingerbread donuts for the holidays.

It’s open Monday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday until 6 p.m. Klemm’s also won Best of Manchester Best Bakery.

2. BROTHERS DONUTS BEST OF CONCORD 426 Central St., Franklin, 934-6678, facebook.com/brothersdonuts Brothers Donuts has been making fresh hand-cut donuts for more than 35 years. A variety of flavors are made daily, including chocolate, jelly, Boston crème, apple cinnamon, maple-frosted and more. Donuts are available for purchase individually, by the half dozen or by the dozen, and pre-orders can also be made for donuts through Facebook. It’s open Monday through Friday 3 a.m. to noon, and Saturday 2 a.m. to noon.

All Best Donuts photos are of Klemm’s Bakery.

(Right) From L to R: Alan Adamson, Linda Doyle, Patty Klemm, Mary-beth Klemm. Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

The Derryfield School is a coed, independent, college-preparatory day school in Manchester, NH, for students in grades 6 through 12.

LEARN MORE Open Houses & Info Sessions scheduled throughout the year.

Contact the admission office for more information: 603.669.4524 admission@derryfield.org discover.derryfield.org

SUMMER PROGRAMS for students entering grades 1-12

Whether you want to discover your inner performer, polish your college essay, improve your athletic skills, or build a Lego amusement park, we’ve got you covered this summer!

REGISTER NOW! derryfield.org/summer

114071

3. CHICHESTER COUNTRY STORE 257 Main St., Chichester, 798-5081, chichestercountrystore.com The Chichester Country Store is run by husband and wife Ron and Robin Panneton, who also own Catamount Farm in Chichester. Ron bakes dozens of flavors of donuts, muffins and cinnamon rolls daily, including the store’s flagship product, the cider donut. Baked with apple cider in place of water as the liquid ingredient in the batter, Chichester Country Store’s cider donuts are available at several farm stands across New Hampshire during the apple growing season. Donuts are available for purchase at the store for 99 cents each, for $5.49 per half-dozen and for $9.99 per dozen.

It’s open Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The store is closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

4. THE LOCAL MOOSE CAFE | BEST OF MANCHESTER 124 Queen City Ave., Manchester, 232-2669, thelocalmoosecafe.com The Local Moose Cafe offers fresh homemade donuts every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Special themed donuts are prepared during seasons, including apple glazed walnut donuts in the fall, pink Champagne donuts during New Year’s and Halloween-themed donuts. The cafe is open Tuesday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

22 BEST OF 2017 | BEST DONUTS

5. CROSBY BAKERY BEST OF NASHUA 51 E. Pearl St., Nashua, 882-1851, crosbybakerynh.com Since 1947, the family-owned and -operated Crosby Bakery has been preparing fresh donuts in a variety of flavors, including cider, chocolate, lemon-filled, raspberry-filled and more. It’s open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday until 5 p.m.

6. DONUT FRESH EXPRESS 112 Elm St., Milford, 672-0298 Located a two-minute drive from the Milford Oval on Elm Street, this donut shop offers its own drive-thru and in-house seating for breakfast. All donuts are made fresh every day; offerings include several types of old-fashioned varieties like chocolate glazed, cake donuts, French crullers and more. Look for the flavors of the month, like Hawaiian coconut or toasted almond, as advertised on its billboard outside. Donut Fresh Express is open seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

7. GOODY GOOD DONUTS 235 Union Ave., Laconia, 528-4003, find them on Facebook Goody Good Donuts reopened in 2014 in Laconia; it had previously been open in the city for decades. Popular flavors include the Bismarck donut filled with a black raspberry cream, the raised honey dip donut, the chocolate glazed, and the apple cider donuts, which are available year-round. Individual donuts are $1.25 apiece, or you can get a half dozen for $5.50 or a dozen for $11. It’s open Monday through Saturday 3 to 11 a.m., and Sunday until 10 a.m., or until whenever the donuts sell out for the day.

8. GOULD HILL FARM 656 Gould Hill Road, Contoocook, 746-3811, gouldhillfarm.com Gould Hill Farm has an onsite bakery where apple cider donuts are made fresh on weekends from Labor Day until just before the Christmas season. The donuts are prepared with apple cider produced from apples grown on the farm. The farm grows more than 80 varieties of apples.

9. STONEHOUSE BAKING CO.

P A I T N ?

O G

*†

Curamin IS YOUR ®

ANSWER!

*†

Experience Safe, Effective & Natural Pain Relief *†

“My patients are looking for relief from pain, so I recommend Curamin. I feel better knowing they are getting results without the side effects.”

–Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, MD**

746 Calef Highway, Barrington, 664-2307, stonehousebaking.com The Stonehouse Baking Co. makes more than 40 different varieties of donuts completely from scratch. Several popular flavors you might find throughout the year include toasted coconut, butter nut crunch, maple glazed, sugar and cinnamon and Boston crème.

The bakery also makes its own fritters and coffee rolls and offers several seasonal flavors like apple cider, gingerbread and molasses and blueberry. Several homemade flavors are also available on request, including the Elvis, which is a chocolate glazed donut made with peanut butter and bananas, and an apple cider maple bacon donut that is popular in the fall. Donuts are available for $1.19 each, for $3.39 per four, for $6.25 per half-dozen or $11.35 per dozen.

It’s open Monday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

On Sale Now

10. CIDER BELLIES DONUTS

Moulton Farm, 18 Quarry Road, Meredith, 707-9657, moultonfarm.com/cider-bellies-donuts Cider Bellies is known for its hot cider donuts made fresh every day. Donuts can be purchased individually in the store or can be ordered in larger quantities for special events or corporate outings. It’s open Friday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. open 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

We have thousands of products to support your health & well being.

Supplements • Natural specialty foods Bulk foods, herbs & spices Premium natural body care & more!

164 N. State St., Concord, NH (1 mile N. of Main St.) • 224-9341 † Occasional muscle pain due to exercise and overuse. All ingredients established in human studies for safety and effectiveness. Does not interfere with stomach, liver or kidney function. ** Member of the EuroPharma Scientific Advisory Board *THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT DISEASE.

114445

BEST CUPCAKES Satisfy your sweet tooth at any of these gourmet cupcake bakeries and shops, which have traditional flavors of cupcakes and several special themed flavors depending on the month and the season.

Many of these shops also offer custom-made cupcakes that are gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan.

24 BEST OF 2017 | BEST CUPCAKES

1. QUEEN CITY CUPCAKES BEST OF THE BEST

790 Elm St., Manchester, 624-4999, qccupcakes.com Queen City Cupcakes is a small family-run gourmet cupcake shop, making fresh batches every day. The shop changes its daily menu every week, but popular cupcake flavors include carrot cake, blueberry lemon cheesecake, Almond Joy, red velvet, peanut butter cup and Oreo. Cupcakes are available for purchase from the retail storefront and the shop also caters to special events like birthdays, graduations, baby and bridal showers, weddings and corporate functions. It’s open Tuesday to Friday 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday until 3 p.m., but may close earlier if the cupcakes sell out that day.

2. CARINA’S CAKES BEST OF MANCHESTER 38 Crystal Ave., Derry, 425-9620, facebook.com/carinas.cakes Everything baked at Carina’s Cakes is made fresh daily from scratch. Look for popular flavors of cupcakes and cakes like peanut butter cup, peppermint, mocha, strawberry shortcake, red velvet, chocolate chip cookie and more. Carina’s can make basic cupcakes for birthdays, more extravagant designs for weddings, and everything in between. Carina’s Cakes also won Best of Manchester for Best Desserts and Best Whoopie Pies.

3. CUPCAKES 101 132 Bedford Center Road, Bedford, 488-5962, cupcakes101.net There’s something for everyone at Cupcakes101, which prepares all of its cupcakes from scratch. Try any one of their five signature flavors: chocolate, chocolate marshmallow, peanut butter cup, red velvet and vanilla. If you’re feeling more ambitious, more than a dozen specialty flavors are also available, like 100 Grand, Almond Joy, chocolate-flavored potato chip and chocolate peanut butter Oreo. Cupcakes101 makes gluten-free cupcakes in a wide variety of flavors as well, like blueberry, carrot cake, chocolate and coconut.

Cupcakes are available for $2.75 individually or $30 per dozen.

It’s open Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday until 3 p.m.

5. BENSON’S BAKERY & CAFE 203 Central St., Hudson, 718-8683, bensonsbakeryandcafe.com Cory and Emily Boutin opened Benson’s Bakery & Cafe in January 2014. Its theme is derived from the nearby Benson’s Park, known as Benson’s Wild Animal Farm from 1924 to 1987, according to the bakery’s website, and memorabilia from the farm can be found throughout the shop. All cupcakes are made from scratch and filled with buttercream. Popular flavors include peanut butter, maple bacon, red velvet with a cream cheese frosting, vanilla raspberry and cookies n’ cream. Flavor options vary daily. It’s open Monday, Tuesday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday until 5 p.m., Friday until 6 p.m. and Sunday until 3 p.m.

6. THE BLUE MOOSE CAFE 20 Main St., Goffstown, 345-0479, bluemoosecafenh.com Alex Lapointe opened The Blue Moose Cafe in Goffstown after graduating from UNH Durham with a degree in marketing a few years ago. Alongside the cafe’s breakfast and lunch sandwiches, a large portion of the Blue Moose Cafe’s products are the more than 100 flavors of gourmet cupcakes baked from scratch. All cupcakes are hollowed in the center and filled with either frosting or a different kind of filling. Most of the cupcakes are made with mascarpone frosting, while others use buttercream. Try the Mounds cupcake, which is made with a thick chewy coconut filling and frosting on top, or a maple bacon cupcake made with maple cream frosting and caramelized bacon on top. Other new flavors include the cookie butter cupcake, made with crushed cookie butter and a peanut butter spread. Cupcakes are available for $4.50 each, $25 per half dozen or $45 per dozen. It’s open Tuesday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday until 1 p.m.

4. FREDERICK’S PASTRIES BEST OF NASHUA 109 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-7725, pastry.net Frederick’s Pastries started in 1980 when owner Susan Lozier Robert’s father, Frederick, opened a pastry shop in his family garage, baking original cakes, cupcakes and cheesecakes from scratch, according to the Frederick’s website. Today, Frederick’s has three locations, in North Andover, Mass., in Bedford and in Amherst, where it all got started. Look for fun themes to their gourmet cupcakes, like baseball, blowfish, the new “funfetti” cupcake and more. Special “cupcakes of the month” are also featured; past flavors have included carrot cake and mint chocolate chip. The Amherst shop is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday until 5 p.m.

All Best Cupcakes photos are of Queen City Cupcakes.

At right is employee Taylor Bussiere.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

BEST OF 2017 | BEST CUPCAKES 25

7. BUCKLEY’S BAKERY & CAFE

436 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, 262-5929, buckleysbakerycafe.com A team of full-time experienced bakers works under the direction of Michael Buckley to make fresh food from scratch, including baked goods like whoopie pies, cinnamon twists and cupcakes.

Prices range from $1.50 to $2.95, depending on the flavor. It’s open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Buckley’s won Best of Nashua for Best Desserts and Best Whoopie Pies.

8. THE CAKE FAIRY 114 Londonderry Turnpike, Hooksett, 518-8733, cakefairynh.com The Cake Fairy specializes in custom-made cupcakes, cakes and cookies. Flavors and prices of cupcakes vary every day, but you might find popular flavors like chocolate, red velvet, peanut butter cup and more. You can also get special themes done for your cupcakes, like for weddings or corporate events. Stop by or call the shop for information on the flavors of the day. It’s open Tuesday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

9. FREDERICK’S PASTRIES 25 S. River Road, Bedford, 647-2253, pastry.net The second of the New Hampshire pastry baker’s locations, this Frederick’s shop opened in July 2007 after it had been operating in Amherst for more than 20 years. They mix up the flavors of their cupcakes all the time and offer a rotating “cupcake of the month.”

The Bedford shop is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday until 5 p.m.

10. CLYDE’S CUPCAKES 104 Epping Road, Exeter, 583-4850, clydescupcakes.com Clyde’s Cupcakes makes them fresh every day and is known for its buttercream frosting. In addition to its retail shop, Clyde’s offers off-site catering for private events, corporate functions, weddings and more. Try their red velvet or chocolate cupcakes, or check back with them on certain days for special-themed flavors.

It’s open Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11. THE BAKESHOP ON KELLEY STREET 171 Kelley St., Manchester, 624-3500, thebakeshoponkelleystreet.com Located on the West Side of Manchester, The Bakeshop on Kelley Street offers a variety of cupcake flavors, frostings and fillings, including buttercream, carrot, cherry blueberry, chocolate cinnamon, coconut and more. It’s open Monday 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Friday until 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

26 BEST OF 2017 | BEST CUPCAKES

12. CUPCAKE CONSPIRACY

416 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, 262-5619, rcupcakeconspiracy.com The veteran-owned and run Cupcake Conspiracy is known as the only cupcake bakery in Merrimack, offering more than 120 flavors of custom-made cupcakes in fruity and chocolatey varieties. Gluten-free, dairy free and vegan options are also available for some of the flavors. Custom orders can be placed in person or by phone. Cupcake Conspiracy also makes its own cake pops to order.

13. CONCORD FOOD CO-OP BEST OF CONCORD 24 S. Main St., Concord, 225-6840, concordfoodcoop.coop Located on South Main Street in the heart the Capital City, the Concord Food Co-op uses all-natural ingredients in its bakery to make cupcakes, cookies, brownies and more. Flour is milled right here in New England, and butter and other dairy products are taken from local farms and farmer co-ops. Vegetarian, vegan and flourless options for cupcakes are also available. The flavors change all the time, with special monthly flavors that are showcased. It’s open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A second location is in New London (52 Newport Road).

Voted best of the best

Premium homemade ice cream since 1940

lassic c 0 6 Over specialty and vors! ! fla utter cup tb

stop by and visit our newly added playground!

YOGURT• LUNCHES • Hard & Soft Serve ICe cream 7 DW Hwy, So. Nashua | 11am to 9pm | HAYWARDSICECREAM.com

113946

eanu

Like P

114348

Outdoor Eats

Whether you’re eating a strawberry picked hours ago or a lobster roll constructed in front of your eyes, there is something special about enjoying tasty treats outside. New Hampshire has a vibrant farmers market scene, farm stands that fill with the best of the season and annual food-focused events that serve up deliciousness. Here are some of the places Hippo readers turn for local eats and outdoor treats.

BEST FARM STAND

Best of the Best: Lull Farm, 65 Broad St., Hollis, 465-7079, livefreeandfarm.com.

Best of Concord: Dimond Hill Farm, 314 Hopkinton Road, Concord, 496-8218, dimondhillfarm.com.

Best of Manchester: LaValley Farms, 1801 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 485-3541, lavalleyfarms.com.

Best of Nashua: Fitch’s Corner, 182 Center Road, Milford, 801-8368, find them on Facebook.

BEST FARMERS MARKET

Best: Concord Farmers Market. It began Saturday, May 6, and is open every Saturday into October from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Capitol Street, Concord Runner-up: Salem Farmers Market. It is open year-round every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 14 Main St., Salem, in the winter, and 224 N. Broadway, Salem, during the late spring, summer and early fall.

Honorable Mention: Bedford Farmers Market. It begins June 6 and is open every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. at 190 Meetinghouse Road, Bedford.

28 BEST OF 2017 | OUTDOOR EATS

BEST FOOD EVENT

Best of the Best: Hampton Beach Seafood Festival. With more than 150,000 annual attendees, it’s the largest seaside festival in New England and features seafood from more than 60 restaurants, plus family activities, according to hamptonbeachseafoodfestival. com. This year’s festival is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 8, through Sunday, Sept. 10, at Ocean Boulevard on Hampton Beach.

Best of Concord: Market Days Festival (which also won Best of Concord for Best Community Event), held in downtown Concord every summer, features food, shopping and free entertainment.

This year’s festival is Thursday, June 22, through Saturday, June 24. Hosted by Intown Concord, intownconcord.org.

Best of Manchester: Hippo de Mayo Taco Challenge (which also won Best of Manchester for Best Community Event), held in downtown Manchester, is the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in New England. Dozens of restaurants create their own unique tacos. Hosted by the Hippo, Hippo de Mayo takes place on the first Thursday in May. See hippodemayo.com.

Best of Nashua: Rock’n Ribfest. A celebration of ribs and barbecue food made by smokers and local restaurants. The festival, put on

by Rotary Club of Nashua West, also features live concerts, a road race, hot air balloon rides and more. This year’s event is scheduled for Friday, June 16, through Sunday, June 18, at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, 221 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack. Visit ribfestnh.

Love

your

acne scar treatment

Skin Again!

Laser Aesthetics | Body Contouring | Anti-Aging

permanent hair removal

We Want To Take Care Of You! Focus Laser Facials PicoSure Tattoo Removal Laser Hair Removal Obagi, Botox Services

Southern New Hampshire Premiere Laser Skin Care Center

COMPREHENSIVE, NON-INVASIVE, LASER AESTHETIC & ANTI-AGING TREATMENTS! ULTRASHAPE POWER

LASER HAIR GROWTH

Non-Surgical Fat Reduction & Body Contouring

FDA Approved Low Level Laser for all types of hair loss in men and women

VELLASHAPE III

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Non-Invasive, Non-Surgical, Fat & Cellulite Reduction, Body Shaping & Skin Tightening

Tattoo Removal

Comfortable, Effective & Long Lasting

OTHER SERVICES:

169 South River Rd. Ste. 2 • Bedford, NH • 603-232-7304 • LaserInkNH.com

114382

Laser skin rejuvenation

128 S. River Road, Bldg. C, Unit 4 | Bedford

603.637.1857 | ariyamedspa.com

114354

Botox, Dermal Fillers, Lip Injections, Anti-Aging Facials, Kybella, & Chin reductions

114481

BEST ICE CREAM Nothing says summer like a globe of high-quality ice cream emerging from the window of your neighborhood ice cream shop. Whether they make their own ice cream with New Hampshire-produced cream or they sell ice cream produced in neighboring New England states, area ice cream shops offer more flavors and combos than ever before.

30 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ICE CREAM

Unique Gifts Locally Crafted

1. HAYWARD’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM BEST OF THE BEST

New England Made or Inspired Gifts, Gourmet, Novelties, Jewelry, & More

7 Daniel Webster Highway, Nashua, 888-4663, haywardsicecream.com

Voted #1 sixteen years in a row!

669-4533

7 N. Main St., Concord, NH • 603-227-6297 Shop anytime at www.marketplacenewengland.com

114353

486 Chestnut St., Manchester

114067

Since 1940, Hayward’s has made superpremium ice cream while supporting local farmers throughout New England. It has been a family-owned and -operated business since opening, founded

by Charles P. and Fredericka Hayward and now owned by their grandson Chris Ordway. The ice cream is made using two Emery Thompson batch freezers that can pump out 60 gallons of ice cream per hour (see photos on p. 34). In addition to selling ice cream at the window, with flavors like cookie dough brownie or purple panther, Hayward’s retails half-gallon cartons of ice cream.

From April through August they’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. In September, October, February and March they’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. In the off season, from Black Friday until mid-December, they sell Christmas trees. And from late July through October, they sell fresh produce from Lavoie’s Farm in Hollis.

You can’t buy happiness but you CAN buy ice cream.

That’s sort of the same thing.

2. PURITAN BACKROOM BEST OF MANCHESTER 245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 623-3182, puritanbackroom.com

Ice cream photos are of Hayward’s Homemade Ice Cream.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

Open Daily Spring - Labor Day 44 Years of Sweet Memories!

We have 49 flavors of hard ice cream to choose from.

We have soft serve too!

Sundaes • Novelties • Parfaits • Hot Dogs • Nor’easters (28 varieties) 185 Concord St. Nashua • TheBig1icecream.com Find us on Facebook!

114503

Today, the Manchester institution of the Puritan Backroom is known for its popular sit-down restaurant, chicken tenders and mudslide cocktails (perennial winners of the Hippo Best Menu Item and Cocktail, respectively). But the 100-year-old landmark started as a candy store on Hanover Street, then an ice cream shop on Elm Street, before ending up at its current Hooksett Road location by 1969. The “front room” of the Puritan is still used for ice cream and takeout orders. Founded by Greek immigrants Arthur Pappas and his cousin Louis Canotas, the restaurant remains in the family.

Some of their favorite ice cream flavors include peanut butter cup, baklava and vanilla (made with premium vanilla extract). The dining room opens at 11 a.m. every day and stays open until 11 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday.

The front room is open from 8 a.m. every day and closing times change seasonally.

3. GOLDENROD RESTAURANT

5. MOO’S PLACE HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

1681 Candia Road, Manchester, 623-9469, goldenrodrestaurant.com

27 Crystal Ave, Derry, 425-0100, moosplace.com

Since 1951, this ice cream and seafood restaurant has served southern New Hampshire year-round. It has a traditional front parking and dining area for ice cream and other summer fare and is known for its affordable prices and generous serving sizes. It offers 37 ice cream flavors with favorites like chocolate peanut butter, graham cracker and black raspberry. Ice cream is served daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Restaurant hours are Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Moo’s serves super-premium ice cream made on premises, plus soft-serve. A family-owned business open since 2004, Moo’s offers a number of flavors and combinations not found anywhere else as well as cool slushes. It’s open daily from noon to 9 p.m. and until 10 p.m. during the summer. Its season runs from April 1 to Columbus Day.

6. BEECH HILL FARM AND ICE CREAM BARN 107 Beech Hill Road, Hopkinton, 223-0828, beechhillfarm.com

4. ARNIE’S PLACE BEST OF CONCORD 164 Loudon Road, Concord, 228-3225, arniesplace.com Founded in the summer of 1992 by owner Tom Arnold, Arnie’s has become a must-visit shop in Concord on the hottest days of summer. According to the company website, Arnold has a long history in the ice cream business. His father managed a Friendly’s in Massachusetts, and when he bought the Weeks ice cream shop in Concord, young Arnold would work for him. The building where Arnie’s is located was built in 1960 as a Dairy Queen. Arnold uses his own homemade ice cream recipes, some of which are 70 years old. Some of their popular sundaes include the Luv My Heath Bar and Black Forest, which uses dark chocolate ice cream. Arnie’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. It closes for the season in October.

32 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ICE CREAM

The ice cream barn features 75 flavors of New England-made premium ice cream made by Blake’s Creamery in Manchester as well as Richardson’s Farm in Middleton, Massachusetts.

Beech Hill offers distinctive flavors such as Graham Central Station, Green Monster and Jazzberry Java and has a makeyour-own-sundae bar with over 20 toppings to choose from.

Robert and Donna Kimball run the business and live in the ninth-generation historic family farm, which they renovated in the mid-1990s. The farm has an assortment of animals and family activities, as well as a country store. This year’s season began April 22 and the shop is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. In September it’s open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and in October from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

7. GRANITE STATE CANDY SHOPPE

13 Warren St., Concord, 225-2591; 832 Elm St., Manchester, 218-3885, granitestatecandyshoppe.com A third-generation family company founded in 1927, Granite State Candy Shoppe makes all of its ice cream using local cream produced at Contoocook Creamery, according to General Manager Tal Smith.

They offer flavors such as Blueberry Cheesecake, Merrimack Mocha Munch and New Hampshire Maple Pecan. Granite State Candy Shoppe has locations in downtown Concord and Manchester. The business was founded by Peter Bart, a Greek immigrant and the grandfather of the current owners, Mike and Jeff. They produce their own candy in the candy kitchen in Concord using many oldworld techniques. Both the store and the kitchen were renovated in 2004. They’re open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

BOOM!

8. JORDAN’S ICE CREAMERY 894 Laconia Road, Belmont, 267-1900, find them on Facebook.

A family-run business that makes a rotating selection of over 150 flavors of ice cream, Jordan’s is a Belmont favorite and now has a second location at Weirs Beach next to Funspot. At any given time they have 38 flavors — 25 permanent offerings and another 13 or so that frequently change. They make all the ice cream on premises in Belmont. Last year, the salted caramel crunch was a popular flavor, according to owner Craig Jordan, the son of Eric and Gail Jordan, who opened the shop in 1994. The hours vary but the shop is generally open 2:30 to 8 p.m. on weekdays during the spring at the Belmont location and weekends 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The store is open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer.

Do one thing... and do it the best!

ThankYou for years of greatness!

We’ve always kept our business simple: 1. Make great Mac & Cheese 2. Use the best ingredients 3. Make our customers happy 4. Repeat!

Stop in and let us thank you the only way we know how... With golden, delicious Mac & Cheese!

603-606-1760

Order Online!

mr-macs.com

We Have Gluten Free!

497 Hooksett Road, Manchester, NH 114220

9. BLAKE’S CREAMERY 353 S. Main St., Manchester, 669-0220, blakesicecream.com A storied Manchester institution, Blake’s was founded in 1900

by Edward Charles Blake and continues 117 years later with a creamery and two restaurants. The first restaurant on South Main Street was opened in 1963 and it produces its premium ice cream in a building behind the restaurant. Some of the favorite ice cream flavors include Graham Central Station, Happy Trails and Pure Maple Walnut. They produce over 80 flavors. The South Main Street restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

10. MEMORIES ICE CREAM 95 Exeter Road, Kingston, 642-3737, memoriesicecream.com Memories has made its own ice cream on premises since 1992.

According to the company website, it was founded by Walter and Karen Bragg, who renovated the old dairy barn building where Memories is located. Later, the business was bought by Marc and Patty Brown, who expanded the business with a wide variety of unique and traditional flavors. Finally, in 2014, the business was bought by its current owners, Steven and Dawn Padfield. Aside from a long list of traditional premium ice creams, they offer some seasonal favorites such as pumpkin, sweet potato souffle and honey lavender. Memories is open daily during the spring from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and during the summer from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

11. KING KONE BEST OF NASHUA

336 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, 420-8312, find them on Facebook Open since 1972, King Kone has been a family-friendly favorite in the area selling affordable and generously portioned soft-serve ice cream, according to owner George Soffron. They offer nine flavors: vanilla, chocolate and chocolate vanilla twist, plus six other rotating flavors. King Kone is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. In the summer, the shop closes at 10 p.m. every day.

12. THE BIG 1 185 Concord St., Nashua, thebig1icecream.com A family-friendly establishment open for more than 44 years, The Big 1 was purchased by Marcel Lemay in 1973 and was sold to his sister-in-law Pat Lemay 10 years later, according to the company website. Marcel’s niece Jeanne Marquis and her husband Gary bought the shop in 1998. Their ice cream is from Richardson’s Farm in Middleton, Massachusetts. They offer 49 flavors including coffee kahlua brownie, German chocolate cake and Maine Black Bear, as well as a selection of sundaes, parfaits and light fare. The Big 1 is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

At left, Emery Thompson uses batch freezers to pump out ice cream at Hayward’s.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

34 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ICE CREAM

Industry Experts Agree…

BEST IN NH – BEST IN THE WORLD!

Simply the Best Best of the Best can help you with:

a big

Thank You! from * Wholesales * Fundraising * *Corporate Gifts * Private Labels* *Wholesale Ice Cream* Best of the Best can help you with:

* Wholesale * Fundraising *

At Fuller’s Sugarhouse we personally taste and approve every batch of our maple syrup and candy.

Visit us in Lancaster or shop online. For a list of retailers near you visit our website.

113828

* Corporate Gifts * Private Labels * * Wholesale Ice Cream *

Fuller’s Sugarhouse & Country Store 267 Main Street Lancaster, NH 877-788-2719

Wedding Favors | Corporate Gifts | Supplies for Maple Production

Order online at www.FullersSugarhouse.com

13 Warren Street • Concord, NH 832 Elm Street • Manchester, NH

GraniteStateCandyShoppe.com

113824

114501

13. THE INSIDE SCOOP

15. JOHNSON’S SEAFOOD AND STEAK

260 Wallace Road, Bedford, 471-7009, theinsidescoopnh.com

1334 Route 4, Northwood, 942-7300, eatatjohnsons.com

The Inside Scoop serves premium ice cream from Richardson’s Farm in Middleton, Massachusetts, as well as soft-serve ice cream that is peanut- and egg-free. Current seasonal flavors include banana and coconut. In addition to their more than 30 flavors, they serve breakfast sandwiches, muffins and freshly baked bagels and croissants, plus hot coffee, iced coffee and a selection of espresso drinks. They are open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 7:30 to 9 p.m.

With about 40 ice cream flavors, Johnson’s dairy bar is just as popular as its restaurant. Johnson’s gets its ice cream from Gifford’s in Maine. Some of the more popular flavors are cookie dough and purple cow frozen yogurt. They’re open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Hours may change during the summer.

14. STILLWELLS ICE CREAM 160 Plaistow Road, Plaistow, 382-5655, find them on Facebook With ice cream from Richardson’s Farm in Middleton, Massachusetts, Stillwells offers popular flavors like blueberry pie and seasonal flavors like peach in the springtime. Hours may vary but the shop is generally open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday noon to 9:30 p.m. In the summer it’s open until 10 p.m. on weekends.

36 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ICE CREAM

f f ees & o c c i n t a e g Fair Trade & Shade Grown

CUP OF COFFEE IN NASHUA 114465

114380

603.578.3338 • AERoastery.com • 135 Route 101 A, Amherst •1000 Elm St, Manchester

114484

VOTED BEST

as

or

Visit & Shop Our

BEST SALADS Eating healthy has never been easier. Here are 10 local places where you can get a great salad.

The possibilities for toppings are endless, from grilled chicken, shrimp and steak to fresh fruits and candied walnuts.

38 BEST OF 2017 | BEST SALADS

1. LIVE JUICE BEST OF THE BEST

3. PRESSED CAFE BEST OF NASHUA

5 S. Main St., Concord, 226-3024, livejuicenh.com

108 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, 718-1250, pressedcafe.com

Live Juice opened in 2013. All veggies used to make their salads are grown from farms in and around Concord, like Kearsarge Gore Farm in Warner, Brookford Farm in Canterbury and several others. Popular salads on the menu include a Cobb salad, a Greek salad, an Asian salad and a Caesar salad, but you can also build your own salad for $6.75. The building process includes choosing your own greens, vegetables, grains, fruits, premium toppings and even your own dressing.

It’s open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

All salads offered at the Pressed Cafe in Nashua are fresh and made to order. More than a dozen salad options are available, like the Mediterranean kale salad, the Cobb salad and the traditional Greek salad. Add-on options to any salad include protein, grilled chicken or tuna for $2.50 per salad. It’s open Sunday through Wednesday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday until 10 p.m.

2. PURITAN BACKROOM BEST OF MANCHESTER 245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 669-6890, puritanbackroom.com Salads at The Puritan Backroom Restaurant are available in small and large sizes, and prices differ depending on the type — there’s Greek, Caesar, spinach and more. For additional costs, you can also add salad “enhancements,” like cottage cheese, chicken tenders, steak tips and more. The Puritan is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until midnight. The Puritan also won Best of Manchester for Best Restaurant for Kids and Best Ice Cream and the Best of the Best for Best Menu Item for its chicken tenders.

4. THE TUCKAWAY TAVERN & BUTCHERY 58 Route 27, Raymond, 244-2431, thetuckaway.com The Tuckaway Tavern & Butchery has only been around since 2012, but the origin of its salads goes back much further. In fact, head chef Bobby Marcotte got his start in the restaurant business creating salads at the ripe age of 14. You can try either a classic grilled chicken Caesar salad, a farmer’s Cobb salad topped with cucumbers, chopped eggs, bacon and cheddar cheese, and a cider spinach salad with sugar almonds and an apple cider dressing. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. The Tuckaway Tavern also won Best of the Best for Best Restaurant Overall and Best Butcher Shop, and Best of Manchester for Best Steakhouse, Best Burgers and Best Macaroni and Cheese.

All Best Salads photos are of Live Juice. Above, (L) Aryn Marsh, Live Juice owner, and Dean Beliveau, general manager.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

BEST OF 2017 | BEST SALADS 39

5. THE PIZZA MAN 254 W. River Road, Hooksett, 626-7499, thepizzamandelivers.com The Pizza Man offers a variety of salads including tossed, tuna, Greek, an antipasto salad, and its popular cranberry walnut chicken salad, topped with fresh iceberg lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, green peppers, carrots and black olives with your dressing of choice. It’s open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday until 10 p.m., and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. The Pizza Man is also located at 850 E. Industrial Park Drive in Manchester.

The Pizza Man also won Best of Manchester for Best Take-Out Pizza and for Best Dine-In Pizza.

7. DOWNTOWN CHEERS GRILLE & BAR BEST OF CONCORD 17 Depot St., Concord, 228-0180, cheersnh.com Downtown Cheers Grille and Bar has been serving the Granite State’s Capital City for more than 20 years. Popular salads include the Mediterranean salad, the bistro salad (made with sliced strawberries and candy walnuts) and the southern fried chicken salad, which is made with a hard-boiled egg, bacon and a honey mustard dressing. You can enhance your salad by choosing from nearly a dozen kinds of dressings, as well as adding shrimp, salmon, chicken, steak or tuna on any that don’t already have a meat topping. It’s open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

6. GIOVANNI’S ROAST BEEF AND PIZZA 207 Rockingham Road, Londonderry, 434-9021, giovannis.biz Giovanni’s has been in business since 1989. A variety of salads are available like garden, Greek, turkey, buffalo chicken and more. You can also get kabob-style grilled chicken on your salad with pita bread, and an option to add feta cheese for an extra $1. Giovanni’s is also located in Nashua (14 Broad St.), Hudson (1 Industrial Drive), Manchester (379 S. Willow St.), Hooksett (209 W. River Road) and Salem (141 Main St.).

40 BEST OF 2017 | BEST SALADS

8. THE BARLEY HOUSE 132 Main St., Concord, 228-6363, thebarleyhouse.com Located in downtown Concord, The Barley House offers a variety of house-made salads that include a roasted butternut squash with sweet potato vinaigrette dressing, a king Cobb with diced chicken, blue cheese and avocado vinaigrette, an apple, craisin and walnut salad and much more. You can also enhance your salad with additions like spicy shrimp, grilled chicken, grilled portabella or salmon. It’s open Monday through Saturday 11 to 1 a.m. The Barley House is also located in North Hampton (43 Lafayette Road). The Barley House also won Best of the Best for Best Burgers and Best of Concord for Best Restaurant Overall, Best Beer Selection, Best Pub and Best French Fries.

9. 900 DEGREES NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA 50 Dow St., Manchester, 641-0900, 900degrees.com Ingredients in the salads made fresh at 900 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria are taken from local farms across New Hampshire.

Try their 900 signature salad, which is available as a side dish for $6 or a larger main entree for $9. It’s made with organic greens, caramelized red onions, dried cranberries, honey roasted walnuts and a creamy balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

There’s also a new chicken walnut cranberry salad prepared over microgreens and served with warm pita bread. With any salad, you can add marinated chicken breast for an extra $4 or wood-roasted tiger shrimp for $6. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. 900 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria is also located in Epping (24 Calef Highway). 900 Degrees also won Best of the Best for Best Dine-In Pizza.

10. THE BRIDGE CAFE 1117 Elm St., Manchester, 647-9991, thebridgecafe.net All salads prepared at The Bridge Cafe on Elm are made to order and served with a side of bread. Popular options include the Caprese, made with tomatoes, basil leaves, fresh pesto and balsamic vinaigrette dressing, and the Titanic, which includes romaine, turkey, ham, bacon, egg, onions, croutons, carrots and ranch dressing. You can make any salad a wrap or add chicken to any salad for $2 extra. It’s open seven days a week 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Your Garden Destination Center

Eyewear for the merely

extroverted

StoneFalls Gardens

t o t h e t o ta l ly

uninhibited 10 acres with over 50,000 Annuals, Perennials, Trees and Shrubs! Over 1,000 Mature Shrubs, Vines and Trees, Ornamental, Weeping, Flowering and Fruit Bearing!

Our own Compost, made on site and 100% Bark Mulch and Loam available for pick up or delivery along with Expert Advice and Design Consultation.

We believe the future of luxury is the discovery of brands beyond the obvious.

Come, Be Inspired and Grow Well!

Mention this ad for your Complimentary potted Herb!

StoneFalls Gardens

184 StoneFalls Road Henniker, NH | 603.428.6161 Follow signs off Route 202/9 stonefallsgardens.com

204 Main St., Downtown Nashua 603.880.6700 | www.myoptic.net 113826

114498

BEST NEW EATERY From a juicery and a creperie to gastropubs and farm-to-table restaurants, New Hampshire welcomed many additions to its growing restaurant scene last year. Here are 10 new local eateries readers recommend you check out.

42 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NEW EATERY

1. GALE MOTOR CO. EATERY BEST OF THE BEST 36 Lowell St., Manchester, 232-7059, galemotoreatery.com Gale Motor Co. opened in early April 2016, with its name paying tribute to the car dealership located in the Lowell Street building in 1927. The eatery is known for its craft beer and wine selection, intriguing cocktails like the vanilla latte martini and the chili rye Manhattan, and bar stocked with homemade bitters, simple syrups and cocktail infusions. Its culinary fusion menu takes inspiration from a variety of cuisine styles and includes primarily tapas and shareable plates like duck confit dumplings and spicy pulled pork tacos, as well as salads, 10-inch pizzas and some entrees like acorn squash ravioli and cavatelli bolognese. Gale Motor Co. Eatery is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. In April of this year, it opened a second location called the Gale Motor Co. Pitstop at Mel’s Funway Park in Litchfield.

Best New Eatery photos are of Gale Motor Co. Eatery.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

A BETTER YOU MAKES A BETTER US

American Bead Collection Stonewall Kitchen Simon Pearce • Byers’ Choice and much more!

FOR A BETTER US. The Granite YMCA | www.graniteymca.org

fortingage.com 603-882-3371

Goffstown | Londonderry | Manchester | Portsmouth | Rochester

114676

86 W. Pearl St. Nashua, NH 114548

Be sure to stop in and see our unique gift lines!

As a member of The Granite YMCA, you are part of a diverse organization of men, women, and children joined together by a shared commitment to strengthen our community through youth development, heatlhy living and social responsibility.

Learn how your membership can make us— as individuals and a community— better.

For a better you. For a better community.

At right, Sam Fletcher, bartender at Gale Motor Co.

2. REVIVAL KITCHEN & BAR BEST OF CONCORD 11 Depot St., Concord, 715-5723, revivalkitchennh.com Chef Corey Fletcher opened Revival in January 2017 as a fine dining farm-to-table restaurant, creating classic New England and Old World dishes with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features small plates like marinated New Hampshire mushrooms and bacon-wrapped scallops with a New Hampshire maple ginger glaze; large plates like farm rabbit and roasted delicata squash; a New England cheese selection; wine and specialty cappuccinos; and desserts and dessert cocktails. In the 2017 Hippo readers’ poll, Fletcher was named the Best of Concord Best Chef, and Revival waiter Bill Wishart was named the Best of Concord Best Waiter. Revival is open Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m.

44 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NEW EATERY

3. THE BIRCH ON ELM BEST OF MANCHESTER 931 Elm St., Manchester, 782-5365, thebirch.restaurant Opened last September by bartender Joel Soucy and chef Nick Provencher, Birch on Elm brings a rustic and intimate vibe to its urban location on Elm Street, seating fewer than 50 people among its New Hampshire-inspired wooden decor. The concise tapasstyle menu features unique seasonal dishes like fried kalamata olives and grilled octopus, as well as bottled and canned craft beer, wine, and craft and classic cocktails prepared with freshsqueezed juices and homemade elixirs and syrups. The Birch on Elm is open for dinner service Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and for brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

4. BAR ONE | BEST OF NASHUA 40 Nashua St., Milford, 249-5327, facebook.com/baronenh Bar One opened as a women-owned and -operated gastropub last June, offering Southern comfort food and contemporary tavern cuisine, centered around seasonally inspired cocktails. The menu includes soups and salads; creative burgers, flatbreads and sandwiches; popular small bites like the chicken and waffles, duck confit poutine and a decked-out charcuterie board; unique signature cocktails and a variety of local craft beers on tap. In Hippo’s Best of 2017, Bar One’s chef Kimmy Lavoie was named the Best of Nashua Best Chef. The restaurant is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

114443

5. TUCKER’S 80 South St., Concord, 413-5884, tuckersnh.com Tucker’s opened its third location in Concord in early May 2016. The menu features organic, locally sourced and gluten-free breakfast options like skillets and scramblers, Benedicts, omelets and specialties like the Tucker’s Frittata and the Tuckito’s Breakfast Queso; and lunch options such as sandwiches, salads, grilled cheese and chili, wraps and soups. Tucker’s also offers all-natural fresh fruit smoothies, coffees and teas, including specialties like the chunky monkey smoothie and the matcha green tea latte. In Hippo’s Best of 2017, Tucker’s in Concord was named the Best of Concord Best Breakfast and Best Restaurant for Kids. It’s open daily for breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tucker’s also has locations at 1328 Hooksett Road in Hooksett and 207 Main St. in New London, and a fourth Tucker’s is set to open this June at 238 Indian Brook Road in Dover, according to a press release.

6. GIORGIO’S RISTORANTE & BAR 270 Granite St., Manchester, 232-3323, giorgios.com Giorgio’s opened its third location in Manchester last August, serving the same Italian and Greek cuisine as the restaurant’s first two locations at 524 Nashua St. in Milford and 707 Milford Road, Merrimack. The menu features a raw bar, Greek specialties like chicken souvlaki and Papa Alex’s braised lamb shank, fine Italian pastas, grilled pizzas, steaks, Giorgio’s classics such as the six-cheese ravioli and seafood Florentine, desserts like baklava ice cream and chocolate cannoli and more. There is also a wide selection of wines, beer and cocktails, including Giorgio’s special sangria and the popular espresso martini, made with Giorgio’s secret blend. Giorgio’s is open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with dinner served all day; and Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with lunch served until 4 p.m.

7. THE LITTLE CREPERIE 138 N. Main St., Concord, 856-7807, thelittlecreperienh.com The Little Creperie was opened in May 2016 by two friends, Christina Hoppe and Melina Ambargis, to give people working in downtown Concord a new food option for breakfast and lunch.

The menu features sweet and savory waffles and crepes, many of which are seasonal and made with local ingredients. Popular picks include The Favorite crepe, made with banana and Nutella, the Funfetti waffle and waffled mac and cheese. For drinks, there’s locally roasted and cold brew coffee, hot and iced tea and mimosas on the weekend. The Little Creperie is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

8. AISSA SWEETS CAFE 128 Hall St., Unit H, Concord, 856-8735, aissasweets.com Aissa Sweets, a small business selling Middle Eastern desserts and pastries out of Concord, expanded with a new cafe last November. Owned by Syrian natives Ahmad and Evelyn Aissa, the cafe offers savory phyllo wraps like beef kebab and chicken shawarma, made with Aissa Sweets’ signature phyllo dough; other Middle Eastern specialties like meze dips and fresh rolls; soups, coffee and tea, including house-made kombucha, and Aissa Sweets’ signature baklava and stuffed date cookies. The cafe is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

46 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NEW EATERY

9. ROOTS CAFE & CATERING AT ROBIE’S COUNTRY STORE 9 Riverside St., Hooksett, 485-7761, rootsatrobies.com Married couple and veterans of the restaurant business Josh and Amber Enright opened Roots Cafe inside the historic Robie’s Country Store last March, serving breakfast and lunch with a farm-to-table focus. The menu features breakfast items like signature scramblers and omelets, benedicts, breakfast sandwiches and wraps, pancakes and French toast and breakfast classics and specialties like the turkey skillet and the homemade pork pie; and lunch items like soups, specialty salads and signature wraps and sandwiches like the dill lemon tuna and Roots reuben. Along with the dine-in cafe, the space houses a kitchen store and catering business and hosts community events. Roots also has a farm-to-table dinner club which includes monthly dinners prepared with local ingredients.

10. MILK & HONEY JUICERY + CAFE 889 Elm St., Manchester, 420-9308, milkandhoneymanchester.com Milk & Honey opened in early February, serving organic and vegan juices, smoothies, breakfast bowls and more from a concept menu inspired by the colors of the rainbow. A different color is featured each day with samples of that color’s juice. Juice flights with three different juices are also available. In addition to its main menu, Milk & Honey offers locally roasted coffee and local tea with house-made non-dairy milks including almond, cashew, tiger nut and hemp milk; and sweeteners including agave, local maple and honey. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

L eave the cooking to us!

WE HAVE IT ALL AT

Fresh, Delicious & Homemade

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Daily Food & Drink Specials

Live Music Friday, Saturday & Sunday!

Blues Jam Every Sunday • 3pm-7pm Check out our Taverntainment

Texas Hold Em’ League • Play for free every Thursday night Two games nightly at 6:30pm & 8:30pm • Buzztime Gaming Tablets

Your frien dly neighborhood tavern BAR

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK!

25 Main St. Goffstown Village • VillageTrestle.com • 497-8230

114440

323 Derry Rd, Hudson | 886-3663 | www. HudsonNorthSideGrille.com HOURS: MON–THUR & SAT, 6AM-10PM • FRI, 6AM-11PM SUN, 7AM-3PM

114510

Last Sunday of Every Month

BEST NH HARD LIQUOR New Hampshire is known for its state-run liquor stores, but it’s also a place where world-class, awardwinning spirits are distilled. The Granite State is the home of a growing collection of micro-distilleries, which produce whiskeys, rums, gins and vodkas using Old World techniques and local ingredients.

48 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NH HARD LIQUOR

1. FLAG HILL WINERY & DISTILLERY | BEST OF THE BEST 297 N. River Road, Lee, 659-2949, flaghill.com The first distiller to set up shop in the Granite State since Prohibition, Flag Hill offers a variety of spirits, from its General John Stark Vodka and award-winning Karner Blue Gin (both made from distilling local apple cider) to its first-in-thestate two-year-aged straight bourbon whiskey. Its newest product is its straight rye whiskey, made with 85 percent rye and 15 percent malted barley. It’s double pot distilled and aged for two years in an open climate rickhouse. Flag Hill uses a hybrid pot and column still designed by Christian Carl. When current owner Brian Ferguson bought the business five years ago, he had plans to leverage his background in distilling to pivot the company toward producing more hard liquors at what had traditionally been more of a winery. Ultimately, he hopes liquors will make up 80 to 90 percent of the business, with an increased share of ingredients being locally grown and a strong emphasis on aged spirits.

2. STARK BREWING CO. DISTILLERY, STARK VODKA | RUNNER-UP 500 Commercial St., Manchester, 625-4444, starkbrewingcompany.com Stark Brewing Co. has been brewing local beer at its millyard brew pub (formerly Milly’s Tavern) for years. Recently the business expanded to retailing canned beers and bottled spirits. The first liquor to be released by Stark, in September 2016, was its Stark Vodka. According to owner Peter Telge, the spirit made a splash in the local market, selling record numbers of bottles during tastings at liquor stores.

He said they sold 42 bottles in two hours at the Bedford store, which was nearly double the previous record. The vodka is made with two-row grain, the same as the beer made at Stark Brewing. The wort is also made with the same yeast as the beer. It’s distilled seven times and filtered twice through charcoal. The result, Telge said, is an almost vanilla-like sweetness. Stark is working on aging its small-barrel bourbon right now. Telge said the bourbon should be out by mid-May 2017.

Best NH Hard Liquor photos are of Flag Hill Winery & Distillery. Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

This stuff is made in NH and is sooo Good.

Available at all nhlc stores and at your local watering hole.

Have it Neat, on the rocks or mix it. recipes at rockypeakspirits.com

35% Alc/Vol (70 proof) DRINK RESPONSIBLY

ROCKY PEAK

S M A L L B AT C H

HARD CINNAMON ORED WHISKEY C I N N A M O N F L AV

MP SH IR E MA DE IN NE W HA

ire in really Made in New Hampsh ches really small bat 114665

3. DJINN SPIRITS DISTILLERY HONORABLE MENTION 2 Townsend West, Suite 9, Nashua, 262-1812, djinnspirits.com Opened in 2013, Djinn Spirits (a play on the original name for a genie in a bottle) makes gin, whiskey and a Polish spiced honey liqueur called a krupnik. The first spirit it brought to market was a white whiskey, unaged and clear. It then produced a vaporinfused gin, which has a yellow coloration due to the rarely used process. Djinn’s Beat 3 Reserve whiskey is aged in small 20-liter barrels to accelerate the aging process and bottled at 90 proof.

The krupnik is made from D’s Busy Bees honey in Amherst and other traditional spices like peppercorn. Djinn is one of only a few places in the U.S. that makes krupnik. Recently, Djinn released the state’s first single-malt whiskey under the Beat 3 title. It’s aged in 15-gallon barrels. The company is owned by husband-and-wife team Andy and Cindy Harthcock.

4. ICE PIK VODKA Produced in North Hampton, icepikvodka.com Founded in 2015, Ice Pik Vodka is one of the newest liquors to arrive on the local scene. The company’s brand manager, Sean Corbett, is a Maine native. A project of Shipyard Brewing, Ice Pik is distilled by Plaice Cove Spirits, the contract distilling arm of Sea Hagg Distillery in North Hampton. It’s a corn-based vodka, distilled eight times to make what the company calls a “clean crisp” experience perfect for handcrafted cocktails. And it’s naturally gluten-free. It’s been on shelves since January 2016, according to Corbett.

5. ROCKY PEAK HARD CINNAMON WHISKEY Produced in North Hampton, rockypeakspirits.com Rocky Peak Spirits first released its Hard Cinnamon Whiskey in summer 2016. Now it’s one of New Hampshire’s top-selling craft spirits, said Jody Reese, a partner in the venture (also publisher of the Hippo and this magazine). It’s produced at Sea Hagg Distillery in North Hampton under its contract manufacturing arm Plaice Cove Spirits. Rocky Peak uses all-natural cinnamon, Madagascar vanilla and a touch of rye, Reese said.

6. TAMWORTH DISTILLING 15 Cleveland Hill Road, Tamworth, 323-7196, tamworthdistilling.com Tamworth Distilling was founded in 2015 by Steve Grasse, the marketing mind behind international successes like Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Hendrick’s Gin and the Art in the Age organic liqueurs. So far, this distillery, which Grasse hopes to model after agricultural distilleries and use as a test kitchen to find the next best spirit, has produced four gin varieties using things like hops, honey, wildflowers and spruce. Recently, Tamworth Distilling came out with Camp Robber Whiskey, named after one of the nicknames for the North American Gray Jay. It’s made with 16-month aged bourbon made from organic corn and rye mixed with apple brandy and apple cider.

50 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NH HARD LIQUOR

Award Winning

Burger & Best Beer Selection

W

Y

Y

R U N N I N G !

ers Picks

Y E A R S

Read

R

Hippo Best of 2014

der s P icks

Local Favorite our

s

s

of the Best 2013

48 beers on tap!

INNE

Rea

Local Favorite our

7

BEST OF THE BEST

114620

Hippo Best of 2015

Read

ers Picks

Over 700 selections of beer, cider and mead with friendly and knowledgeable proprietors.

Join us for Tastings

(Tuesdays & Fr ida from 4:30-7:3 ys 0pm) Join us for Tuesday Tastings (most tuesdays 4:30-7:30pm)

1100 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, NH | 603.413.5992 | BertsBetterBeers.com (Rake exit 9N off I-93 to NH-28/US-3, located in Community Plaza) 113920

Voted Best Beer Selection - Manchester 2017

tues–tHu 11am–11pm | FRi & sat 11am-12am suN 11am–10pm 1292 Hooksett Rd, Hooksett, NH 603-782-5137 | www.tapHouseNH.com

114606

7. SMOKY QUARTZ DISTILLERY

9. FABRIZIA SPIRITS LIMONCELLO

894 Lafayette Road, Seabrook, 474-4229, smokyquartzdistillery.com

2 Industrial Way, Salem, 458-1745, fabriziaspirits.com

Founded in 2014, Smoky Quartz produces four flagship labels (plus a fifth only available at the distillery) all made with certified organic corn grown in the Northeast. Its products include Solid Granite Vodka, Granite Lightning Moonshine, Granite Coast Rum and V5 Bourbon. All products are made in a 300-gallon still with Monadnock Mountain Spring Water from Wilton. The V5 Small Batch Bourbon #1 was the winner of the 2016 American Craft Spirits Association’s Silver Medal. It’s aged in 15-gallon white oak barrels and bottled at 90 proof. The newest product is Granite Coast Anejo Barrel Aged Rum, which is only available at the distillery. It’s made with Grade A molasses and aged in the same barrels used to age the V5 bourbon.

Smoky Quartz was named after the state gemstone and founded

by Iraq War veteran Kevin Kurland.

Founder and co-owner Phil Mastroianni was first inspired to make limoncello for fun after visiting Italy and meeting with longlost relatives, according to the company website. After a family member told him it was the best limoncello he’d ever tasted, Mastroianni decided to make a business of producing top-quality limoncello. Today, Fabrizia’s limoncello and blood orange liqueurs are entirely homemade and produced in small batches. The team adds lemon rinds to grain alcohol or high-proof vodka and leaves it for 40 days before mixing it with simple syrup.

8. SEA HAGG DISTILLERY

135 Lafayette Road, Unit 9, North Hampton, 379-2274, seahaggspirits.com With a variety of rums and other distilled spirits, Sea Hagg has made a name for itself in the state as one of the go-to distilleries for local craft spirits. Opened in 2013, Sea Hagg uses open fermentation and distills its liquors in a copper alembic pot still, which allows flavors to remain in the spirit. Its rums are made from U.S.-made molasses and inspired by the local history of making rum in the New Hampshire Seacoast and exporting it to places like the Caribbean. Some of the rums use locally grown strawberries, blueberries and peaches. The company was founded by owner Heather Hughes and distiller Ron Vars. In April, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission named Sea Hagg the New Hampshire Distillery of the Year.

52 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NH HARD LIQUOR

10. NEW ENGLAND SWEETWATER FARM & DISTILLERY 136 Main St., Winchester, 852-8356, newenglandsweetwater.com Emerson College film professor Robert Spruill and his brother Joshua opened the New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery using 50 acres of property inherited from their mother and the jukejoint hooch-making skills of their grandfather. They boast being the first distillery to open in Cheshire County since Prohibition.

Their products include the Clark & Chesterfield American Single Malt Whiskey, their bourbon under the same label, Monadnock Moonshine, King Fish Gold Rum, Ashuelot Gin and Ashuelot Vodka.

The vodka is triple distilled from an apple and potato mash. All their spirits are distilled from a custom-made combination mash tun stripping still with 50-gallon and 100-gallon pot stills.

Start Here. . . Go Anywhere!

Award Winning Brewery

Find your pathway at NHTI. Whether it’s directly into the workforce, or to continue your education at a 4-year college or university, we have over 80 academic programs to help you find your path.

• Affordable • Accessible • Transfer Opportunities • Full Campus Experience

nhti.edu

114304

hippomag14_17

Custom Menus Showcase your menu and food variety with durable, synthetic, long lasting menus!

• Durable, Synthetic Soft Polyester Stock & Glossy 100lb Brilliant White Stock • Various Size and Quantities Available • 8.5”x11,” 11”x17,” Tri-fold & Take-out • Full-Color Printing Available • Fast Production time

Featuring 20

Handcrafted Beers On Tap! Exceptional Dining & Panoramic Views of Mt. Kearsarge

Proudly serving several local farms & grass fed meats.

Proud winner of the Best Regional Restaurant & Best Burger hippo prints 49 Hollis St., Manchester, NH 03101 • 603-625-1855 • printing@hippopress.com

NH’s First Solar Powered Brewery Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily | FlyingGoose.com | 603.526.6899 40 Andover Road, New London, NH 114363

Night on the town

You don’t have to drive an hour for a fun night out.

Whether you want to hear music, enjoy a few pints or share an evening with that special someone, there are lots of great spots to make a night on the town memorable. Here are a few of the nightlife locations that our readers like best.

BEST PUB

Best of the Best: The Shaskeen, 909 Elm St., Manchester, 6250246, theshaskeenpub.com Best of Concord: The Barley House, 132 N. Main St., Concord, 2286363, thebarleyhouse.com (The Barley House also has a location at 43 Lafayette Road in North Hampton) Best of Manchester: The Wild Rover, 21 Kosciuszko St., Manchester, 669-7722, wildroverpub.com Best of Nashua: The Peddler’s Daughter, 48 Main St., Nashua, 8217535, thepeddlersdaughter.com

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC

Best of the Best: The Shaskeen, 909 Elm St., Manchester, 6250246, theshaskeenpub.com Best of Concord: True Brew Barista, 3 Bicentennial Square, Concord, 225-2776, truebrewbarista.com (It also has a location inside Concord’s Gibson’s Bookstore at 45 S. Main St.)

BEST BAR WITH OUTSIDE DECK

Best of the Best: The Derryfield Restaurant, 625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 623-2880, thederryfield.com (The deck opens when the adjacent golf course is open — typically in April, when the ground is dry.)

Best of Concord: Downtown Cheers Grille & Bar, 17 Depot St., Concord, 228-0180, cheersnh.com (It opens when the weather warms up.)

Best of Manchester: Murphy’s Taproom, 494 Elm St., Manchester, 644-3535, murphystaproom.com (The deck opens when the weather is consistently warm.)

Best of Nashua: The Pasta Loft, 241 Union Square, Milford, 672-2270, pastaloft.com (Its deck opens once the snow has melted. Pasta Loft also has another location in Hampstead at 220 E. Main St.)

BEST DATE PLACE Best of the Best: 815 Cocktails and Provisions, 815 Elm St., Manchester, 782-8086, ivotewet.com

Best of Manchester: Strange Brew Tavern, 88 Market St., Manchester, 666-4292, strangebrewtavern.net

Best of Concord: Angelina’s Ristorante Italiano, 11 Depot St., Concord, 228-3313, angelinasrestaurant.com

Best of Nashua: Riverwalk Cafe & Music Bar, 35 Railroad Square, Nashua, 578-0200, riverwalknashua.com

Best of Manchester: Mint Bistro, 1105 Elm St., Manchester, 625-6468, mintbistronh.com

(Above) The Shaskeen. Photo by Sid Ceaser Photography.

54 BEST OF 2017 | BEST NIGHT LIFE

Best of Nashua: Stella Blu, 70 E. Pearl St., Nashua, 578-5557, stellablu-nh.com

MOre Than A

Come Shop With Us!

Garden Center

Grasshoppers’ will inspire

you with beautiful flowers, hanging baskets, trees, vegetables, herbs, ideas and help with landscaping.

Clothing Furniture Housewares

Not to mention our Gift Shop is filled with seasonal, fresh and locally grown produce, home decoratives & accents as well as classes!

113825

All proceeds help support Families in Transition, a nonprofit that provides affordable housing & services to homeless families & individuals in NH. www.fitnh.org

728 River Road • New Boston, NH • 603.497.5788 • grasshoppersgardencenter.com

394 Second St., Manchester, NH 20 South Main St., Concord, NH

Feel awesome Boost Your ProductivityWe have lots of products to promote clarity, focus, memory and sleep support.

Weight LossSupplements and meal replacers to maximize your efforts and weight loss specific proteins, fibers and probiotics.

WWW.OUTFITTERSNH.ORG OUTFITTERSNH

114585

WE ARE HERE TO HELP WITH PRODUCTS TO SUPPORT YOUR happy, healthy life

Improve Your MoodWe have lots of options to help with winter blues, mood and stress support.

Boost Your NutritionFeel great and round out your diet with multi-vitamins and powdered greens.

Impressive selection of protein smoothies & meal replacers.

Athletic PerformanceGive your body what it needs: protein bars & powders, products to help with energizing, endurance and recovery.

Supplements • Specialty foods • Bulk foods, herbs & spices • Premium body care & more!

224-9341 • 164 N. State St., Concord, NH (Just 1 mile N. of Main St.) Open Everyday

114666

BEST CLOTHING STORE Sometimes, you just want to go shopping. You want to try things on, and you want salespeople to tell you you look good. (Or to be honest and say, “Try this instead.”) Luckily, New Hampshire houses plenty of places to snag great finds, no internet scouring required. Most importantly, they’re run by shop owners and stylists who want you to look good as much as you do.

56 BEST OF 2017 | BEST CLOTHING STORE

1. GONDWANA & DIVINE CLOTHING CO. | BEST OF THE BEST 13 N. Main St., Concord, 228-1101, clothingnh.com Pam Peterson opened Gondwana in 1995, naming it after the supercontinent that existed millions of years ago. The hope was to send a message that the business honors a diversity of styles and cultures. Today, Peterson runs the store with her co-owner daughter, Amanda Perkins. They sell unique clothing in a variety of styles, from flowy fabrics to bold graphics, with representation by more than 100 designers from the U.S. and overseas. Most items are made with natural fibers. Popular items this season include peekaboo styles, sheer fabrics, florals and pieces that play with proportion. They take pride in clothing women of all sizes and offer personal styling services to everyone from career women to mothers of the bride.

2. ALAPAGE | BEST OF MANCHESTER 25 S. River Road, Bedford, 622-0550, alapageboutique.com Lisa Gavin started the contemporary, upscale women’s boutique in June 1989 within a small 800-square-foot space selling accessories.

Today, the Bedford shop is 4,000 square feet and offers an assortment of clothing, jewelry, accessories and gifts, plus a “jeans bar” that contains an extensive selection of premium denim styles.

Gavin scours New York clothing markets before choosing the clothes, which she said offer cutting-edge styles made with quality but that are still comfortable and can fit in less urban lifestyles. Popular items include tops and dresses with small details, off-the-shoulder cuts and high-waisted denim. Customers get one-on-one advice in the store; some have been shopping here since its start.

ELEGANCE

All Best Clothing Store photos are of Gondwana & Divine Clothing Co. At right is co-owner Amanda Perkins.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

Bellmans Makes

DAVID H. BELLMAN, G.G.

1650 Elm Street Manchester, NH 603-625-4653 www.bellmans.com facebook.com/bellmanjewelers 114341

114143

Compassionate, Client-Centered Independent Health Care

3. GEORGE’S APPAREL 675 Elm St., Manchester, 622-5441, georgesapparel.com Guess what — men want to look good too, and that’s what George’s Apparel is for. The downtown Queen City business offers more than 75 years of experience, and customers can rent or buy full suits with all the bells and whistles, from dress pants and sport coats to outerwear and, according to the website, 100-percent silk New Hampshire ties (which come in five different colors). Purchase something here and you’re guaranteed free onsite alterations.

Services We Provide:

Family Planning/ Birth Control • Miscarriage Management Surgical and Medication Abortions • LGBTQ Services • Men’s Sexual Health STI Testing and Treatment • Transgender Health Care Including Hormone Therapy HIV Testing/Prevention including PReP and PEP

38 S Main St • Concord, NH 03301 • 603-225-2739 • www.equalityhc.org

114351

178 Main St., Nashua, 821-9888, freshofnashua.com

Voted Best of Concord Independent Clothing Store

The intimate 1,000-square-foot upscale women’s fashion boutique turns 9 this year. The shop is right on Main Street in downtown Nashua and sells clothes and accessories, from denim to specialoccasion. Trending now are spring dresses and hues like fuchsia and royal blue. Its owner, Cheryl Plunkett, has a tech background but started the business because running a boutique had been a lifelong dream; she chooses the clothes she sells carefully, taking note to feature a diversity of styles made from quality fabrics that require little care. Customer service is a high priority, and once in a while she hosts girls’ nights with wine, sparkling water and appetizers.

Thank You To All Who Voted!

114630

5. INDIGO BLUES & CO. BEST OF CONCORD 902 Main St., Contoocook, 660-9290, indigobluesandco.com Indigo Blues & Co. opened its doors in October 2012 as a small jeans boutique, curated to highlight jewelry and belts from Concord designer Molly Brandt. It’s come a long way since its original 296-square-foot space; today, the business, owned by LeeAnne Vance, contains high-end brands and clothing that looks good with jeans, from city chic to boho, athleisure to classic, plus hats, bags and shoes. Style is important, but inventory sticks to tried-and-true silhouettes. It’s settled in a quaint location, next to the world’s oldest covered train bridge and down the hill from Gould Hill Farm.

6. M&C CLOTHING AND GIFTS 135 Route 101, Amherst, 886-6727, mothersays.shoprw.com M&C (Mother and Child) Clothing and Gifts got its name from the original products owner Karen Goddard sold when she first started the business in 1990 — gently worn baby and maternity clothes. But the selection grew as the store grew, and 10 years ago it began buying and selling clothes for adults. Today visitors will find lightly used clothes for men, women, teens and kids from brands like Gap and J. Crew at secondhand prices. This year Goddard also opened RePlay Sporting Goods Consignment, which is under the M&C umbrella. It’s located a few doors down and sells clothes and equipment for dance, karate, equestrian, gymnastics, baseball, lacrosse, hiking, camping — you name it.

M&C also won Best of the Best Secondhand Store.

114379

902 Main Street In the village of Contoocook IndigoBluesandCo.com

4. FRESH OF NASHUA BEST OF NASHUA

7. STATEMENT BOUTIQUE 34 Hanover St., Manchester, 315-7627, statementbtq.com Statement Boutique is an upscale shop in the heart of Manchester specializing in chic and contemporary garb from European and North American designers, sizes 4 to 20. Owner Andrea Lessard started the business six years ago, having previously owned a store a few doors down, Shop Estella; she felt there was a need for a downtown women’s clothing shop. When curating inventory, she looks for “easy” pieces that don’t wrinkle and are unique but classic. The best-selling pieces are easy to wear, like those made from stretch jersey material, and funky accessories.

8. ACOPIO GOODS 19 Main St., Goffstown, 384-1639, acopiogoods.com Acopio means “gathering” or “a collection” in Spanish, which describes this Goffstown shop very well — it’s got all sorts of beautiful tokens to wear and use, and everything inside is for sale, even the furniture, including chairs, hutches, tables, dressers, benches and end tables. There are all kinds of clothes and accessories — shirts, dresses, pants, skirts, scarves and jewelry, sourced from New York, Vermont and Peru. The old building that houses the shop is original to the town, and you can still see its old beams, which add to the vintage, eclectic vibe of the place.

Discover New Hampshire’s Creative Side

Pa t

Pal s

on

Best Selection of US Made & Imported MOTORCYCLE APPAREL

August 5 - 13, 2017 Mount Sunapee Resort Newbury, NH Open Daily 10 am–5 pm

Upscale Women’s Fashion Apparel & Accessory Boutique Located in Downtown Nashua.

Info & Tickets: nhcrafts.org

SHOP OUR 8 FINE CRAFT GALLERIES Ctr Sandwich, Concord, Hanover, Hooksett, Littleton, Meredith, Nashua, North Conway

VISIT THE CRAFT CENTER & GALLERY

NH’s Best Biker Shop

Check out our latest exhibition and The Permanent Collection Pottery by Cathy & David Robinson

Voted Best Independent Clothing Store (603)-821-9888• 178 MAIN STREET NASHUA

114483

IN THE GREATER NASHUA AREA 9 YEARS IN A ROW!

VISIT WWW.NHCRAFTS.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

49 S. Main St, Suite 100 • Concord, NH

coats | vests | chaps | accessories

Funded in part by the State of NH 113823

94 South Road, Deerfield, NH | (603) 463-5591 deerfieldleathers.com 114069

9. BRAVO BOUTIQUE

With Over 100

DESIGNER COLLECTIONS

Personal Styling

38 N. Main St., Concord, 223-6622, bravoboutiquenh.com This downtown shop was established in November 2010 by A.J. Silva but is now owned by Tina Smith, who’s been running the place the past four years. Inside are everyday fashions plus a large selection of special-occasion dresses, including evening gowns, mother-of-the-bride or -groom dresses, prom dresses, pageant gowns and jackets, plus accessories like jewelry and handbags. Smith researches the latest styles in New York and L.A. while determining the line each year, with the goal of ensuring inventory is in style but at the same time one-of-a-kind.

IS OUR SPECIALTY

10. MARILISA’S FASHION 55 Crystal Ave., Derry, 260-6182, marilisas-fashion.myshopify.com Marilisa’s sells shoes, tops, dresses, bottoms, jewelry and accessories in sizes small to 3XL, for the most part with price tags of $60 or less. Founders wanted to fill the retail clothing void in Derry, and today it’s run by Elizabeth Rivera, who plans on opening several new locations in southern New Hampshire in the coming years. Popular items now include sundresses and maxi dresses.

BEST OF THE BEST

11. BENTON SHOE CO. 814 Elm St., Manchester, 644-2550, bentonshoeco.com

GONDWANA & DIVINE CLOTHING CO. 13 N. MAIN ST. CONCORD divineclothingcompany.com • OPEN 7 DAYS

Dr. Larry Puccini Completes UCLA Sleep Medicine Program And will now use his expertise to treat patients with sleep related breathing disorders, primarily Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) & Snoring.

"OSA, is a medical condition that significantly increases the risk for hypertension, heart attack, stroke and death and must be diagnosed by a physician." Said Dr. Puccini, " I want to work with area physicians and patients who may benefit from an oral appliance or who are seeking an alternative to other types of therapy, such as CPAP." In addition to examining for oral cancer and dental disease, we now screen every patient for the presence of primary snoring and possible sleep apnea. If OSA is suspected, we refer them to their primary physician for a diagnosis. If appropriate, an oral appliance may be prescribed.

Dr. Puccini is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry in Cleveland, Ohio. He is a general dentist with a special interest in implant, cosmetic dentistry and sleep medicine. He and his wife, Dr. Susan Roberge, have owned and operated their dental practice in Bedford for over 30 years.

If you or someone you love snores, ask Dr. Puccini if an oral appliance may be right for you. info@snordoc.com | PucciniDentalSleepMedicine.com 505 RIVERWAY PLACE, BEDFORD, NH • 603.624.4344 114607

George Benton established Benton Shoe Co. in Cambridge in 1922.

Today, it remains a family business, and the Queen City location is run by third generation Susan Baroff, who opened it in 1992. The shop contains an eclectic assortment of clothes and accessories for customers looking for unique, high-quality items with equally attractive price tags. Inventory is changing all the time, but Baroff said customers don’t seem to mind; they’re much more willing to try something new and broaden their horizons than they used to be. Benton Shoe Co. also won Best of Manchester for Best Independent Shoe Store.

Making Wishes Come True!

Jewelry by Iverson.

Goldsmiths Gallery, LLC

Fine Jewelry in Sterling Silver, Gold & Platinum

We will Custom Make Your Jewelry; Repair and Redesign on the premises with few exceptions.

2 Capital Plaza, 57 North Main Street | Concord, NH | 603-224-2920 Gallery hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm | Saturday 10am-4pm |

Who says it’s hard to find a good primary care doctor?

Goldsmiths-Gallery

114385

Best Salon, Best Spa & Best Stylist 6 Years Running.

Daniel Daniel Rosenbaum, MD

Rosenbaum, MD Bedford Office: 160 South River Rd. Bedford, NH

We are Daniel accepting Rosenbaum, MD new patients in each office

James James Fitzgerald, MD

Fitzgerald, MD Bedford Office: 160 South River Rd. Bedford, NH

James Fitzgerald, MD

Our awards drive our passion!

Lydia Lydia Bennett, MD

Bennett, MD Bedford Office: 160 South River Rd. Bedford, NH

Lydia Bennett, MD

DO

Call for an appointment at 603-537-1300, or visit DerryMedicalCenter.com

3/7/17 1:47 PM 114070

3/7/17 1:47 PM

Salon

225-0099 - 18 Pleasant St., Concord SalonKConcord.com 113827

BEST BOOK STORE/COMIC BOOK STORE

If you’re stuck on what to do this weekend, check out your local bookstore. In the Granite State, these shops are best described as literary or pop culture community centers, selling carefully curated selections of novels, picture books, comic books, games, cards and even records. Come for the programming (poetry readings, author events, festivals, game nights) or to hang out, with luxury seating or food and coffee for when you get hungry. Take that, Amazon.

1. GIBSON’S BOOKSTORE BEST OF THE BEST

45 S. Main St., Concord, 224-0562, gibsonsbookstore.com The state’s largest independent bookstore was founded in 1898 and is in the heart of downtown Concord. It plays host to author events almost every week in addition to storytimes, poetry readings and book club meetings, but people also hang out here because of its on-site coffee shop, the True Brew Cafe.

2. THE TOADSTOOL BOOKSHOP BEST OF NASHUA 614 Nashua St., Milford, 673-1734, toadbooks.com In addition to regular author events, Milford’s Toadstool Bookshop is home to a variety of clubs and discussion groups, like the Science Fiction and Fantasy discussion group, the Young Critics Club and Socrates Cafe. Visitors will also find occasional themed dinners served by the chefs at the on-site Bookside Cafe.

(Above) Gibson’s Bookstore.

Photo by Sid Ceaser Photography.

62 BEST OF 2017 | BEST BOOK STORE/COMIC BOOK STORE

3. DOUBLE MIDNIGHT COMICS & COLLECTIBLES BEST OF MANCHESTER 245 Maple St., Manchester, 669-9636, dmcomics.com This Manchester shop puts the pop in pop culture, selling an assortment of products, including comics, graphic novels, games and playing cards, and hosting a variety of different events, including the Granite State Comic Con and Free Comic Book Day. Pop culture enthusiasts meet here all the time for programming, like the recently established LGBTQ game night and Wonder Woman Day, which is June 2.

4. MAINSTREET BOOKENDS BEST OF CONCORD 16 E. Main St., Warner, 456-2700, mainstreetbookends.com MainStreet BookEnds owner Katharine Nevins considers the Warner shop a community bookstore, most obviously through the nonprofit that acts as an outgrowth of the business, MainStreet Warner Inc., which supports the Jim Mitchell Community Park surrounding the bookstore; together, they host author events, gallery art shows, festivals, film screenings, concerts and an assortment of other kinds of community gatherings. It also boasts being the second bookstore in the country to go solar.

5. THE TOADSTOOL BOOKSHOP 12 Depot Square, Peterborough, 924-3543, toadbooks.com The original of the three Toadstool Bookshops opened in 1972 and contains inventory inspired by customer suggestions, from national bestsellers to books written by local authors, plus a used book selection and a contemporary vinyl selection, which owner Willard Williams said is becoming extremely popular. Most weekends are filled with author signings.

#Happ yUp

selection of gifts, the most interesting and unusual accessories in & ing cloth ique bout , cards greeting n Regio s the Lake

6. DOUBLE MIDNIGHT COMICS & COLLECTIBLES 67 S. Main St., Concord, 715-2683, dmcomics.com The Concord shop, which celebrates its fourth birthday in 2017, is almost identical to Manchester’s comic shop, except that it’s 2,000 instead of 4,000 square feet and hosts more intimate events, like Magic the Gathering game nights.

7. NEONBOMB 260 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 505-8098, neonbomb.com NeonBomb has been in Manchester four years, but it recently moved to a space twice the size of its original spot at 2,400 square feet. Visitors will find comic books, board games, video games, card games, Manga, Japanese imported games and Japanese snacks. It also frequently hosts socials featuring games like Dice Masters, Dungeons & Dragons and Pokemon.

8. WATER STREET BOOKSTORE 125 Water St., Exeter, 778-9731, waterstreetbooks.com The Seacoast’s largest independent bookstore is housed in a Main Street 19th-century brick building in the heart of downtown, with exposed brick walls and a reading nook that overlooks the river running behind the shop. It plays host to author events (which have featured townies like Dan Brown and Joe Hill) plus a monthly open mike called the Ferguson Reading Series.

598 Main St Laconia, NH 603.455.8008 | TheStudioNH.com

114457

114356

For Every Book, An Ideal Reader... ...And For Every Reader, An Ideal Book!

9. JETPACK COMICS 37 N. Main St., Rochester, 330-9636, jetpackcomics.com This comic book shop fuels the largest Free Comic Book Day festival in the state and carries comic books, card and board games and programming for pop culture fanatics. It recently expanded its game room, allowing space for more and larger events.

10. THE COMIC STORE, NASHUA 115 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua, 881-4855 There are comic books and pop culture nuggets for customers of all budgets here, with about 100 boxes of $1 books. In addition, it sells mainstream comics, T-shirts and pop culture figurines, and boasts a recently expanded gaming selection.

11. INNISFREE BOOKSHOP

This 25-year-old bookstore is in the Mill Falls MarketPlace and sells books, toys, games and cards.

Concord’s Indie Bookstore since 1898.

45 South Main St., Concord, NH | 603-224-0562 | gibsonsbookstore.com

114342

Mill Falls Marketplace, 312 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 279-3905

BEST ART IN A PUBLIC SPACE One surefire way to add distinction and culture to a place is to infuse it with public art. City planners know this — it’s why Concord’s new Main Street was designed with almost a dozen spaces for public art installations — and so do business owners, who’ve been known to go out of their way to splash art on their office or restaurant walls. Here in New Hampshire, you’ll find art in all sorts of interesting places, from decorated pianos placed on busy street corners to alleyways covered with paintings of cats.

64 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ART IN A PUBLIC SPACE

1. DOWNTOWN CONCORD | BEST OF THE BEST

The newest downtown mural is the Haley Rae Martin mural on the Main Street CVS, which was created by Greater Concord high schoolers last spring in honor of a teen who died of an overdose.

Also new to downtown are two sculptures — one bronze piece by Beverly Benson Seamans of a boy marveling at a turtle near Live Juice, and a granite gate sculpture by Murray Dewart near The Works Bakery Cafe. This June, a sculpture of John Gilbert Winant will be installed in front of the New Hampshire State Library.

Other notable public art installations include a mural by former MacArthur Fellow David Carroll in Bicentennial Square; a sculpture

by Gary Haven Smith on the State Library lawn; and a tree gate sculpture by Dimitri Gerakaris in Eagle Square.

2. DOWNTOWN NASHUA | BEST OF NASHUA downtownnashua.org/live/cultural-groups The Gate City is perhaps the most decorated town in the state, from the Yankee Flyer Diner mural, recently restored by James Aponovich on Main Street, to “Vivian’s Dream,” a massive 35-by-40-foot piece depicting the Tremont Hotel in 1909, painted by Barbara Andrews in 2014 and visible from the TD Bank parking lot. Nashua obtains new public art every year, courtesy of art organizations like Positive Street Art, which organizes urban art programming for kids, and City Arts Nashua, which heads the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium each spring. The most recent significant addition includes the new mural on the side of The Lannan Company building featuring scenes from flicks like It’s a Wonderful Life and The Blob. This May, citygoers will also see the return of three downtown painted street pianos, plus 10 decorated kitchen tables placed in various locales, part of the Comeback Kitchen Table project.

3. CURRIER MUSEUM OF ART | BEST OF MANCHESTER 150 Ash St., Manchester, 669-6144, currier.org The state’s premier art museum has a lot to see both inside and outside the building. Before you walk through the main entrance, you’ll see four sculptures on the grounds: “Fusion II,” a stainless steel piece by George Sherwood, “Thank You Silence” and “Bench #XIII,” both by Gary Haven Smith, and “Origins,” a bright red and black piece

by Mark di Suvero. The museum itself contains permanent pieces (paintings, decorative arts, photos, sculptures, including works by Picasso, Monet, O’Keeffe and others) and rotating exhibitions — which right now include “Deep Cuts: Contemporary Paper Cutting,” on view through May 21, and “Soo Sunny Park: BioLath,” on view through Aug. 6. The museum also offers tours of the Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned Zimmerman House, plus workshops and classes. There’s free admission for New Hampshire residents the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon, according to the website.

4. REPUBLIC CAFE 1069 Elm St., Manchester, 666-3723, republiccafe.com Most of the art in this downtown cafe is by its co-owner, Claudia Rippee, who used to teach photography in the New Hampshire Institute of Art’s Community Education program. About half the pieces depict graffiti in New York City, and the other half are jellyfish photos taken at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which she visits frequently while wine-tasting in California for the restaurant. Rippee is also a founding member of ArtFront, a new organization in Manchester dedicated to making art more accessible and fun in the Queen City.

(At Left) “A Moment in Time” by Beverly Benson Seamans on South Main Street in Concord. Photo by Sid Ceaser Photography.

Strengthening NH’s Workforce

Over 2,800 successful graduates of our program have received a National Career Readiness Certificate and a Community College WorkReadyNH Certificate. Look for WorkReadyNH on your job applicants’ resumes.

WorkReadyNH is a tuition-free program tailored to developing the essential workplace skills your employees need. community college

In partnership with

system of New Hampshire www.ccsnh.edu

Offered at NH’s Community Colleges, WorkReadyNH helps participants develop essential workplace skills including: critical thinking and decision making, teamwork, effective communication and applied math.

WorkReadyNH (WRNH) is a partnership between CCSNH, the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development and the NH Department of Employment Security and is funded through the NH Job Training Fund.

CCSNH is an equal opportunity employer, and adaptive equipment is available upon request to those with disabilities.

LEARN MORE! Visit ccsnh.edu/WorkReadyNH or call (603) 230-3534

114386

5. MANCHESTER CITY HALL One City Hall Plaza, Manchester, manchesterartscommission.org The Manchester Arts Commission manages the program “Art on the Wall at City Hall,” in which local artists display work in the historic Manchester City Hall, which sees thousands of visitors each week. In May and June, it features art by students in the New Hampshire Institute of Art’s Youth Arts Lab’s B.R.I.N.G.I.T. program, plus pieces made by kids at the Inti Academy in an exhibition, “Our City: Manchester Through Children’s Eyes.” In July and August, City Hall hosts the National Arts Program Exhibit showcasing art by city employees and their immediate family members.

6. CAT ALLEY Dean Avenue, Manchester Cat Alley is technically on Dean Avenue, but the address to the opening is 836 Elm St., next to Lala’s Hungarian Pastry.

The alleyway contains paintings of cats evoking the lives of Manchester workers painted by several local artists, including Peter Noonan, Dei Xhrist, Emily Drouin and Peg Lipin, among others. The endeavor started as a mural contest initiated in honor of the Palace Theatre’s rendition of Cats in 2009, but it wasn’t until 2011 that the murals went up, thanks to effort by a number of individuals and organizations.

(Left) Sculpture by Chance Anderson in Bicentennial Square, Concord.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

66 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ART IN A PUBLIC SPACE

We Give You a Reason to SMILE! We invite you to see why we have been named a Top Dentist in New Hampshire Magazine since 2005 & ‘Friendliest Dentist’ in the Hippo Press since 2012.

11 Years Running

Thank you Friends, Clients and Hippo Readers Experienc e New Float Therapy!

Zoom® Whitening • One-visit Crowns Invisalign® Clear Braces • TMD Treatment

Looking for the perfect gift for that special someone? Look no further than Serendipity Day Spa! Pamper them with a gift card toward any of our spa services or book an appointment for yourself.

Local Favorite our

Facials • Massage • Pedicures Manicures • IPL Hair Removal Organic Spray Tan • Float Studio

s

Call us: 603-669-6131

222 River Road, Manchester • NewHampshireSmileDentistry.com

Y

You deserve the Best from the Best!

Hippo Best of 2015

Read

ers Picks

114643

23 Sheep Davis Rd (Rte. 106) Concord | 229-0400 | SerendipityDaySpa.com

114347

114381

Clockwise from the top left, Franklin Pierce, Daniel Webster, John Parker Hale and General John Stark. Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

7. STOCKBRIDGE THEATRE

Pinkerton Academy, 44 N. Main St., Derry, 437-5210, stockbridgetheatre.com The theater is probably one of the state’s most-used high-school auditoriums outside of student events. In addition to housing performances by the Pinkerton Players, it sees concerts by the New Hampshire Philharmonic, plays by theatre Kapow and events like the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Competition, in addition to plays and concerts by touring companies and musical groups.

The building also acts as an art gallery for high school students.

68 BEST OF 2017 | BEST ART IN A PUBLIC SPACE

8. SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY 2500 N. River Road, Manchester, 629-4622, snhu.edu The university houses the McIninch Art Gallery in Robert Frost Hall, which was completed in April 2001 and celebrated its first show in February 2002. It features numerous exhibitions each year and is open to the public while school is in session. Scattered around the campus are 11 rotating outdoor sculptures by New England artists, which you can view all day, any day. Maps are available at the gallery, and viewers can also experience the sculptures via cell phone audio tours. The biggest piece is “Downpour” by Aaron Stephan, which was commissioned by the school and stands in front of the Shapiro Library.

9. ANDRES INSTITUTE OF ART

98 Route 13, Brookline; visitor/art center building at 106 Route 13, Brookline, 673-8441, andresinstitute.org

Peterborough Players Present...

The Andres Institute of Art, on Big Bear Mountain, spans 140 acres and is lined with hiking trails and spotted with more than 80 thought-provoking sculptures created by artists participating in the Andres Institute of Art International Sculpture Symposium, which occurs every fall. It all started in 1996, when engineer and innovator Paul Andres purchased Big Bear Mountain, built a house near its peak and sought sculptures to surround his new home — which is how he came in contact with artist John Weidman.

Together they conceptualized the symposium, which brings international artists to Brookline to create new work. This past year, the institute acquired the former Big Bear Lodge, now the Andres Art Center. Guided tours are every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. during the month of May.

10. CONCORD ARTS MARKET BEST OF CONCORD Bicentennial Square, Concord, concordartsmarket.net This juried outdoor artisan and fine art market occurs most Saturdays June 3 through Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Concord’s Bicentennial Square. Shoppers will find a variety of goodies here, like paintings, jewelry, photography, fiber arts, greeting cards, ceramics — the list goes on. Katy B. Solsky founded the Concord Arts Market in the fall of 2008, and today it’s run

by Kitty Stoykovich. This organization also presents Giftopolis in conjunction with Concord’s Midnight Merriment festivities each holiday season.

11. GREELEY PARK ART SHOW Greeley Park, 100 Concord St., Nashua, nashuaareaartistsassoc.org The Greeley Park Art Show is the biggest event of the year for the Nashua Area Artists Association, and also the oldest, with the 64th occurring Saturday, Aug. 19, and Sunday, Aug. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. The event involves local artists sprawling out and showing off their stuff (mostly fine art) in Greeley Park and participating in two art competitions — one for adults, one for artists ages 6 to 18. The event also includes raffles and painting programs for kids, which help raise scholarship money for young artists. It typically draws thousands of visitors.

12. MEREDITH SCULPTURE WALK Downtown Meredith, greatermeredithprogram.com/sculpture-walk Meredith is home to 32 sculptures by New England artists that are part of the Meredith Sculpture Walk, on view through June; at that time, organizers from the Greater Meredith Program switch out 22 of the pieces to make room for new work. The nonprofit has been running the endeavor for three years now, but it also sees cooperation from the community in the form of sponsorships and high school shoveling crews cleaning the pieces during winter months. Brochures are available online, as are details about the artists and the pieces, but you can also see the work via docent tours in the summertime.

2017

Summer Season June 21-September 17 • 9 plays in 13 weeks 7 Main Stage and 2 Plays for Audiences of All Ages

The Whipping Man

By Mathew Lopez Arsenic and Old Lace

By Joseph Kesselring The Producers

By Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan Wittenberg

By Davis Davalos

Constellations

By Nick Payne Arsenic and Old Lace

By Joseph Kesselring The Doctor’s Dilemma

By George Bernard Shaw Comedy Tonight!

Featuring Jane Condon

84 Years of Theatre on Hadley Road “American summer repertory theater at its most accomplished.”

- The Wall St Journal

55 Hadley Rd, Peterborough, NH • 603-924-7585 For more information on the entire season visit PeterboroughPlayers.org 114446

FAVORITE FARM

From fresh produce to family fun, here’s a taste of what your favorite New Hampshire farms have to offer.

Many have farm stands with a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as meats, dairy items, baked goods and New Hampshire-made products like maple syrup, honey and hard cider. Some farms also have handson activities like animal petting areas, fall corn mazes and pick-your-own opportunities. Since growing seasons vary year to year depending on the weather, be sure to check the farms’ websites and social media pages for current information.

1. LULL FARM | BEST

4. APPLE HILL FARM

65 Broad St., Hollis, 465-7079, livefreeandfarm.com

580 Mountain Road, Concord, 224-8862, applehillfarmnh.com

Lull Farm features a farm stand with a variety of fruits and vegetables, pick-your-own opportunities in the summer and fall, a cheese counter and a bakery. It has an additional farm stand at 615 Route 13 in Milford, open April through January.

Apple Hill Farm offers pick-your-own berries in the summer and a wide variety of apples in the fall. Its farm stand is open August through November with peaches, apples and homemade apple products, baked goods and local vegetables, cheeses, bacon and wine.

2. SUNNYCREST FARM | RUNNER-UP

5. LAVALLEY FARMS

59 High Range Road, Londonderry, 432-7753, sunnycrestfarmnh.com

1801 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 485-3541, lavalleyfarms.com

Sunnycrest Farm has a farm market with fresh produce and local honey, syrup and milk, a bakery, pick-your-own opportunities in the summer and fall, and farm animals that visitors can pet and feed.

LaValley Farms features a farm stand with a variety of produce, baked goods, syrup, honey and other New Hampshire-made products. It also has a farm cart at 2180 Candia Road in Manchester, open mid-June through September with produce for sale.

3. J&F FARMS | HONORABLE MENTION 108 Chester Road, Derry, 437-0535, jandffarms.com J&F Farms includes a farm stand with fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, baked goods and other New Hampshire-made products for sale, plus pick-your-own opportunities, a petting farm and fall corn maze.

70 BEST OF 2017 | FAVORITE FARM

(Above) The cows at Lull Farm.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

6. WILSON FARM

144 Charles Bancroft Highway, Route 3A, Litchfield, 882-5551, wilsonfarm.com Wilson Farm’s farm stand is open May through October and has more than 100 varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs over the course of the season.

7. WORK SONG FARM 124 Beech Hill Road, Hopkinton, 219-0297, worksongfarm.com Work Song Farm offers fresh herbs, flowers and a variety of vegetables including mixed greens, squashes, heirloom tomatoes, peppers, cabbages, broccoli and Brussels sprouts during its summer and fall growing seasons.

8. BROOKFORD FARM 250 West Road, Canterbury, 742-4084, brookfordfarm.com Brookford Farm has a farm stand with meats, eggs, raw milk, cultured dairy products, cheeses, vegetables and artisan breads for sale.

9. MACK’S APPLES 230 Mammoth Road, Londonderry, 434-7619, macksapples.com Mack’s Apples features a farm stand open mid-August through early spring with fresh produce, baked goods and local farm products like milk, eggs, cheese, honey and more; pick-your-own apples and pumpkins in the fall; and ice cream from April to midSeptember.

10. MOULTON FARM 18 Quarry Road, Meredith, 279-3915, moultonfarm.com Moulton Farm has a farm market open early spring through December with fruits and vegetables, cheeses and dairy products, meats, seafood and bakery products. There is also a garden center, a fall corn maze and farm-to-table dinners and brunches in the summer.

11. BEECH HILL FARM 107 Beech Hill Road, Hopkinton, 223-0828, beechhillfarm.com Beech Hill Farm is open late April through October and includes a country store and bakery with a variety of local products, a Gardener’s Barn and Potting Shed, a fall corn maze, farm animals and an ice cream barn with more than 75 flavors.

12. DEVRIENDT FARM 178 S. Mast St., Goffstown, 497-2793, devriendtfarm.com Devriendt Farm offers an ice cream stand and farm stand with a variety of flowers, plants and produce from May through October.

The farm reopens after Thanksgiving with Christmas trees and wreaths for sale.

BEST OF 2017 | FAVORITE FARM 71

BEST LOCAL HIKING TRAIL New Hampshire is a hot spot for all kinds of outdoor activities. Check out these popular walking trails and state parks for your next hiking, fishing or biking adventure.

72 BEST OF 2017 | BEST LOCAL HIKING TRAIL

1. MINE FALLS PARK BEST OF THE BEST

Whipple Street, Nashua, 589-3400, ext. 5005, nashuanh.gov This 325-acre park has become one of the most instantly recognizable staples of the Gate City. It is bordered by the Nashua River and the city’s Mill Pond and canal system and features eight miles of walking trails, forest, open fields and wetlands.

Park visitors can also enjoy boating, fishing, biking and several other organized sports. The park gets its name from when the island below the falls was mined for lead, as far back as the 18th century. It’s open seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

2. LAKE MASSABESIC BEST OF MANCHESTER Route 101, Exit 2, Bypass 28, Manchester, 624-6444, manchester.gov This lake covers more than 2,000 acres within the city of Manchester and the nearby town of Auburn, and even provides the Queen City and some surrounding communities with their drinking water. Trails along the lake range from a half mile to more than three miles in length and provide stunning views of the water and the surrounding forests.

(Left) Mine Falls Park (Right) Sheryl and Lenny Myers.

Photos by Emma Contic of Contic Creative.

55+

THE WHITE MT. CENTRAL R.R.

Ask the expert

Your personal 55+ Real Estate Advisor

ILy A FAM

E THEM pARk

Membership is Golden

There are...

BEAR SHOWS TRAIN RIDES

Waterfront Home Experts and Luxury Home Experts

Now there is the...

At Red River Theatres, movie-goers get more than a ticket stub.

and

55+ Home Expert

Membership at Red River Theatres means discounted tickets, engaging community film discussions, and even free popcorn!

WOLFMAN

There are over 145 communities in NH designated 55+.

Visit www.my55homenh.com to see where they are.

AnAcondA EscApE Water ride!

For more membership details, and to sign up, go to:

redrivertheatres.org/become-a-member

114350

110 daNieL WeBSter HWY • rte 3 • LiNCOLN, NH Please contact us at (603) 883-8400 x267

www.clarkstradingpost.com 107962

114345

(Above) From Left to Right: Jonah Abraham, Luke Abraham, and Mary Abraham enjoy Mine Falls Park.

(Right) Mine Falls Park Trail. Photos by Emma Contic of Contic Creative.

3. LONDONDERRY TO DERRY TO WINDHAM TO SALEM RAIL TRAIL (PART OF THE GRANITE STATE RAIL TRAIL) Various locations in Derry, Londonderry, Salem and Windham, facebook.com/granitestaterailtrail

This rail trail stretches more than 100 miles from Salem north and west all the way up to Lebanon and the Vermont-New Hampshire border; as a whole, it is known as the Granite State Rail Trail. The paved section from Salem to Windham to Derry is 8.6 miles, the longest segment of paved rail trail in New Hampshire. The paved Londonderry segment is about 3.3 miles but isn’t yet connected. The trail is great for walkers, runners and bicyclists.

4. MARJORY SWOPE PARK BEST OF CONCORD Long Pond Road, Concord, 225-8515, concordnh.gov Officially named in 2012 after Marjory Swope, longtime executive director of the New Hampshire Association of Conservation Commissions, this 77-acre park near Long Pond in Concord features a nearly two-mile trail loop that offers great views of Penacook Lake. The park is open year-round, and hiking the trail can easily be completed in an hour or two by hikers of varying abilities.

74 BEST OF 2017 | BEST LOCAL HIKING TRAIL

5. MOUNT MAJOR Route 11, Alton, nhstateparks.org Mount Major is located in Alton about seven miles south of Ellacoya State Park in Gilford. Several trails travel up the nearly 2,000-foot mountain, providing great views of Lake Winnipesaukee, like the 1.5-mile-long Mount Major Trail and the 1.6-mile Boulder Loop Trail. The trails also lead up to Mount Major State Forest and are best for moderately experienced hikers.

6. MOUNT KEARSARGE/ROLLINS STATE PARK 1066 Kearsarge Mountain Road, Warner, 456-3808, nhstateparks.org

Located along the southside slope of Mount Kearsarge in Warner, this 3.5-mile scenic auto road travels through the woods up the nearly 3,000-foot Mount Kearsarge, one of the oldest mountains in the Granite State. The road provides views of the nearby Sunapee, Ragged and Cardigan mountains, as well as a slightly more distant view of Mount Monadnock. The park will be open May 17 through Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

7. MOUNT UNCANOONUC TRAILS Mountain Road, Goffstown, goffstowntrails.com The trails surrounding Mount Uncanoonuc in Goffstown are wellknown for being the closest to the Granite State’s largest city. The North Uncanoonuc Trail, about a 0.6-mile hike, is steep in some spots and is known for its wilderness and panoramic views of Goffstown. The South Uncanoonuc Trail is slightly longer (about 0.8 miles) and is a snowmobiling and ATVing trail that features views of Mount Monadnock from a distance.

8. BEAVER BROOK BEST OF NASHUA 117 Ridge Road, Hollis, 465-7787, beaverbrook.org The Beaver Brook Association features more than 35 miles of trails across more than 2,000 acres comprising forest, fields and wetlands within the towns of Hollis, Brookline and Milford. The trails are open to the public every day from dawn until dusk and are well-marked for hiking, bicycling and cross-country skiing in the wintertime. The land is located where the transitional part of the forest meets the hardwood forest, creating a uniquely diverse landscaping for viewing.

9. GOFFSTOWN RAIL TRAIL Multiple locations around Goffstown, goffstownrailtrail.org Walking, running, biking, skiing and snowshoeing are all permitted on the Goffstown Rail Trail, which runs roughly parallel to Mast Road and the Piscataquog River in Goffstown. The trail extends a little more than five miles from the western end of Goffstown village all the way to the Manchester city line and meets with the Piscataquog Trail, extending an additional two miles east into downtown Manchester. While the trail is still being developed by the Friends of the Goffstown Rail Trail, clearing and smoothing have been completed in most areas and the trail is open to the public.

112907

10. LIVINGSTON PARK AROUND DORRS POND 244 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 624-4444, manchesternh.gov Adjacent to Livingston Park, Dorrs Pond has been a fixture of the Queen City since 1934. Numerous trails for hiking are available in the area; one of them circles the pond, which opens for fishing in the summer months and public ice skating in the winter months.

Livingston Park also won Best of Manchester for Best City Park.

11. PULPIT ROCK CONSERVATION LAND

New Boston and Pulpit roads in Bedford, 228-1231, bedfordlandtrust.org The 338-acre terrain known as the Pulpit Rock Conservation Land features the gorge named “Pulpit Rock,” as well as Pulpit Brook, various wetlands, waterfalls, forests and more. The Pulpit is famous for its open space and natural habitat; the property is covered by various hardwood, pine and hemlock trees. The property also connects to the nearby Amherst conservation land.

12. PAWTUCKAWAY STATE PARK 7 Pawtuckaway Road, Nottingham, 895-3031, nhstateparks.org Pawtuckaway State Park includes a large family beach on the lake, as well as several nearby hiking trails with opportunities for hiking and points of interest like a mountaintop fire tower and a marsh where wildlife may be seen. The park is staffed daily from May 1 to Oct. 31 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., but it is open year-round for recreational purposes. The cost to visit is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 to 11 and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors over 65. No payment is required during the off season, but donations are always accepted. The park also has 192 camping sites open from May 1 to Oct. 31.

We have redone the entire facility!!

48 Competitive Dog Shows - Open to the public!

All New Dog Kennel Suites!

Keep Your Dogs Conditioned, Fit & Trim 26’ Indoor Heated Salt Pool & Aqua Paws Water Treadmill Doggie Daycare 7 Days a Week!

Multi Day Care Areas, Tiny Tot Room & Access to Aquatic Fitness Room

48 Competitive Dog Shows Open to the public!

336 Route 101, Amherst, NH | 672 8448 | AmericanK9Country.com 114637

114435

13. OAK HILL TRAILS

Multiple locations off Oak Hill Road, Concord, 225-8515, concordnh.gov The trails surrounding Oak Hill in Concord are always popular due to their proximity to the Capital City’s metro area and easy access from Interstate 93. One of the principal trails is the Oak Hill fire tower road, which is about a 2.5-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Oak Hill. There is a fire house atop the summit that offers views of Mount Kearsarge, Mount Cardigan and other mountains in the eastern part of the Monadnock region of the state.

14. HORSE HILL NATURE PRESERVE

113952

184 Amherst Road, Merrimack, 424-3531, merrimackoutdoors.org This 563-acre property features a series of streams, ponds, swamps and wetlands, with a varied terrain of large areas of undisturbed open space that allows wildlife to thrive. The terrain also features old logging roads that form a trail network frequented by hikers, bicyclists, hunters, snowmobilers and horseback riders. The Horse Hill Nature Preserve is the largest preserved open space property in the town of Merrimack. It takes its name from Horse Hill, one of two 400-foot hills located within the preserve. There are no restrictions on when the property can be visited.

(Left) From left to right: Danielle Lord, Eva Lord with doll Layla, and Christine Lord enjoy Mine Falls Park (Below) Mine Falls Park.

Photos by Emma Contic of Contic Creative.

25 North Main Street | Concord, NH chickadeelaneinteriors.com

114352

ZIPLINE

NH’S LONGEST SCENIC

GONDOLA SKYRIDE

LOGJAM MAZE

AERIAL FOREST ADVENTURE PARK

from the tree tops to the mountain top.

GLACIAL CAVES

Scout your all-day adventure and buy your Super Pass at LoonMtn.com 3 miles off I-93 (Exit 32) Lincoln, NH | #LoonMountain Opening Memorial Day Weekend

114460

15. BENSON PARK

16. WINANT PARK TRAILS

21 Kimball Hill Road, Hudson, 886-6000, hudsonnh.gov

11 Fisk Road, Concord, 225-8515, concordnh.gov

Longtime Hudson residents will remember this land as the former home of Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, a private zoo and amusement park that was open from 1924 to 1987. Benson’s reopened in 2010 as a town park for recreational use and has quickly become a popular spot for hiking, dog walking, fishing and picnicking. A few years later, an onsite dog park was unveiled, as well as other amenities like a paved parking lot and an onsite store. The park is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 30, until 9 p.m. from May 1 to Aug. 31, until 7 p.m. from Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, and until 5 p.m. from Nov. 1 to Feb. 28.

There is no cost of admission or parking. Benson Park also won Best of Nashua for Best City Park.

There are five named trails along the 85-acre Winant Park in Concord that each take about 90 minutes to complete at a walking pace. The trails are unique in that they include interpretive signs all the way through with information about the property’s history. The park gets its name from former New Hampshire Gov. John Gilbert Winant, who served in World War I and taught history at St. Paul’s School in Concord.

(Above) Mine Falls Park (Right) Mark Furler and Shelby the dog enjoy a run.

Photos by Emma Contic of Contic Creative.

Digestive Discomfort?

#1 Brand

Digestive Enzyme

Designed for multiple intolerance.

Gluten | Dairy | Gas | Heartburn

We’re here to help

164 North State St., Concord, NH ( 1 mile N. of Main St.) (603) 224-9341 • OPEN EVERYDAY

114560

Route 113, Holderness, 968-3700, holderness-nh.gov

Bringing You Nearer to Nature

There are several trails that lead up to the summit of West Rattlesnake Mountain and provide great views of Squam Lake in Holderness. Trails include the Old Bridle Path, which runs just under one mile and connects to the Ramsey Trail, followed by the Pasture Trail and the Ridge Trail. The combined length of all the trails is about two miles and can be completed within an hour or two, depending on your level of ability.

Save $3 on trail admission

18. FRANCONIA NOTCH STATE PARK 260 Tramway Park, Franconia/Lincoln, 823-8800, nhstateparks.org Located in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is filled with hiking and bicycling trails that extend from the Flume Gorge through to Echo Lake, offering great views of the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges.

The park also includes the Lafayette Campground, which will be open for walk-ins beginning May 12 and reservable stays from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend. The campground has several amenities that include picnic tables, open fireplaces and 24-hour-a-day coin-operated showers.

19. HEADS POND TRAIL Off Post Road, Hooksett, 485-5322, hooksett.org This 1.5-mile trail circles around two ponds and is relatively flat, making it a great choice for hikers of varying ability levels or for beginners. The rail trail is best used from April through October and features great views of Heads Pond. Dogs are also allowed onto the trail.

20. TOWER HILL POND LOOP TRAIL Tower Hill Road, Auburn, 483-5052, ext. 101, auburnnh.us This trail is just under four miles long and is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. It is a loop trail that traverses around Tower Hill Pond in Auburn, providing great views of the water from several vantage points along the way. The trail is accessible year-round and is popular with mountain bikers and snowshoers as well.

www.nhnature.org | 603-968-7194 | Route 113, Holderness, NH

Limit two. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 11/1/17.

113695 HIPCOOL

blossom let your soul

Ohana means Family and our family voted us the best of Concord. With over 20 classes a week we have something for everyone. YES - there’s something for you!

Nourish Your Soul With: • Unique Classes from Gentle to Strengthening; Guided & Flowing • Restorative; Yin; Elemental; Thai Massage; Yoga Nidra • Meditation & Mantra; Crystal Sound Healing • Support of musicians w/ Live Music During Some Classes • Special Yoga, Health & Lifestyle Workshops • Specialty Shop with Metaphysical, Health & Wellness Offerings, Locally Made.

Please visit our beautiful new studio and website.

Download Our Free App! Find us on Facebook & Instagram (@OhanaYogi) 44 Cedar Street • Contoocook, NH • 603-748-1539 • OhanaYogaNH.com

114608

SPEC

17. WEST RATTLESNAKE MOUNTAIN

VOTED BEST PET STORE

FOODS • SUPPLIES • GROOMING • SPECIALTY ITEMS TRAINING • SELF-SERVE DOG WASH 454 D.W. Highway, Merrimack, NH • 603 424-PAWS (7297) Visit petschoicenh.com for virtual tour!

114198

BEST GOLF COURSE

Put on your regulation khakis and polo shirt and enjoy the pastoral bentgrass fairways, beverage delivery, upscale dining and rich history that are the hallmarks of New Hampshire’s many exclusive and public golf courses.

1. DERRYFIELD COUNTRY CLUB | BEST OF THE BEST

4. CANDIA WOODS GOLF LINKS

625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 669-0235, derryfieldgolf.com

313 South Road, Candia, 483-2307, candiaoaks.com

Established in 1932, the Derryfield is one of only three municipal golf courses in New Hampshire. It includes an 18-hole course, a restaurant and bar with an outdoor deck and a venue space that can be used for events of all kinds.

Perennially selected by Golf Digest for its list of “Among America’s Best Courses,” Candia Woods offers 18 holes and brand new golf carts. The course, which opened in 1964, offers a driving range and a practice putting green.

2. BEAVER MEADOW GOLF COURSE RUNNER-UP

1 Beaver Meadow Drive, Concord, 228-8954, beavermeadowgolfcourse.com A municipal golf course open to the public, Beaver Meadow was first used as a golf course in the late 19th century and was expanded to a standard 18-hole course by 1968.

5. ATKINSON RESORT AND COUNTRY CLUB 85 Country Club Drive, Atkinson, 362-8700, atkinsonresort.com A 420-acre public golf course nestled among rolling hills, Atkinson Resort and Country Club was built in the 1990s. In addition to its 18-hole, par-72 course, it offers a driving range and virtual golf.

6. WINDHAM COUNTRY CLUB 1 Country Club Road, Windham, 434-2093, windhamcc.com

3. MANCHESTER COUNTRY CLUB HONORABLE MENTION

180 S. River Road, Bedford, 624-4096, manchestercountryclub.com The 18-hole track at this rare par-71 course was designed by Donald Ross, the so-called “father of American golf course architecture.” It also boasts the only 160-degree wraparound simulator within 600 miles. It’s a private club but guests of members can play for a fee.

80 BEST OF 2017 | BEST GOLF COURSE

This public 18-hole course designed by PGA Tour player David Graham was built and opened in 1995 by NEPGA Hall of Famer Bill Flynn’s golf course management company.

(Above) Golfers at Derryfield Country Club.

Photos by Sid Ceaser Photography.

7. NASHUA COUNTRY CLUB 25 Fairway St., Nashua, 888-0121, nashuacountryclub.com Founded in 1916, the Nashua Country Club rebuilt its championship golf course in 2009. The private club offers a heated Olympic pool, tennis courts, the only curling rink in the state and upscale dining at the Hampshire Room and Grille.

8. OVERLOOK GOLF CLUB 5 Overlook Drive, Hollis, 465-2909, overlookgolfclub.com This 18-hole championship course is open to the public and is enjoyable for players of all abilities. It is situated along the Nashua River, which provides natural wetlands and lovely views.

Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum 18 Warner, NH 18Highlawn Highlawn Rd., Rd. Warner, NH (603) | IndianMuseum.org (603)456-2600 456-2600 IndianMuseum.org

One Circle, 1,000 Stories. Experience it!

ourOur 25 26th yea year!

113822

9. SKY MEADOW COUNTRY CLUB 6 Mountain Laurels Drive, Nashua, 888-9000, skymeadow.com Sky Meadow is located at the highest point of Nashua; the nonequity private golf club boasts a full-service practice range with a bunker, a putting green and incredible mountain views.

10. GREEN MEADOW GOLF CLUB 59 Steele Road, Hudson, 889-1555, playgolfne.com The public golf course was founded by Phil and Jeanne Friel in 1959 on old farm properties. It has two 18-hole courses, one flatter and wider, the other more rolling and tree-lined.

Gallery Gifts Classes Hippo Readers Voted Us

Best Art Gallery www.wildsalamander.com

Nashua

30 Ash st Hollis NH 03049 603 465-WILD (9453)

11. AMHERST COUNTRY CLUB

114485

72 Ponemah Road, Amherst, 673-9908, playamherst.com This 18-hole course is open to the public and set along the Souhegan River. The public country club was one of only five in the state that is Audubon International Certified for its environmentally friendly land management practices.

12. CANTERBURY WOODS COUNTRY CLUB 15 West Road, Canterbury, 783-9400, canterburywoodscc.com Utilizing the existing terrain, designer Ross Forbes created the 18-hole, 35-acre Canterbury Woods golf course for beginners and experienced golfers. The public country club, which held its first full season in 2001, also offers a 300-yard practice range that can accommodate up to 30 golfers at a time.

13. PASSACONAWAY COUNTRY CLUB 12 Midway Ave, Litchfield, 424-4653, passaconawaycc.com Opened in 1989, the course was designed by Brian Silva of the design firm Cornish and Silva in Amherst, Massachusetts. The public course is built on 140 acres along the Merrimack River.

14. STONEBRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB 161 Gorham Pond Road, Goffstown, 497-8633, golfstonebridgecc.com This highly acclaimed golf course designed by Phil Wogan in 1987 boasts excellent views of New England countryside, a regulation course with a 71 rating and a championship course with a 72.9 rating. The public club also offers a putting green and a driving range.

smile power ™

114060

COOL THINGS TO DO IN NH

PLAN YOUR STAYCATION NOW. Whether it’s just a weekend when you vow not to work or do chores or a few days spent finding fun for visiting relatives, carve out some time to enjoy the many cool things our state has to offer, as recommended

by Hippo readers.

First, put a few “save the dates” on your calendar. Concord’s Market Days (intownconcord.org), which was the “Best of the Best” for Best Community Event (and Best of Concord for Best Food Event), features food, shopping, entertainment and activities for all ages on Main Street in downtown Concord. In 2017 it runs from Thursday, June 22, through Saturday, June 24.

In the fall, do your leaf-peeping and enjoy some rides, food, a parade, a 5K and more at the Warner Fall Foliage Festival (wfff.org), the Best of Concord winner. In 2017, it runs Friday, Oct. 6, through Sunday, Oct. 8.

Get ready for the holidays at the Winter Stroll (downtownnashua. org) on Saturday, Nov. 25, in downtown Nashua. This Best of Nashua winning event features music, a candlelight stroll, shopping and more.

And after winter comes and goes, get ready for the sunshine season with Hippo’s own Hippo de Mayo Taco Challenge (hippodemayo.com), which is held the first Thursday in May in downtown Manchester. Buy tacos from the dozens of participating restaurants for just $2 each.

Hippo de Mayo also won Best of Manchester for Best Food Event.

For year-round fun, head to the Currier Museum of Art (currier. org) in Manchester, which took the top spots for both Best Historical Site or Museum and Best Place to Take Visiting Relatives (and Best of Manchester for Best Arts in a Public Space). The museum features American and European paintings, sculptures and other works and has visiting exhibits and a calendar of events, from monthly Currier After Hours to family-friendly activities on weekends.

Canterbury Shaker Village (shakers.org) got awards for Best Historical Site (Best of Concord) and Best Place to Take Visiting Relatives (honorable mention). This site, which preserves and explains a Shaker village built in 1792, offers tours and exhibits daily from mid-spring through fall with weekend hours and other events in late fall and early winter.

Get another look at the past at the Monson Center (forestsociety. org/property/monson-center) in Milford, the site of an early colonial 82 BEST OF 2017 | VISIT NH

settlement in the mid-1700s, which features hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities and other recreation, according to the website, and is the Best of Nashua winner for Best Historical Site.

Get a look at history in the state’s largest city at the Millyard Museum (manchesterhistoric.org/millyard-museum), the Best of Manchester winner for Best Historical Site. The museum, which offers exhibits about the city’s history including pre-colonial times and the rise of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company according to the website, is open Tuesday through Saturday, year-round.

Learn about production of a different kind at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery (budweisertours.com) in Merrimack and take a tour that includes a peek at the Budweiser Clydesdales. The brewery, which also has a Biergarten featuring food and, of course, beer, won runner-up in the Best Place to Take Visiting Relatives category.

If the people you’re staycationing with include kids, readers have you covered.

Cowabungas (mycowabungas.com), an indoor inflatable playground in Hooksett, was the Best of the Best for Best Place to Take Your Kids (and, like all the winners in that category, also won for Best Place to Take Your Kids on a Snowy/Rainy day). Krazy Kids (gokrazykids.com), an indoor play center in Pembroke, won best of Concord. SEE Science Center (see-scienceccenter.org), an interactive science museum in Manchester, won best of Manchester. Nuthin’ But Good Times! (nuthinbutgoodtimes.com), an indoor playground in Merrimack, won best of Nashua.

Or maybe your companions are of the four-legged variety. Head to Benson Park (19 Kimball Hill Road in Hudson), the 166-acre municipal park with trails and more, which won Best of the Best for Best Place to Walk Your Dog. White Park (1 White St. in Concord) won Best of Concord in the category. Livingston Park (on Hooksett Road in north Manchester) won Best of Manchester and Mine Falls Park (which is on Whipple Street in Nashua and also took home the Best of the Best for Best Local Hiking Trail) won Best of Nashua.

Whether you’re playing host or playing tourist, take the advice of readers and head out to see all the cool stuff the state has to offer.

BEST OF 2017 | VISIT NH 83

Hey Beautiful!

“Head to Toe” Non-Surgical Aesthetics Renew Medispa has you covered!

13 years of experience enhancing your natural beauty

Like us on Facebook for a chance to win a service! www.facebook.com/RenewMedispa

Dr. Lisa Vuich

Expert Injector, Laser Specialist

Southern New Hampshire’s Premier Medispa since 2006

Check out our website for services, pricing, before and after images, and videos!

603-894-0070 RenewMediSpa.com

The Windham Towne Shoppes 29 Indian Rock Rd. - Route 111, Windham, NH (2 miles from exit 3 off I93)

84 BEST OF 2017 | VISIT NH