Looking for something new? Whether it’s a new place to have lunch (especially if the boss is buying) or a new spot for doughnuts (you can’t have too many spots for doughnuts) or a new skill, find new places to spend your weekend, weeknight or staycation with the help of Hippo readers.
In the March 30 issue, we presented the results of our annual readers poll. The Best of 2023 offered readers’ picks for restaurants, nightlife offerings, outdoor adventure, kid entertainment and more. (You can find the e-edition at hippopress.com.) Here we present those winners as well
as, in some categories, even more recommendations from Hippo readers. Every business or location that makes it onto a list is truly a standout, as categories can get thousands of votes.
The information here, such as times and menu offerings, comes from the locations’ websites and social media pages, so call before heading out to make sure that new eatery is open or that cupcakery is offering the treat you crave.
Looking to shake up your after-work hangout routine or your takeout plans? Here are some suggestions…
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Copy edited by Lisa Parsons
Editorial Design
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Brooke Fraser
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Photography
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Jennifer Rockwell, owner of Flowers by Jennifer (flowersbyjennifer.com), which she operates in Manchester, picked as “Best Florist” in the “Things We Forgot to Ask About” category. Photo by Sid Ceaser, ceaserphotography.com.
Jasmine Betts, owner of Beauty Works in Londonderry (beautyworksnh.com), does a good brow for client Morgan Mahony — Beauty Works was picked as “Best of the Best” in the “Where They Do a Good Brow” category.
by Sid Ceaser, ceaserphotography.com.
Photo
Ralph Baer, who is considered the father of video games and was a longtime resident of Manchester, is honored with a statue in Arms Park in Manchester, picked as a “Best Publicly Viewable Sculpture or Statue.”
Dixie is one of the animals waiting for their forever home at Pope Memorial SPCA in Concord (popememorialspca.org), picked as a “NH Organization You’d Give $1 Million To if You Won the Lottery.”
by Jennifer gingras.
Kim Cook introduces a new generation to the joys of Stark Park in Manchester, picked as a “Coolest Historical Site or Monument You Can Visit For Free.” The park also contains a statue of General John Stark, a “Best Publicly Viewable Sculpture or Statue.”
Rambling House Food & gatHeRing
best oF tHe best
57 Factory St., Suite A, Nashua, 318-3220, ramblingtale.com
With a diverse offering of meat, seafood and vegetarian options, inventive cocktails and a curated wine list — not to mention an outside dining area with unparalleled rooftop views of the Nashua River — Rambling House Food Gathering opened its doors in early March 2022. Rambling House and its sister company, TaleSpinner Brewery, are both part of the 57 Factory umbrella — you can access the brewery on the first floor at the opposite end of the building on Water Street. A seasonal restaurant, Rambling House changes its menu four times throughout the year — known as “Hibernation,” “Spring Thaw,” “Summertide” and “Harvest & Holiday” — and sources its ingredients locally whenever possible. In 2023 the restaurant plans to launch its top roof deck with a barbecue menu, limited craft cocktails and a full 12 taps of TaleSpinner brews.
tHe nest Family CaFe
25 Orchard View Drive, Londonderry, 404-2139, thenestfamilycafe.com
This Londonderry cafe, which opened in June 2022, was specially designed to cater to families with young children, with a variety of built-in amenities like a Montessori-style play area, a “treehouse” reading nook, a chalk wall, changing tables and a bottle-warming station, all in addition to a menu of coffees, teas, smoothies, baked goods, kid-friendly snack dispensers, bento boxes and more. Owners Jamie and Ryan Getchell, themselves the parents of three kids, said the idea for the business came to them following their own experiences visiting cafes and coffee shops with their kids in tow.
PRessed CaFe
216 S. River Road, Bedford, 606-2746, pressedcafe.com
Pressed Cafe, a local chain known for its scratch-made menu of paninis, sandwiches,
smoothies and bowls as well as some items with a Middle Eastern flair, opened its fourth and newest New Hampshire location in Bedford in March 2022. It’s open for breakfast all day and features a double drive-thru and a full bar.
ansanm
20 South St., Milford, 554-1248, ansanmnh.com
Chris Viaud, owner of Greenleaf in Milford and a Season 18 contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef, opened this Haitian restaurant with his family in October 2022 just a stone’s throw away from the Milford Oval. Ansanm, which gets its name from the word meaning “together” in Haitian Creole, continues the success of the family’s restaurant concept following nearly a year and a half of hosting monthly pop-up dinners. Ansanm’s menu continues to include items that were main staples at the pop-ups — the griot, or a marinated twice-cooked pork, and the poule nan sós, or braised chicken in Creole sauce — as well as all kinds of authentic dishes totally new to the space, and a few new spins on classic flavors.
los Reyes stReet taCos & moRe
127 Rockingham Road, Derry, 845-8327, losreyesstreettacos.com Manchester couple Jose and Isabel Reyes opened this Mexican restaurant inside Derry’s Hillside Plaza in April 2022. They’re perhaps best known for their birria — Jose Reyes comes from multiple generations of street food vending in Mexico, serving authentic birria. Try quesabirras, inspired by the traditional stew and featuring beef, onion, cilantro and a side of consommé, or the stewed broth. Los Reyes is also known for its street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos and chimichangas.
luna bistRo
254 N. Broadway, No. 101, Salem, 458-2162, luna-bistro.com
Kori Doherty opened this tapas and wine bar in Salem’s Breckenridge Plaza on
North Broadway in June 2022, with the goal to create a space with a relaxing vibe and quality drinks and shareable plates. The food menu features everything from meat and seafood options to dips, spreads and flatbreads, and there is an extensive wine list and craft beer selection.
sunny CaFe
50 S. Willow St., Manchester, 935-8658, sunnycafenh.com
Dumpling and pierogi bowls are the stars of the menu at this Manchester cafe. The fast-casual concept, which opened in a newly developed unit on South Willow Street in July 2022, also features sweet crepes, honey and waffle cakes and locally roasted coffees with house syrups.
teatotalleR
2 Capital Plaza, Concord, 715-1906, teatotallercafe.com
Somersworth native Emmett Soldati found success in his hometown with Teatotaller, a cafe featuring everything from scratch-made sandwiches and salads to coffees, espresso drinks, house tea blends and more. In June 2022 he continued to build on his success with a second location in Concord. The eatery’s menu is similar to that of its Somersworth predecessor, which closed its doors earlier this year — everything is made in-house with fresh and local ingredients.
Casamigos mexiCan RestauRant
94 Fort Eddy Road, Concord, 227-6822, find them on Facebook @ casamigosmexicanrestaurant
This locally owned Mexican eatery, which also has a sister location in downtown Tilton, opened in Concord in March 2022. The menu is extensive, featuring options like fajitas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas and other dishes with steak, chicken, seafood and more.
alexandRa’s bistRo
15 Village St., Penacook, 565-5066, find them on Facebook
Danny Pilsbury opened this American-style farm-to-table restaurant in September 2022, and also serves as its executive chef. Named in honor of Pilsbury’s late wife, Alexandra’s Bistro is known for offering an elevated lineup of locally sourced, scratch-cooked items like starters, sandwiches, pastas and other plated entrees, with seasonally inspired menu changes throughout the year.
sPyglass bRewing Co.
306 Innovative Way, Nashua, 546-2965, spyglassbrewingco.com
Although it originally opened at 2 Townsend West in Nashua in October 2018, Spyglass Brewing Co. relocated across the Gate City to its current spot in January 2023, introducing an all new full-service kitchen featuring creative takes on options like smash burgers, sandwiches, tacos, salads and appetizers.
City Hall Pub
8 Hanover St., Manchester, 232-3751, cityhallpub.com
The newest addition to Southern New Hampshire Hospitality Group, which also owns The Wild Rover Pub and Elm House of Pizza, City Hall Pub arrived in downtown Manchester’s theater district in June 2022. Gourmet deli-style sandwiches and craft cocktails are among the stars of the menu here, with the build-your-own sandwich option being especially popular.
tHe RiCoCHet
35 Manchester Road, No. 10, Derry, 434-6500, ricochet.pizza
Gourmet pizza pies, calzones and hot subs are among what you’ll find at this Derry eatery, which opened in February 2023. According to co-owner and Derry native Joey “Jo” McCarran, the restaurant’s name was inspired by the experience he and his wife had traveling across the country and returning home.
Whether you’re looking for the classic combination of tequila, lime and sweetness or something more adventurous, here are five spots to enjoy this drink that makes any time feel like a celebration.
HeRmanos CoCina mexiCana best oF tHe best
11 Hills Ave., Concord, 224-5669, hermanosmexican.com
On Hermanos’ margarita menu, you can find the Citrita (with Absolut Citron and triple sec), the Granite Margarita (Mi Campo Reposado Tequila, triple sec and pomegranate juice), the Spicy Margarita (house tequila infused with jalapeno or habanero and triple sec) and the Amarita (with Mi Campo Reposado Tequila and Disaronno amaretto). You can also pick from their extensive tequila offerings to build your own margarita.
la CaRReta mexiCan RestauRant
545 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 628-6899; 1875 S. Willow St., Manchester, 623-7705; lacarretamex.com
La Carreta’s offerings of “Signature Margaritas” include the Sangria-Rita (Herradura Silver, Magdala Orange Liqueur and a mini Riunite Lambrusco), Berry Rita (Espolo Blanco & cranberry juice with a Chambord float) and a Pineapple En Fuego (Tanteo jalapeno and Bacardi pineapple rum).
el RinCon ZaCateCano taqueRia
10 Lake Ave., Manchester, 232-4530, elrinconnh.com
El Rincon Zacatecano’s long menu of specialty margaritas includes the Watermelon Mint Margarita, The Pepe Margarita (Don Julio añejo, Cointreau, agave nectar, fresh lime and a slice of orange with a Grand Marnier floater),
the Spicy Mango Margarita and the Periwinkle Margarita (Mi Campo Tequila Blanco, Chambord, passion fruit & pineapple, Peachtree, blue curacao and fresh lime).
PueRto VallaRta mexiCan gRill
865 Second St., Manchester, 935-9182, vallartamexicannh.com
Puerto Vallarta and nearby Nuevo Vallarta share the extensive “Margaritas Especiales” menu with offerings including Wildberry Margarita (Casa Noble Silver, triple sec, fresh blueberries and fresh lime), the Volcano Margarita (Ghost Blanco, triple sec, fresh lime juice, chili powder, with muddled strawberries and jalapenos) and Vallarta Margarita (Mi Campo Reposado, fresh squeezed orange juice, lime juice, triple sec and blue curacao).
nueVo VallaRta mexiCan RestauRant
791 Second St., Manchester, 782-8762, vallartamexicannh.com
More offerings from the shared menu: Paradise Margarita (Mi Campo Reposado, triple sec, lime juice and muddled strawberries), Hot Rita (Tanteo Jalapeno Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, fresh jalapenos and a splash of St. Germain), the Coconut Lime Margarita (Mi Campo Blanco, Captain Morgan Coconut, fresh lime, agave nectar, pina colada mix and pineapple juice) and Cucumber Margarita (Herradura Silver, triple sec, fresh muddled cucumber and fresh lime).
Klemm’s baKeRy best oF tHe best
Mmm, doughnuts. From freshly baked cider doughnuts at your local farm stand to shops and cafes experimenting with all kinds of creative flavors, here are 12 local spots offering delicious variations on these sweet treats.
29 Indian Rock Road, Windham, 437-8810, klemmsbakery. com
Family-owned since 1978, Klemm’s is known for its dozens of varieties of doughnuts, from plain cake and chocolate-frosted to inventive flavors like blueberry crunch, a blueberry-based doughnut with a buttercrunch topping.
bRotHeRs donuts
426 Central St., Franklin, 934-6678, find them on Facebook @brothersdonuts
Brothers Donuts has been making fresh hand-cut doughnuts for more than 35 years. Doughnuts are made daily at 3 a.m. and sold until they run out. Options include many traditional flavors and some specialty doughnuts, like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, cannoli, caramel Twix and strawberry cream.
new HamPsHiRe dougHnut Co.
2 Capital Plaza, Concord, 715-5097, nhdoughnutco.com
Amanda and Chad Baril opened this downtown Concord shop in December 2020. Doughnuts are made fresh every morning, with a rotating offering of flavors and customer favorites available each day until they sell out.
FligHt CoFFee Co.
209 Route 101 West, Bedford, 836-6228, flightcoffeeco.com
Claudia Barrett of Bedford originally started Flight Coffee Co. with a small commercial coffee roaster in her home garage. In June 2021 she moved the business across town from Harvey Road to its current spot on Route 101, and it now also features an extensive menu of sandwiches, bagels and scratch-made pastries, including doughnuts. Flight’s signature item is its Mile High Layered Cronut, which Barrett describes as “a delicious hybrid of a croissant and a doughnut,” available in a variety of rotating flavors.
new HamPsHiRe dougHnut Co.
410 S. River Road, Bedford, 782-8968, nhdoughnutco.com
New Hampshire Doughnut Co.’s newest shop, which opened on South River Road in Bedford in September 2022, expanded its menu offerings to include yeast ring and filled doughnuts for the first time, in addition to fritters and French crullers.
biRd Food baKing Co.
Lighthouse Local, 21 Kilton Road, Bedford, birdfoodbaking.com
You name the doughnut flavor and Bird Food Baking Co.’s Trina Bird has probably done it. Offerings have included everything from chocolate frosted and sprinkles to strawberry shortcake, whoopie pie and even peanut butter and jelly, birthday cake and mango sesame. These days, Bird works out of Lighthouse Local in Bedford, where her doughnuts are available in addition to a few other
spots she’ll deliver to.
Rosby baKeRy
51 E. Pearl St., Nashua, 882-1851, crosbybakerynh.com
A fourth-generation-owned bakery in business since 1947, Crosby Bakery always has an available selection of freshly baked doughnuts, with flavors like chocolate-covered twist, strawberry frosted, jelly, powdered sugar, cinnamon powdered, cookies and cream and more.
beaRded baKing Co.
819 Union St., Manchester, 647-7150, beardedbaking.com
Jon Buatti took over ownership of Michelle’s Gourmet Pastries & Deli in late 2019 and, in November and December 2020, was a featured contestant on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. As owner of Bearded Baking Co., Buatti has built on the longtime success of the popular Queen City bakeshop and deli, offering custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, doughnuts, sandwiches and a variety of other items.
CHiCHesteR CountRy stoRe
257 Main St., Chichester, 798-5081, chichestercountrystore.com
Chichester Country Store’s “famous” apple cider doughnuts are made fresh daily. It’s located 2 miles north of the Epsom traffic circle, at the intersection of Route 28 and Main Street. They also have several wholesale accounts and are a regular featured vendor at the Concord Farmers Market, held on Capitol Street on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
171 Kelley St., Manchester, 624-3500, thebakeshoponkelleystreet.com
Flavored doughnuts at this West Side bakeshop are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Offerings have included strawberry crumble, Fruity Pebbles, frosted maple bacon, s’mores and Reese’s peanut butter cup.
donut loVe
112 Lafayette Road, Unit C, North Hampton, donutlove.com
As of May 19 Donut Love of North Hampton remains temporarily closed for renovations, but it aims to reopen by mid to late June. A second location is coming soon to Exeter — both will offer a variety of flavors of specialty doughnuts when they reopen, as well as catering services for large events.
HeaV’nly donuts
125 Indian Rock Road, Windham, 458-2616, heavnlydonuts.com
Heav’nly Donuts operates several locations across southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts, including one near the Interstate 93 off-ramp in Windham. The shop offers freshly brewed coffee and hand-cut doughnuts available in a variety of flavors made daily.
The Concord Farmers Market was named the “Best of the Best” in the “Best Farmers Market” category. Find it next to the Statehouse every Saturday from May through October from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Photo by Cindy telley, petartnh.net.
Browsing a brick and mortar store can be fun — especially when they have surprising finds and unique items you won’t see anywhere else. Looking to treat yourself to a mini shopping spree? Here are some places where you’re sure to discover surprising must-haves.
manCHesteR CRaFt maRKet best oF tHe best
Inside the Mall of New Hampshire, 1500 S. Willow St., Manchester, manchestercraftmarket.com
An artisan fair inside a mall, the Manchester Craft Market is owned and operated by Jessica Moores, who works hard to fill the shelves with all kinds of unique goodies from hundreds of local vendors, from specialty foods and crafts to jewelry, artwork, clothing and more. Join the “Manchester Craft Market Online” group on Facebook to interact directly with featured vendors and learn about the latest products available in stock at the shop.
JunCtion 71
707 Milford Road, Merrimack, 213-5201, junction71.wixsite.com
Junction 71 is a vendor-oriented shop showcasing local products and artisans, with a wide selection of items that are restocked and restyled often. The shop relocated last year from Route 101A in Amherst to its current spot in Merrimack’s Pennichuck Square, less than 3 miles away.
tHe teRRaCotta Room
1361 Elm St., Suite 102, Manchester, 935-8738, theterracottaroom.com
This downtown sustainable lifestyle boutique, which opened in November 2020, features a wide selection of botanicals as well as ethically sourced clothing and accessories, jewelry, beauty and wellness products, home decor and gifts.
ViKing House
19 N. Main St., Concord, 228-1198, vikinghouse.com
Established in 1983, this European imports shop is known for carrying specialty food, clothing and gifts from more than 10 countries, including Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Germany, France, Ireland and England.
deJa Vu FuRnituRe & moRe
113 Hillside Ave., Londonderry, 437-5571, dejavufurniture.net
A family-owned business founded in 2003, Deja Vu sells high-end new and used furniture, in addition to lighting fixtures and architectural pieces in a variety of styles.
Canobie Lake Park in Salem (canobie.com) was picked as a “Best Spot for All-Ages Family Fun.” The park opens for weekends in May and is then open six days of the week for most of June, July and August, weekends in September and then for Screeemfest in October.
Courtesy photo.
Pats Peak Ski Area in Henniker (patspeak.com) was picked as “Best of the Best” in the “Best Ski Hill” category.
glossy nails
best oF tHe best
1 S. River Road, Bedford, 935-8383, glossynails.net
With two locations, in Bedford and south Manchester, Glossy Nails offers a wide range of services that include professional nail care, spa pedicure experiences and waxing. The shops are open seven days a week, and walk-ins are welcome.
glossy nails
655 S. Willow St., Manchester, 518-5557, glossynails.net
Glossy Nails opened its second location inside The Shoppes at South Willow plaza in Manchester. Along with its Bedford salon, both shops are open seven
days a week, and walk-ins are welcome for a variety of services that include professional nail care, spa pedicure experiences and waxing.
CHill sPa
1224 Hanover St., Manchester, 622-3722, chillspa.com
This Manchester spa offers a wide range of services to its clients, including manicures and pedicures, with add-ons like custom nail art and shellac polish.
KaRma nails lounge
17 Premium Outlets Blvd., Unit B, Merrimack, 420-8699, karmanailslounge.com
You’ll find this upscale nail salon just a short drive away from the Merrimack
Premium Outlets. Karma Nails Lounge has all kinds of a la carte nail services available to choose from, including dip powder, described as a cross between an acrylic and a gel polish.
exotiC 9 nails
30 Crystal Ave., Suite 6, Derry, 425-7731, exotic9nails.com
Exotic 9 Nails offers a wide range of services, from manicure and pedicure spa experiences to dipping nail and hybrid gel nail enhancements.
Classy nail sPa
86 March Ave., Manchester, 206-5427, classynailspa86.com
Find this nail salon in the TJ Maxx plaza on South Willow Street in Manchester. The shop offers everything from basic manicure and pedicure services to dipping powder, waxing and more.
eCo nails
1261 Hooksett Road, Unit 7, Hooksett, 782-5687, eco-nails.com
This all-natural nail salon in Hooksett recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in business. Eco Nails offers classic manicure and pedicure treatments, in addition to deluxe spa pedicures, dipping powders and specialty branded nail polishes.
Paull nails
31 S. Main St., Concord, 227-6741, paullnailsconcord.com
Paull Nails is in downtown Concord and offers services such as waxing, manicure and pedicures, in addition to dipping powders and spa treatments.
signatuRe nails & sPa
89 Fort Eddy Road, Concord, 228-6698, signaturenailsspa.net
Services at this Concord nail shop include several types of manicure and pedicure treatments, with different priced tiers to choose from.
beautiFul nails
1525 S. Willow St., Manchester, 232-4700, find them on Facebook @ beautifulnailsmanchesternh
Manicure and pedicure services are available at this south Manchester salon, in addition to dipping powders, ink and white glitter powders, waxing and more.
PRo nails & sPa
8 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, 891-0779, pronailsspanashua.com
Located in Nashua’s Daniel Webster Crossing plaza, Pro Nails & Spa has been in operation since 1996. The salon specializes in simple manicure and pedicure treatments, waxing, acrylics and dipping powders and more.
Make lunch special. If the boss is buying, these are the spots Hippo readers recommended to take the midday meal way beyond the sack lunch.
PRessed CaFe best oF tHe best
216 S. River Road, Bedford, 606-2746, pressedcafe.com
Pressed Cafe, a local chain known for its scratch-made menu of paninis, sandwiches, smoothies and bowls, as well as some items with a Middle Eastern flair, opened its fourth and newest New Hampshire location inside the former Canoe Restaurant & Bar space in Bedford in March 2022. It’s open for breakfast all day and features a double drive-thru and a full bar.
PRessed CaFe
108 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, 718-1250; 3 Cotton Road, Nashua, 402-1003 (this location is drive-thru only); pressedcafe.com
The original New Hampshire location of Pressed Cafe continues to operate in South Nashua, and another drive-thru-only Gate City location arrived a few years later in a former McDonald’s building off Route 101A.
tHe PuRitan baCKRoom RestauRant
245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 669-6980, puritanbackroom.com
A Manchester institution for more than a century and counting, The Puritan Backroom Restaurant has a variety of famous menu items enjoyed by generations of Granite Staters, and even has a separate takeout facility where you can get them to go.
tHe bRidge CaFe
1117 Elm St., Manchester, 647-9991, thebridgecafe.net
For more than a decade The Bridge Cafe on Elm Street in Manchester has been a favorite among nearby businesses and city residents for its fresh-pressed paninis, salads, smoothies, juices and more.
PRessed CaFe
1 Artisan Drive, Salem (inside Tuscan Village), 458-5922, pressedcafe.com
Following the success of two locations on opposite ends of Nashua, Pressed Cafe opened the doors of its third New Hampshire location overall, inside Salem’s Tuscan Village in June 2021.
industRy east baR
best oF tHe best
Relax with your friends, your coworkers, your sweetie or just yourself. Here are some spots to enjoy the happy hour experience with craft cocktails and tasty eats.
28 Hanover St., Manchester, 232-6940, industryeastbar.com
Jeremy Hart and Dan Haggerty are seasoned bartenders with around four decades of combined experience. In February 2021 they went into business together to open Industry East, a craft cocktail bar with a unique food menu to match featuring appetizers, flatbreads, loaded hot dogs and more. Cocktails feature modern takes on the classics and all kinds of experimental concoctions, all using syrups, juices and other ingredients made in house.
815 CoCKtails & PRoVisions
815 Elm St., Manchester, 782-8086, 815nh.com
This craft cocktail bar is located in an upstairs unit on Elm Street in downtown Manchester. Co-owner Sarah Maillet is always experimenting with both
experimental cocktails and modern takes on the classics, all complementing the bar’s intimate vibe and scratch-cooked foods. As of May 16, 815 remains temporarily closed for extensive renovations, but the owners are aiming to reopen the space by early July. Follow them on Instagram @815nh for updates.
CHuCK’s baRbeRsHoP
90 Low Ave., Concord, 856-7071, find them on Facebook @chucksbarbershopnh
Don’t let its name fool you — Chuck’s was built as 1920s-style speakeasy “disguised” as a barbershop from the outside. The Prohibition-inspired bar opened in a tucked away corner of Concord’s Eagle Square in early 2018. It’s one of several similar concepts in the Granite State spearheaded by Liu Vaine, who was inspired by speakeasies he visited in New York City.
new HamPsHiRe PiZZa Co.
76 N. Main St., Concord, 333-2125, newhampshirepizzaco.com
Longtime Concord restaurateur Joel Harris opened this downtown restaurant in January 2022. Although it’s best-known for its brick-oven artisan pizzas, New Hampshire Pizza Co. also features salads, brunch items, cocktails and homemade ice cream, with the overall focus of highlighting locally produced ingredients.
Rambling House Food & gatHeRing
57 Factory St., Suite A, Nashua, 318-3220, ramblingtale.com
Featuring seasonally inspired menus — with a diverse offering of meat, seafood and vegetarian options — and an outside dining area with unparalleled rooftop views of the Nashua River, Rambling House Food Gathering opened its doors in early March 2022. It’s co-owned and co-founded by members of the Gleeson family, who have also run 2nd Nature Academy (formerly known as The Nature of Things) since 1997. On the first floor below Rambling House you’ll find its sister company, the TaleSpinner Brewery, which can be accessed at the opposite end of the building on Water Street.
gReenleaF
54 Nashua St., Milford, 213-5447, greenleafmilford.com
This casual farm-to-table restaurant features the cuisine of award-winning Milford chef Chris Viaud, who competed on Season 18 of Bravo’s cooking competition series Top Chef. Greenleaf’s menu changes all the time, and that’s because it’s based on what will come in for products from the farms the eatery partners with. It’s also known for its craft cocktail and non-alcoholic beverage programs.
tHe FaRm baR & gRille
1181 Elm St., Manchester, 641-3276, farmbargrille.com
The Farm, which also has locations in Dover and Essex, Mass., in addition to its downtown Manchester restaurant, is known for its elevated comfort fare and creative cocktails.
Cotton RestauRant
75 Arms St., Manchester, 622-5488, cottonfood.com
Cotton has been owned and operated by award-winning chef Jeffrey Paige since its opening in 2000. Its cocktail menu is especially known for featuring more than a dozen types of martinis.
CoPPeR dooR RestauRant
15 Leavy Drive, Bedford, 488-2677, copperdoor.com
In addition to T-Bones Great American Eatery and CJ’s Great West Grill, the Copper Door is part of the Great New Hampshire Restaurants family. Known for its “not too fancy, not too casual” concept, the Copper Door first opened in Bedford in 2011 (a second location followed suit in Salem in 2017) and features a selection of more than a dozen signature cocktails, with additional specialty drinks rotating throughout the season.
stella blu
70 E. Pearl St., Nashua, 578-5557, stella-blu.com
This upscale casual restaurant and martini bar is known for its scratch-cooked small and large plates, as well as salads, desserts and thoughtfully crafted drinks.
baR one
40 Nashua St., Milford, 249-5327, find them on Facebook @baronenh
A stone’s throw from the center of the Milford Oval, Bar One is a spot popular in town for its freshly cooked appetizers, entrees, sandwiches, flatbreads and
queen City CuPCaKes best oF tHe best
Almost too pretty, that is, to eat — but don’t let that stop you. Here are some of the bakeries serving up cute cupcakes that offer a treat for your eyes as well as your tastebuds.
816 Elm St., Manchester, 624-4999, qccupcakes.com
Since 2011, this downtown Manchester storefront has been offering freshly baked small-batch cupcakes daily in a rotating menu of flavors (an example of a recent line-up: Carrot Cake, Samoa, Fruity Pebbles, Cannoli and more).
In January 2023, Queen City Cupcakes moved all its operations a few doors down, joining forces with its sister gift shop, Pop of Color, at 816 Elm St.
beaRded baKing Co.
819 Union St., Manchester, 647-7150, beardedbaking.com
Jon Buatti took over ownership of Michelle’s Gourmet Pastries & Deli in late 2019 and, in November and December 2020, was a featured contestant on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. Bearded Baking Co. offers cupcakes (in early June some flavors included Banana Split, Orange S’mores and Seven Layer Bar) as well as custom cakes, cookies, doughnuts and more.
CaRina’s CaKes
14B E. Broadway, Derry, 425-9620, find them on Facebook @carinas.cakes
Originally from Sweden, Carina Hultgren of Carina’s Cakes has lived in
Derry since 2003, opening her own bake shop on Crystal Avenue before later moving downtown, to its current spot on East Broadway. Carina’s Cakes features a menu of more than a dozen rotating flavors of cupcakes (such as Butterbeer, salted caramel and funfetti), which are regularly updated on the shop’s Facebook page.
CuPCaKes 101
132 Bedford Center Road, Bedford, 488-5962, cupcakes101.net
As its name might suggest, you can find this cupcake shop on Route 101 in Bedford. Established in 2011, Cupcakes 101 has grown over the years to now offer more than 80 flavors of gourmet cupcakes (such as chocolate marshmallow, red velvet and peanut butter cup), along with cake pops, candies and other specialty items.
FRedeRiCK’s PastRies
109 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-7725, pastry.net
Originally established in 1980 by Frederick and Gloria Lozier in their Nashua garage, Frederick’s Pastries has two full-service bakeries, in Amherst and Bedford. The couple’s youngest daughter, Susan Lozier Robert, purchased the business from her parents in 2004 and continues to run it today. Like their
custom cakes, Frederick’s cupcakes come in a wide array of flavors and designs (like the Mermaid Cupcake, sporting ocean-colored frosting and a tail, or, a Purple Velvet Cupcake) jumbo in size and featuring house buttercream or fudge frosting.
FRedeRiCK’s PastRies
25 S. River Road, Bedford, 647-2253, pastry.net
Under the direction of current owner Susan Lozier Robert, Frederick’s opened a second location in Bedford Square in July 2007. As with the Amherst shop, you’ll find all kinds of decadent cupcakes (such as Mint Chocolate Chip and the berry-filled All American Cupcake) here in addition to the shop’s signature cakes, cookies and other sweet indulgences.
buCKley’s baKeRy & CaFe
436 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 262-5929, buckleysbakerycafe.com
Like its neighbor, Buckley’s Great Steaks, this spot is part of Michael Timothy’s Dining Group, owned and operated by longtime Nashua chef Michael Buckley. A wide array of scratch-baked desserts and pastries are available here, from cookies and cinnamon rolls to cakes and cupcakes (in varieties such as Cookie Overload and Chocolate Sundae).
loVe & FlouR baKeRy
303 S. Broadway, Salem, 912-5214, loveandflourbakery.com
Located on Route 28 in Salem, Love & Flour was founded in 2016 by Jaime Elizabeth, a self-taught baker and cake designer who fell in love with the craft in 2010. The shop is known for its custom-order cakes and its wide selection of freshly baked sweet treats, from gourmet cupcakes to cookies, dessert bars and brownies.
FResH aF baKesHoP
34 Church St., Kingston, 642-8609, freshafbakeshop.com
This Kingston shop, which opened in December 2021, features the baking prowess of Taryn Merrill, a Sandown native who earned a baking and pastry arts degree from Johnson & Wales University. Though she’s known for her custom cakes, Merrill dabbles in all kinds of pastries, from cupcakes (sample flavor: lemon berry cupcakes) and cookies, cake pops and tarts to cinnamon buns, French macarons and even stuffed doughnuts.
luCCiano’s baKesHoP
4 Orchard View Drive, Londonderry, 432-2442, luccianosbakeshop.com
Lucciano’s is known for its gluten-free desserts, which include all kinds of flavors of cakes, cupcakes (with flavors including Mocha Joy, Chocolate Raspberry and Tiramisu) and ice cream cakes, and will oftentimes feature seasonal items for each holiday.
tHe PuRitan baCKRoom RestauRant
best oF tHe best
245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 669-6890, puritanbackroom.com
A Manchester institution, The Puritan Backroom Restaurant has a separate takeout facility where all the menu items diners have come to know and love for generations can be ordered, from its famous fried chicken tenders to multiple flavors of its homemade ice cream.
goldenRod dRiVe-in RestauRant
1681 Candia Road, Manchester, 623-9469, goldenrodrestaurant.com
Open seven days a week year-round, Goldenrod has been in business since 1951, offering more than two dozen flavors of ice cream in addition to menu staples like burgers, sandwiches, french fries and seafood plates.
lilaC blossom RestauRant
650 Amherst St., Nashua, 886-8420; 385 E. Dunstable Road, Nashua, 8889588; lilacblossom.us
With two locations on opposite ends of Nashua, Lilac Blossom has been a longtime favorite for its made-to-order Chinese cuisine, featuring everything from classic beef, pork and chicken dishes to soups, boneless spare ribs and steamed dumplings.
tRoy’s FResH KitCHen & JuiCe baR
4 Orchard View Drive, No. 6, Londonderry, 965-3411, troysfreshkitchen.com
Troy’s is 100 percent dairy-free and gluten-free, offering smoothies, freshpressed juices, grain bowls, grilled wraps, breakfast scrambles and a variety of other menu items in a quick-service environment.
dos amigos buRRitos
26 N. Main St., Concord, 410-4161, dosamigosburritos.com
This popular fast-casual Mexican restaurant has been open in downtown Concord since May 2007. Dos Amigos is known for its customizable menu options that include tacos, burritos, quesadillas, bowls and more.
tHai Food ConneCtion
1069 Elm St., Manchester, 935-7257, thaifoodconnection.com
The menu features a variety of authentic Thai dishes like soups, curries, appetizers, entrees and street foods, all of which showcase the diversity of flavors and options available from within the country.
PRessed CaFe
216 S. River Road, Bedford, 606-2746, pressedcafe.com
Pressed Cafe, a local chain known for its scratch-made menu of paninis, sandwiches, smoothies and bowls as well as some items with a Middle Eastern flair, opened its fourth and newest New Hampshire location with a drive-thru and a full bar.
KC’s Rib sHaCK
837 Second St., Manchester, 627-7427, ribshack.net
Since opening in 1998, KC’s Rib Shack has been a local staple for its hickorysmoked ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork and a variety of other barbecue favorites.
smoKe sHaCK CaFe
226 Rockingham Road, Londonderry, 404-2178, smokeshackcafe.com
In addition to its smoked meats, many of which are available as combo plates or sandwiches, Smoke Shack Cafe offers everything from fresh salads and sides to sliders, tacos and flatbread pizzas.
new HamPsHiRe PiZZa Co.
76 N. Main St., Concord, 333-2125, newhampshirepizzaco.com
Although it’s best-known for its brick-oven artisan pizzas, New Hampshire Pizza Co. also features salads, brunch items, cocktails and homemade ice cream, with the overall focus of highlighting locally produced ingredients.
tHe FaRm baR & gRille
1181 Elm St., Manchester, 641-3276, farmbargrille.com/menu-manchester
Make a meal out of starters such as BBQ nachos, Thai lettuce wraps, wings, with your choice of sauces, pretzels with beer cheese or beer-battered pickles. Or check out the salads, flatbreads, burgers, sandwiches & wraps or land and sea entrees such as fish tacos, fajitas or cast iron mac.
Take some time out for just the two of you. Looking for a new idea for a date night spot? Here are some spots to enjoy a meal and a night on the town with your significant other.
CoPPeR dooR RestauRant best oF tHe best
15 Leavy Drive, Bedford, 488-2677, copperdoor.com
In addition to T-Bones Great American Eatery and CJ’s Great West Grill, the Copper Door is part of the Great New Hampshire Restaurants family. Known for its “not too fancy, not too casual” concept, the Copper Door first opened in Bedford in 2011 (a second location followed suit in Salem in 2017) and features a selection of more than a dozen signature cocktails, with additional specialty drinks rotating throughout the season.
tHe FoundRy RestauRant
50 Commercial St., Manchester, 836-1925, foundrynh.com
Located in Manchester’s historic Millyard and nestled on the Merrimack River, The Foundry is the largest certified farm-to-table restaurant in New Hampshire, with a menu that changes with the seasons and a selection of uniquely crafted cocktails. Live local musicians are featured in The Foundry’s bar and lounge area on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, in addition to acoustic acts on Sundays during brunch.
tHe CRown taVeRn
99 Hanover St., Manchester, 218-3132, thecrownonhanover.com
Part of the Chopscotch Hospitality Group family, which also owns Hanover Street Chophouse and (as of earlier this year) The Kitchen on River Road, The Crown Tavern opened in August 2017 just a block away from the Chophouse, in the space of the former Crown Theater, a popular movie theater during the early half of the 20th century. Differing from the fine-dining environment of its sister establishment that shares a street, the Crown is an eatery with a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, known for offering menu items such as fresh burgers, wood-fired pizzas and house appetizers like hand-breaded chicken tenders and oysters on the half shells.
Cotton RestauRant
75 Arms St., Manchester, 622-5488, cottonfood.com
Cotton has been owned and operated by award-winning chef Jeffrey Paige since its opening in 2000. Its cocktail menu is especially known for featuring more than a dozen types of martinis.
buCKley’s gReat steaKs
438 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 424-0995, buckleysgreatsteaks.com
Part of Michael Timothy’s Dining Group, owned and operated by longtime Nashua chef Michael Buckley, this Merrimack restaurant has been open since 2005. As the name might suggest, the eatery is known for its Midwestern grain-fed steaks, but it also boasts a menu of burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, salads and rotating specials.
HanoVeR stReet CHoPHouse
149 Hanover St., Manchester, 644-2467, hanoverstreetchophouse.com
Founded in 2005, the Hanover Street Chophouse is the place to be in the Queen City for some of the finest cuts of steak and seafood in the area. For more than two decades, executive chef Stuart Cameron has combined classic French cooking techniques with traditional American influences in his approach to crafting the Chophouse’s signature dishes.
angelina’s RistoRante italiano
11 Depot St., Concord, 228-3313, angelinasrestaurant.com
Everything is made fresh to order at this small 12-table restaurant in downtown Concord, known for its Italian cuisine and extensive wine list.
FiReFly ameRiCan bistRo & baR
22 Concord St., Manchester, 935-9740, fireflynh.com
This casual upscale bistro, which opened in the winter of 2008, is known for serving scratch-cooked American cuisine in a warm, comfortable atmosphere. It features a menu of land and sea entrees, pasta burgers, appetizers and signature lunch sandwiches, in addition to a large selection of beers, wines and cocktails.
Villaggio RistoRante italiano
677 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 627-2424, villaggionh.com
Authentic Italian cuisine takes center stage at this Manchester restaurant, which opened in the Queen City’s North End in 2012. Led by owners Christos Babis and his wife, Lexi Griburas Babis, Villaggio is an eatery known for its classic Italian dishes, including those made with chicken, veal and fresh seafood, as well as a full-service bar with wines, beers and specialty cocktails.
ReViVal KitCHen & baR
11 Depot St., Concord, 715-5723, revivalkitchennh.com
Owned and operated by award-winning chef Corey Fletcher, Revival Kitchen & Bar brings you a quintessential fine dining experience with a locally sourced farm-to-table influence. The word “revival” refers to Fletcher’s take on New England and Old World classic dishes using local meats, produce and dairy products.
Looking to add something new to your home? Check out these five spots to shop for something with an artistic flair. Many of these spots offer pieces from local artists and craftsmen.
CRaFtsmen’s FaiR best oF tHe best nhcrafts.org/annual-craftsmens-fair
The annual nine-day craft fair hosted by the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen is held outdoors at Mount Sunapee Resort starting the first week of August. It features hundreds of craftspeople with vendor booths, plus special craft exhibitions, demonstrations, hands-on workshops and more.
league oF new HamPsHiRe CRaFtsmen ConCoRd
Fine CRaFt galleRy
36 N. Main St., Concord, 228-8171, concord.nhcrafts.org
The craft organization’s flagship retail shop and gallery features a variety of traditional and contemporary crafts created by juried New Hampshire craftspeople.
mosaiC aRt ColleCtiVe
66 Hanover St., Suite 201, Manchester, 512-6209, mosaicartcollective.com
The art cooperative features a gallery with rotating exhibitions and hosts community events and educational programming.
manCHesteR CRaFt maRKet
Mall of New Hampshire, 1500 S. Willow St., Manchester, manchestercraftmarket. com
This year-round gift shop features handmade items by more than 125 local artisans.
tHe museum sHoP at tHe CuRRieR
Currier Museum of Art, 150 Ash St., Manchester, 669-6144, currier.org. The gift shop offers art supplies and gifts for artists and art-lovers, including novelty items inspired by the museum’s special exhibitions.
Whether you’re learning a new skill or just looking to have a day out doing something different, here are a few of the spots where you can discover a new passion.
studio 550 aRts CenteR
best oF tHe best
550 Elm St., Manchester, 232-5597, 550arts.com
Learn pottery making, clay sculpting, stained glass, watercolors and more at this art studio, which offers multi-week classes for adults, art classes and vacation camps for kids, one-day workshops, parent-and-child workshops and at-home project kits.
tusCan maRKet
9 Via Toscana, Salem, 952-4875, tuscanbrands.com
Tuscan Market maintains a monthly schedule of cooking classes, with signups available for all skill levels.
603 CHaRCuteRie
603charcuterie.com
Classes on assembling your own charcuterie boards are held at Vine 32 Wine + Graze Bar in Bedford, which took over the reins of the business earlier this year, as well as other locations in the greater Manchester area and beyond.
muse PaintbaR
42 Hanover St., Manchester, 607-6873, musepaintbar.com.
Paint-and-sip classes are available to painters at all skill levels during open studios as well as at specifically themed events.
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current home and community. I want to stay in my home for as long as I can, and I don’t want to be a burden to my wife or children.
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current home and community. I want to stay in my home for as long as I can, and I don’t want to be a burden to my wife or children.
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current home and community. I want to stay in my home for as long as I can, and I don’t want to be a burden to my wife or children.
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current home and community. I want to stay in my home for as long as I can, and I don’t want to be a burden to my wife or children.
Two years ago I enrolled in the At Home By Hunt program and feel it is a great fit for me, both for the present and for the future when and if I can no longer stay at home. The program is a great value financially, and the staff are marvelous – very friendly and helpful.
I am pleased with my choice to join!
Two years ago I enrolled in the At Home By Hunt program and feel it is a great fit for me, both for the present and for the future when and if I can no longer stay at home. The program is a great value financially, and the staff are marvelous – very friendly and helpful.
Two years ago I enrolled in the At Home By Hunt program and feel it is a great fit for me, both for the present and for the future when and if I can no longer stay at home. The program is a great value financially, and the staff are marvelous – very friendly and helpful.
Two years ago I enrolled in the At Home By Hunt program and feel it is a great fit for me, both for the present and for the future when and if I can no longer stay at home. The program is a great value financially, and the staff are marvelous – very friendly and helpful.
~John, Member since 2020
I am pleased with my choice to join!
I am pleased with my choice to join!
I am pleased with my choice to join!
~John, Member since 2020
~John, Member since 2020
~John, Member since 2020
CoRey’s Closet best oF tHe best
Forget the latest — search for the greatest. Secondhand stores offer a chance to find unique pieces and better prices. Here are five places to shop for new-to-you fashions.
1329 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 722-2712, coreyscloset.org
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the mission of Corey’s Closet is to create meaningful employment for young adults with developmental disabilities, according to the website. Offerings include clothes, shoes, jewelry, art, puzzles and more.
m&C ClotHing and giFts
135 Route 101A, Amherst, 886-6727, mcclothingandgifts.com
M&C offers clothing, shoes, purses, accessories and more for men, women and kids as well as New Hampshire-made and gift items. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
lilise designeR Resale
7 N. Main St., Concord, 715-2009, liliseresale.com
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Find clothes, shoes and accessories from designer brands. Facebook posts in May and June showed lots of summer party-ready looks.
Kelly’s Kloset
Sales are coordinated through the Facebook group “Kelly’s Kloset LLC,” with pick-ups and drop-offs based in Hooksett.
CHiC boutique Consignments
126 S. River Road, Bedford, 935-7295, chicboutiqueconsignments.com
Shop for women’s, men’s and kids’ clothes as well as accessories and shoes with loads of designer finds. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Luxury
it’s about living in a way where you appreciate things”
-Oscar de La Renta
Sometimes, it's the french fries that really make the meal — so why not skip the main course and go straight to this salty, crispy side? Here are some spots where you may want to make the fries the main course.
tHe FaRm baR & gRille best oF tHe best
1181 Elm St., Manchester, 641-3276, farmbargrille.com
The Farm, which also has locations in Dover and Essex, Mass., in addition to its downtown Manchester restaurant, is known for its elevated comfort fare and creative cocktails. Its hand-cut fries are a featured side to many of its signature items, from its burgers to its fish sandwiches, and there is also an option to order sweet potato fries.
tHe PuRitan baCKRoom RestauRant
245 Hooksett Road, Manchester, 669-6890, puritanbackroom.com
The Puritan Backroom may be better-known for its famous fried chicken tenders, but don’t count out its fries. They come with any one of the eatery’s burgers, sandwiches or wraps, and there is also an option to swap them out for spicy or sweet potato fries.
RiVeR Road taVeRn
193 S. River Road, Bedford, 206-5837, riverroadtavernbedford.com
This locally owned Bedford tavern just recently rolled out its spring and summer menu. Regular or sweet potato fries can be ordered as sides, or alongside one of the eatery’s house burgers or sandwiches.
goldenRod dRiVe-in RestauRant
1681 Candia Road, Manchester, 6239469, goldenrodrestaurant.com
Open seven days a week year-round, Goldenrod has been in business since 1951, offering all kinds of menu staples like burgers, sandwiches, french fries and seafood plates.
603 bReweRy & beeR Hall
42 Main St., Londonderry, 404-6123, 603brewery.com
Founded in 2012 by three longtime college friends, 603 Brewery relocated all its operations from Liberty Drive in 2019 to a new space in Londonderry’s Woodmont Commons development, about 4 miles away, introducing a beer hall with a full locally sourced food menu, a private function room and an outdoor beer garden. As it is a scratch kitchen, 603 Brewery’s menu, including its french fry offerings, change seasonally. During the winter months, for instance, their poutine is topped with house beer cheese, cheese curds, bacon gravy and chives, while during the summer they offer a barbecue poutine.
CHeZ VaCHon
136 Kelley St., Manchester, 625-9660, chezvachon.com
This West Side eatery offers breakfast and lunch all day with a Canadian flair in addition to the usual diner comfort foods. Perhaps one of its most famous french fry dishes is the poutine, prepared the traditional way with cheese curds and gravy.
tHe gyRo sPot
1073 Elm St., Manchester, 218-3869, thegyrospot.com
Open since 2012, The Gyro Spot aims to bring the authentic taste of Greek street food to downtown Manchester. Hand-cut fries are a key ingredient to its signature gyro sandwiches. You can also order them as loaded gyro fries, topped with all of the ingredients minus the pita.
new HamPsHiRe PiZZa Co.
76 N. Main St., Concord, 333-2125, newhampshirepizzaco.com
Longtime Concord restaurateur Joel Harris opened this downtown restaurant in the former Crazy Goat space on Main Street in January 2022. Although it’s bestknown for its brick-oven artisan pizzas, New Hampshire Pizza Co. also features many house appetizers, including handcut fries, — either plain or with malt vinegar or charred oregano aiolis — as well as the truffle fries, tossed in white truffle oil, Parmesan cheese and a house herb blend before being topped with pecorino.
tandy’s Pub & gRille
1 Eagle Square, Concord, 856-7614, tandyspub.com
Established in 2010 and located in the heart of downtown Concord’s Eagle Square, Tandy’s features two bars and a fullservice outdoor patio. Fries come with any one of the eatery’s signature sandwiches or burgers — with the option to swap them out for sweet potato fries — or try their “WTFries” appetizer, featuring their fries topped with beer cheese and bacon.
PRessed CaFe
216 S. River Road, Bedford, 606-2746, pressedcafe.com
Pressed Cafe, a local chain known for its scratch-made menu of paninis, sandwiches, smoothies and bowls as well as some items with a Middle Eastern flair, opened its fourth and newest New Hampshire location in Bedford in March 2022. It’s open for breakfast all day and features a double drive-thru and a full bar. Among its signature bar dishes, available to those dining in, are the truffle Parmesan fries, which are crispy fries topped with parsley, truffle oil and Parmesan and served with chili remoulade, ketchup and a red wine demi.
bedFoRd Village inn & RestauRant
2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford, 472-2001, bedfordvillageinn.com
This nationally acclaimed luxury inn, boutique hotel and restaurant is known for featuring contemporary, regionally sourced cuisine in a warm and inviting environment. The signature herbed Parmesan fries on the BVI’s tavern menu are served with any one of its burgers or sandwiches.
The mobile food scene is continuing to grow in southern New Hampshire, featuring trucks, trailers and pop-ups serving up all kinds of unique eats. Here are 11 on-the-go eateries to try.
messy miKe’s baRbeCue & CateRing Co. best oF tHe best Derry, messymikesbbq.com
Messy Mike’s reopened for the season on March 16 — find them in the parking lot of Rockingham Acres Greenhouse (161 Rockingham Road, Derry) most Thursdays through Sundays, serving up smoked meats, ribs, sandwiches and more. Veteran barbecue caterer Michael “Messy Mike” Massiglia launched the 30-foot mobile food trailer in September 2020 and also makes and bottles his own sauces.
b’s taCos & moRe Londonderry, nhtacotruck.com
Ken Spilman established B’s Tacos in 2013 as a side hustle before later taking the venture on full-time. Find the original B’s Tacos trailer outside the BP gas station (2 Mohawk Drive, Londonderry) from May through October serving Tex-Mex tacos, burritos and bowls (this location is walk-in service only). Spilman has a second truck he brings to local events throughout the season, and also operates a brick-and-mortar restaurant on Manchester’s West Side, at 372 Kelley St.
When he’s not catering for an event, DeCourcey can often be found in some areas of town, like Vault Motor Storage (526 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack) or Able Ebenezer Brewing Co. (31 Columbia Circle, Merrimack) — the dates and times vary but are regularly updated on Facebook.
tHe sleaZy Vegan
Multiple locations, thesleazyvegan.com
Nashua native Kelley-Sue LeBlanc — a.k.a. “KSL” — launched The Sleazy Vegan last year as a ghost kitchen in Manchester before expanding into a food truck a couple of months later. She’s known for offering a rotating menu of seasonally inspired whole-food plant-based breakfast and lunch items. In addition to maintaining a regular schedule of public appearances in southern New Hampshire, The Sleazy Vegan participates in events and offers catering services. The dates and locations vary but are regularly updated on the website and on Facebook.
one HaPPy Clam seaFood &
Multiple locations, find them on Facebook @onehappyclam
Dan DeCourcey of Merrimack was an award-winning competitive barbecuer for several years before launching Up In Your Grill, a trailer specializing in smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork and pulled chicken, often available as either sandwiches or combo plates with sides like seasoned fries and coleslaw.
Operated by longtime former Clam Haven owner and Derry native Rick Metts, One Happy Clam has multiple public events on the schedule this spring and summer across southern New Hampshire. Metts ran Clam Haven for more than three decades before passing the torch on to Lisa DeSisto of Rig A Tony’s in early 2020. He returned to the local food scene the following year with One Happy Clam, and he uses the same seafood suppliers he has been in touch with since his first season at Clam Haven in 1987.
Multiple locations, buxtonspizza.com
This mobile brick-oven pizza truck specializes in Neo-Neapolitan-style pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, garlic knots and cannolis. Since the launch of his business in the summer of 2020, owner and Derry native Josh Buxton has appeared at private events and parties all over southern New Hampshire. The truck is a 13-foot retired FBI mobile command center from New Haven, Connecticut, that Buxton found at a local auction. His menu includes multiple types of 12inch pizzas cooked fresh on the truck, with traditional toppings like cheese, pepperoni and margherita in addition to some specialty offerings.
Josh Hilyard, the owner and pitmaster of 603 Smok’n Que, got his start in food service working his own concessions outside of Manchester HarleyDavidson, where he sold hot dogs and Italian sausages, as well as at New England Dragway in Epping, where he sold pulled pork sandwiches and barbecued foods. Hilyard decided to focus on barbecue cuisine, and in 2014 he drove to Georgia to buy his own smoker. From there he started developing his own recipes and practicing barbecue parties for his family and friends. Originally launched as a slow-smoked barbecue catering business, 603 Smok’n Que expanded into a mobile food trailer last year, now specializing in barbecue options and smash burgers.
RiCo’s buRRitos
Multiple locations, ricosburritosfoodtruck.com
Rico’s Burritos is a food truck specializing in street tacos, burritos, burrito bowls and other authentic Mexican options with a Central American twist. The truck launched in June 2022, but owners Danilo Portillo and his wife, Amanda, of Plaistow, have worked in the restaurant industry since they were teenagers. Rico’s Burritos gets its name both in inspiration from the couple’s son, Ricardo, and for the Spanish word meaning “tasty” or “delicious.” The truck has a regular presence at venues across northern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, perhaps most notably at Griffin Park (101 Range Road, Windham).
PuPPy loVe Hot dogs
50 N. Main St., Concord, puppylovehotdogs.com
A Concord tradition for more than four decades, Puppy Love Hot Dogs relaunched for the outdoor season in early May. The business opened its first hot dog stand in Plymouth in 1976 before expanding to Concord two years later. Over the years it has also operated in stands in Ashland, Hanover, Franklin and North Conway.
deadPRooF PiZZa Co.
Multiple locations, deadproofpizza.com
This mobile pizza pop-up company launched in May 2022 and now regularly appears at local breweries, events and private catering gigs. The menu often changes, and in addition to pizza Deadproof will offer smash burgers, chicken sandwiches, wings and more.
walKing gouRmet nH
Windham, find them on Facebook @walkinggourmetnh
Based in Windham, this food truck launched in 2019 and is owned and operated by chef Adam Wactowski. While he can create a personalized menu on the truck, Wactowski will most often dabble in items like specialty burgers, chicken sandwiches and vegetarian wraps.
Andres Institute of Art in Brookline (andresinstitute.org) was picked as an “Attraction Worth Visiting Again And Again.” Find more than 10 miles of trails over 140 acres featuring more than 100 sculptures from artists who participated in the Institute’s annual symposium.
Photo by martin gingras.
New Hampshire’s tattoo artists work in a wide range of styles offering customers a variety of approaches to adding fresh ink. Here are some of the studios where a client’s vision can become a reality.
new inKland tattoo Co.
best oF tHe best
1358 Elm St., Suite C, Manchester, 518-7493, new-inkland-tattoo-co.business. site
Located on Elm Street’s North End in downtown Manchester, this shop is regularly staffed by several tattoo artists with a wealth of combined experience. Appointments are only booked in person, and consultations are also done inside the shop.
tattoo angus
179 Elm St., Unit C, Manchester, 935-9398, tattooangus.com
Tattoo Angus started as a sister shop of Spider-Bite Body Piercing — both businesses are run by Jon Thomas, the founder of the Live Free or Die Tattoo Expo, which is due to return to Manchester from Friday, July 28, through Sunday, July 30.
CaPital City tattoo
8 N. Main St., Concord, 224-2600, capcitytat.com
Owner Scott Flanders is one of several practicing artists at Capital City Tattoo, currently celebrating its 10th year in business. Appointments and consultations can be scheduled online.
blood oatH tattoo
15 Pleasant St., Concord, 227-6912, find them on Facebook @bloodoathtattoo
Steven Cummings opened this Concord tattoo shop in 2019, where he is also one of several practicing artists. Tattoos with each of Blood Oath’s artists are by appointment only.
undeRwoRld tattoo Co.
282 Main St., Salem, 458-7739, find them on Facebook and Instagram @ underworldtattoocompany
Custom, high-quality designs of all varieties are available at this Salem tattoo shop. Each practicing artist is active on Instagram, and some also accept bookings via email.
buZZ inK sHoP
85 Manchester St., Suite 2, Concord, 715-1808, buzzinkshopnh.com
This family-owned combination tattoo, barbershop and beauty bar opened in Concord in 2013. Each practicing artist specializes in a variety of tattoo art styles.
sCoRPion tattooing
10 Manchester Road, Derry, 434-4798, scorpiontattooing.com
Artists at this Derry shop, established in 1996 by owner Mark Hesse, have more than 50 years of combined experience. Appointments can be made, and walk-ins are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
bulletPRooF tigeR tattoo
28 Amherst St., Manchester, 232-2115, bulletprooftigertattoonh.com
This downtown Manchester tattoo shop is open seven days a week, featuring artists specializing in a wide variety of tattoo art styles.
midnigHt moon tattoo
56 Route 25, Meredith, 279-3311, midnightmoontattoo.com
Established in 1993, Midnight Moon Tattoo is one of the oldest tattoo shops in the Granite State. The studio is open five days a week, and while walkins are accepted when available, appointments are recommended. Staff artists offer a wide range of tattoo art styles and designs.
RiVeR Rose tattoo & aRt galleRy
679 Mast Road, Goffstown, find them on Facebook and Instagram @riverrosetattoo
TJ Schunemann opened this shop in August 2017 in his hometown of Goffstown, where he also serves as one of four regular practicing artists who all specialize in a variety of different styles of artwork. The shop is appointmentbased, with all scheduling conducted through individual emails, available on each artist’s social media pages.
Timeless stories were celebrated on stage throughout the year from local theater companies..
ballet misHa’s tHe nutCRaCKeR
best oF tHe best
Dana Center for the Humanities at Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester; balletmisha.com
Performed by professional dancers and students of Dimensions in Dance, Ballet Misha’s latest production of The Nutcracker took place at Saint Anselm College’s Dana Center for the Humanities on Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022. This year’s performance is slated for Saturday, Dec. 16, and Sunday, Dec. 17, and will also mark Ballet Misha’s 15th anniversary.
a CHRistmas CaRol at tHe PalaCe tHeatRe
80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org
The Palace Theatre’s tradition of presenting the classic Charles Dickens tale continued with a mainstage production that ran from Nov. 26 through Dec. 23, 2022. The show features professional actors and a live orchestra, and is filled with lively songs, dances and special effects.
gRease at tHe PalaCe tHeatRe
80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org
The beloved musical returned to the stages of the Palace Theatre from Oct. 21 through Nov. 12, 2022. Grease tells the story of leather-clad greaser Danny and girl next door Sandy, who develop a summer romance and are unexpectedly reunited when Sandy transfers schools for her senior year.
legally blonde tHe musiCal at tHe PalaCe tHeatRe
80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org
Legally Blonde The Musical follows Elle Woods as she overcomes stereotypes while charming her way through a prestigious law school. The Palace Theatre ran this mainstage production from June 3 through June 26, 2022.
tHe all new Piano men at tHe PalaCe tHeatRe
80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org
An original production performed by the Palace Theatre from Jan. 20 through Feb. 5, 2023, and from the mind of artistic director Carl Rajotte, The All New Piano Men celebrates the legacies of music icons like Billy Joel, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Freddie Mercury with live performances from singers and dancers straight from New York City.
Cookies can be a midday treat, an afternoon pick-me-up or a satisfying way to finish a meal. Here are some of the places serving up these treats.
tHe CRust & CRumb baKing Co.
best oF tHe best
126 N. Main St., Concord, 219-0763, thecrustandcrumb.com
This downtown from-scratch bakery started out at local farmers markets, quickly gaining relationships with area producers and growers that allow them to continue to make all kinds of locally sourced indulgences. Cookies include all kinds of American classics, from chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin to several types of European-style cookies with varying seasonal availability.
beaRded baKing Co.
819 Union St., Manchester, 647-7150, beardedbaking.com
Jon Buatti took over ownership of Michelle’s Gourmet Pastries & Deli in late 2019 and, in November and December 2020, was a featured contestant on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. The Bearded Baking Cooffers custom cakes, cupcakes, doughnuts, sandwiches and more as well as cookies.
tHe blaCK FoRest CaFe & baKeRy
212 Route 101, Amherst, 672-0500, theblackforestcafe.com
Since 1988, The Black Forest Cafe & Bakery has been known for offering all kinds of from scratch-baked goods and sweets treats, including its cookies, large enough to share and featuring classic flavors like chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, molasses, snickerdoodle and more.
buCKley’s baKeRy & CaFe
436 Daniel Webster Hwy., Merrimack, 262-5929, buckleysbakerycafe.com
Like its neighbor, Buckley’s Great Steaks, this spot is part of Michael Timothy’s Dining Group, owned and operated by longtime Nashua chef Michael Buckley. A wide array of scratch-baked desserts and pastries is available here, from cookies and cinnamon rolls to cakes and cupcakes.
FRedeRiCK’s PastRies
109 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-7725, pastry.net
Originally established in 1980 by Frederick and Gloria Lozier in their Nashua garage, Frederick’s Pastries is now a local institution with two fullservice bakeries, in Amherst and Bedford. The couple’s youngest daughter, Susan Lozier Robert, purchased the business from her parents in 2004 and continues to run it today. Cookie options include butter cookies decorated with buttercream frosting celebrating holidays, seasons and big life events, flavored cookies (such as lemon zest cookies and cinnamon cranberry cookies) and even cookie cakes.
Pats PeaK sKi aRea
686 Flanders Road, Henniker, 428-3245, patspeak.com
Pats Peak is famous for its home-baked giant M&M cookies, which are bigger than your fist. According to ski area marketing director Lori Rowell, the cookies started as a tradition in the 1960s, when the owners’ wives would serve as cooks in the kitchen. They made chocolate chip cookies at first before later transitioning to M&Ms. Today, Rowell said they’ll typically bake and sell around 20,000 individual cookies per season.
Ava Boll at Dimensions in Dance in Manchester (dimensionsindance. com), picked “Best Dance Studio” in the “Thing We Forgot to Ask About” category.
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Over 70 student clubs and organizations
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