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New Hampshire may be known for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and mountains, but it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers. This carefully curated itinerary will take you on a culinary adventure through some of New Hampshire's most beloved restaurants, local eateries, and farm-to-table experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this foodie tour of New Hampshire offers mouth-watering dishes and unforgettable dining spots that will leave you craving more.
Day 1: Start in Portsmouth – Coastal Flavors & Seafood Delights
Portsmouth is one of New Hampshire’s most vibrant coastal cities, and it’s a fantastic starting point for your culinary journey. Known for its historic charm, artsy vibe, and an abundance of top-notch dining options, you can’t go wrong starting here.
Breakfast:Start your day at Cure Restaurant, a local favorite for brunch. Their dishes, like the lobster eggs benedict or house-cured bacon, are the perfect way to begin your adventure. Be sure to pair it with their locally roasted coffee.
Lunch:For lunch, head over to Surf Portsmouth, where seafood lovers will be in heaven. The fresh lobster roll, made with Maine lobster, is a must-try. Enjoy the ocean views while savoring oysters, chowder, and scallops.
Dinner:For dinner, book a table at Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe. Known for its farm-to-table seafood, this restaurant offers dishes like seared scallops and tuna poke that showcase the freshest local catches. Their focus on sustainable seafood makes it a popular spot for conscious foodies.
Bonus Stop:Grab a sweet treat at Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream before leaving Portsmouth. Their creamy flavors, like ginger or salted caramel, are the perfect way to end your day on the coast.
Drive Time to Manchester: Approx. 1 hour
Day 2: Manchester – A Taste of Urban New Hampshire
Next on the itinerary is Manchester, New Hampshire’s largest city, where the dining scene is eclectic and exciting.
Breakfast:Kick off your second day with a visit to The Bridge Cafe. This cozy spot is known for its freshly baked bagels, gourmet breakfast sandwiches, and the city’s best coffee. Don’t miss their signature honey lavender latte.
Lunch:For lunch, head over to Republic Cafe, a Mediterranean-inspired bistro with a farm-to-table approach. Enjoy dishes like grilled lamb sandwiches, falafel wraps, or their famous hummus platter. They source ingredients from local farms, so everything is fresh and flavorful.
Dinner:Cap off your day with a fine-dining experience at Campo Enoteca. This Italian-inspired restaurant offers a seasonal menu, featuring handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and locally sourced meats. The wine list here is extensive, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed, elegant dinner.
Bonus Stop:Stop by Dancing Lion Chocolate for dessert. This artisanal chocolate shop offers gourmet truffles, drinking chocolates, and pastries made with single-origin cacao, a true treat for chocolate enthusiasts.
Drive Time to Concord: Approx. 30 minutes
Day 3: Concord – Farm-to-Table and Comfort Classics
Head to Concord, the state capital, where you’ll find a mix of farm-to-table restaurants and classic comfort food joints.
Breakfast:Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Works Café. Their farm-fresh egg sandwiches, homemade bagels, and organic coffee make this a perfect morning stop. The café emphasizes sustainable practices, from their locally sourced ingredients to eco-friendly packaging.
Lunch:For lunch, check out Revival Kitchen & Bar, known for their modern twist on New England cuisine. Savor the grass-fed beef burger, fried chicken, or their popular braised pork belly. This farm-to-table restaurant takes pride in its creative, locally inspired dishes.
Dinner:For a casual, yet satisfying dinner, visit Beefside Restaurant, a Concord institution that’s been serving the best BBQ and roast beef in town for decades. Their slow-cooked BBQ ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and hand-cut fries are comfort food at its finest.
Bonus Stop:Swing by Granite State Candy Shoppe to pick up some handcrafted chocolates or their famous peanut butter cups before heading to your next destination.
Drive Time to Hanover: Approx. 1 hour
Day 4: Hanover – College Town with Culinary Flair
Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover offers a sophisticated dining scene with a mix of global flavors and upscale American cuisine.
Breakfast:Begin your day with breakfast at Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery, a beloved local spot since 1947. Their homemade donuts, pancakes, and farm-fresh eggs are legendary. Don't forget to try their apple cider donuts if they're in season!
Lunch:Stop by Pine Restaurant for a delightful lunch. This upscale spot offers contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. From fresh salads to seafood, their menu is full of surprises.
Dinner:End your culinary adventure at Molly’s Restaurant & Bar, a popular spot with students and visitors alike. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and craft beers in a lively atmosphere. Their fish tacos and buffalo wings are also crowd-pleasers.
Bonus Stop:For dessert, head to Morano Gelato, where you can indulge in authentic Italian gelato. Their seasonal flavors, like pistachio and dark chocolate, are made fresh daily, offering a sweet ending to your time in Hanover.
Tips for Your New Hampshire Culinary Journey
Plan Ahead: Popular restaurants can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Be sure to make reservations when possible to avoid long waits.
Explore Farm-to-Table: Many restaurants in New Hampshire emphasize farm-to-table dining, sourcing their ingredients from local farms. Don't miss out on trying dishes made with the freshest produce, seafood, and meats.
Pair with Local Brews: New Hampshire’s craft beer scene is booming. Many restaurants offer locally brewed beers that perfectly complement their dishes.
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