The Best Southern NH Restaurants for Every Type of Night Out
Looking for a place to go for dinner? Maybe you’re tired of the same old thing, or maybe you just want to try something different. New restaurants with various vibes and menus are popping up all over southern New Hampshire. We’ve put together a cheat sheet for you of some of the best, based on customer reviews.
Pig Tale, Nashua
This farm-to-table restaurant promises fresh food made with ingredients from several local farms. To emphasize the point, Pig Tale’s owner says they don’t even have a freezer! One reviewer describes the menu as “standard pub grub but with a bit of a fresh, inventive twist.”
Sweet Ginger, Merrimack
No need to cross state borders for authentic Thai and Asian fusion cuisine. Hungry shoppers at the Merrimack Outlets will find Sweet Ginger a great option for a meal. Customers have praised the speedy service, delicious food, and reasonable price. In fact, it’s so good, it’ll “transport you to the streets of Bangkok!”
Republic Cafe & Bistro, Manchester
This is another restaurant committed to using local, fresh ingredients from farms within a 50-mile radius of its downtown Manchester location. Republic has been recognized by media critics such as those from Yankee Magazine, Boston Globe, and National Public Radio. “Best of” awards from Hippo Press have boosted Republic’s reputation as a great find among the ordinary. You could take one Yelp reviewer’s word for it: “This place is beyond fab. The menu is incredible — perfect for vegetarians and meat eaters.”
Amphora, Derry
When you’re in a Mediterranean mood, try this place for what one frequent customer affectionately calls “standard upscale quality Greek, with all of the usual suspects.” The decor and atmosphere is a celebration of the owner’s heritage, and while it might feel very old world, the chef prides himself on his ability to update traditional Mediterranean cuisine with some new seasonings and a few new combinations.
Stark House Tavern, Dunbarton/Weare
When casual burgers, wings, and pizza is what will satisfy your appetite, head over to Stark House Tavern. Customers love the food and also are pleasantly surprised by the extensive beer selection. The location might seem out of the way for our urban dwellers, but fans promise it’s worth the ride. One five-star reviewer “left full and happy without breaking the bank.”
Copper Door, Bedford
This hot spot claims to be not too fancy and not too casual, but the prices and atmosphere easily make it a more special occasion for the those who dine out less frequently. Look for American and New England favorites on the menu, along with some unique specialties. One recent diner was happy to see Copper Door “firing on all cylinders: service, atmosphere, food presentation, and taste.”
The Barley House, Concord
This restaurant has had a long-time presence in downtown Concord, across the street from the State House. Its tavern atmosphere and menu make it a popular gathering place for friends, co-workers, and foodies, who also enjoy a pint or two. The list of burger options is long, and New Hampshire Magazine has honored customer favorites three out of the last four years.
Row 34, Portsmouth
When you want seafood, it makes sense to go to the Seacoast. Diners rave about the raw bar, which includes oysters that are a happy hour special. One customer who planned to eat elsewhere but landed at Row 34 due to renovations at her first choice restaurant couldn’t help but offer a glowing review: “I’m kind of glad we got the chance to come here instead because it was fantastic.”
The Goat, Hampton
This restaurant and whiskey bar is more down home, featuring 50 types of whiskey, 10 custom burgers, and live country music. They serve breakfast, too! Those who eat here come for the atmosphere as much as the food. Said one reviewer, “If you are looking for a cookie cutter bar with overly polite bartenders, no vibe, and mediocre food. Then this is NOT the place for you.”
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