CHEDDAR & RYE
The largest whiskey bar in the state featuring more than 250 whiskeys . They offer flights, inventive cocktails, and a full service bar. The best grilled cheese menu you’ve ever seen including the option to build your own using their fresh ingredients.
CJ’S GREAT WEST GRILL
CJ’s Great West Grill – Billing itself as “serving up a taste of Americana with a distinctive Western flair,” CJ’s — or Cactus Jack’s as it was known for many years — has a sprawling menu ranging from Tex-Mex to seafood to burgers and steaks to sandwiches and wraps to Texas barbecue.
COTTON
Featuring sophisticated American comfort food (think retro meatloaf and buttermilk herb fried chicken) using local meat and produce, Cotton also serves up delicious dishes like almond-crusted turkey schnitzel and pork saltimbocca, all in a sophisticated 1950s-type ambience. In addition to their food and atmosphere, Cotton is also known for cocktails, its martinis in particular. If you can’t make up your mind, go for the Martini Sampler. Reservations are encouraged, especially for dinner.
DH’S DOG HOUSE
Open seasonally, this food truck is parked in a lot adjacent to Intervale Country Club and serves up hot dogs, burgers, barbecue, sausages, and home cut fries, all of which can be enjoyed on a nearby picnic bench with views of the Merrimack River. Open April through November. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
FIREFLY AMERICAN BISTRO
Serving upscale American classics like pork tenderloin, braised lamb shank, and eggplant napoleon, Firefly is a warm and inviting spot. Whatever you order, ask for one of the restaurant’s private booths and start with the go-go bread, a warm garlic bread with gorgonzola fondue.
HANOVER STREET CHOPHOUSE
A sophisticated, urban steakhouse that outshines many of its counterparts in Boston and New York, Hanover Street Chophouse has been the go-to restaurant for the chamber of commerce crowd since opening in 2005. The Chophouse’s menu offers everything you’d expect from such an establishment — hand cut steaks, chops, fresh fish, shellfish, and an award-winning 200-plus bottle wine list. While the Chophouse is easily the most expensive restaurant in town, you definitely get what you pay for. If you want your money to go as far as it can during your stay in Manchester, visit at lunch, when prices are more reasonable, but the food’s just as good.
IGNITE BAR & GRILLE
Located adjacent to its sister restaurant, Hooked, on Hanover Street, Ignite Bar & Grille straddles the line between casual and upscale dining. Featuring an eclectic menu — from raspberry pecan chicken to Asian BBQ steak tips to the popular Tuscan dip sandwich — Ignite is especially popular with those attending shows at the nearby Palace Theatre. If visiting during the warmer months, be sure to dine al fresco at one of the restaurant’s sidewalk tables. Closed Sunday.
KENNEDY FRIED CHICKEN
Kennedy Fried Chicken is one of those joints that you can smell for a block in any given direction, and that’s a compliment, given their tasty, if slightly greasy, halal fried chicken, the aroma of which wafts across the surrounding neighborhood on warm summer days. A mainly take-out place, Kennedy also sells subs, wraps, kebabs, and fried seafood.
MOE JOE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT
While Moe Joe’s offers a wide variety of American dishes, what makes this popular East Side eatery unique is its Portuguese offerings. If you’re there for breakfast, go for the linguica breakfast sandwich (on the Portuguese English muffin, of course). And if you’re there for lunch or supper, try the paella, the espetata (the house specialty steak) the Portuguese seafood, or the Portuguese burger (linguica, peppers, onions, and cheese).
MR. MAC’S MACARONI AND CHEESE
There’s macaroni and cheese and then there’s macaroni and cheese. Mr. Mac’s takes this comfort food to the next level by offering 21 signature mac and cheese entrees — most of which can be made with gluten-free pasta — all using high quality Cabot cheddar cheese from Vermont. Standouts include the cajun Mac, the pulled pork mac, the lobstah mac, and the vegan American chop suey Mac.
PURITAN BACKROOM
Whereas most of the city’s other Greek-owned restaurants have Hellas-inspired names — Athens, Olympus, Annula’s — the Puritan, with a buckle-hatted Puritan gentleman as its logo, is about non-Greek sounding as you can get. But no one seems to care. More than 100 years old, the Backroom, as it’s referred to by locals, is a Manchester institution, as evidenced by the nearly always-packed parking lot. Whether it’s your first time visiting, or your 83rd, you’ll likely order the chicken tenders, which the restaurant claims to have invented. That may or may not be true, but they will be among the best tenders you’ve ever had. If you’re thirsty for adult beverage, order a mudslide — another of their specialties that packs so much of a punch that they’ll only serve you two.
RED ARROW DINER
Named by USA Today as one of the country’s top 10 diners, the Red Arrow is a Manchester institution that serves up breakfast, lunch, and supper fare anytime of the day or night. The diner is a mandatory stop for all those aspiring to the Presidency, and it should be for you, too. Be sure and tell the staff that it’s your first time there, or in the establishment’s parlance, if you’re a “Red Arrow Virgin” — you’ll love their reaction. You’ll find all of the standard diner fare here, but go for something a little more unique like the Pork Pie Benny or the kielbasa and beans. For dessert, order a slice of the Death by Chocolate pie, if there’s any left. If it’s all gone, order a Dinah Finger or two — it’s the Red Arrow’s version of a Twinkie. And no matter what you order to eat, be sure and get a bottomless cup of coffee while you’re there as a portion of each cup is donated to the New Hampshire Food Bank. Open 24/7. Closed Christmas Day only.
THE CROWN TAVERN
Their past-to-present restaurant concept is based upon two simple principles: never forget where you came from, and never forget where you came to eat. Located in the heart of Manchester, The Crown Tavern is the perfect place to enjoy a pint, share a pitcher, dig into fresh and delicious snacks, and soak in the neighborhood with friends. Seasonal outdoor patio.
THE CURRENT KITCHEN AND BAR
The Current Kitchen & Bar celebrates the classic cocktail, boasting a menu of beloved originals, crafted with the highest quality ingredients and served in an environment that embodies the new and past that is Manchester. Located inside the Hilton DoubleTree.
THE FOUNDRY
The largest certified farm-to-table restaurant in the state, and owned by DEKA owner and Segway inventor Dean Kamen, The Foundry is an upscale restaurant with a “new American” menu, impressive whiskey and local craft beer selections, and an industrial-chic vibe that pays homage to the Millyard of which it is a part. If you can, grab one of the cozy riverside booths.
THE FARM BAR & GRILLE
Burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches, pizza, seafood — The Farm Bar & Grille has something for everyone, it seems. That being said, the restaurant is best known for its barbecue offerings. From its award-winning pulled pork sandwiches to its smoked baby back ribs and its maple bacon bourbon dry rub smoked chicken, if barbecue is your thing, head to The Farm. Seasonal outdoor patio.
THE KITCHEN ON RIVER ROAD
If you’re looking to have a picnic in nearby Stark Park, The Kitchen on River Road is a great place to fill your basket with a variety of deli sandwiches, paninis, salads, and more. This take-out spot also caters to busy families who want more than the usual take-out options for supper — think dishes like coconut-crusted chicken over pineapple fried rice and vegetable lasagna with a garlic cream sauce. Closed Sunday.
THE PATIO/THE PAVILION AT HILTON GARDEN INN
These two dining spots primarily serve guests of the Hilton Garden Inn, which is a shame, because both are worth a visit, even if you’re not a guest of the hotel. The Patio, a seasonal dining location that overlooks left-center field at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, is a great place to watch the boys of summer do their thing, all for the price of an app and a drink or three. The Pavilion, located adjacent to the hotel’s lobby, offers steak, seafood, and a variety of other primarily classic American dishes.
USA CHICKEN & BISCUIT
The specialty at USA Chicken and Biscuit is….yep, chicken and biscuits. This unpretentious halal joint serves up all things fried. You’ll also find kebabs, fried seafood, sandwiches, and salads on the menu, but trust us: the fried chicken and biscuits are where it’s at. You’ll thank us, as will your cardiologist.
GREAT BUFFET
To paraphrase Richard Nixon, we have to conclude that this is, indeed, a great buffet. And by great we mean huge. Great Buffet might not serve up haute cuisine, but it certainly won’t leave you hungry, what with its endless stream of egg rolls, pork hunan, maki rolls, and scores of other Chinese and Japanese dishes.
MASA SUSHI & HIBACHI GRILL
Styling itself an Asian bistro, Masa Japanese — whose entrance gives off an almost club vibe — is most known for its hibachi offerings. In addition to the usual chicken, shrimp, and vegetable hibachi offerings, Masa also offers us lobster and salmon versions, this being New England and all. But if hibachi isn’t your thing, their sushi’s pretty good too. Happy Hour at the bar is Monday – Friday from 4pm – 6pm; select starters, rolls and adult beverages are available at a discount.
NOODZ
Noodles, bao, and Asian-inspired street food in a fast, upbeat and urban environment. Order the General Tso Cauliflower – you won’t be disappointed. Closed on Sundays.
YEE DYNASTY
On the surface, Yee Dynasty is a Chinese restaurant that also has some Polynesian dishes, but really Yee Dynasty is a karaoke joint that also serves Chinese food and potent scorpion bowls. WIth karaoke on the menu every night of the week, the Yee also holds an annual Singer of the Year contest for the vocally inclined (and those whose scorpion bowl-influenced states of mind make them think they are).
KC’S RIB SHACK
A good Southern BBQ joint in northern New England? Believe it. KC’s Rib Shack offers everything from Carolina-style pulled pork and Memphis-style ribs to barbecue chicken and Texas-style beef brisket. When asked what side you want to accompany your meal, go for the collard greens — they have just the right amount of kick.
815 LOUNGE
Modern speakeasy. Craft cocktails and provisions. Weekly password pinned to the top of the page. Dinner only.
BILLY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL
Unlike other bars that try to be all things to all people, Billy’s doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is: a damn good sports bar with surprisingly good food. With 52 flat screen TVs, Billy’s is the perfect place to watch the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics. And for more than a decade it has won Hippo Press’s Best Burger award. For what it’s worth, it’s also won the award some 10 times for Best Bathroom (go see why for yourself).
BONFIRE RESTAURANT & COUNTRY BAR
Bonfire Restaurant & Country Bar is located right in the heart of Downtown Manchester. Their menu appeals to all kinds of Urban Cowboys in need of a meal and a stiff drink after a hard day’s work with snacks, appetizers or dinner all served until 10p nightly. Bonfire’s bar program entails an extensive whiskey selection, hand made cocktails and 24 beers for those in need of an extra kick. Don’t miss Bacon Happy Hour from 4:00p to 7:00p!
CENTRAL ALE HOUSE
With more than 20 beers on tap representing a wide range of craft, domestic, and international options, it’s tough to choose among them at Central Ale House. Thankfully, you don’t have to commit to a full pint of any of them. With the Ale House’s unique pour-your-own draft system, you can buy as little as one ounce of a beer to see if you like it before committing to more or trying something else.
MIKE’S PUB & GRUB
If you want a Bud Light at 8am, Mike’s Pub & Grub is where you want, nay need, to go. It’s that kind of place. In a city that has its share of dive bars, Mike’s is the easily the king of the city’s dives. Well known to the Manchester Police Department and the down-on-their-luck, Mike’s is the place to go if you’re looking for the cheapest beer in town.
MURPHY’S TAPROOM
Featuring 120 beers on tap, Murphy’s Taproom boasts one of the the largest beer selections in the state and live music seven nights a week. If it’s nice, head outside to Murphy’s spacious deck — a great place to enjoy a cold one. Do note that Murphy’s is popular with area libertarians. As such, don’t be surprised to see some your fellow patrons packing heat.
PENUCHE’S MUSIC HALL
Offering live music, food and spirits. Check out their downstairs sports pub with 10 flat screen TV’s.
SHOPPERS PUB & EATERY
Boasting a large selection of rotating craft beers, irresistible bar pizza, a famous steak tip recipe, and mouth-watering burgers to die for. Shopper’s carries on the sporting tradition, with eighteen TVs showing all major sports.
STRANGE BREW TAVERN
Book-lined walls, a popcorn machine, and more than 100 beers on tap make Strange Brew Tavern one of the more popular watering holes in Manchester. On the food side, Strange Brew has all of the usual pub fare, but also offers a few more interesting signature dishes like curry coconut chicken, jambalaya, and blackened Cajun chicken. And the Brew being just down the street from City Hall, don’t be surprised if you find yourself rubbing elbows with a city alderman or two.
THE DERRYFIELD RESTAURANT
Nestled on acres of historic farmland, The Derryfield overlooks the grounds of Derryfield Country Club and serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Derryfield is also a popular spot for drinks as well as for live entertainment most every night of the week. If the weather is nice, be sure and sit on the restaurant’s large deck overlooking the country club’s golf course. Check out their Trivia Night’s on Thursday evenings.
THE PINT PUBLIK HOUSE
If you’re in the mood for Jamaican fare, The Pint is your best bet in Manchester, with entrees ranging from jerk dinners and curry dishes to tripe and beans and various seafood dishes. The Pint is also well known for its tater tot offerings, including jerk tots (jerk chicken or pork topped with pineapple mango salsa and shredded lettuce) and West Side tots (chicken, cheese curds, and brown gravy).
THE SHASKEEN
Named after the famous traditional Irish tune the Shaskeen reel, The Shaskeen Pub & Restaurant is creation of traditional Irish musicians Tommy and Louise McCarthy and Matt Molloy, flute player for The Chieftains. The Shaskeen is as authentic an Irish pub as one gets on this side of the Atlantic. Indeed, the decor, including wood paneling and stained glass features, were imported directly from Eire. Patrons will find an array of Irish, English, and Scottish beers and whiskeys, and traditional favorites like leek and sausage pie and beef stew, in addition to fusion dishes like Irish nachos.
THE WILD ROVER
An Irish pub on a Polish street in a French city. The Wild Rover is a great place to grab a pint. The hundred-year-old hardwood floors and the exposed brick walls create a cozy atmosphere. As one might expect, the Rover has Guinness, Jameson, and bangers and mash aplenty, but they also feature the likes of the nacho-crusted chicken sandwich, which has been known to turn vegetarians into omnivores.
WHISKY’S 20
The most recent incarnation of a string of rotating dance clubs that have existed at this location for years, Whiskey’s 20 offers a variety of VIP tables in three distinct areas.
GAUCHOS BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE
Do you like eating meat? A lot of meat? If so, head on over to Gauchos Brazilian Steakhouse, where the dining experience centers around a nonstop parade of servers carrying sizzling skewers of meat to diners. And by meat we mean: filet wrapped in bacon prime rib, flank steak, short ribs, sirloin, lamb, chicken wrapped in bacon, sausage, pork loin, pork ribs, and chicken hearts. Seriously, pace yourself. This experience is not for amateurs and most definitely not for vegetarians.
AIRPORT DINER
A 1950s-themed diner so named due to its proximity to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, Airport Diner is popular with travelers and locals alike. Serving breakfast all day, as well as traditional comfort food (the tuna melt is amazing), the diner is a part of the Common Man family of restaurants and also serves up Common Man-made ice cream.
BAGEL CAFÉ
A word to the wise, decide what you’re ordering before it’s your turn at the counter of the Bagel Cafe, so as not to incur the annoyance of Manchester’s version of the Soup Nazi. But even if you are met with a surly response when ordering, it’s worth it. Bagel Cafe, a New York-style delicatessen, serves up the city’s best bagels, a dozen varieties (the everything bagel is recommended) of which are made from scratch and baked fresh every day.
BIG EASY BAGEL
New Orleans, of course, is the “Big Easy.” As such, Big Easy Bagel should probably have been named Big Apple Bagel given its focus on New York-style bagels and deli-style sandwiches. In any event, the offerings are good, especially the bagels (and the dozen-plus varieties of cream cheese and lox) and the BLT. Closed on Sunday.
JULIEN’S CORNER KITCHEN
If your grandmother had a restaurant, it would probably look a little bit like Julien’s. This kitschy neighborhood joint on the corner of Union Street serves up traditional breakfast food at affordable prices and is, as a result, one of Manchester’s more popular weekend brunch spots. It’s not uncommon to see people lined up outside on a Saturday or Sunday mornings, but the wait never seems to be more than 20 minutes or so. Breakfast and lunch only.
RED BARN DINER
You wouldn’t know it from the outside, but inside the Red Barn Diner sits a 1920s era train dining car, around which many additions have been built since the car was placed in its south Elm Street location in 1930. Offering typical diner fare, the Red Barn is open 24 hours a day from early Thursday morning through Sunday afternoon.
A&E COFFEE ROASTERY & TEA
A certified organic and shade-grown coffee roastery and whole-leaf tea purveyor, A&E roasts its own beans at its facility in nearby Amherst. Their small downtown location offers hot and cold coffee and tea beverages as well as smoothies and espresso-based drinks. The shop also sells coffee beans and whole-leaf teas for customers to enjoy at home. A limited, pastry-focused menu is also available.
AROMA JOE’S COFFEE
The South End has Dunkin’ Donuts, of course, and Starbucks, but if you want more local flavor, choose Aroma Joe’s. Featuring all of the usual coffee drinks — lattes, espresso, regular coffee, and the like — what makes Aroma Joe’s stand out is the service: no intercom drive-throughs here — all orders are made face to face. If you’re in need of extra productivity, check out their Rush drinks – similar to Red Bull.
CAFE LA REINE
A mashup of the Left Bank of Paris and a New Hampshire ski lodge, Café la Reine is a charming coffee house offering high-quality, hand-crafted, local coffee and espresso, along with a wide selection of premium teas. The cafe also offers wildly popular açaí bowls, toasts, smoothies and juices. If you want to somewhere to linger on a rainy or snowy day, cozy Cafe la Reine, which offers free wifi, is your spot.
ELLIOT COMMONS
While it might not make take home the award for Best Date Night Restaurant, Elliot Commons, a public dining facility located on the ground floor of Elliot Hospital, serves up some pretty good fare in its cafe-style restaurant which features a hand-tossed pizzeria, a grill section, a deli, various entrees, a large salad bar, and an authentic Italian gelato station. Oh, the prices are very reasonable.
HOMETOWN ROASTERY & COFFEE BAR
Featuring single batch coffee roasted on site, Hometown sells it coffee by the cup, the pint or half gallon (cold brew) or by the bag (whole bean or ground).
GREEN BIKE SMOOTHIES
It should come as no surprise that Green Bike Smoothies — an offshoot of adjacent Fortitude Health and Training — specializes in healthy organic-based smoothies whose recipes are crafted by the owner, a certified nutrition and wellness coach. In addition to smoothies, acai smoothie bowls are also for sale, as are wellness shots, energy bars, and yogurt parfaits. Closed Sunday.
RESTORATION CAFÉ
Located inside the Flats @ Hanover Commons, a building housing micro-apartments and office space, Restoration Cafe is open to the public and serves tasty fare from well-known city chef Tom Puskarich. Most of the items tend toward the healthy (think quinoa bowls, smoothies, and items with ingredients like acai and kale), but the menu also includes items like pot roast pressed sandwiches and chorizo breakfast tacos. The Pressed Tuna & Egg may bet he best sandwich in the city. Open for breakfast and lunch.
THE LOCAL MOOSE CAFÉ
Providing Manchester with local, sustainable, and delicious food is The Local Moose Cafe. This small farm-to-table breakfast and lunch spot features a small, but tasty menu (in addition to daily specials) featuring everything from bahn mi and cubano sandwiches to maple bacon doughnuts made on the premises. Many gluten free and vegan options are available too, as is great coffee and espresso. Closed Monday.
WEST SIDE GRILL CAFETERIA
Meeting the hunger and health needs of staff and visitors of Catholic Medical Center, the West Side Grill Cafeteria boasts a fresh and diverse soup and salad bar, a hot buffet, a custom sandwich bar and grill, and various pizza selections. Seating is under a beautiful atrium. The cafeteria also serves up the best pork pie (a French Canadian specialty) in the city, though unfortunately it’s not on the menu everyday.
MINT BISTRO
Featuring a sophisticated global fusion menu in a chic atmosphere, Mint Bistro’s offerings range from the Mediterranean (lamb kibbeh) to the subcontinent (coconut curry chicken) to the New England coast (Maine lobster rangoon), all of which are excellent. But where Mint receives the most accolades is its sushi, which is widely regarded as the best in the city. Featuring an extraordinary selection of fresh and artfully-created sushi and sashimi, Mint will not disappoint. Dinner only.
XO ON ELM
With an inviting contemporary decor, XO on Elm is a great place for a cocktail (go for one of the martinis) or a upscale meal. Featuring a global menu, XO tapas selections of note include the stuffed dates, the lamb lollipops, and the truffled goat cheese and wild mushroom strudel. As for entrees, consider the pan seared duck or the sweet chili pomegranate glazed salmon. Dinner only. Closed Sunday.
LALA’S HUNGARIAN PASTRY
Don’t let the name fool you: Lala’s Hungarian Pastry sells a lot more than Hungarian pastries (which are, indeed, delectable – definitely try the dobos torta). The cuisine of Magyar and much of the rest of central Europe — think goulash, schnitzel, stuffed cabbage — can be found at Lala’s. Cash only for orders less than $10. Closed Sunday.
ASIAN KEBAB & GRILL
This hole-in-the-wall eatery, connected to a small ethnic grocery store in not the most attractive neighborhood, is a hidden gem. Located far from the city’s restaurant clusters, Asian Kebab & Grill offers up solid versions of standard Indian favorites like butter chicken and palak paneer. Looking for something a little different? Try the goat pepper fry.
ROYAL INDIA
The newest entrant in the city’s Indian food scene, Royal India serves up Indian favorites at decent prices. The lunch buffet, offered every day of the week, serves up the dishes you’d expect to find on an Indian buffet: chicken tikka masala, tandoori chicken, aloo mattar, chana masala, saag paneer, dal makhani, and the like.
TAJ INDIA
While dishes at many Indian restaurants tend to be on the heavy side, Taj India’s dishes are generally lighter, airy (well, at least by Indian standards), and just the right amount of sweet. You’ll find all the Indian standards here, and they won’t disappoint, but you’ll also find some more relatively unusual dishes here, including a great selection of seafood dishes like shrimp vindaloo and fish madras. Taj India also offers an excellent lunch buffet seven days a week, and if you’re lucky, it will feature the lamb curry or mango chicken.
CAMPO ENOTECA
Campo Enoteca strives to bring the best of modern Roman cuisine to Manchester. And it does, with fresh pasta made daily, artisanal breads baked on premise, antipasti, crostini, and an assortment of Italian charcuterie and cheese. As with its sister restaurant Republic, Campo diners are encouraged to mix and match several small dishes, which is helped by the fact that the restaurant will serve half-size portions of any of its pastas. Italian wines aplenty are also available. Closed Sunday.
FRATELLO’S ITALIAN GRILLE
Featuring all your favorite pastas and pizzas, where Fratello’s stands out is with its Italian seafood dishes. Of particular note is the Seafood Sophia. Carnivores will like the Italian Pie. Likewise, for an Italian restaurant, Fratello’s boasts an impressive gluten-free menu. If the weather’s nice, sit outside on the deck or the patio.
GIORGIO’S RISTORANTE
Featuring the cuisine of Italy and Greece — the building’s facade is modelled on the Palace of Knossos in Crete. Unique dishes include a pumpkin-sweet potato moussaka, braised short rib filo, and haddock foilaki.
MANGIA
This tiny Italian eatery almost gets lost in the mainly commercial strip that is south Elm Street, but it’s worth seeking out. The menu is pasta heavy, but that’s quite okay as it’s all handmade and delicious. Carnivores will enjoy the penne all’amatriciana. Vegetarians will like the cannelloni. Note that this is a BYOB establishment. Also note that there’s a New Hampshire Liquor and Wine Outlet just a fit farther south down Elm Street. Dinner only. Closed Sunday.
PICCOLA ITALIA RISTORANTE
The grandfather of downtown’s Italian restaurant and recently treated to a face lift, Piccola regulars rave about the eggplant della nonna, the butternut squash ravioli, and the veal piccola italia.
PRESTO CRAFT KITCHEN
Manchester’s first craft kitchen and carry-out experience dedicated and committed to giving you a delicious, fun, and exciting experience.
VILLAGIO RESTAURANTE
As your mom no doubt told you, don’t judge a book by its cover. Located in a former KFC in a strip mall-type building, Villagio Restaurante doesn’t look like much from the outside. But it’s what’s on the inside, and on the plate, that counts. And in Villagio’s case, that’s dishes like homemade manicotti, lobster risotto, and pollo ripieno. Dinner only Monday through Friday. Both lunch and dinner are served on Saturday and Sunday.
ANTOJITOS COLUMBIANOS
Drop by this kid-friendly Colombian spot, where they serve-up a menu which includes comfort food. They also offer takeout. Closed on Tuesdays.
DON QUIJOTE
Serving up a melange of Latino fare, Don Quijote’s specialties include Caribbean staples like chicharrones, oxtail, and fried plantains.
THE GYRO SPOT
Described by some as a Chipotle for Greek food, this eatery specializes in, well, gyros, of the pork, chicken, and veggie varieties. The staff might try and talk you into getting fries inside your gyro – GO FOR IT! Order the feta fries (on the side). If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the avgolemono (chicken lemon soup) or the fakes (vegetarian lentil soup). And for dessert, you can’t go wrong with the baklava. Closed Sunday.
ZEM ZEM MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
Homemade and fresh middle eastern food. Closed Monday.
CONSUELO’S TAQUERIA
This small, charming taqueria also has a relatively small menu, but that’s okay, because everything on it is delicious. Favorites include the chorizo tacos, chile verde burritos, any of the tortas, and the tortilla soup. For liquid refreshment, try the horchata or the sangria.
EL RINCON
Perhaps the most authentic Mexican restaurant north of Boston, El Rincon is a homey hole-in-the-wall located directly across the street from the SNHU Arena. If you’re starving, go for the Burrito El Rincon, which will not disappoint. Otherwise, consider the tamales. El Rincon also serves up outstanding pozole and menudo stews. Closed Monday.
LA CARRETA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
This popular Mexican joint has two locations in the city that keep diners coming back again and again for quality Mexican favorites including fajitas, burritos (try the chile verde variety), and assorted other favorites. Vegetarians will appreciate the decent meat-free menu, which includes options like spinach burritos, mashed potato enchiladas, and veggie tamales.
LA FIESTA MEXICO
A newer entrant on to the Mexican food scene in Manchester, La Fiesta Mexico serves up your standard south-of-the-border fare, from quesadillas and fajitas to tacos and burritos. Some of the more interesting entree choices are located on the seafood portion of the menu, which includes crab enchiladas and pescado yucatan.
PUERTO VALLARTA MEXICAN GRILL
Among the city’s Mexican food aficionados, Puerto Vallarta receives high marks for its authentic cuisine, especially the molcajete, the chorizo dishes, and the habanero shrimp ceviche. Closed Mondays.
TAQUERIA LA GUADALUPANA
It doesn’t look like much from the outside — nor from the inside for that matter, unless you just love the now-deceased Mexican pop star Jenni Rivera — but Taqueria la Guadalupana serves the most authentic Mexican food on the East Side. The tacos are to die for, as are the sopes. But know before you go: the establishment is cash only and the person taking your order might or might not speak English, so go ahead and download that translation app if it’s been a few years since your high school Spanish class.
ANNAPURNA CURRY & SEKUWA HOUSE
An authentic Nepalese and Indian Restaurant including vegetarian options, plus a full bar.
CAFE MOMO
This small, cozy Nepalese restaurant located a stone’s throw from I-93 on upper Hanover Street just might be the best restaurant in Manchester. Whatever you entree you choose (the goat curry rice is amazing), your first selection needs to be an order of momos, the delicious Nepalese dumplings which you can have filled with everything from vegetables or chicken to buffalo or wild boar. Cafe Momo is NOT to be missed. Closed on Monday.
GURUNG’S KITCHEN
Gurung’s Kitchen serves authentic Nepalese dishes that will be sure to make you smile on those gloomy afternoons. The comfort cuisine on the menu offers something for everybody and will keep you coming back for more!
KATHMANDU SPICE
Cuisines from two of the world’s tastiest cultures come together at Kathmandu Spice, which features the food of both India and Nepal. More interesting choices include bhindi do pyaza (okra sauteed with onion, bell peppers, and spices) on the Indian side of the menu and hash ko maasu (duck curry) on the Nepali side of the menu. The restaurant features a mainly Indian buffet at lunch.
900 DEGREES NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA
In Naples, pizza is traditionally made using a wood-fired brick oven which cooks at an average temperature of 900° Fahrenheit. Such is the concept of 900 Degrees, which uses makes its own dough every day and uses fresh ingredients to make its thin crust pies. While it’s hard to go wrong with any of the pizzas, one standout is the roasted chicken barbecue pizza. No matter what pizza you choose, all can be made with gluten free crusts. The restaurant has also been recognized for its responsible environmental practices.
ALLEY CAT PIZZERIA
Laying claim to the city’s largest pizza, the XXL 20-incher, Alley Cat Pizzeria is perennially voted “Best Pizza in Manchester” by readers of Hippo Press. Featuring thin crust, New York-style pies, Alley Cat shines in its specialty pizza selection. We love the White Cat, with olive oil, garlic and oregano — no tomato sauce at all. While most of Alley Cat’s business is take out and delivery, there are a few small tables for those wishing to dine in.
CAESARIO’S
With its large neon sign, it’s hard to miss Caesario’s when walking down Elm Street. In a city rife with pizza and sub shops, Caesario’s is one of the pioneers, having been in business since 1969. Known primarily for its New York style pizza, the casual eatery sells an array of Mediterranean offerings, from calzones to spinach pitas. But whatever you order, be sure get a side of Caesario’s famous seasoned fries.
PIZZA 911
Pizza 911 was established in 2011 with a passion for great pizza, sub sandwiches, and salads. They believe that a fun and friendly atmosphere should be a part of your dining experience. Stop in on your lunch break, order delivery, or grab a booth – their goal is to make you smile.
SAL’S PIZZA
Inspired by Boston’s North End eateries, Sal Lupoli opened Sal’s Pizza in 1990 with his brother, Nick, in Salem. With a passion for hard work, the Lupoli brothers used fresh ingredients, prepared dough daily and established a reputation for the best quality, the largest pizza and the lowest price—their 19-inch, three-pound pizza, quickly became a legend and is the cornerstone of every Sal’s Pizza today.
CHEZ VACHON
No trip to the West Side, aka Little Canada, is complete with a visit to Chez Vachon, which serves up French Canadian classics like poutine (French fries topped with cheese curds and a light brown gravy), Montreal-style smoked meats, and pork and salmon pies. This diner also serves a variety of American-style breakfast and lunch options, but really, you can get omelettes or hamburgers anywhere — go for the poutine. Open for breakfast and lunch only.
CREMELAND DRIVE-IN
If you’ve been looking for a drive-in that specializes in fried seafood and ice cream, Cremeland is the place for you. Actually, it’s the place for most of Manchester between mid-March and mid-October, when lines will sometimes be 30 people deep waiting to order at this popular establishment’s walk-up counters. While in line be prepared to listen/be subjected to doo-wop and other 50s tunes. But the ice cream, made on site, is worth it.
GOLDENROD DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT
Known for its fried seafood (especially its belly clams), chicken tenders, and burgers, Goldenrod, which has been an East Side staple since 1951, is perhaps most loved for its ice cream, of which it boasts 37 flavors in addition to frozen yogurt, sherbet, and sorbet. On warm summer nights you’ll find lines to the walk-up window snaking through the parking lot, but fear not: it’s worth the wait.
HOOKED SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
A small seafood restaurant on the corner of Hanover and Chestnut streets, Hooked has a menu that is the envy of much larger establishments. Appetizers include Costa Rican fish tacos and Sicilian escargot, while entrees include winners like tandoori salmon on the grill and fresh basil panko-encrusted tilapia.
B&B CAFE AND GRILL
While you can get all manner of lunch items at B & B Cafe and Grill, where this small venue shines is breakfast, and breakfast sandwiches in particular. B & B also sells an impressive eighteen varieties of bagels.
BAYONA CAFÉ
Like its sister restaurant Waterworks Cafe, just down the street, Bayona Cafe caters to the modern day mill workers, in particular those in Jefferson Mill and environs. And also like WaterWorks, Bayona offers an eclectic mix of breakfast and lunch options that are made from only the freshest local ingredients. Our recommendation? Go for one of the flatbreads. We like the duck confit flatbread. Open for breakfast and lunch, Monday through Friday.
NADEAU’S SUBS
For some curious reason, Mancunians have an obsession with sub sandwiches (also referred to as grinders by some locals and Italian sandwiches by others), at least judging by the sheer volume of sub shops in the city. The granddaddy of them all is Nadeau’s, established on the West Side in 1969, and now boasting four locations across the city, including one in the Millyard. If you have trouble choosing a sandwich, go for the steak tips sub, the local chain’s signature sandwich, and one by which locals swear.
THE BRIDGE CAFÉ
Serving breakfast and lunch (both served all day), Bridge Cafe provides both good food and good people watching. In addition to its paninis and its award-winning muffins and scones, Bridge Cafe is known for its juices and smoothies. Can’t decide? Try the Green Monster smoothie made with almond milk, banana, almond butter, fresh kale, and a forti flax booster — nutritious and delicious. Oh, and be sure to check out their weekly specials.
UNITY CAFÉ
A sister cafe to the Millyard’s Waterworks Cafe and Bayona Cafe, Unity Cafe is the Tidewater family of restaurants’ outpost in the Sundial Center. The cafe caters primarily to those working in the Sundial Center by providing convenient, gourmet-style breakfast and lunch options (think bananas foster french toast and oyster po-boys). Closed on Sunday.
WATERWORKS CAFÉ
Catering primarily to those working in the Waumbec and surrounding mills, Waterworks Cafe is a great spot for breakfast or lunch as it features innovative café fare from the finest local and fresh-sourced products. The dining experience in this recently renovated mill space is enhanced by the cafe’s exposed brick and beams and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow diners to catch a glimpse of the Merrimack River flowing by just a few feet away.
BEARDED BAKING COMPANY
A family-owned bakery, Bearded Baking specializes in wedding and custom cakes, but also has delicious pastries, and a full deli selection for breakfast and lunch. Closed Sunday.
DANCING LION CHOCOLATE
Founded in 2007 by Rich Tango-Lowry, a physicist who went on to earn Master Chocolatier designations from Ecole Du Grand Chocolat Valrhona in Tain L’Hermitage, France, and Ecole Chocolat in Tuscany, Dancing Lion features gourmet bonbons and truffles, artisan chocolate bars, and even chocolate art. Locals swear by the Mayan drinking chocolate and the croissants. Dancing Lion offers one different lunch option each week. It’s always vegetarian and always contains chocolate. Closed Sunday and Monday.
DULCES BAKERY
A true multicultural bakery, Dulce’s features eclairs, macaroons, and whoopie pies, and also offers the requisite cupcakes and cake pops, but where this small storefront bakery really shines is with is Latin sweets and pastries, including pastelillos de guava, Spanish sugar cookies, and its very popular tres leches cups. Closed Sunday and Monday.
EVERYTHING BUT THE G
100% Gluten Free Cupcakes. Vegan and other allergen friendly options available upon request. With everything made fresh to order.
GRANITE STATE CANDY SHOPPE
If you walk down Elm Street with children in tow, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll be dragged inside Granite State Candy Shoppe. Not that that’s a bad thing. Indeed, it is not (especially for Queen City dentists). From chocolates and fudge, to maple candy, nuts and brittles, and old fashioned candies of all varieties, this confectionary company has been keeping area dentists in business since 1927. They also serve ice cream.
PURITAN ICE CREAM
Started as an ice cream and candy shop on Hanover Street in nearly a century ago, the Puritan ice cream and take out stand, located in front The Puritan Backroom restaurant, still uses candy recipes from 1917 to make its wildly popular frozen treats, which it does on the premises. The Puritan offers all of the usual ice cream flavors, but where it stands out is in its specialty ice creams, including Grape-Nut and, in tribute to the business’s Greek heritage, baklava ice cream.
QUEEN CITY CUPCAKES
When there are lines out the door, you know an establishment is doing something right. Queen City Cupcakes is Manchester’s premier cupcakery, whose gourmet cupcakes are made from scratch daily.. With limited baking capacity, when the cupcakes are gone, they’re gone. Get there early to get your hands on cupcakes with flavors including chai latte, lime coconut, and maple bacon. Closed Sunday and Monday.
THE BAKESHOP ON KELLEY STREET
If you get nothing else at The Bakeshop on Kelley Street, make sure you get some of the hot cider donut holes. Or any of the other pastries and sweets, really. The homemade bagels and English muffins are also great, as are the soups, sandwiches offered at this cozy neighborhood bakery. Highly recommended.
VAN OTIS CHOCOLATES
Founded in 1935, Van Otis Chocolates, is the queen of the Queen City’s confectionary shops and has been voted NH’s best chocolate for more than a dozen straight years. Their specialty is Swiss fudge, but also makes everything from gourmet chocolate and liquor cordials to truffles and assorted candies. Can’t decide? Try before you buy as Van Otis is generous with free samples of its wares.
WILD ORCHID BAKERY
Baked-from-scratch recipes and unique island-style pastries. Everything with a dash of passion, a teaspoon of spice, and a cup of art to every order
THE BIRCH ON ELM
Featuring a globally-inspired and locally-sourced 20-item menu, The Birch on Elm offers small (tapas), medium, and full-size plates. The restaurant has an impressive craft cocktail and craft beers menus. Closed on Mondays, dinner only on Tuesday and Wednesdays.
DAW KUN THAI
A full-service Thai restaurant. Located near Manchester-Boston Regional Airprot Airport, Daw Kun dine-in, carry-out,m and pick up.
LEMON THAI
The entrees at Lemon Thai are pretty standard Thai fare, but they’re good. Standouts include the appetizers, including the curry puffs and the Bangkok tofu.
THAI FOOD CONNECTION
Manchester’s newest Thai restaurant.
GOOD & PLANTY
A virtual plant-based kitchen created by the owner of Restoration Cafe. Their menu includes delicious juices, smoothies, bowls, toasts and sandwiches. The Impossible Burger is DIVINE. Also available for delivery via Uber Eats, GrubHub and DoorDash.
BUBA NOODLE BAR
Serving authentic Pho Noodle Soup, ramen and inspired Asian cuisine with a focus on Vietnamese options. With gluten-free and vegetarian options you will have healthy choices.
PHO GOLDEN BOWL
Pho Golden Bowl has been serving Vietnamese and Chinese food in Manchester for more than 10 years using fresh ingredients brought up from Boston every day. They are best known for their chicken, beef, and sate pho, chicken bun and rice plates, and their summer rolls.
SAIGON NOODLES
Among the hole-in-the-wall restaurants that dot the Center City, Saigon Noodles is among the best. This Vietnamese place serves up eight delicious varieties of pho, as well as noodle dishes, banh mi, banh cuon (Vietnamese noodles), and pretty great spring rolls. If it’s your first time, go for the House Special, comprised of noodles, sliced beef, beef balls, and tripe. If it’s hot outside, try the delicious Vietnamese iced coffee. Closed Monday.