245 Hooksett Rd, Manchester

(603)669-6980

A New Hampshire classic, the Backroom has been serving the community and hosting presidential candidates since 1917. Let the kids dig into some tenders while the adults enjoy a mudslide and watch the scene, as there is always a crowd. Something on the menu for everyone.

456 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack

(603)424-4010

Classic Italian checkered tablecloth that brings back sweet memories for anyone older than 40. Dependable Italian favorites with portions that won't leave you hungry. Try the crab spinach dip appetizer, and this will become a go-to on Family night. The attentive staff will talk your ear off, tell you jokes, and even show you a trick or two if you engage them. 

Manchester

With a great downtown location on Elm and another in the Mall of NH, this is your go-to burger spot. Featuring old-school smash burgers with unique flavor profiles that necessitate repeat visits. The Beach BRGR might make you question the flavor combination, but it sure does work! Easily, one of our favorite burgers in NH. With options for kids, a full bar at the Elm Street location (try a milk slush with a shot), and an easy counter serve format, it is a great place to bring the whole family.

40 Main St, Goffstown

(603)497-4106

Quaint, family-owned restaurant in the heart of Goffstown serving American fare. Locals flock here for the chowder, and the lobster roll is always a hit. 

2280 Brown Ave, Manchester

(603)623-5040

Classic diner with booths, counter seating, and a 50's vibe. Serving breakfast all day, but locals know dinner is the right time to hit the Airport. Comfort food favorites, great mixed drink specials, and classic frappes for the kids. The chicken-fried steak is the best you will find this far North, and the Boston Globe has deemed the tuna melt worthy of leaving the Bay State for. Kids eat free on Mondays.

2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford

(603)472-2001

With a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, the tavern benefits from the critically acclaimed chefs who serve the main restaurant. Great burgers, pizzas, and a rotating menu of entrees, so you'll never get bored. One of the best wine lists in the state, per Wine Spectator. Great little bar to sit at in case you forgot the kids.

The patio at Fratello's is the perfect spot for warm evenings.  Multi-tiered, with plants, wrought iron, and tons of lights, it feels more like a European city than Manchester.   Lisa K.

Mason

Set in an 18th-century cottage that inspired Little Red Riding Hood, this foodie mecca serves a rotating, fixed five-course meal at 3 set seatings. Go early to stroll the grounds and enjoy the gardens when the weather suits. Reservations are highly recommended. 

Lowell, MA

Located amongst the historic mills of downtown Lowell, this is the best ramen north of Boston. Far better than anything you will find in New Hampshire. With an industrial chic vibe, they usually have the iPod set to 80s rock and hip-hop, which adds energy to the place. Besides the very well-done Tonkotsu Ramen, be sure to try one of their bun offerings.

Impossible to pick one restaurant in this food destination of a city. Try Black Trumpet for globally inspired, locally sourced dishes in a rustic setting. Chef Even Mallet is a multiple-time semi-finalist for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef in the Northeast award. Perfect for a date night. Moxy serves up American-inspired tapas with small plates that encourage sharing. If the beef short rib marmalade is on the menu, order it. To satiate your seafood cravings(Portsmouth is a working port), hit up Row 34. With a half dozen East Coast oysters to choose from, it is a raw bar paradise. Don't ignore the smoked and cured fish offerings. Served with grilled bread, these pate-like morsels are the tastiest things on the menu. If you have kids who slurp down Oysters like they are free, they offer a happy-hour "buck a shuck" that can't be beaten. Global travel is the idea behind Street, with a truly international menu. Explore street food from around the world without leaving the state. Cure takes its name from the way it prepares its proteins, with most entrees being brined before cooking. Fine dining exemplified in a casual setting. The menu changes seasonally, but the bleu cheese-stuffed dates are out of this world.

Seabrook

Every local has an opinion on this, whether it's that one is their favorite or that both are overrated tourist traps. Each claims to have regulars that have never visited the opposing business, despite the fact that they are literally across the street from each other. If fresh seafood is your thing, you have to give them a visit. While most come for the lobster, the clam belly roll is excellent at both. Brown's is BYO, while Markey's serves beer and wine. Hours are adjusted seasonally.

The Everyday Cafe & Pub 

Contoocook

Make a day of it and plan on stopping here for a late lunch. Whether driving home from Vermont, Sunapee, or spending the day cruising the back roads, this quaint pub in the heart of the village makes for a great stop. Sandwiches and burgers are the moves here, with several smoked meat options. The bacon jam, grilled cheese, and cheddar brisket sandwich are standouts. If it is nice out, add a stop at Contoocook Cidery at Gould Hill Farm for cider, outstanding views, live music, and apple picking (if in season).