Sugar Hill

Can you call yourself a Granite Stater if you haven't been to Polly's? Generations of Yankees have been making the pilgrimage since the 1930's. The views, the food, and the nostalgia all scream North Country. While the wait can be long on peak weekends(Hello, leaf season!), it is absolutely worth it. An instant family favorite.

Mason

Set in an 18th-century cottage that served as inspiration for 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.

Manchester

Upscale gastro pub with a rotating seasonal menu that feels more Boston than New Hampshire. If mashed potatoes are on the menu, get them! Don't even question. They are that good. Frankly, I haven't had a bad meal here. Definitely a European influence in the kitchen. They have an extensive whiskey collection and top-notch cocktails. Pro Tip- Follow them on social media as they host producer-focused wine and spirit tasting dinners that are a true treat on a regular basis.

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 best chef in the North East by the James Beard Foundation. 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 they prepare their proteins, with the majority of entrees being brined before cooking. Fine dining exemplified in a casual setting. The menu changes seasonally, but the blue 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.

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 a cider, outstanding views, live music, and apple picking(if in season).