When the humidity breaks in New England (or anywhere, for that matter), the cool mornings have a certain crisp feel that only the tease of autumn can create. I feel ready to cozy up to a long-missed sweater or a favorite pair of jeans tucked away since spring. Morning cups of coffee turn from iced to seasonal flavors, and desired meals shift from light to hearty as autumn graces us with all her fiery beauty.
New Hampshire’s upper Lakes Region and Southern White Mountains Region have many fabulous dining spots to enjoy as you search for the next great landscape to devour. Read on for a few favorite spots to hit between Exit 24 and Exit 32 off Route 93 as you head into the beauty that is the White Mountains.
Common Man Ashland
Common Man Restaurants are now scattered throughout New Hampshire, but Ashland is the flagship location. Interested in upcycling and recycling local landmarks, the Common Man leadership team uses the history and bones of an old building to drive the character and feel that make it a relaxing place to break bread. Upstairs living quarters in this particular location are now The Step Above Lounge. If you seek comfort food, you came to the right place. Start with some camp crackers, move into the fresh and divine crab cakes and wrap up with some homemade macaroni and cheese. Or try the meatloaf sandwich, which is a long-time favorite. If you’re looking for comfort on a lighter scale, try the sausage and broccolini ravioli filled with sweet Italian sausage, broccolini, garlic and ricotta cheese and topped with a pepper-onion salad with shaved Parmesan and basil pesto. Sip some drinks at the bar and enjoy this New Hampshire landmark. Be sure to stop across the street at the Common Man Company Store on your way out and grab some homemade fudge for after the hike. 60 Main St., Ashland, Exit 24; (603) 968-7030
M ‘n M Scoops
M ‘n M Scoops is located in Plymouth, a quintessential New England main street community that is also home to Plymouth State University. Take a stroll down the main drag of Plymouth peeking into the various shops and people watching. If you get chilly, M ‘n M Scoops has you covered with its Winter Warmers—a delightful array of all-natural soups served with homemade cornbread. Some soup options, like broccoli cheddar and chipotle sweet potato, are even gluten free and vegetarian, so call ahead to find out which soup is on that day. Their signature soup, Clam Chowdah, is always available. And don’t worry about satisfying your sweet tooth because their full ice cream menu, from cones and sundaes to frappes and smoothies, is available year round. Wrap up your visit with a turn around campus. 67 Main St., Plymouth, Exit 25; (603) 536-4850
The Last Chair NH
Consider hitting up this new hot spot on the Tenney Mountain Highway right outside of Plymouth. Newly opened in July, the atmosphere is that of a rustic chic mountain lodge that has been around much longer. With an enthusiastic staff and local art adorning the walls, the feel is truly welcoming. Offering indoor and outdoor seating,The Last Chair recently joined the list of the top ten WMUR’s Viewers’ Choice restaurants with outdoor seating in New Hampshire. A couple firepits will make an outdoor meal or drink enjoyable for all seasons.
A smaller menu means everything is top-notch, including the solid lineup of brick-oven pizzas that you can watch the chef create from start to finish. Feeling seasonal? Try The Mount Cabot, featuring roasted garlic oil, tart apple, smoked bacon, Vermont cheddar, caramelized onions and local maple syrup. The Chicken “Pot Pie” is another palate-pleasing option to warm your bones with wood-fired tender chicken, fresh vegetables in a creamy gravy topped with a cornbread crust. The full bar and soon-to-be available on-site brewed beer through Sublime Brewing Company round out the positive vibe at this new watering hole. Sit and enjoy a drink, catch some local live music or take in the game on the projection screen. Either way, rest assured you’re in good hands. #5 Route 25, Rumney, Exit 26; (603) 238-9077
The Covered Bridge Farm Table
Located along the beautiful Pemi riverfront next to the Blair Bridge, The Farm Table has long been a staple in the Campton area. Revitalizing its image with the farm-to-table movement at its core, the “fresh fusion” menu is infused with Asian, French, Italian and Spanish cuisines as well as traditional selections and old favorites. Settle into “The Milk Room” for your choice of liquor, cordials and an ever-rotating craft beer menu. Open mic and karaoke abound weekly with various live entertainment scheduled. The restaurant is also a favorite spot for brunch, so be sure to try the mimosas with fresh-squeezed orange juice along with the Monte Cristo, a delicious medley of sliced turkey, ham and Swiss cheese melted between two slices of French toast and served with maple syrup and home fries. After a hearty meal like that you will be more than ready to tackle some of the beautiful peaks awaiting you a short drive north on 93! 57 Blair Rd., Campton, Exit 27; (603) 536-1331
Black Mountain Burger
This is the type of place that feels the best to visit when it’s chilly. From the Cozy Couch Corner that looks ripped directly from a mountain lodge to the wood-slab (with bark!) bartop, the atmosphere conveys warmth. Located in the heart of Lincoln, Black Mountain Burger is the perfect spot to take a break from playing among the magnificent White Mountains. Order up your favorite brew barside and settle in for a bevy of comfort food. Please be sure to try the Mac’ n Cheese Balls with marinara sauce. You will be so very happy you did. If you want the signature burger to mark the experience, try the Swiss Mushroom Burger, a 100% Angus beef burger served on a kaiser roll with melted Swiss, fresh sauteed mushrooms and caramelized onions. You can thank me later. 264 Main St., Lincoln, Exit 32; (603) 745-3444
- Top photo: Erin Phelps
- Remaining photos: credited to individual restaurants
