New Hampshire is home to an endless supply of exceptional distillers and restauranteurs who constantly present new and creative concoctions for the world to enjoy. But finding those favorite spots that stand out among the rest can be quite the task. That’s why we reached out to the VisitNH social communities to help find some of the very best places to sip a cocktail around the state. And while all of New Hampshire’s distilleries and restaurants are worth a visit, these eight spots seem to keep people coming back year after year. Visit one, or make your own road trip and sip your way around the state!
As always, please drink responsibly.
The Cider Co. is well known for its award-winning contemporary cuisine and unparalleled specialty cocktails. The bar menu is extensive and features classic and modern artisan cocktails along with a selection of small-production, high-quality wines from all around the world. The space is charmingly rustic yet warmly welcoming, and just about anything you order here is sure to impress. Local tip: this spot is a popular one so reservations are highly recommended!
Delaney’s Hole in the Wall is an award-winning local favorite—and for good reason! The cuisine here comes from homemade family recipes and features soups, sauces, and bread all made from scratch, plus the vegetables and meat are locally sourced. The atmosphere is relaxed and rustic, with ski memorabilia painting the walls and 7 sports TVs spread around the restaurant. Their drink and food menu can cater to anyone’s tastes, and their drinks feature classic and local favorites that are sure to satisfy. Come for the fabulous food and friendly atmosphere, and stay for the great company and good times.
#3: Codex, Nashua
If you’re looking for a unique bar experience, then a trip to Codex is just the thing. This speakeasy-style bar disguises itself as an antique book store! Once the “attendant” outside the shop checks your “library card,” you’ll be admitted inside and transported through time. The 1920’s décor complements the prohibition-style cocktails and real antique books that line the shelves around the bar. Order a timeless classic like a sidecar or a French 75, or simply find a craft beer or wine to suit your taste! And while the drinks and atmosphere is what draws people in, the expansive food menu is not to be overlooked. From creative extravagant cuisine to typical bar favorites, this place has it all!
The Woodstock Inn & Brewery is truly a one-stop shop. With four unique pubs all in one location, an on-site brewery, and 40 cozy rooms making up the adjoining inn, who could ask for more?! Their incredible craft beers bring the taste of New Hampshire to life, and if you’re so inclined, there are brewery tours daily at noon to get a closer look into the brewing process. Each of their bars offers a different dining/drinking experience, with vibes ranging from elegant country dining to a lively nightlife scene. With all this in one place, there’s something for any and every mood.
The Looney Bin is a favored local bar in Laconia for its warm setting and friendly atmosphere. Good times and great company are central here, and the amusing drinks are certainly no exception. With a fine selection of classic and local craft beers, you’ll have no trouble finding something to order. Plus their food menu is not to be overlooked—between irresistible burgers, cheesy tater tots, wings, and even vegetarian options, there’s no shortage of appetizers and meals to go with your drinks here. In the warmer months, sip outside on the patio and enjoy the warm summer air and casual setting!
The Muddy Moose Restaurant and Pub is the perfect place to kick back and relax after a day exploring the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. Here, you’re treated like family and the environment is just about as inviting and warm as it gets. Rustic country charm abounds and is complemented by classic New England ski décor lining the walls. Grab a pint of local beer at the bar or try one of their signature classic cocktails. Their menu offers a diverse mix of fares ranging from irresistible pub food to timeless New England favorites.
Located in the town of Raymond, the Tuckaway Tavern is more than just another neighborhood roadhouse. This award-winning establishment is part restaurant, part meat market, part pub, and part country store! And the extraordinary cuisine served here just so happens to be renowned all across New England. The tavern itself primarily serves up an assortment of local craft beers in addition to a healthy selection of wines and cocktails. But with their expansive and impressive menu, it may be hard to stick to just drinks. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, and your time here is sure to be unforgettable. Reservations are highly recommended!
#8: Lago’s, Meredith
If sipping lakeside on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee sounds like your ideal evening, then Lago’s in Meredith is the place to be! Between an enticing menu of rustic Italian-American fare, fresh seafood, and a myriad of other worldly dishes, there’s something for everyone here. In the warmer months, you can order delightful cocktails from the bar and enjoy them on the outdoor patio just steps away from the lake. Can’t get much better than that! Reservations are also highly recommended for this local favorite.