We get it. Rochester, NH might not top your weekend getaway list. The drive, the small-town pace, the assumption that ‘best restaurant’ means the one with the fewest trucks in the parking lot. But trust us—you’re about to rethink that New England road trip entirely.
Village Pizza
$ | (603) 335-4344 | WEBSITE
Village Pizza has been serving Rochester for years, and it has firmly established itself as a local institution. Head straight for the Greek-style pizza: a perfect crust topped with tangy sauce, extra cheese, and pepperoni that arrives bubbling hot. Don’t skip the homemade chicken fingers, which come out crispy and golden with just the right amount of seasoning.
The friendly staff always makes sure your soda is refilled and your meal arrives promptly, making this the reliable spot everyone in town knows and loves.
Golick’s Dairy Bar
$ | (603) 330-3244 | WEBSITE
We like that this ice cream spot has a row of picnic tables surrounded by nature, so you can sit and enjoy your treat without having to fight a crowd for seating elsewhere in Rochester. But easy seating isn’t the only reason to visit here—the ice cream is also very solid. You can get a small or large cone, but we like the sundae, which comes with extra sprinkles, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
Papaya Thai Restaurant
$ | (603) 332-0111 | WEBSITE
Papaya Thai Restaurant is a reliable staple in Rochester’s Thai food scene. Their takeout operation has been delivering flavorful, fresh dishes since they opened, and now you can get their excellent pad thai, shrimp dishes without tails, and customizable heat-level curries from a quick phone order. All the ordering happens over the phone or in person at the counter, and pickup happens from the small dining area inside.
During weekend evenings, you might have to navigate some awkwardly sized tables and bright overhead lighting, but the reward will be generous portions of well-prepared food at prices slightly cheaper than other local Thai spots. Just keep in mind that while most dishes shine, some like the pho might not meet expectations, making takeout the popular choice.
Granite Steak & Grill and Retail Market
$$ | (603) 330-3100 | WEBSITE
Granite Steak & Grill and Retail Market has been a local favorite for a reason. And that would be the truly excellent delmonico steak. This family restaurant has a very large menu with nice daily specials, so you’ll reliably find people enjoying meals with family and friends, but you shouldn’t let that deter you. They serve a bunch of different dishes with great portions and variety and they’re all really good.
Moe’s Italian Sandwiches
$ | (603) 335-2735 | WEBSITE
Is there such a thing as sandwich paradise? As Moe’s Italian Sandwiches proves, absolutely. Glance at their counter filled with generously stuffed subs and satisfying portions to become a complete convert. The Sicilian sub with its medley of different meats inside is a standout favorite, even offering Gluten-Free Options for those who need them.
Staff like Stephanie specialize in service that keeps customers coming back, with convenient to-go packaging and wheelchair accessibility through the rear entrance making every visit smooth. Sandwiches can be enjoyed right away, but larger orders might benefit from calling ahead during busy hours.
Charlie’s of Rochester
$ | (603) 332-4200 | WEBSITE
The best subs in Rochester also happen to be the most generous ones. Charlie’s of Rochester has a more-is-more approach to their signature Steak & Cheese, with fresh ingredients and hot, flavorful fillings that satisfy in every bite. And that’s just the beginning. There’s mozzarella sticks, pizza, chicken Caesar salad, steak tip salad, and steak subs piled on the menu. A bit nostalgic? Yep, but delicious.
If it’s your first visit and you’re indecisive, get the Steak & Cheese sub that comes with fresh toppings and generous portions reminiscent of old family-owned shops. Just be prepared for Charlie’s outstanding service—it’s not to be overlooked.
The Garage at The Governor’s Inn
$ | (603) 332-0107 | WEBSITE
As one of the top spots in Rochester, The Garage at The Governor’s Inn has become the go-to destination for nightlife in the area. Yes, the service can still drag when the place gets packed, and groups will be crowding the dance floor during live sets. We can’t tell you that the experience is worth dealing with the slower pace on busy nights, but if you swing by when it’s less crowded, take advantage and grab a reasonably priced drink. It will make for a fun evening out with friends.
110 Grill Rochester
$$ | (603) 948-1270 | WEBSITE
From the heart of Rochester comes 110 Grill Rochester, a popular restaurant that’s been drawing crowds for years. Their dining room, located right off the main street, is basically a welcoming space with comfortable seating. Whatever you decide to order, make sure to throw in the Crab Rangoon dip. It’s the appetizer that keeps people coming back, served warm with crispy wontons. If for some reason you’re craving something else, console yourself with a juicy burger instead.
The atmosphere is nice, with servers like Claire providing friendly, efficient service that makes everything run smoothly. Many guests enjoy ending their meal with the beautiful chocolate cake, and the fair prices make it easy to return.
Brickstones
$ | (603) 335-7100 | WEBSITE
Breakfast enthusiasts in Rochester might already know about Brickstones. This classic diner has been a local fixture for years, specializing in hearty morning meals. For a satisfying breakfast with friendly service and bottomless coffee, their spot on Main Street should be at the top of your list. The food is fresh and tastes homemade, with a bacon-and-eggs to pancake ratio that’s perfectly proportioned.
We usually order the spinach-tomato-Feta omelet, which is surprisingly light, plus their crispy bacon and endless coffee refills. Everything tastes best straight off the griddle, so grab a booth in their cozy dining room and enjoy your meal while it’s hot.
Eastern Paradise Asian Cuisine
$$ | (603) 948-1253 | WEBSITE
Eastern Paradise Asian Cuisine occupies a surprisingly spacious storefront right in the heart of Rochester’s dining scene. If you’ve visited any of the area’s popular Asian spots, you’ll recognize the $12 lunch specials, which come with miso soup and your choice of sweet and sour chicken or another main, both served with perfectly steamed rice.
The sweet potato rolls are the highlight here, but you can also order a full hibachi feast or a specialty sushi platter if you’re looking to celebrate with friends. A long wooden counter runs along the hibachi area, which means that even during the lunch rush, you should have no trouble finding a table.
Sonnys
Sonny’s in Rochester is a bar-food spot that serves a solid mix of classic comfort dishes, like the double comeback burger and truffle chicken mac and cheese, and creative cocktails, like the espresso martini and other specialty drinks. The best way to enjoy the vibe is to grab a seat at the bar with friends for drinks and appetizers, but don’t skip the chicken sandwich or brussels sprouts—you might need that extra bite when you’re catching up over a few rounds.
The staff is friendly and quick, even as they settle into the new space, and the prices feel fair for the quality, making it a great local hangout.
My Thai Bistros
$$ | (603) 441-6069 | WEBSITE
A mainstay on Rochester’s dining scene, My Thai Bistro has been serving authentic Thai cuisine that consistently delivers on flavor and freshness. Expect classics like mango with sticky rice, tom yum chicken, and customizable vegetarian options. We like to settle into one of the simple wooden booths, order a generous portion of tom yum, and customize the spice level to our liking.
The friendly staff, many from Thailand themselves, work hard to maintain that authentic cultural experience—even if the atmosphere leans more casual than traditional. At about $15-20 per entree, you get quality ingredients and portions that satisfy. It’s the kind of place where you leave planning your next visit before you’ve even reached the door.
Evviva Trattoria Rochester
$$ | (603) 509-2323 | WEBSITE
You’ve likely spotted Evviva Trattoria on those ‘best of’ lists around town, which means you’ve probably considered stopping by, therefore you understand why the tables here are always so full. You could order the lasagna fritters (they’re a must-try), but why limit yourself— there are superb entrees, amazing drinks, and that cute semi-private space for events available here. It’s easily the best spot to unwind after a long day before heading home.
Porter’s
$ | (603) 330-1964 | WEBSITE
Everyone loves a generous portion. Porter’s understands this. That’s why this cozy pub offers tender steak tips and tasty ribs to anyone walking in. Porter’s marinates its steak tips just like they do in classic American pubs, the kind of place where hearty, flavor-packed comfort food is basically a tradition. Get the mixed grill special here, which is nothing but a heaping pile of grilled meats that spills from the plate. Add your own sides and sauces from their friendly service.
Aroma Joe’s
$ | (603) 749-7700 | WEBSITE
Anyone who thinks great coffee requires a stuffy, formal café will be proven wrong at Aroma Joe’s. This spot with its prime location and friendly baristas serves some of the best drinks in Rochester, blended just right and served with a smile. We usually go for the Coconut FroJoe with chocolate milk and whipped cream, made perfectly every single time. But for as reliably excellent as that drink is, the iced peanut butter coffee might be even better for kicking off your morning.
And don’t forget it’s far superior to that other New England chain everyone knows.
