Rockingham County, New Hampshire is a beautiful and bustling area known for its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns. As a local food critic and self-proclaimed foodie, I have had the pleasure of exploring the culinary offerings of Rockingham County and am excited to share my insights with you.
The Influence of New England
As with many areas in the Northeastern United States, New England cuisine has a strong presence in Rockingham County. This type of cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and hearty dishes that are perfect for the colder months.Restaurants in Rockingham County
offer a variety of New England-inspired dishes such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fish and chips. One popular spot for these classic dishes is The Beach Plum in North Hampton.This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood since 1992 and has become a staple in the community.
New Hampshire
is also known for its maple syrup production, and many restaurants in Rockingham County incorporate this sweet ingredient into their dishes. The Tuckaway Tavern & Butchery in Raymond is a prime example, offering a mouth-watering maple glazed pork chop that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.International Flavors
While New England cuisine may dominate the restaurant scene in Rockingham County, there are also plenty of options for those looking to explore international flavors. From Italian to Thai to Mexican, there is something for every palate.Italian cuisine
is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. One standout restaurant is Giuseppe's Pizzeria & Ristorante in Exeter.This family-owned establishment has been serving up authentic Italian dishes since 1989 and has become a go-to spot for delicious pizza, pasta, and more.
Thai food
has also gained popularity in recent years, and Rockingham County has some fantastic options for those craving this flavorful cuisine. One of my personal favorites is Thai Smile in Portsmouth. Their Pad Thai and Green Curry are both must-tries.Mexican cuisine
may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of New Hampshire, but there are some hidden gems in Rockingham County that are worth checking out. Las Olas Taqueria in Hampton offers authentic Mexican street food, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.Farm-to-Table Dining
Another trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years is farm-to-table dining.This concept focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create fresh and flavorful dishes. In Rockingham County, there are several restaurants that have embraced this movement. The Black Trumpet in Portsmouth is a prime example of a farm-to-table restaurant. Their menu changes seasonally to incorporate the freshest ingredients from local farms. The result is a unique and ever-changing dining experience.
New Hampshire
is also known for its apple orchards, and many restaurants in Rockingham County take advantage of this by incorporating apples into their dishes.One such restaurant is Applecrest Farm Bistro in Hampton Falls. Their menu features dishes made with ingredients from their own farm, including their famous apple cider donuts.
Seafood Galore
Given its location on the coast, it's no surprise that seafood is a staple in Rockingham County. In addition to the classic New England dishes mentioned earlier, there are also plenty of options for those looking for a more upscale seafood dining experience. The Atlantic Grill in Rye is a popular choice for those looking for a fine dining experience. Their menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including their famous lobster mac and cheese.New Hampshire
is also home to some of the best oysters in the country, and Rockingham County has no shortage of restaurants serving up these briny delicacies.Row 34 in Portsmouth is a must-visit for oyster lovers, offering a rotating selection of fresh oysters from local waters.
