A trip to the western White Mountains is a culinary delight. While the area might not be a foodie destination like other cities in New England, we’re spoiled with many delicious and unique dining options. From organic, locally sourced farm fresh ingredients to a gourmet five-course dinner on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train, you certainly won’t go hungry in the western White Mountains.
Woodstock Inn Brewery
Voted favorite restaurant in the White Mountains for the past eight years, the Woodstock Inn is a local legend. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Woodstock Inn menu is extensive as the dining room. You’ll find everything from nachos to pretzels to meatloaf and fish and chips. The Woodstock Inn burgers are the best in town. Made with locally raised New Hampshire and Vermont beef, each burger is flavorful and fresh. If you’re up for the challenge, try the Death by Burger, which is an 18 oz. cheeseburger on the bottom with a BLT and onions on top. Want to make it on the wall of fame? Try the Double the Death Burger! Thirty-six ounces of beef? No problem!
Gypsy Cafe
For a taste around the world, head to the Gypsy Café for a fun and casual evening with an eccentric menu. With a unique art created by local artists on the wall, you’ll be inspired to choose something colorful from the menu. From Enchiladas Rojas to Thai Red Curry Duck to Malai Kofta, each dish is authentic and full of flavor and a little spice. If you’re a margarita fan, then you’ve come to the right place! The Gypsy Cafe’s margaritas are famous around these parts. Made with fresh homemade lemon and lime sour mix, you can’t go wrong with whatever one you choose.
One Love Brewery
On a hot summer day, there is nothing better than a cold beer. Head over to One Love Brewery for some German-style beers on the dog-friendly patio. Their diverse menu is filled with delicious comfort food-style pub favorites, like soft pretzels, nachos, and poutine! Many of the many dishes are cooked using their locally brewed beer and many locally sourced ingredients. Visit Tuesday for Trivia Night or Friday and Saturday nights for live music.
Mountain Club on Loon
The Mountain Club on Loon offers two dining options – Black Diamond Pub and Seasons Restaurant. Both restaurants source their ingredients locally from farmers, producers, bakers and brewers, and distillers. The restaurants serve up traditional New England pub fare with a local twist for both kids and adults. Each dining option is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train
For a truly unique experience, book a ticket aboard the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train. For two hours, you’ll ride along the Pemigewasset River through the beautiful western White Mountains while eating a gourmet five-course dinner. Each 1950’s vintage train car has been restored to its former glory making the whole dinner train a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The menu changes regularly and features delicious seasonal dishes made with local flavors. A trip on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train is a perfect idea for a special occasion like an anniversary or engagement.
For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov