THE 15 BEST Restaurants in Exeter, NH - With Menus, Reviews, Photos - Updated May 2024

Restaurants in Exeter

Best Restaurants in Exeter

Vino e Vivo 163 Water St, Exeter Wine Bar • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Charcuterie
Duck Fat Beignets
Seared Scallops
Chocolate Torte
Crispy Octopus
Duck Breast
Tasting
Desert Ice Cream and Cake
Scallop Crudo

“I found this place because I was searching for a chefs tasting table. They ended up being booked out for a year so I figured just regular reservations would suffice.I booked the bar and was so glad I did. We got there and there was an anniversary card hand-signed with little congratulatory messages from the entire staff. So sweet.We did a bunch of small plates. I don’t know if I remember everything but it was all fantastic. They also brought out other dishes compliments of the chef. The chef came out twice and just chatted with us. My husband asked him about sunchoke because he’d never heard of it, and he literally went back to the kitchen and came back to show us what it was. The sous chef came out too. The owner and the bartender tag-teamed serving us and everyone was just so friendly, informative, and just so pleasant to be around. Everything was plated like a work of art. We literally stared at each plate in awe because of how pretty it all looked. Every dish was fully explained when they presented it.We started with charcuterie and it was amazing. Three meats I haven’t had before, all house made. House made pickles, jam, and crackers. A mustard that was out of this world.For our small plates we had:- crispy octopus with a squid ink tuile and some sort of amazing potato fondue. It was the best octopus I’ve ever had. We ordered it twice.- steak tartare with quail egg and potato croquettes. So tender and such an amazing mix of flavors.- duck fat beignets. We got these twice. The first was a sugar coated beignet with Serrano (I believe) ham, goat cheese and a jam. The second was foie gras with goat cheese and grapes. The sweet and savory and salty all together was a complete shock to my system. I’d eat them daily if I could.- hay smoked carrots with cecina, black garlic and port poached pears. This was compliments of the chef and was just such an amazing surprise.- salmon crudo with grapefruit, bergamot and freshly grated horseradish. Such an interesting mix of flavors. The salmon was served raw so the grapefruit was a great tenderizer. It was so buttery and fresh.- fois gras served with sunchoke cake. Yes, cake. The cake was sweet and moist and felt dense but was really light. Absolutely amazing. I don’t know if that even makes sense but that’s how I can describe it. Best fois gras I’ve ever had.- ricotta tortellini- also compliments of the chef. The dough was so tender. The ricotta was so smooth and creamy. It was served with garlic scapes and almonds and mushrooms that were perfectly cooked.- we ended up getting a cheese plate at the end as well. All three cheeses were so different and perfect. Also served with the crackers, jam, and a different mustard.For dessert we ordered a layered chocolate stout cake with a black sesame tahini ice cream. It reminded me of the most elevated chocolate peanut butter dessert you can imagine. They also sent us three other ice creams: roasted almond, fois gras, and mushroom. Everything was so creamy, perfectly sweet, and flavorful. Just absolutely stunning.I’m drooling just reliving it in my mind. I cannot wait to go back.The owner informed us about the outdoor seating along the river during the summer and how on Wednesdays (I think) they do fresh oysters that are caught that morning and the person who catches them delivers and shucks them as ordered.This was the most wonderful anniversary dinner and truly one of the top 5 dining experiences I’ve ever had, no questions asked. Such a wonderfully unexpected food gem in Exeter! Our sincerest thanks to every single staff member that made our night something we will talk about for a very long time.”

4.9 Superb74 Reviews
Il Cornicello 11 Water St, Exeter Italian • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Pistachio Cake
Pistachio Olive Oil Cake
Classic Bruschette
Chianti Butter Bruschetta
Bruschetta Olio Nuova
Lobster Ravioli

“Cornicello is truly one of those hidden gems - staff is incredibly friendly and extremely helpful. Food is superb !! Love the layout of tables - all by the windows with river views. Warm friendly community atmosphere (not stuffy). My daughter and I love this restaurant and have made this our special meeting place. Bravissimo Cornicello !!”

4.6 Superb58 Reviews
OBA Noodle Bar 69 Water St, Exeter Noodles • $

Customers` Favorites

Beef Noodle Soup
Oba Ramen
Crab Rangoon
Duck Noodle Soup
Scallion Pancake
Vegetable Dumpling
Oba Tom Yum Soup
Thai Noodle Soup
Vegetable Roll

“OBA Noodle Bar serves a wide variety of teas & noodle dishes primarily from Thai cuisine in a cozy spot in central downtown Exeter. Quick & pleasant service during Sunday lunch service. The Crazy Me Duck is a must try!”

4.8 Superb63 Reviews
The Czar's Brewery 2 Center St, Exeter Brewpubs • $

Customers` Favorites

Hot Dog
Pretzels

“Excellent small brew pub. Food and beer choices are plentiful and very good. Staff were very friendly, knowledgeable and hard working. Although we didn't play any of the many, many board games they offer, it is a fun place.”

4.9 Superb38 Reviews
Khaophums II 1 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Thai • $

Customers` Favorites

Pad Thai
Green Curry Shrimp
Tom Kha Gai Soup
Orange Duck

“I ordered takeout drunken noodles and at a spice level of 2 (out of 4) and it was still very spicy! The veggies were nice and crisp and everything was seasoned well. I also ordered veggie spring rolls - the only thing I didn't like was the sauce that came with spring rolls because it was very watery And the spring rolls were just Ok. But my food was ready in 10 min and was piping hot :)”

4.8 Superb30 Reviews
Sawbelly Brewing 156 Epping Rd, Exeter Brewpubs • $$

Customers` Favorites

Pickle
Beer Flight
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Korean Sticky Ribs
Charcuterie Board
Chicken Wings
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Draft Beer Selection
House Pretzel Bread

“We couldn't stop eating. We had the buffalo Mac n cheese, Korean ribs, garlic potatoes, and chicken tacos. This food was amazing. The chef is very talented...what he does with these spices is just amazing. Can't wait to go back and sit outside. Oh and our waitress was wonderful too.”

4.5 Superb72 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Daily Coffee Flight
Latte Flight
Loaded Mingo

“My husband and I stopped in yesterday and the girls behind the counter were SO friendly. We did the Camp Lincoln coffee flight and it was incredible. We splurged after and got a latte to share (Midnight Rain, Taylor’s Version!) and honestly that’s probably the best latte I’ve ever had in my life this far. I can’t wait to try more! Also the muffins they got from an outside baker (I didn’t catch the name ?) were AMAZING. The carrot cake one was unlike any muffin we’ve ever tried. Can’t wait to go back.”

4.5 Superb53 Reviews
Trackside Cafe 66 Lincoln St, Exeter Diner • $

Customers` Favorites

Eggs Benedict
Homemade Hash
Breakfast Burrito
Homemade Corn Beef Hash
Homemade Corned Beef Hash Omelette
Breakfast Quesadilla
Plate Sized Pancakes
Home Fries and Toast
Biscuits and Gravy

“What a delightful place next door to the Exeter Amtrak station. This small cafe is a mom-and-pop style shop with delicious staples like corn beef hash, omelettes, and eggs Benedict. Frequented by locals and visitors alike, this cafe is a gem, still seeped in the charm of diners of yore.Service is warm and inviting: as soon as you walk in, you are made to feel right at home. Old train schedules adorn the walls, reminding you of railway history from decades ago. Trackside Cafe is a must-visit if you find yourself in Exeter!”

4.5 Superb50 Reviews
Otis Restaurant 4 Front St, Exeter American • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Soup
Steak
Sticky Toffee Pudding Bourbon Caramel Vanilla Creme Chantilly

“We had a fantastic dinner. An extra bonus was watching the chefs cook, they were like an orchestra so coordinated. The sitting had 26 diners. The menu changes every week. We had bean soup, a choice of smoked salmon salad w potato or polenta with pork ragu, chicken with spinach or cod with carrots, beef with potato and red cabbage or pork and lentils, toffee pudding or funnel cake ( fried dough). Everything was delicious, there was not a single dish that we did not love. Service was attentive and friendly. We will be back!”

4.5 Superb49 Reviews
Shooters Pub 6 Columbus Ave, Exeter Sports Bar • $

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni Pizza
Sausage Pizza

“Great drinks, service and pizza. The price is also very reasonable. Another sure bet.Vegetarian options: Plenty of vegetable pizza and calzones. Plus other apps.”

4.6 Superb29 Reviews
11

Ambrose

Ambrose 6 Front St, Exeter Tapas/Small Plates • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Date
House Marinated Olives
Shrimp & Loroco Sauce

“Visited last evening - Dec 21. We had great service and the food was delicious! The tapas concept is wonderful - lots of choice and each plate was enough to be shared with the four of us. Highly recommend.”

4.5 Superb39 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Super Moe's Original
Half Chicken Salad
Meatball Sandwich
Whole Madmoe
GS Moe

“Mind blowing good! Chicken salad on whole wheat with few onions, black olives, and provolone. OMG. SO GOOD! Thank you Moe's.Parking: Easy to find parking right outside the door.”

4.5 Superb24 Reviews
Steve's Diner 100 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Breakfast • $

Customers` Favorites

Eggs Benedict
Home Fries
Sausage
Pie
Stuffed French Toast
Biscuits and Gravy
Athenian Omelette
Steak Tips
Club Sandwich
Caesar Salad

“We had just left the doctor's office and had been fasting all night. Well, Steve's was open and we decided to grab a brunch. As we entered one of the waitstaff was stating that they were closing early due to the snowstorm. The owner, I believe, said they will seat us and we are the last order. Well we had the best prosciutto tomato and spinach benedict ever. The home fries were cooked to perfection. My wife had her eggs scrambled with cheese and an everything bagel and side of sausage. Thank you so much. The meal was done perfectly and the waitstaff was awesome.”

4.3 Superb91 Reviews
Front Row Pizzeria 137 Epping Rd, Exeter Pizza • $

Customers` Favorites

Super
Italian
Roast Beef Sandwich
Onion Rings
Greek Salad
Grilled Chicken Salad
Veal Parmesan
French Fries
Buffalo Wings
Pastrami

“Great menu options. Gluten free pizza was delicious. It's a thin, crispy crust. Took a while to get the pizza due to a mishap but would dine here again.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free”

4.3 Superb89 Reviews
New England Pizza 92 Portsmouth Ave # 1, Exeter Pizza • $

Customers` Favorites

Steak Bomb
Buffalo Chicken
Block Olives
Sausage Bomb
Chicken Kabob
Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken
BBQ Chicken
Hawaiian Pizza
Pepperoni Pizza
Personal Size Cheese Pizza

“We order from New England pizza at work. So far I have loved anything I have ordered. The eggplant calzone (I add ricotta) is excellent. Cooked to perfection!! Thanks for great lunches!!”

4.3 Superb61 Reviews

More Restaurants in Exeter

Enna Chocolate 152 Front St, Exeter Coffee Shops • $

Customers` Favorites

Flight Roasters Fresh Brewed Coffee

“As a Christmas treat, decided to splurge, and go out for a cup of hot chocolate.I admit my expectations were low as I have never been really impressed by the standard taste.When my order arrived, at first sight, I knew this was going to be a unique experience. The whipped cream was ‘ real ‘ , delicious and piled high. With my first sip I realized I have never had a cup of actual hot chocolate before this moment ! It was creamy, thick, hot, and without a doubt, the most intense explosion of devine chocolate it has ever been my pleasure to enjoy!It did take a little preparation time, but the whole experience is one not to be rushed.Hesitant to mention that it is a bit on the pricey side, but it was worth every penny, just to know that the finest cup of quality hot chocolate does exsist !”

4.9 Superb31 Reviews
St Anthony's Bakery 231 Water St, Exeter Bakery • $

“St. Anthony's is what we are missing in NH, a true bakery where bread is made. Their pastries are good, but the bread is excellent. I got a loaf of Normandy bread, made with Molasses and oats, absolutely delicious. Got there around 8 AM and the bread was warm and freshly made. The atmosphere is country, with residents meeting for morning coffee.”

4.9 Superb15 Reviews
D Squared Java 155 Water St, Exeter Coffee Shops • $

Customers` Favorites

Coffee Shop
Egg&Cheese Sandwich
Scone

“What a gem! I will definitely come back again! Service was wonderful and the atmosphere was calming. The breakfast sandwich was delicious. I also tried their iced latte with their homemade caramel sauce; it was quite smooth and no need to add additional sugar.”

4.4 Superb36 Reviews
Stillwells Riverwalk Ice Cream 190 Water St, Exeter Ice Cream Shop • $

Customers` Favorites

Sundaes
Coffee Heathbar
Mocha Chip
Milkyway

“I’ve never actually seen stillwell’s in person, yet I have heard only good thing. I have asked numerous girls to go with me, but all have politely declined. I hope that one day I may taste their ice cream, and feel the warmth of a lover.”

4.4 Superb34 Reviews
Me & Ollie's Bakery & Cafe 64 Water St, Exeter Coffee Shops • $

Customers` Favorites

Bakery
Bagel
Muffin
Chicken Avocado Wrap
Scone
Ollies Toast with Eg Cheeze and Bacon
Double Chocolate Chip Cookie
Kids Grilled Cheese Served
Gooey Granola Roll
Coconut Macaroon

“Everyone is super friendly. There is one girl with blond on bottom of her hair. She is not that friendly, she is kinda rude and not personable at all. I really like the tall girl , I think her name is Jessica. She is always so friendly and actually makes me appreciated as a customer. She always makes a point of saying good morning and seems like she really appreciates her job and enjoys what she does. She's always active and taking out empty plates from us. I just want to let you guys know she's definitely a keeper. The other girl not so much at All!!!!!”

4.3 Superb59 Reviews
Nadeau's Subs Salads Wraps 48 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Sandwich Shop • $

Customers` Favorites

Pastrami
Buffalo Chicken
Meatball
Waffle
Chicken Fingers French Fries Onion Rings
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
Philly Cheese Steak Large
Philly Cheese Steak
Grilled Chicken
Kids Turkey

“Best Roast Beef sub Best Jeremy’s Special sub and the shaved steak is the best overall all was very tasty and fresh Will definitely be a loyal customer. ?”

4.3 Superb41 Reviews
Clyde's Cupcakes Clyde's Cupcakes, Exeter Bakery • $$

Customers` Favorites

Cookies
Brownies
Whoopie Pie

“I ate my treats too fast to even take a photo! Clyde was at Pumpkin Fest in Laconia and I stopped by each day and got something. It doesn't matter if its a cookie, brownie (corner or middle piece!!!) or a cupcake. There are so many options to choose from! I highly recommend anything from there - it will be delicious! I already want another whoopie pie brownie! Thank you for baking the amazing sweets Clyde!”

4.4 Superb17 Reviews
Pizza Academy 159 Front St, Exeter Pizza • $

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni Sausage Onion Pizza

“Best pizza in town hands down! And no matter how busy they are, the gentleman that answers the phone is kind and doesn't rush you. No online ordering, but 1,000% worth calling in. Will always be my favorite place in town for pizza.”

4.3 Superb30 Reviews
Aroma Joe's Coffee 31 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Coffee Shops • $$

Customers` Favorites

AJ
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pretzel
Fresh Brewed Coffee
Barista Gratuity
Hash Brown Bites
Cinnamon Roll

“Stopped in for a quick something for breakfast. I ordered a Swiss with ham on crossiant( I didn't realize an egg was on it), potato hash bite, and a latte.The gentleman who took our order was wonderful! He made us smile and was very helpful. I would return just bc of him, Made mine and my husband's morning.”

4.2 Good17 Reviews
Sea Dog Brewing Company 9 Water St, Exeter Brewpubs • $$

Customers` Favorites

Burger
Sandwich
Fish Tacos
Sweet Potato Fries
Lobster Roll
Bang Bang Shrimp
Mediterranean Steak and Avacado Salad
New England Clam Chowder

“Great spot on the Exeter river had the fish and chips and loved the generous portion my wife had the fish tacos and loved them. The sea dog beer was great my favorite was the sunfish. Servers were great and very attentive. I would highly recommend.”

4.1 Good81 Reviews
Szechuan Taste 42 Water St # A, Exeter Chinese • $

Customers` Favorites

Egg Roll
Four Piece of Crab Rangoons
Schezwan Fried Rice Chicken
Stir Fried Mixed Vegetables
General TSO's Chicken
Triple Delight
Fried Icecream

“Great food and great serviceParking: Right next to the largest public parking lot in Downtown Exeter, can be occasionally difficult to park in depending on the time of day”

4.1 Good57 Reviews
Street 8 Clifford St, Exeter New American

Customers` Favorites

Bibimbap
Curry Fries
Burger
Mexicali Bowl with Pork
Noodle Bowl
Banh MI
Fish Taco with Avocado
Dumplings Con Pow
Korean Wings
Falafel

“I really enjoyed my first visit to Street. My brother and I sat at the bar and enjoyed a salad and the noodle bowl along with a nice glass of white wine. The server was pleasant and there was a nice unrushed peaceful atmosphere about the place. I would definitely go back.”

4.1 Good52 Reviews
Jersey Mike's Subs 141 Portsmouth Ave Unit C, Exeter Sandwich Shop • $

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Portobello Mushroom and Swiss Sub
Big Kahuna Chicken Steak and Cheese

“The food isn’t five star restaurant worthy, but it’s definitely more than worth the price. When compared to Subway, which has a very similar menu and setup it’s more fresh and tastes better. It’s in a good area to grab a seat and people watch or to leave and start looking around. The people were nice and friendly and their recommendation was very tasty.”

4.1 Good50 Reviews
LANEY & LU 26 Water St #6, Exeter Cafe • $

Customers` Favorites

Salads
Breakfast Sandwich
Berry Banana Smoothie
Thai Peanut Noodles
Huevos Rancheros
Smoothie Bowl
Fiesta
Avocado Toast with Sea Salt
Pineapple Mango Smoothie
Strawberry Acai Bowl

“Oh my….so adorable. Everything about it! The cafe, the location, the lilacs along the outdoor patio that don’t even belong to the cafe…totally worth the search to find them only slightly around the corner of the beaten path. Sip your matcha lemonade in the sun outdoors. The granola was noteworthy and the menu quaint in that skinny-girl-with-yoga-mat kind of way. Cute!”

4.1 Good45 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Add Grilled Chicken

“always delicious and warm also on time im ordering now againL)TU 3 deliveringI just heard I am so sorry for what happened to your rest. not cool... let the community know if we can help myself I'm talking for but dang I am so sorry for the hurt which much be involved in a fire.... L”

3.7 Good3 Reviews
Lexie's Exeter 82 Lincoln St, Exeter Hamburger • $

Customers` Favorites

Fish Tacos
Fried Pickles
Cucumber Mint Lemonade
Bistro
Beanie
Beef
The Farmhouse
Truffle Fries with Cheese
The Big Catch Sandwich
Put a Ring on It

“Big fan of the BYO option- love the option to add on fried pickles + fried onion rings. The Chipotle aioli is the best I've ever had. This is my favorite burger place.”

4 Good68 Reviews
Ohana Kitchen 75 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Hawaiian • $

Customers` Favorites

Large Spicy Crunchy Ahi
Seafood
Build Your Own Poke Bowl
Wonton Chips w Aioli

“My hubby & I order from Ohana 1-2/month. We always get the same bowls, so the regular staff pretty much knows our order. :) Quick and easy to order online or via phone. When ingredients are freshly made (rice) and ripe (pineapple), bowls are absolutely delicious! The staff is always friendly and quick to remedy, if any issues. Easy parking in the adjacent lot. I have tried poke bowls in other parts of the country and in my opinion, none come even close to Ohana.”

3.9 Good24 Reviews
New Pine Garden 85 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Chinese • $$

Customers` Favorites

Exeter
Crab Rangoon
Beef Teriyaki
Egg Roll
House Special Fried Rice
Fried Ice Cream on Fire
General TSO's Chicken
Beef and Broccoli
Chicken Wings
Raw Sushi

“One of our favorite restaurants! The staff and food are amazing Highly recommend sushi, fried rice, and appetizer platters. Nice variety of luncheon specials. Plenty of parking. Sarah and her team are welcoming and friendly.”

3.8 Good36 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Taco Salad
Chips and Salsa
Beef Tacos
Juan's Chicken Quesadilla
Cheese Dip and Guacamole
Enchiladas Muchachas
Chicken Chimichanga
Steak Fajita Salad
Steak Chimichanga
Fajita Quesadilla

“We haven’t been out to eat in months…. I mean months since august of 2023 when my mom had a stroke. We went out tonight and we had Nikki as a waitress. She had a 20 top as well as other tables while she was waiting on us and not only was she super pleasant but the drinks and food were fast and DELICIOUS! I’d give 10 stars if I could!”

3.8 Good52 Reviews
Romeo's 72 Lincoln St, Exeter Pizza • $

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Parm
Grilled Chicken
French Fries
Italian
Chicken Finger Dinner
Chicken Salad

“I stopped in on a Sunday evening with a date after some bowling and to our surprise the pizza was incredible! The balance of the small mushroom pizza was all about the taste. Scrumptious. The only thing is that the space between the very nice mushrooms was left for something like sausage but we didn't order a second topping. Okay, I'm a tough critic and I think maybe six more mushroom slices would have allow me to give the place the five stars for what was almost a perfectly rich flavor experience. Next time, two toppings.”

3.7 Good40 Reviews
OTTO 33 Water St, Exeter Pizza • $$

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni
Caesar Salad
Mashed Potato Bacon & Scallion Large 12
House-Made Meatballs
Sriracha Chicken
Side Meatballs

“Love this place! Thanks to Zac we had great service and he wasn’t even our server. Small Cesar is enough for two if you split a pie. I have not had a bad or mediocre meal here yet. Full bar with specialty drinks are the icing on the cake!Parking: Public lot and street parking is free.”

3.8 Good108 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Spicy Pad Thai
Chicken Satay
Chicken Pad Thai
Green Curry
Khao Soi
Fresh Spring Rolls
Shrimp Pad Thai

“Ordered take out and it was fast easy and delicious. Definitely ask for silverware and or chop sticks as my bag did not have any. I had the chicken pad Thai and it was simple and delicious if you like spicy definitely be sure to specify as there was no heat on the original order.”

3.6 Good43 Reviews
Las Olas Taqueria 30 Portsmouth Ave, Exeter Mexican • $

Customers` Favorites

Chips
Cilantro
Tortilla
Pineapple Salsa
Guacamole
Steak Burrito
Jarritos
Cheese Quesadilla
Chicken Burrito
Magiritsa

“Its a good solid Mexican joint in the midst of a town of over privileged teens but the food let's you ignore all of that! Mmm food good....Still loving this place I want more”

3.7 Good94 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Pizza
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Tater Tots
Poutine
Bavarian Pretzel
Nachos
Fish and Chips with Cole Slaw
Smoked Chicken Wings
Bullwinkle Burger
Fried Pickles

“Brought the family and we all had a great time. Server attentive to the needs of four year olds and octogenarian. I'm celiac so need gluten free and they had a separate gluten free menu which is rare for this style restaurant. The pizza was excellent with a nice crust unlike the usual gf cracker with cheese and tomato sauce. The burgers others enjoyed were properly cooked with fresh and crispy veggies. Everyone raved about their fries.”

3.7 Good94 Reviews