Where to Eat at the Capital Arts Fest

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After a day jam-packed with local art vendors and performances at the Capital Arts Fest, you’re going to work up quite the appetite. Concord is home to many delicious eateries that you’ve got to visit during your trip! With a wide variety of options, there is no doubt that you will be able to find a spot perfect for the entire family.

Remember, the Capital Arts Fest will be held in downtown Concord, NH September 24-26, 2021.

New Hampshire Doughnut Company

Start the day off right with some breakfast before you explore everything the Capital Arts Fest has to offer. If you have a sweet tooth, New Hampshire Doughnut Company is the place to go! Their rotating menu includes many unique flavors as well as some classics, like peanut butter explosion, maple bacon, cannoli, and honey-dipped glaze. 

If you are gluten or dairy-free and want to try out their creations, don’t fret! There are GF and DF options too, check out their website for detailed information about the ingredients. You can even design your own doughnut if you are feeling adventurous. Make sure to head over to NH Doughnut Co. first thing in the morning before they sell out of all the goodies! 

The Barley House

There is something for everyone at The Barley House, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike for years. This restaurant is a great option if you are looking for classic American cuisine. With pizza, burgers, soup, and salad, what more could you want? The menu has a kids section and many vegetarian-friendly options, as well as mouth-watering desserts. You can find a long list of draft beers at The Barley House to cool you down after a hot summer day. 

Hermanos Cocina Mexicana

Located just off Main street is a lively and authentic Mexican restaurant, Hermanos Cocina Mexicana. You do not want to miss out on their award-winning nachos and “made-in-heaven” margaritas. Visit any Sunday evening and enjoy a live jazz performance as you eat.

Visit a Local Cafe

If you need a break from shopping and you’re in search of a little pick-me-up, check out the cafe at Gibson’s Bookstore. Breakfast sandwiches, paninis, pastries, and coffee are all supplied by another local gem, True Brew Barista. The two businesses partnered up in 2012 to provide downtown Concord with a warm and welcoming atmosphere to read while enjoying food and drinks from the cafe. If you are looking for something stronger than coffee, there is also a bar stocked with craft beer.

New England Seafood Classics

Seafood is a must-have when you’re in Concord. Luckily, Newick’s Lobster House has got you covered! They have all the classics: clam chowder, lobster rolls, calamari, scallops, fish tacos, and more. 

Nearby Fine Dining

If fine dining is more your speed, consider taking a short drive to the Colby Hill Inn in Henniker, NH. There you will find The Grazing Room, a gold-level Farm-to-Table restaurant. The chef’s menu features work by Bruce R. Barnes who uses the freshest ingredients from each week’s local harvest. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the inn’s gardens, where you can watch goats graze as you eat! For small bites and drinks, visit their wine lounge and sit by the fireplace. Reservations are recommended and outdoor seating is available.

Ice Cream in Concord

Ice cream is the best way to end a great day at the Capital Arts Fest. Arnie’s Place has delicious homemade ice cream, flurries, and sundaes. You can also enjoy lunch or dinner at Arnie’s. They have all the summer food favorites: burgers, hotdogs, and BBQ plates. Arnie’s has walk-up service and picnic tables where you can sit and eat their tasty treats.

If none of these restaurants speak to you, there are plenty of other great options at the Capital Arts Festival! Check out this link for more local eateries: https://www.concordnhchamber.com/visit/eat-and-drink/