Dine around Laconia, New Hampshire
Of course! As your local guide to the culinary heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region, I'm thrilled to take you on a mouthwatering tour of Laconia. This city, nestled between the shimmering expanses of Lake Winnisquam and the mighty Winnipesaukee, is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be discovered. Forget any notions of a simple lakeside town; Laconia's dining scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from authentic international cuisine, classic New England comfort, and innovative gastropub fare.
So, pull up a chair, loosen your belt a notch, and let's embark on a 3000-word culinary journey through ten of Laconia's most delectable destinations.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Laconia, NH: Ten Unforgettable Stops**
#### **1. Lanna Thai: A Symphony of Spice and Soul**
**Location:** 363 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Step through the doors of Lanna Thai and you are instantly transported. The air, fragrant with lemongrass, basil, and chili, is your first welcome. This isn't just a restaurant; it's an escape to the bustling streets of Chiang Mai or the serene beaches of Phuket, right in the heart of downtown Laconia. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with traditional Thai artwork adorning the walls and soft, melodic music setting the tone for an authentic experience.
**The Dining Experience:**
The service here is as gracious as the flavors are bold. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the heat levels, which range from a gentle Mild to the fiery Thai Hot. For the true adventurer, I recommend venturing to at least a Medium to truly appreciate the complex dance of flavors. It's a popular spot, so a quiet hum of satisfied conversation fills the room, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere.
**What to Order: Your Culinary Passport**
* **Start Your Journey:** You cannot go wrong with the **Fresh Garden Rolls**. These translucent rice paper wraps are bursting with crisp lettuce, vermicelli noodles, mint, and your choice of shrimp or tofu, served with a perfectly tangy peanut sauce. They are light, refreshing, and the ideal prelude to the meal.
* **The Star of the Show:** For your main course, the **Panang Curry** is nothing short of legendary. The creamy coconut milk base is infused with a proprietary blend of Panang spices and kaffir lime leaves, creating a sauce that is simultaneously rich, aromatic, and subtly sweet. I always get it with chicken, which arrives tender and perfectly cooked, soaking up the magnificent curry. Served with a mountain of jasmine rice, it’s a dish you’ll dream about for weeks.
* **A Crispy Contender:** Another must-try is the **Pad Kra Pao**. This stir-fried basil dish is a staple of Thai street food. Choose your protein (the ground chicken is fantastic) and watch as it's wok-tossed with fresh chili, garlic, and a generous handful of holy basil. The aroma alone is intoxicating. Request a fried egg on top—the runny yolk mixing with the savory sauce and rice is a textural masterpiece.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don't shy away from the specials board! They often feature seasonal ingredients and regional dishes you won't find on the regular menu.
#### **2. Brick Front Restaurant-Lounge: Where Classic Meets Cool**
**Location:** 134 Church St, Laconia, NH 03246
The Brick Front is a Laconia institution, a place that effortlessly bridges the gap between a cozy neighborhood pub and a sophisticated lounge. As the name suggests, the exterior boasts a handsome brick façade, but the inside is where the magic happens. It's dimly lit, with a long, welcoming bar, high-top tables, and a vibe that says, Stay awhile. This is the place for a serious business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends catching the game.
**The Dining Experience:**
The energy here shifts with the time of day. Lunch is bustling and convivial, while evening brings a cooler, more relaxed lounge atmosphere. The staff are pros—efficient, friendly, and they know their extensive menu and drink list inside and out.
**What to Order: Elevated Comfort**
* **The Ultimate Appetizer:** Begin with the **Brick Front Wings**. They’re famously crispy, available in a myriad of sauces, but the signature Brick Front Gold – a perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard – is a local obsession. They’re meaty, messy in the best way, and pair beautifully with a cold draft beer.
* **A Burger to Remember:** You haven't had a burger in Laconia until you've tried the **Bistro Burger**. This isn't just a patty on a bun; it's a culinary creation. A juicy, hand-formed beef patty is topped with melted provolone, crispy applewood smoked bacon, savory bourbon sautéed mushrooms, and a tangy garlic aioli. Every component is in harmony, and it’s served on a robust brioche bun that stands up to the juiciness.
* **For the Seafood Lover:** The **Lobster & Shrimp Mac & Cheese** is the very definition of decadent comfort food. Tender cavatappi pasta is smothered in a rich, three-cheese sauce and loaded with succulent chunks of lobster and plump shrimp, all baked until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly.
#### **3. Union Diner: A Heaping Helping of Nostalgia**
**Location:** 1331 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
If you're craving authenticity and a genuine taste of Americana, you follow the neon sign to the Union Diner. This is a classic, stainless steel-lined diner that feels like a time capsule from the 1950s. The air smells of freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, and grilled home fries. The booths are cozy, the counter stools spin, and the servers call you hon. It’s unpretentious, affordable, and utterly delicious.
**The Dining Experience:**
This is where the community gathers. You'll see families celebrating a small victory, old friends catching up over coffee, and construction workers fueling up for the day. It's loud, lively, and filled with heart. Come with an appetite and a love for no-frills, well-executed classics.
**What to Order: Breakfast of Champions (Lunch is great, too!)**
* **The Breakfast Standard:** Order the **Corned Beef Hash Special**. This isn't from a can; it's clearly made in-house, with tender, shredded corned beef, diced potatoes, and onions, all griddled to a beautiful crisp. It’s served with two eggs any style, home fries, and your choice of toast. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying breakfast that powers you through a day on the lake.
* **Pancake Perfection:** The **Blueberry Pancakes** are plate-sized, fluffy clouds of joy. Bursting with fresh, local blueberries and served with real maple syrup (you're in New Hampshire, after all), they are a sweet, comforting masterpiece.
* **Lunch Classic:** For lunch, you can't beat the **Hot Turkey Sandwich**. Slices of real roasted turkey are piled high on white bread, smothered in savory gravy, and served with a mountain of mashed potatoes and your choice of vegetable. It’s the ultimate comfort food, exactly as it should be.
#### **4. Bernini Italian Pizzeria and Wine Bar: A Slice of the Old Country**
**Location:** 1135 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Bernini brings a touch of Italian sophistication to Union Avenue. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, with dark wood, soft lighting, and the irresistible scent of garlic, tomatoes, and baking dough. It’s equally perfect for a casual family pizza night or a more formal date, thanks to their impressive wine bar featuring a well-curated selection of Italian and American wines.
**The Dining Experience:**
The vibe is authentically Italian—passionate, welcoming, and focused on la dolce vita (the sweet life). The staff are enthusiastic about the menu and will help you pair your meal with the perfect glass of wine. It’s a place that encourages you to relax, share plates, and savor every bite.
**What to Order: From the Wood-Fired Oven and Beyond**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Antipasto della Casa** is a work of art. A large platter arrives laden with a curated selection of Italian meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives. It’s the ideal way to begin your feast while sipping a crisp Pinot Grigio.
* **Pizza, Perfected:** You must try their wood-fired pizza. The **Margherita D.O.P.** is a test of any pizzeria's skill, and Bernini’s is sublime. The crust is thin, with a perfect char and chewy texture from the high-heat oven. It’s topped with vibrant San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s simple, elegant, and breathtakingly good.
* **Pasta Perfection:** For a pasta dish, the **Shrimp Scampi** is a garlic-lover's dream. Large, tender shrimp are sautéed in a white wine, butter, and garlic sauce that is so good you’ll be using the complimentary bread to soak up every last drop. It’s tossed with perfectly al dente linguine for a classic that never fails to impress.
#### **5. Craft Beer Xchange, Home of the Witches Brew Pub: For the Hophead and Foodie Alike**
**Location:** 59 Doe Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Tucked away in an industrial park, Craft Beer Xchange is Laconia’s worst-kept secret. This is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts. The space is vast and industrial-chic, with communal tables, a giant wall of taps (over 40!), and a palpable energy. It’s the headquarters for the Witches Brew Pub, and the creative, beer-infused menu is just as big a draw as the suds themselves.
**The Dining Experience:**
It’s loud, fun, and unapologetically casual. This is where you come to geek out over rare IPAs, stouts, and sours with fellow aficionados. The staff are certified beer gurus who can guide you to your perfect pint and suggest a food pairing you'd never have considered.
**What to Order: Bold Flavors to Match the Brews**
* **The Appetizer to Share:** The **Beer-Battered Fried Pickles** are a revelation. The batter is light and incredibly crisp, thanks to the inclusion of their own craft beer, and the sharp, tangy pickles inside provide the perfect contrast. Served with a creamy ranch dipping sauce, they are dangerously addictive.
* **The Signature Burger:** The **Witches Brew Burger** is a masterpiece of pub grub. A juicy beef patty is topped with beer-battered onion rings, cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, and their signature Witches Brew sauce—a tangy, slightly spicy concoction that ties it all together. It’s a messy, glorious, and utterly satisfying handful.
* **Upscale Pub Fare:** The **Brew Haus Shepherd's Pie** is comfort food elevated. Ground beef and lamb are simmered in a rich, savory gravy with vegetables, topped with a blanket of creamy, Guinness-infused mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. It’s the perfect hearty companion for a robust stout or porter.
#### **6. Happy Cow Ice Cream Shop: A Sweet, Creamy Dream**
**Location:** 385 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
No culinary tour is complete without dessert, and Happy Cow is the undisputed champion of sweet endings in Laconia. This charming, red-and-white shop is a beacon of joy. The smell of waffle cones being made fresh daily hits you as you walk in, and the cheerful hum of families and couples enjoying their treats is infectious.
**The Dining Experience:**
Pure, unadulterated happiness. It’s a place that makes you feel like a kid again, agonizing over which of the dozens of homemade flavors to choose. The staff are patient and happy to offer samples. Whether you sit inside or take your cone for a stroll, it’s a quintessential Lakes Region experience.
**What to Order: A Symphony of Scoops**
* **The Local Legend:** You have to try the **Maple Walnut**. Made with real New Hampshire maple syrup and loaded with crunchy walnuts, it’s a flavor that tastes like the region itself—rich, comforting, and authentic.
* **For the Chocolate Devotee:** The **Moose Tracks** is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. A superb vanilla ice cream base is packed with mini peanut butter cups and swirled with thick, fudgy ribbons. It’s a textural and flavor paradise.
* **The Perfect Summer Treat:** On a hot day, nothing beats a **Root Beer Float**. They use high-quality, creamy vanilla soft serve and your choice of root beer for a classic, fizzy, and refreshing treat.
#### **7. Compass Cafe: Lakeside Charm and Hearty Plates**
**Location:** 329 Lakeside Ave, Laconia, NH 03247
As the name implies, Compass Cafe is your guide to a satisfying meal, located just a stone's throw from the water. This is a cozy, no-fuss spot that feels like a local's living room. It's small, friendly, and always busy, which is always a good sign. The focus is on hearty, homemade food that hits the spot.
**The Dining Experience:**
It's a classic greasy spoon in the best sense of the term—a place where the coffee is always hot, the portions are generous, and you leave feeling completely satisfied without having spent a fortune. The service is fast and friendly.
**What to Order: Stick-to-Your-Ribs Favorites**
* **The Omelette Special:** They always have creative daily specials, but you can't go wrong with a **Western Omelette**. Stuffed with ham, green peppers, and onions and served with home fries and toast, it's a protein-packed start to any day.
* **Lunchtime Favorite:** The **Reuben Sandwich** is a thing of beauty. Piled high with perfectly seasoned corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye bread, it’s messy, tangy, salty, and absolutely perfect.
#### **8. North Country Deli & Pizza: The Neighborhood Gem**
**Location:** 821 N Main St, Laconia, NH 03246
This is the quintessential neighborhood deli and pizzeria—the place you call for a quick, reliable, and delicious meal. It's a hub of takeout activity, but they have a few no-frills tables if you want to eat in. The smell of baking pizza and Italian spices is the permanent aroma here.
**The Dining Experience:**
Fast, efficient, and focused on quality. It's a family-run feeling establishment where they remember your name and your usual order. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing a sub for the beach, a pizza for game night, or a hot meal when you don't feel like cooking.
**What to Order: Deli Classics Done Right**
* **The Sub Supreme:** The **Italian Sub** is a masterpiece of cold cuts. It’s loaded with ham, salami, pepperoni, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a house Italian dressing. The bread is always fresh, the meats are quality, and the proportions are perfect.
* **Pizza Pick:** Their **Meat Lovers Pizza** is a carnivore's dream. Topped with pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon, every slice is a flavor explosion. The crust is a great balance—not too thick, not too thin, with a nice chew.
#### **9. Tavern 27: Culinary Craftsmanship in a Cozy Setting**
**Location:** 2075 Parade Rd, Laconia, NH 03246
Tavern 27 is a hidden gem that feels like a well-kept secret. The atmosphere is that of a cozy, upscale tavern—dark woods, soft lighting, and an air of relaxed sophistication. It's a smaller, more intimate spot, perfect for a special occasion or a quiet, refined dinner.
**The Dining Experience:**
The focus here is squarely on high-quality, creative cuisine. The menu is seasonal and thoughtfully crafted, with an emphasis on local ingredients. The service is attentive and polished without being stuffy.
**What to Order: Chef-Driven Excellence**
* **An Elegant Appetizer:** The **Seared Sea Scallops** appetizer is a work of art. Perfectly caramelized scallops are served atop a seasonal puree (often butternut squash or pea) with a drizzle of balsamic reduction. It’s a dish that showcases technique and flavor in perfect harmony.
* **The Signature Entree:** The **Braised Short Rib** is fall-off-the-bone tender, having been slow-cooked for hours until it's incredibly flavorful and moist. It’s typically served with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, making for a deeply satisfying and elegant plate.
#### **10. Country Cook'n At The Lakeside: Lakeside Dining with a View**
**Location:** 1457 Lake Shore Rd, Laconia, NH 03249
For the full Lakes Region experience, you must make the short trip to Country Cook'n. This is a classic, family-friendly restaurant with one of the best patios in the area, offering stunning, direct views of Lake Winnisquam. The interior is rustic and comfortable, but on a sunny day, the patio is the place to be.
**The Dining Experience:**
It's all about the view and the classic, reliable menu. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, filled with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. It’s the ideal spot for a long, leisurely lunch or a sunset dinner.
**What to Order: Fresh from the Lake**
* **The Lakeside Classic:** You have to order the **Fried Whole Belly Clams**. They are fresh, lightly battered, and fried to a golden perfection—not a bit of greasiness in sight. They taste like the ocean and summer, all in one crispy, delicious bite.
* **Comfort Food with a View:** The **Country Fried Chicken** is a homestyle favorite. A tender, juicy chicken breast is breaded and fried until golden and served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of corn. It’s the ultimate comfort food while watching the boats go by.
***
From the spicy kick of Thailand to the creamy bliss of homemade ice cream, from a wood-fired pizza to a perfectly poured craft stout, Laconia’s dining scene is a vibrant and delicious reflection of the community itself: diverse, welcoming, and full of character. Each of these ten spots offers a unique chapter in the story of this Lakes Region city. So come hungry, explore freely, and savor every
So, pull up a chair, loosen your belt a notch, and let's embark on a 3000-word culinary journey through ten of Laconia's most delectable destinations.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Laconia, NH: Ten Unforgettable Stops**
#### **1. Lanna Thai: A Symphony of Spice and Soul**
**Location:** 363 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Step through the doors of Lanna Thai and you are instantly transported. The air, fragrant with lemongrass, basil, and chili, is your first welcome. This isn't just a restaurant; it's an escape to the bustling streets of Chiang Mai or the serene beaches of Phuket, right in the heart of downtown Laconia. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with traditional Thai artwork adorning the walls and soft, melodic music setting the tone for an authentic experience.
**The Dining Experience:**
The service here is as gracious as the flavors are bold. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the heat levels, which range from a gentle Mild to the fiery Thai Hot. For the true adventurer, I recommend venturing to at least a Medium to truly appreciate the complex dance of flavors. It's a popular spot, so a quiet hum of satisfied conversation fills the room, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere.
**What to Order: Your Culinary Passport**
* **Start Your Journey:** You cannot go wrong with the **Fresh Garden Rolls**. These translucent rice paper wraps are bursting with crisp lettuce, vermicelli noodles, mint, and your choice of shrimp or tofu, served with a perfectly tangy peanut sauce. They are light, refreshing, and the ideal prelude to the meal.
* **The Star of the Show:** For your main course, the **Panang Curry** is nothing short of legendary. The creamy coconut milk base is infused with a proprietary blend of Panang spices and kaffir lime leaves, creating a sauce that is simultaneously rich, aromatic, and subtly sweet. I always get it with chicken, which arrives tender and perfectly cooked, soaking up the magnificent curry. Served with a mountain of jasmine rice, it’s a dish you’ll dream about for weeks.
* **A Crispy Contender:** Another must-try is the **Pad Kra Pao**. This stir-fried basil dish is a staple of Thai street food. Choose your protein (the ground chicken is fantastic) and watch as it's wok-tossed with fresh chili, garlic, and a generous handful of holy basil. The aroma alone is intoxicating. Request a fried egg on top—the runny yolk mixing with the savory sauce and rice is a textural masterpiece.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don't shy away from the specials board! They often feature seasonal ingredients and regional dishes you won't find on the regular menu.
#### **2. Brick Front Restaurant-Lounge: Where Classic Meets Cool**
**Location:** 134 Church St, Laconia, NH 03246
The Brick Front is a Laconia institution, a place that effortlessly bridges the gap between a cozy neighborhood pub and a sophisticated lounge. As the name suggests, the exterior boasts a handsome brick façade, but the inside is where the magic happens. It's dimly lit, with a long, welcoming bar, high-top tables, and a vibe that says, Stay awhile. This is the place for a serious business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends catching the game.
**The Dining Experience:**
The energy here shifts with the time of day. Lunch is bustling and convivial, while evening brings a cooler, more relaxed lounge atmosphere. The staff are pros—efficient, friendly, and they know their extensive menu and drink list inside and out.
**What to Order: Elevated Comfort**
* **The Ultimate Appetizer:** Begin with the **Brick Front Wings**. They’re famously crispy, available in a myriad of sauces, but the signature Brick Front Gold – a perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard – is a local obsession. They’re meaty, messy in the best way, and pair beautifully with a cold draft beer.
* **A Burger to Remember:** You haven't had a burger in Laconia until you've tried the **Bistro Burger**. This isn't just a patty on a bun; it's a culinary creation. A juicy, hand-formed beef patty is topped with melted provolone, crispy applewood smoked bacon, savory bourbon sautéed mushrooms, and a tangy garlic aioli. Every component is in harmony, and it’s served on a robust brioche bun that stands up to the juiciness.
* **For the Seafood Lover:** The **Lobster & Shrimp Mac & Cheese** is the very definition of decadent comfort food. Tender cavatappi pasta is smothered in a rich, three-cheese sauce and loaded with succulent chunks of lobster and plump shrimp, all baked until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly.
#### **3. Union Diner: A Heaping Helping of Nostalgia**
**Location:** 1331 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
If you're craving authenticity and a genuine taste of Americana, you follow the neon sign to the Union Diner. This is a classic, stainless steel-lined diner that feels like a time capsule from the 1950s. The air smells of freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, and grilled home fries. The booths are cozy, the counter stools spin, and the servers call you hon. It’s unpretentious, affordable, and utterly delicious.
**The Dining Experience:**
This is where the community gathers. You'll see families celebrating a small victory, old friends catching up over coffee, and construction workers fueling up for the day. It's loud, lively, and filled with heart. Come with an appetite and a love for no-frills, well-executed classics.
**What to Order: Breakfast of Champions (Lunch is great, too!)**
* **The Breakfast Standard:** Order the **Corned Beef Hash Special**. This isn't from a can; it's clearly made in-house, with tender, shredded corned beef, diced potatoes, and onions, all griddled to a beautiful crisp. It’s served with two eggs any style, home fries, and your choice of toast. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying breakfast that powers you through a day on the lake.
* **Pancake Perfection:** The **Blueberry Pancakes** are plate-sized, fluffy clouds of joy. Bursting with fresh, local blueberries and served with real maple syrup (you're in New Hampshire, after all), they are a sweet, comforting masterpiece.
* **Lunch Classic:** For lunch, you can't beat the **Hot Turkey Sandwich**. Slices of real roasted turkey are piled high on white bread, smothered in savory gravy, and served with a mountain of mashed potatoes and your choice of vegetable. It’s the ultimate comfort food, exactly as it should be.
#### **4. Bernini Italian Pizzeria and Wine Bar: A Slice of the Old Country**
**Location:** 1135 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Bernini brings a touch of Italian sophistication to Union Avenue. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, with dark wood, soft lighting, and the irresistible scent of garlic, tomatoes, and baking dough. It’s equally perfect for a casual family pizza night or a more formal date, thanks to their impressive wine bar featuring a well-curated selection of Italian and American wines.
**The Dining Experience:**
The vibe is authentically Italian—passionate, welcoming, and focused on la dolce vita (the sweet life). The staff are enthusiastic about the menu and will help you pair your meal with the perfect glass of wine. It’s a place that encourages you to relax, share plates, and savor every bite.
**What to Order: From the Wood-Fired Oven and Beyond**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Antipasto della Casa** is a work of art. A large platter arrives laden with a curated selection of Italian meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives. It’s the ideal way to begin your feast while sipping a crisp Pinot Grigio.
* **Pizza, Perfected:** You must try their wood-fired pizza. The **Margherita D.O.P.** is a test of any pizzeria's skill, and Bernini’s is sublime. The crust is thin, with a perfect char and chewy texture from the high-heat oven. It’s topped with vibrant San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s simple, elegant, and breathtakingly good.
* **Pasta Perfection:** For a pasta dish, the **Shrimp Scampi** is a garlic-lover's dream. Large, tender shrimp are sautéed in a white wine, butter, and garlic sauce that is so good you’ll be using the complimentary bread to soak up every last drop. It’s tossed with perfectly al dente linguine for a classic that never fails to impress.
#### **5. Craft Beer Xchange, Home of the Witches Brew Pub: For the Hophead and Foodie Alike**
**Location:** 59 Doe Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
Tucked away in an industrial park, Craft Beer Xchange is Laconia’s worst-kept secret. This is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts. The space is vast and industrial-chic, with communal tables, a giant wall of taps (over 40!), and a palpable energy. It’s the headquarters for the Witches Brew Pub, and the creative, beer-infused menu is just as big a draw as the suds themselves.
**The Dining Experience:**
It’s loud, fun, and unapologetically casual. This is where you come to geek out over rare IPAs, stouts, and sours with fellow aficionados. The staff are certified beer gurus who can guide you to your perfect pint and suggest a food pairing you'd never have considered.
**What to Order: Bold Flavors to Match the Brews**
* **The Appetizer to Share:** The **Beer-Battered Fried Pickles** are a revelation. The batter is light and incredibly crisp, thanks to the inclusion of their own craft beer, and the sharp, tangy pickles inside provide the perfect contrast. Served with a creamy ranch dipping sauce, they are dangerously addictive.
* **The Signature Burger:** The **Witches Brew Burger** is a masterpiece of pub grub. A juicy beef patty is topped with beer-battered onion rings, cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, and their signature Witches Brew sauce—a tangy, slightly spicy concoction that ties it all together. It’s a messy, glorious, and utterly satisfying handful.
* **Upscale Pub Fare:** The **Brew Haus Shepherd's Pie** is comfort food elevated. Ground beef and lamb are simmered in a rich, savory gravy with vegetables, topped with a blanket of creamy, Guinness-infused mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. It’s the perfect hearty companion for a robust stout or porter.
#### **6. Happy Cow Ice Cream Shop: A Sweet, Creamy Dream**
**Location:** 385 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246
No culinary tour is complete without dessert, and Happy Cow is the undisputed champion of sweet endings in Laconia. This charming, red-and-white shop is a beacon of joy. The smell of waffle cones being made fresh daily hits you as you walk in, and the cheerful hum of families and couples enjoying their treats is infectious.
**The Dining Experience:**
Pure, unadulterated happiness. It’s a place that makes you feel like a kid again, agonizing over which of the dozens of homemade flavors to choose. The staff are patient and happy to offer samples. Whether you sit inside or take your cone for a stroll, it’s a quintessential Lakes Region experience.
**What to Order: A Symphony of Scoops**
* **The Local Legend:** You have to try the **Maple Walnut**. Made with real New Hampshire maple syrup and loaded with crunchy walnuts, it’s a flavor that tastes like the region itself—rich, comforting, and authentic.
* **For the Chocolate Devotee:** The **Moose Tracks** is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. A superb vanilla ice cream base is packed with mini peanut butter cups and swirled with thick, fudgy ribbons. It’s a textural and flavor paradise.
* **The Perfect Summer Treat:** On a hot day, nothing beats a **Root Beer Float**. They use high-quality, creamy vanilla soft serve and your choice of root beer for a classic, fizzy, and refreshing treat.
#### **7. Compass Cafe: Lakeside Charm and Hearty Plates**
**Location:** 329 Lakeside Ave, Laconia, NH 03247
As the name implies, Compass Cafe is your guide to a satisfying meal, located just a stone's throw from the water. This is a cozy, no-fuss spot that feels like a local's living room. It's small, friendly, and always busy, which is always a good sign. The focus is on hearty, homemade food that hits the spot.
**The Dining Experience:**
It's a classic greasy spoon in the best sense of the term—a place where the coffee is always hot, the portions are generous, and you leave feeling completely satisfied without having spent a fortune. The service is fast and friendly.
**What to Order: Stick-to-Your-Ribs Favorites**
* **The Omelette Special:** They always have creative daily specials, but you can't go wrong with a **Western Omelette**. Stuffed with ham, green peppers, and onions and served with home fries and toast, it's a protein-packed start to any day.
* **Lunchtime Favorite:** The **Reuben Sandwich** is a thing of beauty. Piled high with perfectly seasoned corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye bread, it’s messy, tangy, salty, and absolutely perfect.
#### **8. North Country Deli & Pizza: The Neighborhood Gem**
**Location:** 821 N Main St, Laconia, NH 03246
This is the quintessential neighborhood deli and pizzeria—the place you call for a quick, reliable, and delicious meal. It's a hub of takeout activity, but they have a few no-frills tables if you want to eat in. The smell of baking pizza and Italian spices is the permanent aroma here.
**The Dining Experience:**
Fast, efficient, and focused on quality. It's a family-run feeling establishment where they remember your name and your usual order. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing a sub for the beach, a pizza for game night, or a hot meal when you don't feel like cooking.
**What to Order: Deli Classics Done Right**
* **The Sub Supreme:** The **Italian Sub** is a masterpiece of cold cuts. It’s loaded with ham, salami, pepperoni, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a house Italian dressing. The bread is always fresh, the meats are quality, and the proportions are perfect.
* **Pizza Pick:** Their **Meat Lovers Pizza** is a carnivore's dream. Topped with pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon, every slice is a flavor explosion. The crust is a great balance—not too thick, not too thin, with a nice chew.
#### **9. Tavern 27: Culinary Craftsmanship in a Cozy Setting**
**Location:** 2075 Parade Rd, Laconia, NH 03246
Tavern 27 is a hidden gem that feels like a well-kept secret. The atmosphere is that of a cozy, upscale tavern—dark woods, soft lighting, and an air of relaxed sophistication. It's a smaller, more intimate spot, perfect for a special occasion or a quiet, refined dinner.
**The Dining Experience:**
The focus here is squarely on high-quality, creative cuisine. The menu is seasonal and thoughtfully crafted, with an emphasis on local ingredients. The service is attentive and polished without being stuffy.
**What to Order: Chef-Driven Excellence**
* **An Elegant Appetizer:** The **Seared Sea Scallops** appetizer is a work of art. Perfectly caramelized scallops are served atop a seasonal puree (often butternut squash or pea) with a drizzle of balsamic reduction. It’s a dish that showcases technique and flavor in perfect harmony.
* **The Signature Entree:** The **Braised Short Rib** is fall-off-the-bone tender, having been slow-cooked for hours until it's incredibly flavorful and moist. It’s typically served with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, making for a deeply satisfying and elegant plate.
#### **10. Country Cook'n At The Lakeside: Lakeside Dining with a View**
**Location:** 1457 Lake Shore Rd, Laconia, NH 03249
For the full Lakes Region experience, you must make the short trip to Country Cook'n. This is a classic, family-friendly restaurant with one of the best patios in the area, offering stunning, direct views of Lake Winnisquam. The interior is rustic and comfortable, but on a sunny day, the patio is the place to be.
**The Dining Experience:**
It's all about the view and the classic, reliable menu. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, filled with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. It’s the ideal spot for a long, leisurely lunch or a sunset dinner.
**What to Order: Fresh from the Lake**
* **The Lakeside Classic:** You have to order the **Fried Whole Belly Clams**. They are fresh, lightly battered, and fried to a golden perfection—not a bit of greasiness in sight. They taste like the ocean and summer, all in one crispy, delicious bite.
* **Comfort Food with a View:** The **Country Fried Chicken** is a homestyle favorite. A tender, juicy chicken breast is breaded and fried until golden and served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of corn. It’s the ultimate comfort food while watching the boats go by.
***
From the spicy kick of Thailand to the creamy bliss of homemade ice cream, from a wood-fired pizza to a perfectly poured craft stout, Laconia’s dining scene is a vibrant and delicious reflection of the community itself: diverse, welcoming, and full of character. Each of these ten spots offers a unique chapter in the story of this Lakes Region city. So come hungry, explore freely, and savor every
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