24 Best Restaurants in Dover, NH

This article was written by local contributor Nicholas Jackson & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Nicholas Jackson

Jul 9, 2023 • 19 min read

Ah, Dover - the heart of New Hampshire's Seacoast Region!

This charming city offers a diverse selection of dining experiences, from casual cafes to upscale establishments, that will suit every palate and preference.

In this article, I'm excited to share with you some of the best restaurants in Dover, New Hampshire, that I've personally enjoyed and highly recommend.

Earl's Steak Sandwiches

I recently decided to check out Earl's Steak Sandwiches in my neighborhood, and I must say, it absolutely exceeded my expectations!

I had heard great things about their Murder Hornet Steak Sub, and I couldn't resist giving it a try.

The flavors were so unique, and unlike any other steak sub I've ever had - it was truly one-of-a-kind.

To top it off, their cornbread was fantastic, and the chicken tenders were coated in a delicious batter.

What caught my attention even more, was the decor and atmosphere inside the establishment.

It had a charming diner vibe with a modern twist, making me feel right at home.

I also happened to visit on a Thursday when there was a car meeting just outside the restaurant, which added to the overall retro feel of the place.

I tried the Caprese Chicken Burger special, and it was not only incredibly scrumptious but also pretty big in size.

My friend opted for the double patty cheeseburger and was equally impressed.

Fat Dog Kitchen

One of my favorite spots for a delicious and hearty breakfast in town is Fat Dog Kitchen.

This easygoing eatery has become a regular spot for me and my friends to catch up over classic sweet and savory breakfast staples, plus some of the best sandwiches around.

I remember the first time I dined at Fat Dog Kitchen with my partner, and we both ordered 2 Eggs with Corned Beef Hash and Home Fries with Pancakes.

Everything about our experience was superb - from the friendly service to the mouthwatering food and the cozy decor.

The dining room is quite intimate, which may be a potential issue for large parties, but it's definitely worth the wait.

On my most recent visit, I tried the Danny Boy Burrito and the Boo, and both were absolutely amazing, with generous portions.

I also couldn't resist ordering the Fat Elvis, which lived up to the hype.

Garrison City Beerworks

I absolutely love stopping by Garrison City Beerworks whenever I am in Dover.

This place has become one of my favorites, and I make it a point to include it in my trips whenever I am in New Hampshire or Maine.

The beers they offer are always fantastic, and the food is simply outstanding.

I recently attended a shower event that was hosted at Garrison City, and I must say that Andy and his entire team did an exceptional job.

They made the whole process seamless with their effective communication and attention to detail.

The space was perfect for the event, and everybody raved about the delicious tacos and beer.

I cannot recommend this place enough!

In addition to the excellent beer and food, Garrison City Beerworks has a wonderful atmosphere.

I especially enjoy their outdoor seating area, which is perfect for relaxing and catching up with friends.

They also offer some board games, which is a nice touch and keeps the conversation going.

One of my favorite dishes here is the Korean BBQ beef taco – it is unique, tasty, and definitely worth trying.

Bubby's Bagel & Deli

I absolutely love starting my mornings with a delicious breakfast, and one of my favorite spots in town has to be Bubby's Bagel & Deli.

Their bagels are seriously some of the best I've ever had, rivaling even those you'd find in The City.

The service is always friendly and efficient, and the array of cream cheese and topping options means I never get bored with my choices.

One thing that sets Bubby's apart from other bagel joints is their egg bagels, which are flipping delicious.

I've had their egg and cheese sandwich multiple times, and it's always perfect.

My sister can't get enough of their New Englander, and I'm pretty sure she'd eat it every day if she could.

On a trip to the northeast a while back, I had the fortune of trying their eggs Benedict with corned beef hash on top of latkes.

It was hands down one of the best meals I've ever had.

Every component, from the latkes to the corned beef to the perfectly poached eggs, was just amazing.

Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor

One of my favorite places to treat myself is the Silver Fountain Inn & Tea Parlor.

This charming, Victorian-style B&B in Dover offers a delightful afternoon tea experience that makes you feel as if you've been transported to a different era.

Their website provides all the information you need before your visit.

I recently enjoyed their Duchess Afternoon Tea service with a friend, and I must say, it was nothing short of spectacular.

As someone with a gluten-free diet, I was pleasantly surprised by the menu options that catered to my needs, which is not something I often find at other establishments.

The Silver Fountain Inn goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is well cared for, and the gluten-free gingerbread scone I had was probably the best I've ever tasted.

My friend, who is vegetarian, also had a splendid time enjoying her personalized menu.

We both loved the custom tea blends, especially the Silver Fountain Inn Signature blend tea and the jasmine green tea.

The ambiance of the tea parlor is peaceful and elegant, with various types of tables to accommodate different group sizes.

Stages at One Washington

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Stages at One Washington, and it truly was an unforgettable experience.

This intimate spot is located in a historic mill and offers fixed-price, locally sourced New American meals.

The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with enough seating for just six guests.

Each dish was a delightful surprise.

The combination of unique, local flavors was simply fantastic.

In addition to the dining experience, I must mention the attached lounge.

The lounge itself is a relaxing and enjoyable space, perfect for winding down after an exceptional meal.

Stages at One Washington has quickly become one of my favorite fine-dining spots in New Hampshire.

Diverge

One of my favorite spots in town is definitely Diverge.

As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by the cozy atmosphere, with its teal walls, vines draping over the windows, and beautiful paintings of water.

The playlist always keeps a cheerful and upbeat vibe, making it the perfect place for a night out with friends or family.

Diverge's menu is unique and offers a variety of delicious dishes.

I cannot emphasize enough how amazing their buffalo chicken tenders are, especially when paired with their blue cheese dip.

My friends and I often share a lobster roll, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.

I also highly recommend trying their Salmon and Risotto dish – the flavors are simply out of this world, and the crispy salmon skin is a game-changer.

Little Lebanon To Go

The other day, I finally decided to give Little Lebanon To Go a try after hearing so many rave reviews from my friends and neighbors.

Lebanese cuisine was a new experience for me, and I was completely blown away by the delicious flavors and satisfying portions.

I ordered the beef shawarma wrap, and it was absolutely fantastic.

Not only was it filled with incredible taste, but it was also quite filling and reasonably priced.

Another must-try dish is their Chicken Shwarma wrap with "everything including hots and pickles".

And let me tell you, their hummus is hands down the best I've ever had, accompanied by fresh pita chips that are simply delightful.

What's also great about Little Lebanon is the cozy market inside, where you can find prepared foods and traditional desserts.

Stalk

I recently celebrated my anniversary at Stalk, and it was an unforgettable experience.

The moment we walked in, we were greeted by the beautiful and romantic ambiance that set the tone for the evening.

Their cocktails were fantastic - I highly recommend the Green With Envy, it was creamy and unique, definitely one of the best I've ever had.

My partner and I shared the tuna tartare and focaccia starters, which were both outstanding.

For our main courses, we had pork chop and halibut, both cooked to perfection and full of fresh, delicious flavors.

We couldn't resist trying their lemon panna cotta for dessert, and it exceeded our expectations - light yet full of unique tastes and textures.

To top it all off, there's a fun arcade bar next door, so you can grab a drink and play some skee ball while you wait for your table to be ready.

Cartelli's North End Pizza & Pasta

One of the best things about living in this neighborhood is having Cartelli's North End Pizza & Pasta just around the corner.

I've visited this cozy spot numerous times, and it never disappoints.

Whenever I have friends or family visiting from out of town, I always bring them here for a delicious meal.

The atmosphere in Cartelli's is always lively, making it a perfect destination for a night out with friends or a casual date.

The space itself is quite intimate, with only a handful of tables and a small bar area.

It might be a bit loud for some, but I personally enjoy the buzz of conversation filling the space.

The service at Cartelli's is consistently top-notch.

Their prices are also quite reasonable, considering the quality of the food.

Speaking of the food, it's simply amazing!

I can't get enough of their Parmesan meatballs appetizer, and I'm always torn between choosing the penne with pink vodka sauce or the eggplant parmigiana for my main course.

But no matter what I end up ordering, I'm always left satisfied and eager for my next visit.

Roland's Sub Shop

One of the best parts of living in this area is being able to enjoy Roland's Sub Shop whenever I crave a delicious, mouth-watering sub.

My love for Roland's goes way back to my childhood, and I'm thrilled to see the business continue to thrive.

Whenever I have friends or family visiting, I make sure to take them to Roland's, and they always leave with a full belly and a smile on their faces.

Roland's Sub Shop website is a great resource if you want to learn more about their menu.

Just like the reviews say, the ingredients are always fresh and cooked to perfection.

And don't even get me started on the bread - it's soft, fluffy, and always fresh.

Plus, the prices are more than reasonable for the quality and quantity of food you get.

I work at a nearby office, and every week, we place a huge order for lunch.

Recently, they opened a new location at the Dover Travel Stop, which is super convenient for grabbing a quick Roland's Super Sub on the go.

Honestly, if you haven't tried Roland's Sub Shop yet, you're missing out on a true local gem.

The service, atmosphere, and of course, the subs make it a must-visit spot in our community.

Earth's Harvest Kitchen & Juicery

I've had the chance to visit Earth's Harvest Kitchen & Juicery on multiple occasions.

I must say, it has quickly become my go-to spot for breakfast.

Not only is the food incredibly delicious, but it also caters to my dietary needs as a vegetarian.

The restaurant serves up a fantastic selection of comfort dishes made with locally sourced produce.

My personal favorites are the tofu Bahn mi and the breakfast burrito - both of which are so flavorful and filling.

I've also tried their omelets, juices, and specials, and I've never been disappointed.

Of course, no place is perfect, and I've had a few hiccups with my orders.

On a couple of occasions, I've found meat in my breakfast items by accident.

However, the manager, George, is always quick to resolve the issue, and it doesn't deter me from coming back.

Roots Vegan Cafe & Juice Bar

I absolutely love visiting Roots Vegan Cafe & Juice Bar in Dover.

Whenever I'm in the mood for a smoothie or a coffee, Roots is my go-to spot.

Their lunch specials, bowls, and breakfast options on Saturdays and Sundays never fail to impress me.

I can honestly say I feel so lucky to have a place like this in our town.

I recently tried the PB Cup bowl, and it was absolutely delicious!

Plus, the cafe itself is such a cute spot to hang out, making it the perfect place to catch up with friends over some great vegan eats.

Oh, and don't forget to grab a tote bag while you're there – they're adorable!

Tucker's

Just the other day, I decided to head over to Tucker's for breakfast, as it had been a while since my last visit.

I knew that they have a reputation for high-quality ingredients and delicious food, and I was craving some of their unique menu items.

I ordered the blueberry bread French toast with a lemon glaze, sweet potato home fries, and a cup of fresh fruit.

The presentation was fantastic, and the taste was even better.

I also appreciated the variety of options for different dietary preferences, from gluten-free to plant-based and keto.

Harvey's Bakery & Coffee Shop

One of my favorite weekend morning rituals is to head over to Harvey's Bakery & Coffee Shop for a comforting American breakfast.

I have been going there for years, and I can't get enough of their fresh bread, pastries, and cakes.

Their pancakes are a winner with the kids, too, my niece rates them a perfect 10 out of 10!

The bakery is consistently churning out great treats, and although sometimes they might be a little dry for my taste, I believe it's perfect for the old-fashioned crowd.

I know for a fact my parents absolutely love Harvey's baked goods.

And I must mention their chicken pot pies – they are phenomenal for a take-n-bake!

Whenever I have friends visiting from out of town, I make sure to introduce them to Harvey's.

River Bend Pizza & Subs

As a pizza and subs enthusiast, I recently decided to give River Bend Pizza & Subs a try, and I am glad I did!

I also heard about their frosty cold root beer, and it definitely lived up to the hype.

I must admit, I am from the seacoast and have a specific taste when it comes to fish and chips, but I still enjoyed their version.

I even ended up with onion rings instead of fries, and it was a nice change of pace.

The portion size was just right for me – I usually save half of my takeout meals for the next day, but this time, I couldn't resist finishing it all in one sitting.

But the real gem here has to be their steak subs.

I had heard rave reviews from others, and I can now confirm that they are indeed absolutely delicious.

Their pizza is also worth a try.

La Festa Brick & Brew

There's always a sense of excitement whenever I visit La Festa Brick & Brew.

It's a place that's been hyped up by friends, family, and social media, and for good reason!

The moment you step in, you're greeted by the warm and cozy atmosphere, complete with well-decorated interiors and ample seating in their two large dining areas.

One of the best things about La Festa is their extensive selection of New York-style, wood-fired pizzas.

From the classic margherita to the more adventurous buffalo chicken and chicken bacon ranch, there's always something for everyone.

I personally love their perfectly golden and slightly chewy pizza crust.

And if you're visiting, you absolutely must try the garlic and cinnamon knots - trust me, they're the best part of the menu!

The ordering process can be a bit hectic at times, especially during peak hours, but it's not a deal breaker.

Plus, the affordable prices make it a great option for a cheap and satisfying meal.

La Festa also offers delicious calzones, which are worth a try.

I remember stopping for lunch on a whim and ordering a calzone that was so huge I had to take half of it home for dinner.

The cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering food always make me look forward to my next visit.

Sara Thai Restaurant

As someone who absolutely loves Thai food, I am so happy to have discovered Sara Thai Restaurant right here in my neighborhood.

My visit to this delightful eatery was nothing short of amazing.

You can find their website here.

The menu at Sara Thai is quite impressive, as they offer a wide range of Thai curries and stir-fries, as well as Chinese, Malaysian, and Vietnamese options.

It was difficult to choose from such an extensive list of delicious dishes, but ultimately I decided on the shrimp fried rice and beef pad saew.

I must say that I was not disappointed; both dishes were incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor.

The shrimp fried rice was cooked to perfection, while the beef pad saew had a nice balance of spices.

What really stood out for me, however, was the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant.

This sense of genuine hospitality is something that I truly appreciate, and it has definitely made Sara Thai a new favorite spot for me.

Chapel + Main

One of my favorite spots to grab a bite in town has to be Chapel + Main.

The industrial-chic space creates a unique and welcoming atmosphere for both dinner and brunch.

What I love the most about this place is the ample parking available, which is quite rare for a downtown area.

The menu is simple yet offers a great variety of options, catering to different tastes, such as seafood, steak, and even vegetarian dishes.

I remember sharing the duck leg with my friend, which was delicious, although not the best for sharing.

I also tried their Korean fried chicken, and I must say, it was fantastic!

Chapel + Main also has an excellent cocktail and beer menu, with house beers specifically crafted to pair with the gastropub fare.

The service is always friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Another plus is their outdoor patio, which is perfect for dog owners like me.

I can't wait to go back and try more of their menu options, especially after having tasted what might be the best shrimp and pasta dish I've ever eaten.

The grilled cheese was also just heavenly.

Patty B's Italian Restaurant

Last weekend, I finally had the chance to visit Patty B's Italian Restaurant with my family.

I had heard wonderful things about the place from friends and colleagues, so my expectations were high.

I'm glad to say that Patty B's did not disappoint.

We chose to sit on the porch, where we could enjoy the beautiful evening while sipping on some of their imported wines.

The menu had a wide variety of Italian comfort food options, and we decided to start with their famous garlic bread and bruschetta.

For our main courses, we ordered lasagna and chicken piccata.

The portions were generous, and the food was simply delicious.

The lasagna was packed with flavor, and the chicken piccata was cooked to perfection, accompanied by a tangy lemon-caper sauce.

One of the things that stood out to me about Patty B's was their kids' menu.

It's always great to find a restaurant that caters to families, and my little ones were delighted with their spaghetti and meatballs.

But, of course, we couldn't leave without trying their mouth-watering desserts.

We opted for the tiramisu and cannoli, and they were the perfect ending to a fantastic meal.

The tiramisu was soft, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet, while the cannoli had a crispy shell filled with a rich, smooth ricotta filling.

The June Cork Pub

Just the other day, I decided to meet up with my family for lunch at The June Cork Pub in Dover, and let me tell you, it was an amazing experience.

As soon as we walked in, it felt like we were in a true British pub right in our hometown.

Every screen was showing the soccer championship, and the place was buzzing with excitement.

We decided to try out a variety of dishes from their menu.

My partner ordered the Chicken Sandwich with Fries, my niece got the Pulled Pork Sliders with Fries, and I couldn't resist the Fish Tacos Special with Housemade Chips.

The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was fantastic, even with how busy the place was.

Saigon & Tokyo

I've had the pleasure of dining at Saigon & Tokyo multiple times.

This upbeat neighborhood nook has always been a go-to spot for me when I'm craving generous portions of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese dishes.

I absolutely love their sushi bar!

One of my favorite things about Saigon & Tokyo is that they make their spicy tuna roll without mayo, which is quite rare to find.

Their appetizers and noodle dishes never disappoint, either.

In fact, I find their menu to be one of the best on the seacoast.

Final Thoughts

Dover boasts a diverse and delicious culinary scene that I've had the pleasure of enjoying for years.

I often find myself returning to Earl's Steak Sandwiches for their mouth-watering creations and have become a regular at Fat Dog Kitchen for their comforting and scrumptious meals.

No matter where you choose to dine, you're sure to find a memorable meal in this lovely New Hampshire city.

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