15 Most Distinctive Eating places in New England (Not in Boston)

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15 Most Distinctive Eating places in New England (Not in Boston)


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Boston is a beast for foodies, no query about it. However as a Bostonian, I’ll inform you the reality: New England’s finest meals experiences typically lurk far past these well-known metropolis blocks. On the market within the woods, on the fringe of the Atlantic, or alongside sleepy fundamental streets, you’ll discover locations with a lot character you’ll surprise why everybody’s nonetheless consuming in Boston. That’s one of many the explanation why I like highway tripping round New England a lot – certain the landscapes, but additionally the meals!

In order for you a eating expertise wrapped in historical past, character, and real native taste – monitoring down these locations is price each additional mile. Listed below are 15 of New England’s most original eating places, removed from the Boston buzz, all doling out one thing phenonemenal. As a neighborhood, I’ve saved the perfect for final!

1. The Misplaced Kitchen – Freedom, Maine

That is one for the culinary bucket record. Tucked in a tiny riverside city that Google Maps will make you double-check, The Misplaced Kitchen isn’t only a restaurant – it’s virtually folklore. Chef Erin French’s 40-seat spot is in a lovingly restored Nineteenth-century mill, the sort of place the place time appears to decelerate the minute you stroll in. Each meal is a celebration of what Maine’s fields, woods, and waters have given up that week.

The menu modifications on a regular basis, with elements pulled from close by farms and even native foragers. However right here’s the actual kicker: reservations are accepted by postcard solely, and hundreds attempt for a coveted slot every year. It’s not nearly exclusivity. From the handwritten invites to the tight-knit, all-female employees, each element feels designed to make visitors part of one thing uncommon. For these causes, it’s one of many coolest eating places in Maine.

  • Professional Tip: In the event you’re decided to dine right here, plan forward – approach forward. And truthfully, even should you don’t snag a seat, Freedom, Maine is price a detour. Erin’s story, the setting, and the group vibe make it one in every of New England’s most inspiring culinary locations.
The rustic, warmly lit interior of a barn restaurant with diners at long wooden tables.The rustic, warmly lit interior of a barn restaurant with diners at long wooden tables.
The Misplaced Kitchen, an unforgettable eating occasion in a historic Maine mill. / Picture credit score: TripAdvisor

2. Black Trumpet Bistro – Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Don’t be fooled by the quaint colonial road exterior. Black Trumpet is quietly one in every of New England’s most revolutionary kitchens, tucked inside a centuries-old former chandlery constructing alongside Portsmouth’s waterfront. Inside, you’ll discover an unfussy, regionally pushed menu that’s as a lot about international inspiration as New England roots. I like visiting right here, and all the time make a degree to make a reservation once I’m visiting Portsmouth.

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The chef staff works with foragers, fisherfolk, and regional farms, remodeling their haul into plates like Moroccan-spiced lamb, Turkish-inspired grilled octopus, and inventive veggie dishes that don’t scream “facet dish.” The wine program is wise and surprises even the best-traveled sommeliers.

It’s a heat, neighborly house. Sit on the upstairs home windows for harbor views, or on the downstairs bar if you wish to mingle with locals who know their meals. Reservations are sensible on weekends, however should you’re fortunate, you’ll be able to slip right into a window seat for a spontaneous dinner after a day exploring vintage retailers and waterfront trails.

The modern interior of a bistro with set tables and a bar area in the background.The modern interior of a bistro with set tables and a bar area in the background.

3. The Cave at The Pink Lion Inn – Cohasset, Massachusetts

The Cave at The Pink Lion Inn is a hidden speakeasy‑model lounge tucked beneath the historic Pink Lion Inn in downtown Cohasset. The comfy house encompasses a full bar, distinctive wine cellar, and small stage framed by wooden tones and heat lighting. I like the ambiance right here, particularly the stay music!

Each Thursday evening, native and regional artists mild up the Cave with intimate stay exhibits—music, comedy, and inventive performances—normally beginning round 8 pm and tickets run from $17 to $22. It doubles as a trendy non-public occasion venue…good for small events or after‑dinner gatherings. Its mix of historic allure and fashionable leisure makes it a standout vacation spot on Boston’s South Shore.

The historic, wood-paneled interior of a tavern decorated with antique memorabilia.The historic, wood-paneled interior of a tavern decorated with antique memorabilia.

4. The White Horse Nation Pub – New Preston, CT

There’s consolation meals, after which there’s White Horse consolation meals. This place looks like an previous English pub dropped into the woods of Litchfield County. Suppose stone fireplaces, darkish wooden beams, and a trout-filled creek trickling simply exterior the patio.

Inside, the menu runs heavy on classics – burgers, pot pies, bangers and mash – and so they execute them with critical ability. It’s turn into nationally ranked for a motive. You come hungry, and you allow full with plans to return. Straightforward to pair with a weekend keep within the surrounding countryside.

A staff member sets a long, elegant dining table in a rustic pub with a stone fireplace.A staff member sets a long, elegant dining table in a rustic pub with a stone fireplace.
Cozy up at The White Horse Nation Pub, an genuine English pub with award-winning meals. / Picture credit score: TripAdvisor

5. The Restaurant at Millwright’s – Simsbury, Connecticut

Don’t be fooled by Simsbury’s sleepy, historic vibe. Millwright’s channels custom however delivers significantly fashionable delicacies. Housed in an 18th-century mill perched over a waterfall, the view is half the expertise: water speeding beneath, uncovered beams over your head, and large home windows in all places you look.

Chef Tyler Anderson’s kitchen is formidable in the easiest way, providing multi-course tasting menus that change with each season. Count on pristine native produce, artistic shellfish dishes, and surprisingly ingenious use of foraged New England taste bombs like ramps or wild mushrooms.

Gown up a bit, make a reservation, and go all-in for the tasting menu with wine pairings if the funds permits. You’ll get flawless method, tons of story behind each plate, and a real sense of Connecticut’s evolving meals scene. And in contrast to some fancy spots, it really feels welcoming, not stuffy.

The exterior of a large red historic mill building, home to Millwright's Restaurant.The exterior of a large red historic mill building, home to Millwright's Restaurant.

6. The Schoolhouse at Cannondale – Wilton, CT

It’s a tiny restaurant in a Nineteenth-century one-room schoolhouse, however don’t let the dimensions idiot you. The Schoolhouse pumps out considerate, clear, New American cooking utilizing a who’s-who record of New England elements.

Count on completely seared day-boat scallops, wild mushrooms foraged from close by woods, and seasonal touches like ramp butter or peach chutney. There’s a reverence to the meals right here, but additionally a playfulness that retains issues attention-grabbing. The room is quaint, nearly whisper-quiet…a pleasant break from the noise of metropolis eating. Reservations replenish rapidly, particularly on weekends. Completely well worth the drive!

 A historic white schoolhouse with a red door and bell tower, now a restaurant. A historic white schoolhouse with a red door and bell tower, now a restaurant.

7. Pickity Place – Mason, New Hampshire

In the event you crave a storybook meal, welcome to Pickity Place. Deep within the New Hampshire woods, this tiny purple cottage has been serving herb-driven, garden-fresh lunches since 1786. Rumor has it this was the inspiration for the unique Little Pink Driving Hood illustrations – and the vibe delivers, with creaking flooring, pressed flowers, and cottage home windows.

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Lunch is a set prix fixe affair, with many of the herbs and greens snipped minutes from the kitchen. The meals is all the time soulful and surprisingly fashionable: assume edible flower salads, creamy herbed soups, lavender shortbread. Their bread alone might make a grown traveler tear up.

After you eat, wander the gardens to see (and scent) what ended up in your plate. The property consists of winding trails and a small however glorious herb and present market. It’s standard for a motive, so e book your desk properly forward, particularly on weekends or throughout leaf-peeper season in autumn.

A red cottage with a brick patio, hydrangea bush, and a large, hollowed-out tree stump.A red cottage with a brick patio, hydrangea bush, and a large, hollowed-out tree stump.
Step into Pickity Place, a magical cottage straight out of a storybook. / Picture credit score: TripAdvisor

8. The Properly at Jordan’s Farm – Cape Elizabeth, Maine

You haven’t actually nailed coastal Maine till you’re consuming outside in view of a farm subject, salt air mixing with one thing scorching over an open flame. The Properly at Jordan’s Farm is the definition of recent: the menu is decided actually by what’s picked that day. Chef Jason Williams’s kitchen is in a tiny shed; the “eating room” is picnic tables dotted across the property underneath traces of twinkling lights.

Meals are informal however out-of-this-world: assume ultra-fresh salads, fish from the close by port, and rooster smoked over fruit wooden. There’s a relaxed sense of celebration right here. No white tablecloths, no rush, simply bring-your-own drinks and a willingness to benefit from the rhythm of a Maine summer season. For these causes, it’s one in every of my favourite eating places close to Portland.

  • Native tip: BYOB is commonplace, however close by Portland’s bottle retailers have killer native beer and cider. Come hungry, and count on to linger because the solar drops behind the fields. It’s solely open seasonally, so e book as quickly as their calendar is posted in spring.
A bright rainbow arches over a small restaurant building next to farm fields.A bright rainbow arches over a small restaurant building next to farm fields.

9. The White Barn Inn Restaurant – Kennebunk, Maine

Generally you desire a meal that actually knocks your socks off, particularly when you’ve gotten one thing to have a good time. The White Barn Inn delivers throughout the board. Set inside a superbly transformed 1800s barn, the restaurant oozes New England romance. Suppose hovering beams, candlelight, and repair that anticipates your wants earlier than you even understand them.

The meals is high-end, however by no means pretentious. Menus showcase Maine seafood, regionally raised meats, and house-churned butters with wild foraged touches – morel mushrooms and fiddleheads seem in season. Every course is plated with Instagrammable precision. The wine record runs deep, too, that includes basic Previous World labels and a few shocking New England picks.

Reservations are important, and, honest warning, the value displays the expertise. However if you wish to see how New England does effective eating on par with Michelin-starred legends, that is the place you e book. And afterwards, don’t neglect to discover the stunning city of Kennebunkport, one in every of my favourite coastal cities in Maine.

The elegant interior of a renovated barn restaurant with high ceilings and a large window.The elegant interior of a renovated barn restaurant with high ceilings and a large window.

10. The Farmhouse Faucet & Grill – Burlington, Vermont

Fingers down, one of many smartest restaurant flips I’ve ever seen. The Farmhouse is constructed inside a former McDonald’s, however you’d by no means guess it from the comfy, woodsy pub vibe. They’re unapologetically obsessive about Vermont’s farm scene: each burger, brat, and salad is constructed from native cheese, grass-fed beef, and produce that doubtless got here in on a bicycle.

Beer is king right here, with a dizzying faucet record targeted on Vermont’s biggest hits – Lawson’s, The Alchemist, Hill Farmstead – plus a lot more you’ve by no means heard of. In the event you’re round in summer season, don’t skip the rooftop beer backyard. Order a Farmhouse burger, hand-cut fries, and a flight of sours for the total expertise.

No want to decorate up. This place is bustling, up to date, and excellent for solo vacationers who wish to get an actual style of Burlington (and possibly spark up a dialog on the communal tables). It’s a must-stop in Burlington after a Lake Champlain kayak session or a hike up close by Camel’s Hump.

The bustling interior of a tap and grill full of diners sitting in wooden booths.The bustling interior of a tap and grill full of diners sitting in wooden booths.
Seize a chunk at The Farmhouse Faucet & Grill, a vigorous gastropub with a farm-to-table menu. / Picture credit score: TripAdvisor

11. Mooncussers Tavern – Harwich Port, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has no scarcity of fried seafood shacks. Mooncussers Tavern, although, is for adults who need one thing a bit extra daring but steeped in native lore. Set within the cozy bones of a former sea captain’s home, this spot oozes genuine Cape Cod – all weathered wooden, candlelight, and a bar that appears prefer it was constructed for rum-running throughout a nor’easter.

The menu dances between French method and Cape favorites: roast duck with cherry glaze, lobster with beurre blanc, and native oysters served uncooked or char-grilled. The wine record is a stunner, particularly for a small city, with a lot to pair with the whole lot on the menu. They don’t shrink back from daring flavors or formidable specials.

Reservations assist, particularly in summer season. If you wish to cozy up, snag a seat by the fireside, and don’t rush dessert – their profiteroles may destroy you for all times.

A cozy restaurant dining room warmly illuminated by dozens of candles on tables and a fireplace.A cozy restaurant dining room warmly illuminated by dozens of candles on tables and a fireplace.

12. Hen of the Wooden – Burlington, Vermont

Vermont’s finest eating places make you’re feeling such as you’ve been let in on a secret. Hen of the Wooden isn’t any exception. Set in a former mill, it’s rustic in all the best methods: uncovered stone, candlelight, and a din that tells you everybody’s having an excellent time. The center of their method is wood-fired cooking and deep respect for native terroir.

The menu? It flips day by day, typically hourly, with dishes like roasted root veg over smoked yogurt, duck confit, and the perfect wild mushroom toast round. Every little thing is made in-house, together with the bread and charcuterie. The cocktails lean native, too, with Vermont apple cider and inventive takes on the classics.

Nab a spot on the bar if you wish to chat with the employees about their favourite producers or decide up a tip on space hikes for tomorrow. It’s good for a date evening or any evening you simply wish to eat properly, with zero fuss.

A bustling restaurant with an open kitchen, chefs at work, and a wood-fired oven.A bustling restaurant with an open kitchen, chefs at work, and a wood-fired oven.

13. Arethusa al Tavolo – Bantam, Connecticut

Connecticut’s dairy scene isn’t well-known, however that’s altering due to Arethusa. The creamery’s cheeses win awards, and al Tavolo, their flagship restaurant, does these dairy merchandise justice – after which some. The setting is refined however not stuffy, with an open kitchen and a way that each server is proud to work right here.

The menu is seasonal New American and completely ingredient-driven. Count on dishes like ricotta agnolotti with native greens, completely aged beef, and inventive twists like ice cream flights utilizing farm-fresh milk. Cheese boards are a should, and there’s nothing fairly like strolling throughout the road to peek in on the cows and the creamery’s store after dinner.

Arethusa is reservation-only and fills quick, particularly on weekends. For an actual Caprese salad, ask for the house-made burrata if it’s on the menu – it’s life-changing.

The sunny brick exterior of the two-story building housing Arethusa al Tavolo restaurant.The sunny brick exterior of the two-story building housing Arethusa al Tavolo restaurant.
Ebook a desk at Arethusa al tavolo, a sublime restaurant with a real farm-to-table ethos. / Picture credit score: TripAdvisor

14. The Alchemist – Stowe, Vermont

The Alchemist is legendary for its beer. Heady Topper and Focal Banger appeal to a cult following worldwide. They run guided brewery excursions day by day (about 40 minutes, capped at 12 individuals, consists of tasting glass and beer). These are the easiest way to get behind the scenes and pattern recent brews paired with fascinating data.

However let’s additionally discuss concerning the often-overlooked meals scene at their Stowe flagship. From Tuesday via Sunday throughout summer season and fall, Warren’s Kitchen meals truck is parked onsite. Count on jerk tacos, burgers, mac & cheese, plantains, fried rooster and extra. The on-site beer cafe and beer backyard (Could–October) provide Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, an out of doors bar, and cornhole.

On a sunny day, seize a desk exterior, breathe in that crisp Vermont air, and embrace the brewery scene. It’s a must-see in Stowe, and positively one in every of my favourite vibes wherever in New England.

The modern exterior of The Alchemist brewery with its iconic, colorful mural on a silo.The modern exterior of The Alchemist brewery with its iconic, colorful mural on a silo.

15. Cara The Chanler – Newport, RI

Simply steps from the Cliff Stroll and overlooking Easton Bay, Cara at The Chanler is just about the definition of a coastal dream. It’s a Forbes 5-Star, AAA 5-Diamond restaurant led by Govt Chef Jacob Jasinski. There’s no printed menu – every meal is a shock, impressed by European methods and peak-season New England elements. Although dishes typically embrace delicacies like foie gras, caviar, wagyu, native seafood, and wild sport.

Cara gives a blind tasting menu – a 5-course at 5 pm ($170 + tax + service) and an 8-course at 8 pm ($230 + tax + service) – operating from late April via October. Gown good…it’s Newport in any case. Is that this one of many coolest locations to eat in Rhode Island? You guess!

An elegant dining table set for four in front of an ornate stone fireplace.An elegant dining table set for four in front of an ornate stone fireplace.

My photo on the best New England restaurants outside of BostonMy photo on the best New England restaurants outside of Boston
My photograph on the perfect New England eating places exterior of Boston

Remaining Ideas on New England’s Coolest Eating places

Let Boston have its shiny lights and world-class cooks. If you wish to style the soul of New England, it’s a must to get off the interstate and wander. These fifteen eating places, from seaside barns to underground speakeasies and yard farm kitchens, ship culinary experiences you’ll keep in mind lengthy after the Instagram likes fade.

Highway-trippers, weekend warriors, and curious eaters – pack your urge for food and get on the market. Have an open thoughts, a bit of endurance for the winding backroads, and a pocket book (or a postcard) prepared for discoveries alongside the way in which. Essentially the most unforgettable New England meals are ready, removed from town crowds.

In search of extra hidden gems and legit journey recommendation from a man who’s seen extra lobster traps than site visitors lights? Stick round. This area is simply getting began.

A close-up of an elegantly plated salmon dish on a restaurant table with wine glasses.A close-up of an elegantly plated salmon dish on a restaurant table with wine glasses.
Jon MiksisJon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Journey Author • Founding father of World Viewpoint • 70+ international locations visited • 10 Million+ readers yearly

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a 12 months, sharing detailed guides which have helped over 10 million readers journey smarter, deeper, and higher. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. highway journeys and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred eating and business-class flights — with sincere, impartial evaluations.

I’ve been employed by main tourism boards in 7 international locations throughout Europe, North America, and South America, in addition to worldwide journey manufacturers. My journey suggestions and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Journey, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ inns, retreats, and flight experiences — and I by no means advocate a spot I wouldn’t return to myself.

I additionally save $5–10K per 12 months on airfare utilizing flight instruments and 10+ journey bank cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into private growth via transformational retreats and training since 2021.

After I’m not road-tripping throughout the Northeast or writing guides for World Viewpoint, you’ll discover me chilly plunging in native lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage throughout New England. I break up my time between exploring the world and absorbing life in Boston, my lifelong dwelling base. A few of my favourite locations I preserve going again to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my newest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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