2 Best Restaurants in The Seacoast, New Hampshire

Located inside a restored mill building on the Lamprey River in the historic village of Newmarket, this festive tavern and bar with boldly colored walls and timber-beam ceilings specializes in flavorful—if decadent—regional Southern dishes like classic shrimp and grits, braised pork shoulder with Creole spices and red gravy, and grilled New Orleans–style oysters. It's also a fun spot for cocktails and conversation.

In a state sorely lacking in notable Latin restaurants, this airy contemporary space south of downtown stands out for the ambitious modern Mexican cuisine of chef-owner and James Beard award--nominated chef David Vargas. Several kinds of street-food-style tacos are offered, including barbacoa and pork belly, along with a tangy goat cheese version of queso fundido and sous vide short rib with pistachio salsa macha.