Where to Eat in Durham, New Hampshire

The small town of Durham, New Hampshire, lies next door to Dover and is most notably home to the University of New Hampshire. However, beyond the university, Durham also offers lots of history (the town was settled in the early 1600s), farms, natural sites and even a museum or two. However, as you explore the area, you're bound to get hungry. When that's the case, stop by one of these six favorite restaurants.

If it’s Italian you're craving, you’ve got to go to Ciao Trattoria & Wine Bar

The local family-owned, downtown eatery offers rustic, family-style Italian bites in a casual setting. The small menu includes a selection of appetizers, pizzas, pasta and classic Italian entrees like chicken parm. Make your reservation so you can be sure to get a table at this dinner-only spot.

Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/ciaodurham/

For modern American and regional bites in downtown, try Clark’s American Bistro

For modern American and regional bites in downtown, try Clark’s. Burgers, sandwiches and a small selection of larger entrees and desserts are on the menu. You’ll also find a wide variety of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.

Photo courtesy of https://clarksamericanbistro.com/

For affordable eats, great service and a casual atmosphere, grab a bite Hop & Grind

The specialty here is scratch-made burgers alongside craft beers. If you're not into burgers, you can also grab a fried chicken sandwich. Sides include beef-tallow fries and mac and cheese cakes (think kind of like a fritter, but made with mac and cheese). You can get both your fries and your burgers topped a variety of inventive ways. Menu options range from the Parma Sutra, a chicken patty sandwich topped with tomato sauce, melted cheese, fried mozzarella sticks and basil, to the Morning Glory, a burger with cheddar, bacon, hash browns, a fried egg and truffle syrup.

If you’re searching for a new, locally-inspired breakfast spot, try The Big Bean

The fast-casual cafe serves up omelets, benedicts, breakfast sandwiches, avocado toasts and more. Make sure to grab a specialty coffee, tea or smoothie to wake you up in the morning. If you love the breakfast, be sure to stop by later in your trip to try the evening menu, too, with its flatbreads, tacos, nachos and other filling, comfort food-style eats.

For some of the best ice cream in town, visit The University of New Hampshire Dairy Bar

Despite its campus setting, is hardly just for college kids. Everyone in the family will love a trip to this restored train depot, with its heaping portions of ice cream alongside affordable casual eats like salads.

Photo courtesy of https://www.unh.edu/dining/facility/unh-dairy-bar

For a more casual environment, head to JP’s Grill

JP’s Grill specializes in roast beef subs and sandwiches, but also offers a few other tempting menu items, such as a handful of salads and wraps. The grill sports a casual environment and budget-friendly pricing, and is the place to go if you need a quick, rib-sticking lunch to fuel your Durham explorations.

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Need More?

But you’ve got to do more in Durham than just eat and drink. For more fun in this region of New Hampshire, check out the Discovery Map Durham and Dover, New Hampshire, guide.