The restaurant industry is a driver of economic growth and an integral part of the American economy. Looking at the past two years here in the Lakes Region, it’s evident that this important industry has had an impact on our quality of life. It’s certainly an indicator that our local economy and real estate market is thriving based on the number of new restaurants, pubs, cafes, and eateries that have opened in the recent two years. It is reported that the restaurant industry nationally contributes 4.7% to the GDP of the United States and employs 15.6 million people, roughly 10% of the total workforce in the USA.
In the Lakes Region, the restaurant and hospitality industry is a huge job creator, especially for young people. It is reported that 70% of restaurant employees are under 30 years old. Most importantly, restaurants, pubs, cafes, and eateries are a big part of our social fabric…important places for social interaction and community events. When you add the fact that our region is a huge tourist draw and a second home destination, it’s no wonder that so many new restaurants and pubs have opened in the past couple of years is likely a reflection of the wild swing that we have been on after a weird pandemic related economy and then back to normal again.
Here’s a sampling of some of the new places that have opened up shop here in the Lakes Region.
Dox on Winnipesaukee – the new “sister” restaurant to the successful Dox on Winnisquam, is perched at the end of the pier on Weirs Beach. It offers a captivating setting with panoramic lake and mountain views, a delightful dining experience, a lively inside lounge, and an open-air huge deck with lots of seating overlooking the water. Dox on Winnisquam opened in 2023 with a large fanfare and decided to open their second restaurant this year on the big lake.
Off the Rails at Winnipesaukee Marketplace – in the heart of Weirs Beach, this new seasonal restaurant is open from May to the end of September at the end of the popular Weirs Beach boardwalk. Live music, delicious food & drink, atmosphere with cornhole and other games. Five-star reviews.
Boardwalk Bar & Grill – located at the entrance to Weirs Beach across from the iconic sign and overlooking the lake, this popular eatery is now run by First Choice Foods, who operate Ellacoya Bar & Grill and two Breeze restaurants in Gilford and Meredith. Great outdoor seating on one of the best decks in the Lakes Region, spacious festive bar with popular food.
Winni Rum Shack – located in the Tiki Plaza across from Funspot on Route 3, the lowkey Caribbean-style bar boasts a selection of rum cocktails and 80 craft beers on tap, plus a full menu with many offerings with outside deck seating as well. Two other businesses nearby, The Witches Brew Pub and the Craft Beer Exchange next door, were opened by the same couple.
70 North Kitchen & Market – located in the former Faro’s restaurant at the entrance to Weirs Beach. It offers Sunday brunch, unique dining experiences, mixology classes, wine-tasting events, a new supper club, and a wine and beer bar on the upper deck overlooking the lake. The adjacent market offers salads, sandwiches, pastries, and espresso.
Vida Mexican Restaurant – at the plaza along Weirs Beach, with a nice atmosphere and ambiance, the restaurant includes a new popular covered outdoor dining experience.
The Fancy – this local favorite small bar attracts a good crowd and is adjacent to the popular Tower Hill Tavern, Sidecar Sports Bar, and the Big House.
The Clubhouse – right at the end of the strip in Weirs Beach, offers dine-in and curbside pickup. Good food and drinks in a casual atmosphere.
Winni Bar and Billiards – located in the front corner of the Village at Paugus Bay, Winni Bar & Billiards features 12 pool tables with organized play and a mix of leagues. A spacious bar, ample televisions, and food selections. It’s a place for great pool tournaments.
Taste of Legacy Cafe & Catering – a great new breakfast and lunch eatery with 5-star reviews. Located in the plaza at 131 Lake Street, Gilford. Inviting atmosphere with all of your culinary needs crafted with heart and expertise.
Axe & Ale Taphouse – a unique venture with 13 axe throwing lanes for competitive entertainment connected to the Gilford Cinemas 8, it features a spacious 150-seat restaurant with an expansive menu and a large open bar with craft beer and cocktails.
Paugus Bay Pub – located in the former Christmas Island Steakhouse, where you can experience the ultimate sports bar and grill atmosphere. The new pub room with a 30’ carved maple bar top is a great spot to enjoy the desirable menu, cocktails, and the Sunday brunch buffet.
Frontera Tacos & Tequila – offers authentic Mexican dishes at the site of the former Chili’s restaurant in Tilton. The restaurant has a festive, colorful atmosphere and expansive Mexican food selections and drinks at a wide open bar.
The Lake Estate on Winnisquam – Roche Realty Group listed and sold this 35-acre parcel with 3,312’ of Lake Winnisquam shorefront. This new resort, with 114 suites and a state-of-the-art spa, will include a 5-star restaurant in the hotel, plus a waterfront restaurant/bar near the docks and beaches and another small appetizer/snack eatery at the poolside. It will open in spring 2025.
Taco Bay – located in Alton Bay. It has a very affordable menu selection with excellent reviews and lots of variety.
Enso Japanese Steakhouse – major renovations were made at this strategic lakeside location in Meredith. Outstanding atmosphere where you will be entertained at two hibachi stations, a vibrant sushi bar, an indoor bar, and patio seating overlooking the “Big Lake.” Amazing food selections and cocktails with excellent reviews.
Kettlehead Tavern and Brewery – this very popular brewing company will be opening their 4th location in New Hampshire at the former Mames Restaurant in Meredith. The classic brick building has been totally renovated with two striking bars, a huge post and beam game room, and multiple seating areas. Their craft beers are amazing with an inspired menu and always excellent reviews.
The Breeze — Meredith – construction is moving along with huge renovations at this Main Street location overlooking Mills Falls and Lake Winnipesaukee. A beautiful bar looking out through expansive windows and eye-appealing seating will create a festive upscale atmosphere with great food choices and drinks similar to the Breeze in Gilford with excellent reviews.
Gusto Tap House & Biergarten – this Center Harbor landmark has added an outdoor pavilion, Biergarten, to complement its outstanding Italian cuisine (Tuscan Style.) Gusto Authenticity meets craft brews. Outstanding reviews.
Squamside Beach Bar at Walter’s Basin Resort – located lakeside at Walters Basin, the owners created a new popular outdoor bar offering tasty appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and cocktails. It is a lively bar with seating along the shorefront overlooking the boating activity.
Local Topia, The Wicked Loon, The Back Bay Boathouse, The Upscaled “Pavillion,” and Seven Suns Cafe all located in Wolfeboro are other highly rated newer restaurants that have a great reviews.
As you can see, there are many new restaurants offering all kinds of gastronomic delights, craft beers, and cocktail concoctions. It’s summer, and you’re at the lake. It’s the perfect time to get out, explore, and enjoy!
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
