For many of us, traveling and vacation is as much about dining out as anything else. It’s invigorating to get to try new foods and new places while you explore a delightfully unfamiliar area, and our pocket of New Hampshire is no exception to this rule! So, we wanted to highlight six Franconia NH restaurants and breweries you may want to check out during your New England stay. From cafe-style eateries to taprooms and brewhouses, the Franconia area has something for everyone, so get ready to eat and drink up!
Polly’s Pancake Parlor
A great stop for breakfast, lunch, or brunch, Polly’s Pancake Parlor has been in business for more than 80 years! You can expect classic American cuisine crafted with care and local ingredients, and they even have some vegan and gluten-free items on their menu. Stop by the on-site gift shop perfect for visitors, and pick up some pancake mix and maple syrup to take back home with you for when you need a taste of New Hampshire. Polly’s was also awarded Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice 2021.
The Coffee Pot Restaurant
Another great breakfast joint because, as Ron Swanson said, “There’s never been a sadness that can’t be cured by breakfast food.” So start your day off right at the Coffee Pot Restaurant with coffee and a hot breakfast! Open for nearly 42 years, this haunt features an amazing breakfast menu, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch.
Schilling Beer Co.
If craft beer and wood-fired pizza sound like a plan to you, head on over to Schilling Beer Co. Located on the Ammonoosuc River, this cozy, quirky brewpub features 16 rotating draught lines including both classic favorites and experimental beers to keep things interesting. Find new-release and specialty beers in their Scandinavian farmhouse-inspired Store & Tasting Room, and enjoy a fresh brew by a roaring fire in the wintertime or outdoors with a view of the river in the summer.
Littleton Freehouse Taproom & Eatery
The Littleton Freehouse Taproom & Eatery is a family-owned and operated gem that features beer offerings from local nano and micro breweries around the New England area, as well as food that showcases fresh, local ingredients, sauces, and accoutrements. Located in the historic downtown area of Littleton along the Ammonoosuc River, this charming taproom and eatery is a must-go spot for your White Mountains getaway.
Cold Mountain Cafe
Situated in the heart of the White Mountains, the Cold Mountain Cafe offers a true farm-to-table dining experience while supporting and celebrating local farms and other small businesses in Northern New England. Their menu features unique and internationally-inspired dishes and craft cocktails, as well as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. You’ll definitely want to make time for this stop while you’re in the area!
Iron Furnace Brewing
Inviting, lively, and engaging, Iron Furnace Brewing offers a great atmosphere in which families and friends can gather and enjoy great beer, food, and events. Located in Franconia on Main Street, this brewhouse specializes in hop-forward craft beers, and also keeps a rotation of red and white wines and ciders on the menu if that is more your speed. Pair your brews with a salad, sandwich, or pizza from their ever evolving list of snack and meal options.
Whether you come to New England to hike or ski or shop, we hope you’ll find some great food and drink along the way, and maybe stay for a night or two with us at the historic Thayers Inn. Cheers!