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Looking for the best restaurants in Lincoln NH? We’ve got the list for you! Lincoln is one of the most popular towns in the White Mountains, and for good reason.
Whether you’re coming to Lincoln to hike the Flume Gorge or Franconia Ridge in the summer, drive the Kancamagus Highway during peak foliage, or ski Loon Mountain in the winter, there are plenty of restaurants to keep you fueled for your outdoor adventures.
And let me tell you, there’s nothing like a plate of nachos from the Woodstock Inn Brewery or a Monte Cristo from Arnold’s Wayside Diner to refuel yourself after a hike! Not to mention unwinding with a pizza at GH after a day exploring Franconia, Littleton, or Bretton Woods.
This list is a compilation of the best restaurants in Lincoln and next-door North Woodstock. And if you’re looking for the best places to get breakfast in Lincoln, check out our favorite breakfast spots here.
This post was most recently updated in May 2023.
Table of Contents
Woodstock Inn Brewery
135 Main St, North Woodstock, NH // (603) 745-3951
Visitors to the Western White Mountains know how much fun it is to swing by the Woodstock Inn Brewery! Located in the old Woodstock Inn Station, this is a must-visit for all craft beer lovers! Sip on some of the finest ales in the White Mountains. They brew everything from Oatmeal Stouts and complex IPAs to a Lemon Blueberry Saison. We at New Hampshire Way are fans of the Pig’s Ear brown ale.
The restaurant has both outdoor and indoor seating, though know you’ll probably have to wait longer for outdoor seating on a beautiful day. The dishes here focus on American comfort food, from burgers and poutine to nachos and pasta.
And if the day gets away from you or you are looking for a quaint place to stay on your hiking or ski trip then Woodstock Inn Brewery has some wonderful guest rooms for you to crash in too!
What to get at Woodstock Inn Brewery: To go along with your fine ale or flight of beers, the brewery has a diverse menu to keep you going. Try the Lamb Ragout for something hearty and warming after a long day on the trails or the Maple Plank Salmon if you crave fish. The dessert menu here is excellent, especially the Chocolate Stout Mousse, which is made with the brewery’s own stout, of course.
Gypsy Cafe
117 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-4395
For a great meal, a mixture of unique dishes, a funky and artsy interior, and outdoor seating options, don’t skip past Gypsy Cafe. This is a favorite stop for many in the town of Lincoln as the menu is large and diverse and the various dining areas inside create an atmosphere with a multicultural twist.
This informal spot is known for bright walls and bright conversation too. You’ll see plenty of folks eating their menu favorites or broadening their palate’s horizons with something totally different and unexpected for this part of the country. Gypsy Cafe is one of our favorite spots for vegetarians and vegans in Lincoln NH, as they have several plant-based dishes on the menu.
What to get at Gypsy Cafe: If you intend to imbibe during your meal, you’re in luck at Gypsy Cafe, especially if you are a margarita lover. Their margarita menu is fun and unique, especially the Veracruzana option with pineapple notes. The Thai Red Curry Duck is a popular dish here, where you can expect succulent duck breasts topped with a fiery Thai Red Curry glaze. The Malai Kofta (North Indian potato and vegetable balls in spicy tomato sauce) and Cashew Stir-Fry are top-notch vegetarian options.
The Common Man
10 Pollard Rd, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-3463
If you’ve spent a decent amount of time in New Hampshire, you’ve probably driven past several Common Man locations, dishing up classic American cuisine with no-nonsense New England service. Of the Common Man locations in these parts, this one is especially popular for its outdoor seating availability.
This Lincoln location looks like you are entering someone’s house when you arrive, but once inside guests are immediately impressed by the massive fire hearth and various comfortable nooks to tuck into for the evening. This spot is a must-see during the cold and long winter months, paired perfectly with a ski day at Loon Mountain or a trip to Ice Castles, a few of the best things to do in New Hampshire in the winter.
What to get at The Common Man: For something on the healthier side but booming with taste, try the Tuna Poke Lettuce Wrap. The accompanying sriracha dressing makes for a tastebud delight. There’s plenty of homemade comfort food to discover here and their Rock Crab Cake starter is a famous crab cake choice in these parts. The Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers can be enjoyed vegan — or add chicken or steak if you dare!
Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train
3 Crossing At Riverplace Dr, North Woodstock, NH // (603) 745-3500
Northern New Hampshire has lots of interesting train trips, from the Conway Scenic Railroad to the Mount Washington Cog Railway. But the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is not only a train, but a fine dining experience as well.. Dining cars are the setting here, and it sure makes for a fun meal.
Expect a vintage, old-world familiarity and comfort when eating here. The dinner train is hard to miss as it is a giant white and blue vehicle on old train tracks. In terms of dining in a unique location, this spot is hard to beat. Enjoy sweeping views of the landscapes while you dine!
What to get at Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train: Check the daily specials board before boarding, as the chef here makes some complex and gorgeous dishes with loads of local ingredients. The menu changes constantly here. The stuffed dates are popular, and while dates may not always be at the top of everyone’s ideal main choice, the chorizo and mascarpone stuffing will ensure everyone gives a chef’s kiss upon completion.
Black Mountain Burger Co.
264 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-3444
After working up an appetite climbing and hiking and zip-lining through the mountains, why not hit up Black Mountain Burger Co. for a quick bite? The White Mountains of New Hampshire are much more challenging than they look, so fuel up at this popular spot. First-time visitors will love the burger choices and great prices. This spot is a great option if you have kids and teenagers with you.
This laid-back burger joint is a popular spot for takeout too. The patties used in the burgers are made from scratch, so they are big and juicy, not dry and tasteless like certain other chains. And they have an excellent beer selection for those who like a brew alongside their burgers.
What to get at Black Mountain Burger Co.: There are plenty of burgers to recommend here. It’s essentially heaven for burger enthusiasts, and for those of you who like to be particular about what goes in (or stays out of) your burger, you’ll be happy to know that you can customize your burger to seemingly infinite ways here. The Swiss Mushroom burger is a great option for vegetarians and vegan diners, as is the Rustic Veggie Burger. For meat lovers looking for something unique, try the Thai Chili Burger or the Bison Burger. Hot dogs, salads, and mac and cheese round out the menu.
Flapjacks
149 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-8226
Flapjacks is a breakfast restaurant that is open daily until midday during the week and 1:00 PM on the weekends. It is popular for its traditional breakfast offerings and quick, friendly service. Expect to see plenty of locals enjoying the latest chatter over a hot cup of coffee.
The bright green awning is hard to miss and seems almost to beckon us each morning to come in and fill up before tackling the day. This family-friendly spot is great for kids, and has service with a smile and an easy-going atmosphere.
What to get at Flapjacks: French Toast is popular here, that goes for diners young and old. As are Jack’s Stacks, which are (you guessed it) flapjacks stacked on top of each other and smothered in toppings that are totally mouthwatering. Try the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup flapjacks when you’re in the mood for a breakfast that’s also a bit of a dessert. You won’t be disappointed!
Purple Tomato
78 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 728-8356
https://www.facebook.com/PurpleTomatoFarmersMarket/
The Purple Tomato, which is primarily a local produce market, has a Snack Shack attached to it where you can get many hearty and healthy favorites including homemade soups made with the freshest ingredients.
The Snack Shack is a great spot if you are on the go for the day and need to pick up a quick bite. There are some dining area options but this place is primarily designed as a grab-and-go spot. Having said that, you can expect some tasty options. And if you’re self-catering in a rental, as many Lincoln visitors do, this is a great spot to pick up food to take home.
What to get at Purple Tomato: It’s really hard to look past a Lobster Roll, even if you’re a bit far from the ocean. Hey, it’s still New England! Expect all the meat shoved neatly into a bun without much salad or dressing to get in the way of that delicate lobster taste and texture we know and love. Their sandwiches are epic here and there is bound to be a combination for everyone to enjoy. Grab your food here before hitting the trails! There are plenty of picnic spots on the Kancamagus.
La Vista Italian Restaurant
22 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-7555
La Vista is easily among the best restaurants in Lincoln, NH. Expect to see a fine collection of Italian inspired dishes, but many that also come with a creative local twist. As this is one of the most popular spots in town, we recommend making a reservation in advance.
While La Vista makes a nice spot for a romantic getaway, it’s just as good for solo dining at the bar. Expect excellent service and a friendly atmosphere at La Vista.
What to get at La Vista Italian Restaurant: The Basil Grilled Octopus is one of the most popular dishes on the menu, and come accompanied by a chickpea and roasted garlic salad. The Calamari Arrbiata makes for a spicy version of this popular seafood dish. The Fenway North Pizzaiolo is a great take on a sausage, pepper and onion pizza better than anything you could get on Landsdowne Street.
El Charro
Paper Mill Dr, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-3000
If you are after authentic Mexican cuisine with a lively and themed atmosphere, look no further than El Charro. You can find all your favorite Mexican dishes here with a full bar filled with tasty tequilas and mezcals. Plus there are pool tables and other games to keep the night fun!
This place has live entertainment at times and its outside dining area is a great option. The summer months are especially festive here, and there’s nothing like kicking back with tacos and a beer on a warm summer night! (Wait, who are we kidding? It’s the White Mountains. It’ll still be chilly.)
What to get at El Charro: Tacos rule the roost here, and you can choose between fish tacos, and our favorite, cochinita pibil — Yucatecan-style slow-cooked pork that melts in your mouth. They also have enchiladas, salad, and seafood dishes like salmon in mango sauce. The mole poblano, slow-cooked in dozens of spices, may be the best in the Granite State.
GH Pizza
77 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-6885
facebook.com/GH-Pizza-and-Greek-Restaurant-103221571457521/
Everyone loves good pizza, especially when it is made with fresh ingredients. GH Pizza doesn’t disappoint when it comes to this, and you can expect many locals to place their orders here for their pizza night. It also happens to be great refueling food after a day in the mountains.
This is a casual joint that is very much in a New York-style. Expect booths to kick back in as yummy oven smells fill up the place while you wait for your pizza to be cooked. They also have a selection of Greek dishes on the menu.
What to get at GH Pizza: The Summer Pizza is an excellent option that tastes like sunshine. It has spinach, garlic, feta, olives and tomatoes. The buffalo chicken pizza can be ordered classic-style, or with feta and jalapeños. Not in the mood for pizza? They also have grinders, wraps, calzones, and salads.
Arnold’s Wayside Diner
90 US-3, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-4833
facebook.com/arnoldswaysidediner
Before you start a busy day, kick it off with the most important meal of the day at Arnold’s Wayward Diner. This spot is famous up here for having one of the best breakfasts money can buy. And your money goes a long way at Arnold’s too!
New Hampshire has so many classic diners, and Arnold’s exemplifies that vintage flair. After walking into the giant streamliner-styled diner, expect to be transported back to 50’s, especially when you grab a seat at the bar. We’re talking subway tiles, a vinyl bar top, and the griddle being worked right in front of you!
What to get at Arnold’s Wayward Diner: Take a look at the specials board, because they’re always dishing up something new. Stuffed French toast and piled-high pancakes are always fun options. The Monte Cristo is also a great belly filler as it is served on Texas French Toast and the turkey, ham, and swiss cheese is drizzled with local maple syrup.
Gordi’s Fish & Steak House
260 Main St, Lincoln, NH // (603) 745-6635
Finally, another contender for one of the best restaurants in Lincoln, NH is Gordi’s Fish & Steak House. This Main Street staple is known for having all your favorite American fare, making it an ideal spot to unwind with your loved ones after an outdoorsy day.
Diners can expect the warm comfort of a ski lodge upon arrival in the main dining room and will enjoy seeing all the memorabilia dedicated to the various Winter Olympic teams and other Olympic skiers. Whether you are looking for a drink at the full bar or a sit-down meal, Gordi’s has you covered, any time of the year!
What to get at Gordi’s Fish & Steak House: there’s plenty to try out here, and the daily specials board keeps even the most loyal customers guessing. The PEI Mussels Marinara is truly unique to this spot and makes for a taste-provoking spin on the popular seafood dish. Even though there are loads of fish options, the kid’s menu is great if you have the little ones with you. Gordi’s is also known for having excellent desserts (including homemade ice cream), which they rotate throughout the year. And on the weekends, they usually have a Fish & Chips special. Keep your eyes peeled!
More on Lincoln, NH:
- The Best Lincoln NH Hotels
- Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Lincoln, NH
- 20+ Things To Do in Lincoln, NH
More on the White Mountains:
- 21 Tips for Driving the Kancamagus Highway
- A Guide the Mount Washington Cog Railway
- Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire
- 25+ Cool Things to Do in North Conway, NH
- Riding The Conway Scenic Railroad
- Tips for Driving The Mount Washington Auto Road
- 23 Fun Things To Do In Littleton, NH
- 16 Best Things To Do in Jackson, NH
- 30 Unforgettable Things To Do In The White Mountains, NH
Best of NH:
- 50+ Best Things to Do in New Hampshire
- 13 Best New Hampshire Beaches (Ocean & Lake!)
- The Absolute Best New Hampshire Breweries
- 30 Unforgettable Things To Do In The White Mountains, NH
What’s your favorite restaurant in Lincoln, NH? Share away!
