The fact that you never know what you’re going to discover when you go on a culinary adventure is one of its best features. There are so many diverse flavors and ingredients, and every culture has a distinctive method of cooking and presenting food.
Of course, a gourmet journey involves more than just experimenting with different cuisines. It’s also essential to understand the history and background of the food. Why are specific components used? What do the dishes symbolize, and how are they made?
Gilford, New Hampshire, United States, is a bustling city with plenty to things do. Located in Belknap County and with a population of 7,699 at the 2020 census, this gorgeous village has activities for everyone, from bicycling and hiking to skiing and snowboarding.
Gilford also provides a wide variety of culinary options, and this article is your guide to choosing the best places to eat in Gilford, NH, to make your stay worthwhile.
Do read on!
Best Restaurants in Gilford
1. Country Cook’n at Lakeside
On the main wall of the Country Cook’n’s site is a stunning mural of Lake Winnipesaukee. This restaurant has worked for over 35 years to provide a traditional New Hampshire dining experience. At reasonable costs, they provide homestyle cooking using fresh ingredients.
There are different country-inspired foods on the menu at Country Cook’n at Lakeside, including traditional favorites like fried chicken and handmade biscuits. This Gilford restaurant provides vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that every customer is satisfied.
You can enjoy a drink while you watch the sunset over the lake when you skim through the beautiful selection of local beers and wines on their drink menu.
The Country Cook’n experience is a much-loved experience!
They are open on Mondays to Saturdays from 7 am to 8 pm and on Sundays from 7 am to 1 pm.
Address: 1457 Lake Shore Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-3304.
2. Patrick’s Pub and Eatery
Patrick’s was established in 1987 and was given its name in honor of the father of the first owner, Walter Kelleher, who was originally from Macroom, County Cork, Ireland. Thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, Patrick’s became a great hit immediately.
In 1994, Jeff & Allan Beetle acquired Patrick’s, bringing a fresh attitude of quality, zeal, and service. Patrick’s has expanded and upgraded the restaurant numerous times over this time.
Patrick’s is a business that is dedicated to improving Gilford. This establishment runs its operations to benefit the personnel, clients, and general public.
They have received numerous honors, including the Restaurant of the Year, the Good Neighbor Award, and the Corporate Soul Award.
Operating hours are every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 4 pm to 8 pm, Fridays from 4 pm to 9 pm, Saturdays from noon to 9 pm, and Sundays from noon to 8 pm.
Address: 18 Weirs Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-293-0841.
3. T-BONES Great American Eatery
T-Bones Great American Eatery is one of the best restaurants in Gilford, NH, and a premier destination for steak lovers.
There are a few distinctive qualities that set T-BONES apart from other eateries when it comes to steak. They start by ensuring a high-quality meat cut – the tastiest steaks are typically less than an inch thick and come from the loin or rib region.
A second factor that helps keep the flavor and juices in the steaks is fast, high-heat cooking.
T-BONES also provides fish tacos, appetizer samplers, clam chowder, veggie quesadillas, baked potato, scampi, and chicken wings.
They are open on weekdays from 11:30 am to 10 pm and on weekends from 11:30 am to 11 pm
Address: 1182 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-528-7800.
4. Ellacoya Barn and Grille
Ellacoya Barn and Grille offers you the chance to have a distinctive dining experience. Whether you sit at a vintage booth, hunker down in a serene nook, or pull up to a festive table—the experience will be remembered fondly.
Nothing is more delicious than biting into a juicy burger that has just been removed from the grill or enjoying some perfectly cooked chicken tenders. The foods here are usually made with high-quality ingredients. This means that you can enjoy a meal that is not only delicious but also healthy.
This Gilford restaurant provides customers with a comfortable and relaxed environment where they can enjoy their meals.
One of the most admirable aspects of the outdoor seating at Ellacoya is the opportunity to see the scenery. You can enjoy the sunshine and the clean air on a beautiful day, and you can stay outside without being too cold on a chilly day.
Visit Ellacoya Barn from 11:30 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 11:30 am to 9 pm on weekends.
Address: 2667 Lake Shore Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-293-8700.
5. Sawyer’s Diary Bar
Since 1945, Sawyer’s in Gilford, New Hampshire, has been a Gilford family tradition known for its handcrafted ice cream and sweet fried seafood. They knew it was meant to be when the chance to be a part of this magnificent lakes area monument presented itself.
This business is committed to continuing to offer the same level of service and experience that Sawyer’s pioneered. In order to fully understand what makes Sawyer’s ice cream different and superior to all others, days were spent working side by side with the previous owners.
Along with all of the classic favorites, the crew maintains this legacy while incorporating fresh, creative flavors.
The lakes region’s freshest and tastiest fried seafood is available at Sawyer’s, and it is delivered daily to customers’ doors. They provide hand-pressed hamburger patties, scallops wrapped in bacon, coconut shrimp, cooked beef chili, and clam chowder.
Sawyer’s Bar opens by noon and closes by 8 pm every day.
Address: 1933 Lake Shore Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-293-4422.
6. Myrna’s Classic Cuisine
The eatery Myrna’s Classic Cuisine, originally Nadia’s Trattoria, offers classic American comfort cuisine and Italian sautée.
The lobster roll, New Hampshire clam chowder, and the grilled salmon salad are among the favorites on the menu at Myrna’s, though it changes frequently depending on what’s available and in season.
If you’re ever in Gilford, New Hampshire, stop by Myrna’s Classic Cuisine. You’ll be glad you did!
They are open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 3 pm to 9 pm and on weekends from 3 pm to 9:30 pm.
Address: 131 Lake St, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-527-8144.
7. Gilford House of Pizza
Located in Gilford, in the Beautiful Lakes Region, Gilford House of Pizza is one of the best Gilford restaurants. Located just a short distance from Laconia and Weirs Beach, this family-oriented Pizza Restaurant that has been in business since 2000.
For more than 40 years, this family-run pizzeria has been dishing up some of the best pizzas in the area.
The finest ingredients are used in this establishment’s best-tasting food, which it takes great pride in serving. They offer a wide selection of delectable dishes, such as gourmet pizza, calzones, hot or cold subs, steak subs, salads, entrees, pasta, side orders, and much more.
Whether you are grabbing a slice to go or sitting down for a family dinner, Gilford House of Pizza is always a great choice.
Hours of operation are Mondays to Thursdays from 11 am to 8 pm, on weekends from 11 am to 9 pm, and on Sundays from noon to 8 pm.
Address: 9 Old Lake Shore Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-528-7788.
8. Papa Gino’s
Papa Gino’s Gilford is dedicated to offering superb food, the most attentive service, and the cleanest, most attractive spot to eat, whether you want to eat in, carry out, or have delivery to your home or workplace.
Their heritage and dedication to excellence are evident in every aspect of their meals, from the locally created dough to the vine-ripened tomato sauce.
Papa Gino’s features a fantastic menu with all the crowd favorites, including classic and gluten-free crusts, delicious appetizers, subs, pasta, and more!
And if you’re seeking to feed a crowd on game day, at the office, or even in the backyard, this restaurant provides an incredible catering menu to please everyone attending your party.
Being one of the top Gilford restaurants, the Gilford Papa Gino’s is ecstatic to serve as your neighborhood pizzeria and looks forward to providing you with the best food at an incredible price.
They are open from 11 am to 9 pm on weekdays and 11 am to 9:30 pm on weekends.
Address: 1425 Lake Shore Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States. Phone: +1 603-528-3355.
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9. Brick Front Restaurant and Lounge
Brick Front Restaurant and Lounge is one of the best places to eat in Gilford, NH. The restaurant is known for its brick oven pizzas, fresh salads, and homemade soups.
The dining room is cozy and inviting, with dark wood floors, brick walls, and an exposed brick pizza oven.
At Brick Front, there are over 1,000 options on the wine list, which is just as remarkable as the meal menu. The expert staff will be pleased to assist you whether you’re looking for a rare vintage or a bottle to go with your meal.
This restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are required, so be sure to plan.
Brick Front restaurant welcomes guests on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 am to 9 pm, on weekends from 11:30 am to 10 pm, and on Sundays from 11:30 am to 8 pm.
Address: 134 Church St, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-0399.
10. 405 Pub and Grill
405 Pub and Grill is one of the best Gilford restaurants. This place has it all – fantastic food, great drinks, and a fun atmosphere.
Whatever your preference, the menu at 405 Pub and Grill is stocked with nice choices. There are lots of delectable selections as well as healthful ones. And if you can’t decide what to get, the staff is always happy to make recommendations.
The beverage list is equally as impressive as the meal list. They have whatever you want, whether you want a beer, a drink of wine, or a cocktail. They also provide a decent assortment of non-alcoholic beverages if you’re trying to unwind completely.
However, the atmosphere of 405 Pub and Grill is its best feature. Despite never being overly loud or packed, it is constantly pulsing with energy.
So, if you’re searching for a classy place to go on a date or just somewhere to grab a snack with friends, 405 Pub and Grill is the ideal location.
They are open Sundays to Tuesdays from 11:30 am to 9 pm, on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 am to 10 pm, and on weekends from 11:30 am to 11 pm.
Address: 405 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-8405.
11. Fratello’s Italian Grille
Fratello’s in Manchester’s Historic Millyard has been dedicated to giving its customers the finest individualized service, delectable food, and unbeatable value since 1997.
Fratello’s has gained a solid reputation as one of Central New Hampshire’s most well-liked event locations and our list of top restaurants in Gilford, NH would not be complete it. The explanation is as straightforward as providing the highest standard of food and services with an uncompromising value.
For all your wedding and event needs, Fratello’s also offers full-service catering across New Hampshire. Delicious meals, inventive and fresh menu options, and unmatched customer service are guaranteed.
They are open from 4 pm to 8:30 pm every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, on Fridays from 4 pm to 9 pm, Saturdays from 11:30 am to 9 pm, and Sundays from 11:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Address: 799 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-528-2022.
12. O’ Steaks and Seafood
One of the most well-liked dining establishments in southern New Hampshire is O’ Steaks and Seafood.
In addition to serving more than 24 wines by the glass, this restaurant serves classic steakhouse fare, creatively redesigned menu items, and excellent desserts.
You can either rent a private eating space or take advantage of their dining room, lounge, or patio during your visit. O’ Steaks is one of the top Gilford restaurants and vows to go above and beyond your expectations.
They are open from 4 pm to 9 pm daily.
Address: 62 Doris Ray Ct, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-9373.
13. The Union Diner
Our list of best restaurants in Gilford, NH, would be incomplete without the Union Diner. The original 1951 Worcester dining car, which was renamed Union Diner in June 2009, and the adjacent dining room are both decorated with antique artifacts from the 1960s and 1970s.
The Union Diner is a cozy neighborhood restaurant where you can catch up with old friends over a beer and one of their famous burgers or bring the whole family for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The Union Diner aims to create all of your diner favorites and some new dishes that will quickly become standards.
Their prime rib is slow-roasted, their omelets are created with freshly cracked eggs, and their seafood is fresh and hand-battered to order. The process at this restaurant is straightforward, and beautiful dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and delivered for a reasonable price.
They are open from 7:30 am to 2 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, on Fridays from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, and Sundays from 7:30 am to 1 pm.
Address: 1331 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-6744.
14. Cactus Jack’s Grill and Watering Hole
T-BONES Great American Eatery and CJ’s Great West Grill are two of the four restaurant concepts that make up the Great New Hampshire Restaurants family. Copper Door and Cactus Jack’s Grill and Watering Hole were added later.
These two concepts existed before the company Great New Hampshire Restaurants was even founded.
Family is the lifeblood and beating heart of Cactus Jack’s, which is why so many employees have remained with them for years. Their dedication to one another and the customers they serve has only gotten stronger over time.
Cactus Jack’s Grill has its unique personality, a blending of the numerous people that dine inside its four walls, just like any family does.
This restaurant is cohesive and open, showing each customer a familiar dedication to executing quality at each stage of the dining experience. It concludes our list of top restaurants in Gilford, NH.
Opening hours are Sundays to Wednesdays from 11:30 am to 10 pm and Thursdays to Saturdays from 11:30 am to 12 am.
Address: 1182 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-528-7800.
15. Lanna Thai Restaurant
When it comes to Thai cuisine, there are countless reasons to love it. The dishes are healthy yet flavorful, the ingredients are fresh and fragrant, and the overall dining experience is always pleasant and exotic.
One of the best restaurants in Gilford, NH, famous for unique Thai cuisine, is Lanna Thai restaurant, and it’s easy to see why. The menu is packed with all of the Thai classics you know and love, from pad Thai and green curry to tom kha soup and massaman beef.
But Lanna Thai is also known for its inventive takes on traditional dishes, like the crispy rice salad and the wild boar larb. And, of course, no meal here is complete without one of their famous mango sticky rice desserts.
But beyond the food, what makes Lanna Thai special is the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is always amicable, and they go out of their way to make sure you’re having a good time.
They are open every Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday from noon to 8 pm and on weekends from noon to 8:30 pm.
Address: 363 Union Ave, Laconia, NH 03246, United States. Phone: +1 603-524-7222.
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Plan a Trip to Gilford
Opening your mind and taste buds to new experiences is a significant benefit of embarking on a gourmet tour. This is what makes trying contemporary cuisine so exciting – you never know what you’re going to taste next.
A trip to Gilford might be the ideal time to venture outside your comfort zone and try something brand-new. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite dish.
So what are you waiting for? Plan a visit to Gilford today!