Best of NH 2015 Pizzerias and Ethnic Food Restaurants

Here's where to grab a slice or take a world cuisine tour right here in New Hampshire with Best of NH 2015 winners from your favorite pizzerias to Japanese, Greek, Indian, Mexican and much more!
From left: Gourmet pizzeria Readers' Poll winner 900 Degrees, Mediterranean restaurant and locally sourced menu Readers' Poll winner Republic (photo by Susan Laughlin), Editor's Pick for meatballs Ristorante Massimo (photo by Susan Laughlin) and churros at Cava Tapas and Wine Bar, the Editor's Pick for Mexican dessert (photo by Susan Laughlin).

 

Burrito: At some Mexican places, the beans and rice are just filler. El Colima in Nashua has put the flavor back in the beans and fluffed up the rice. But you still get it free alongside your burrito, designed to look like the flag of Mexico in shades of red and green.

Curried Salmon: It’s not fancy, but Chiang Mai Thai Restaurant in Amherst is fabulous, with a menu full of beautifully prepared and presented Thai dishes. The Salmon Choo Chee Curry is one that stands out — a sizable piece of fresh salmon topped with summer squash, green pepper, baby corn, snow peas, carrots and choo chee curry sauce. Delicious.

Indian Buffet: If you have trouble making up your mind, then definitely check out the daily buffet at Taj India in Manchester, where every dish is fresh and delicious. Try a little of everything and enjoy the lovely interior that looks mo

Meatballs: Even the lowly meatball is a work of love at Ristorante Massimo in Portsmouth. Maria’s polpette is delightfully light and tender Kobe beef and the accompanying red sauce is bright red and bold with the flavor of ripe San Marzano tomatoes. They are just a suggestion for where to start at a place where every dish is filled with flavor and presented with Old World charm.

Mexican Brunch: Everyone loves brunch, but if you’re looking for a twist for next Sunday, visit Vida Cantina in Portsmouth, where you can brunch south of the border. The blueberry pancakes come with agave syrup or try a Mexican classic like huevos rancheros or chilaquiles. Oh, and did we mention the homemade donuts? Don’t leave without one (or three) of those.

Mexican Dessert: The churros at Cava Tapas and Wine Bar in Portsmouth are the perfect ending to a tapas meal. The freshly fried, slightly sweet dough is crispy outside and soft inside while the accompanying chocolate sauce is perfect. Yes, we said perfect.

Old World Flavors: Chef/owner Nikolija Mujakovic brings in the flavors of home from his former Yugoslavia at the warm and inviting Old Europe Mediterranean Fine Dining in Concord. A gorgeous cheese and olive plate, grilled lamb kebabs rubbed with oregano and mint, and plenty of other Old World flavors headline the menu. Everything is beautifully plated and packed with flavor. The cocktail menu is top-shelf too.

Pork Rind: Carniceria Zapopan in Nashua (603-718-8469) is basically a butcher shop with additional imported grocery items and to-go Mexican dishes, including a beefy stew and the thickest pork rinds around. Savor the crunch

Poutine: Maybe it’s because Gorham is closer to Canada; maybe it’s because Chef Liz Jackson loves to wow her guests with the best food around, but simply put, the poutine at the SAalt Pub at Libby’s Bistro rocks. Flavorful gravy, squeaky curds and double-fried potatoes make the dish worth the detour.

Russian Food: You might not notice the tiny My Sister’s Kitchen in a strip-mall storefront in Milford or be able to find a seat at one of its half-dozen tables. While the sister in the kitchen turns out plates of tender pierogi in beds of butter-braised onions, the other is busy describing to customers the choices of buttery cheese-filled blini. Opt for the ones topped with their own peach jam.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Ali Baba Wholefoods Festival in Manchester is more than a grocery store. Find unique products, healthy food lines, local Miles Smith Farm beef, local milk and a deli section complete with Middle Eastern specialties. The stuffed grape leaves are vegan, lemony and perfectly spiced. Take them to go or enjoy in the onsite café.

Taco Spot: Taco Beyondo is a small, friendly, affordable and easy in-and-out Mexican Restaurant in Hillsborough. It has only been open since January, but has gained a large and loyal following by living up to its mantra. Chef/owner Adam Mosher takes his commitment to customer service seriously and diners can watch him prepare their tacos, burritos, quesadillas or the daily specials through the open kitchen. The pulled pork burrito is packed with tender meat and complemented by citrus rice and seasoned black beans, and there are plenty of options to spice up any order for those who like it hot. As for hot, check out trendy Taco Tuesdays.

Categories: Best of NH Winners