My friend stayed with us for a few days while we are on vacation and he grew up in this area. He…read morespoke highly of Vito Marcellos and booked a reservation over a week ago. Even then, we had a late reservation. When we arrived, they were having a 60-90 minute wait. Parking is behind the building, but you have to drive up side the building, not the lot next door. But plenty of spaces. We had a nice table in the back, which works for us. The staff were very friendly and the setting was nice. They offer indoor and patio seating, so, if you dress warm, you could get in faster. They offer a full bar menu for drinks and wine, of course. The food menu is your typical Italian options, so they have something for everyone in our group. They offer bread and salad for most meals, so prepare. They had great service and the food came out pretty quickly and it was hot. LOVE IT. We had a fantastic evening with our friends and it made our vacation weekend to be able to share this experience.

This was our second disappointing experience at Vito Marcello's, and unfortunately it will likely…read morebe our last. Even though we had a reservation, we waited at least 10 minutes before anyone greeted us or offered drinks. We also had to ask for bread after noticing our server was bringing it to other tables but never offered any to us. Our server was attentive, friendly, and engaging with the surrounding tables, but we felt largely ignored throughout our meal. When we asked for drink recommendations, she wasn't helpful, and after we received drinks we didn't enjoy, she never checked in or asked about them--even though we had only taken a couple of sips. The wait for our entrées was about an hour, with very little communication about the delay. The overall service made us feel like an afterthought from the moment we sat down. What makes this especially disappointing is that this wasn't an isolated experience. This is the second time we've received the same level of poor service at this restaurant, despite having reservations both times. We understand that busy nights happen, but being consistently overlooked and treated differently from nearby tables is frustrating and unacceptable. We had hoped our first experience was just a one-time issue, but after a second visit with the same result, we won't be returning.

We were spending a long weekend in the area and, as we tend to do whenever we travel, started…read morelooking for places to sample local drinks. We normally go brewery hopping, but if the town we're staying in has a winery, we make a point of stopping there too. So we ended up here for one very specific reason: we wanted to sit down, relax and try a couple of wine flights. We didn't do the tour and we didn't order food, so those aren't things I can personally comment on, but the wine experience alone was excellent. I did the white wine flight and my wife went with the red, and we were both genuinely impressed. Neither of us likes wine that is overly sweet or syrupy, and these were exactly what we were looking for. The wines had much more depth and character than I expected, with robust flavors that made the flights fun to work through rather than simply tasting like different versions of the same thing. My favorite was the House White Reserve. I could have happily sat there with a glass of that for the rest of the afternoon. The service was probably the biggest surprise. Our server took the time to explain the wines and answer our questions without making the experience feel overly formal or pretentious. That's important with a tasting. I want someone who knows what they're talking about, but I don't want to feel like I'm taking an exam before I'm allowed to enjoy my glass. We were made to feel completely comfortable, and even though we ended up staying later than we originally intended, nobody rushed us out the door. We sat outside on the front patio, which made the whole afternoon even better. There was live entertainment while we were there, with a gentleman playing guitar and singing, and it created exactly the sort of relaxed atmosphere you hope to find when you're away for a long weekend. Good wine, comfortable outdoor seating, live music and nowhere we particularly needed to be. That's a pretty good combination. Our only real regret is that we didn't order food. We've heard a lot of good things about the eatery, and after seeing what was coming out of the kitchen while we were there, I definitely wish we'd planned for a meal. We were focused on the wine flights that day, but next time we're coming back with our appetites as well. I really enjoyed this stop. The wine was excellent, the service was outstanding, the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the whole experience felt like exactly what a winery visit should be. If you're in the area and enjoy wine, I'd definitely recommend stopping in and trying a flight. We'll be back, and next time we're staying for dinner too.

A super cute little winery! Full disclosure, I'm the farthest thing from a wine expert, so if…read moreyou're looking for a nuanced take on the vintages of Hermit I'm afraid this is not the review for you. But as a casual wine drinker, I really liked this place. We didn't order any of the food, but I did try a flight of their reds, all made not with grapes but a variety of local berries. I didn't get to sample any of their meads, but it's cool that they have them on the menu. We drank our wine outside on the lovely front patio, but they also have indoor seating both on the first floor as well as on the second floor where there was a musician performing. Good atmosphere, nice people working there, definitely worth a visit when you're in town.

Alpine Tavern is tucked in the back of the Wentworth Hotel with pellet stove with cozy seating on…read morethe opposite side of the bar, We were a party of four and ordered the cheese fondue and pretzel bites. The fondue was a great idea. They serve it with pieces of cut up bread. I wish there were some different items to dip in the fondue besides the bread. The pretzel bites were great and the mustard spread was even better. It was tough to dip the pretzels in the cheese sauce because the mustard was so good. The service was really good even though there was only one waiter on that shift. He worked really hard and was fast at serving a full house,

The food was adequate. A simple hotel bar set-up. They had one waiter serving the entirety of the…read morerestaurant, so he was super overloaded. He was very nice and still did a good job, however.

Our server was attentive, polite and professional. While the evening started out a quiet dining…read moreexperience at 6pm on a Thursday became a bit noisier by the time we finished our meal. Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro was very enjoyable as was the Shed Mountain Ale. The Crab Cake Tater tots are homemade by hand are beyond ridiculously good. The remoulade sauce very evenly blended and is a great accent to the tots. The Southwestern Pork Twin Tacos were amazing as well, just loaded with well cooked and shredded pulled pork. While not a complaint in my opinion it could have had a touch less pork and more of everything else for a greater balance. And yes I would order everything over again, again and again!!

We just left there, first visit for us. Sat at the bar. Susan was nice, food wasn't bad. Can't get…read morepast what is a roach in a well lit busy place when I used the restroom before leaving!

Stopped in this town for the night and wanted good food!!!…read moreThis is the place to go!! Fresh homemade Italian food. If you were looking for fresh homemade Italian food this is the spot staff was amazing. Service was great and the food could not have been any better reservations highly recommended.

Absolutely the best! Intimate setting, service and amazing food! All home cooked!!!…read more My wife and I ate within walking distance and go frequently!!

Best restaurant in Portland! Amazing fresh food, great…read moreservice and fantastic wine selection. It's small and cosy, Make a reservation or you won't get in.

Tried this for the first time the other week for restaurant week. Super cute spot with only a few…read moretables and a couple seats at the bar. The service was very well done. We got the wine pairing too and it was great. The food was tasty. I will be back to try not during restaurant week.

My girlfriend and I stayed at the Grand Summit to celebrate our one-year anniversary, and after a…read morelong day, we wandered into the Tap House right as they opened at 4 PM in search of food. While the kitchen wasn't open until 5, we grabbed seats at the bar--and we're so glad we did. We were greeted by Sarah, our bartender for the evening, who made incredible drinks--her espresso martini and lemon drop were next-level. When we mentioned some frustration with our hotel booking, her husband Brian (also on staff) overheard and went above and beyond to help make things right. The two of them were a fantastic team, and their kindness really turned our weekend around. Once the kitchen opened, the food didn't disappoint. The onion rings with cheese sauce were chef's kiss--we literally said they were "10 stars." The margarita pizza was delicious and generous enough for leftovers the next day. If you're in the area, definitely make a stop at the Tap House. And do yourself a favor--order one of Sarah's signature drinks. You won't regret it

The Tap House at Grand Summit Hotel 104 Grand Summit Dr Box…read more248, Bartlett, NH 03812 Tucked inside the Grand Summit Hotel in Bartlett, NH, The Tape House delivers a cozy, après-ski dining experience with a rustic wood-accented atmosphere and live music that enhances the mountain lodge charm. Whether you're winding down after a day on the slopes or simply looking for a hearty meal and good drinks, this spot offers a satisfying evening. Cocktails The cocktail menu impressed, especially the Allagash Blueberry Smash made with maple syrup vodka and fresh blueberries--a creative, flavorful New England twist. Everyone at the table agreed: the cocktails here are a highlight. Rating: 9/10 Entrees - Spicy Texas Brisket Pizza - Brisket, onion, jalapeño, cheddar, mozzarella ($28.75) This was a solid choice with a crispy crust and a good kick of heat from the jalapeños. However, the pizza leaned heavily on cheese and could've used a bit more brisket to balance it out. A great option for sharing--easily split among four people. Rating: 7/10 - The Bear Burger - 8oz Robie Farms beef, white cheddar, bacon, pulled pork, onion ring ($23.75) A beast of a burger in all the right ways. Rich, juicy, and layered with smoky, savory goodness--this one will leave you full and happy. Rating: 9/10 - Potato Crusted Salmon - Served over spinach, topped with honey mustard ($28.75) Sadly, this dish was a miss. The flour taste overpowered the crust, and the texture didn't come together as hoped. Lacked the finesse you'd expect at that price point. Rating: 2/10 - Yankee Pot Roast - Potatoes, carrots, celery ($37.50) The absolute standout of the evening. Hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor--you can tell this dish simmered all day. Tender meat, perfectly cooked veggies. Worth visiting just for this. Rating: 10/10 Desserts We tried the: - NY Style Cheesecake - Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake - Red Velvet Cloud Cake - Warm Apple Crisp Blossom à la mode Each dessert came with ice cream and offered something for every sweet tooth. For me, the Warm Apple Crisp stole the show--comforting and nostalgic with the perfect balance of cinnamon and crunch. Overall Ratings - Food: 8/10 - Cocktails: 9/10 - Affordability: 6/10 (A bit on the pricier side, but portions are generous) - Ambiance: 9/10 (Live music and ski lodge aesthetic made it cozy and fun) Final Thought: If you're staying at the Grand Summit or just passing through Bartlett, The Tap House is definitely worth a visit--especially for the live music, cocktails, the Bear Burger, and that unforgettable Yankee Pot Roast.

had the best experience went with friends kid friendly grate for going to read or relaxread more

You're in the very suburban town of Lebanon, New Hampshire. You've got everything that you need at…read moreyour fingertips but maybe you're looking to enjoy wine or sip a cocktail at a place with more of an urban edge. Drive 5 minutes over the state line to Putnam's in White River Junction, Vermont for that sommelier-staffed experience. Love the ambience and rigorous focus on elevated, quality ingredients, at Putnam's. They have a corkboard-covered 3-ring binder menu which is aptly named a Field Guide. Trust me, this name is earned by the Tasting Notes alone. The field guide is like a thesis for advanced Upper Valley sippers, Vermont or not. If you forgot your book or paper, just saddle up to the Putnam's Field Guide. You'll find an elaborate offering of editorial descriptions of beverages from wine to martinis (6 kinds) to beer and whiskey (one from Japan). Btw, it's rare to find a wine bar that doubles as a gorgeous coffeehouse serving pastries, espresso-based drinks, teas and breakfast sandwiches on weekends. I'm looking forward to enjoying them sometime if I'm back. The offering at Putnam's Vineyard rotates seasonally, so I will describe what was there on my visits. Visit their website for updated menu surprises. As for the evening and weekends Fall menu, they call their offering Picnic Food. It's a modest title for an extensive offering of appetizers and a few sandwiches. Think fancied-up olives, pretzels, Brazilian cheese puffs, a craft beer mix, 2 melty sammies with Vermont cheeses (1 with turkey, the other veggies), beet and chevre arancini, dips and a vast selection of desserts. Vermont cheeses, apricots, Marcona almonds, dried apricots and crostini are looking divine on the cheese board. Oh, and there's also Superbon Madrid potato chips with Osetra caviar and a mini spirit of Gaston Chiquet champagne. Just saying. There is also a weekend brunch menu with bagels and egg sandwiches. As for the wine, I recommend a flight at Putmam's. In the fall season, these flight offerings were named: the Bella Blanca Wine Flight, the Falling Leaves Mixed Wine Flight, Fireside Reds Red Wine Flight, The Forgotten Bunches Mixed Wine Flight and the almighty and an unforgettable Sparkler Flight. In this flight, I slowly savoured 3 wine sparklers at $25 total. (And no, I cannot spell savour without a "u.") These wine flights are a true value. And here are the wines in the sparkler flight: 1.) Cava 2021 by Avinyó 2.) Crémant de Bourgogne Sparkling Brut Rosé NV by Albert Bichot 3.) Lambrusco by Villa Castellazo ROTA The Cava is everything. All three were delightful and I showed up needing warm fuzzies on an evening where there was live music so the total experience was extra lovely. There is also a whiskey flight! The coffee and craft beverages selection for the fall/winter menu includes a nitro cold brew, a brown butter latte with Maldon sea salt and biscotti and a FROLA New Orleans style cold brew slushie with maple syrup and coconut cream. To any craft and coffee beverage you can add Vermont Ice Cream Coffee Liqueur or Whistle Pig Piggy Back Bourbon. Yes, please. If you are making a trip of it, catch the local bbq joint across the way from Putnam's at lunch and then visit the wine bar for drinks. Layer up, because I've been nippy there twice, and then linger over one delightful beverage after the next. Oh, and there is a charming wine shop at Putnam's with handmade gifts to peruse, as well.

Hidden Gem!!! Food was amazing and the bartender Ryan is exceptional!! Same great service and food…read moreevery time. Can't wait for the outdoor area to open.

Ventured from Southern New Hampshire to do a little Christmas shopping in the White Mountains…read more Needed a halfway point for a late lunch. Found this gem on Yelp. Old style Tavern/pub. The first thing we noticed when we walked in the door was that Christmas smacked us in the face with the best smelling Christmas Tree candle , burning in a super cute entryway. I could hardly wait to get inside to see what else this place had in store. First, there was a fireplace and a couch and a table. In the rest of the dining area, we're all high tops. Not so high that a barely over 5 foot person such as myself couldn't sit comfortably. Our waitstaff (there were two) and were great about offering menu suggestions when I shared flavor profiles I might be looking for and they were attentive and so pleasant. They had super cute Christmas decorations, and were putting up more while we were there. The vibe is super warm and welcoming, and for a short while you feel like you stepped back in time. The tiramisu martini was delicious, as was the blood orange martini. I had the cauliflower with juju sauce at the recommendation of the waitress, and it was honestly the best cauliflower I've ever had! My husband enjoyed his macaroni and cheese with buffalo and bleu as well. The owner/chef, Leslie, came and chatted with us for a little bit before we were on our way. We learned that in the summer they hold concerts, and they have a golf course. There is a distillery on site as well. Everything about this place was excellent, and we are already planning a day date to go back and try more menu items!