2 Best Restaurants in Manchester, The Monadnocks and Merrimack Valley

Set in a stunningly restored downtown theater with a huge adjacent outdoor patio, the Crown is a splendid venue for dining, but it's the natty bar—with noteworthy craft-cocktail list, exposed-brick walls, and tile floor—that's especially alluring. Specialties from the eclectic menu include the Nashville hot chicken sandwich, veal schnitzel with asparagus and lemon butter, and coffee-rubbed New York strip steak with frites.

One of New England's most celebrated diners, this bustling downtown greasy spoon has been catering to students, artists, and presidential candidates since 1922. This colorful restaurant, open around the clock, is a friendly place with fresh daily specials as well as such classics as kielbasa-and-cheese omelets and triple-bun Dinahmoe burgers.