Exeter
Vino E Vivo

Vino E Vivo

163 Water StreetNH 03833, Exeter, United States

Wine • Soup • Steak • Drinks


"What a great experience, exceeded our expectations all around. This small restaurant has seating indoors, and in warmer weather on a patio adjacent to the water. We chose a third option, a 2 person 5 course chefs whim menu at a private chefs table, and what a treat! The dining room is very attractive and the restaurant prides themselves on a curated wine selection. They do offer spirits, but not mixed cocktails. The owner greeted and welcomed us, as did the chefs. The chefs warned us that although the menu said 5 courses, they get carried away and likely it would be more like 7. As it turns out, we had 9 courses and spent more than 3 hours. Chef's Paul and Jon were thoroughly engaging and it was fun to see their talent create beautiful plates. Time flies by when you are eating great food in the hands of talented chefs. Service was excellent. I won't go into every course here, and I certainly don't want to ruin any surprises, but they do ask about any allergies, preferences, etc... They then customize a menu for you using some of the ingredients on the standard menu for the evening, but switched up and unique for us. Portions were properly sized so we did not leave over filled, but you will be very satisfied. Dishes were expertly prepared and truly eclectic. We started with a green garlic soup, and moved on to a sea trout crudo. The next dish was crispy octopus which was outstanding. While you do need a bit of an adventurous spirit for this, I have every confidence that they would work with even the pickiest of eaters to ensure a wonderful dinner. Of course, the regular menu is also available if not at the chefs table. Make a reservation and try this out, you won't be let down."

Il Cornicello

Il Cornicello

11 Water St, 03833, Exeter, United States

Cafés • Pasta • Italian • American


"First and foremost you will never experience this level of finesse, freshness and quality at this price point EVER. I mean really, I was foolishly expecting a more rustic meal but was blown away by the delicious subtly, the freshness of the ingredients and the knowledgable unpretentious service. If you think I'm bullshitting read my other reviews, I'm honest to a fault. Okay, we sat at the bar and the first engagement with our server/bartender was a question and recommendation. I prefer to start my meal with a white wine, most often a Sancerre. Since they don't carry a Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc our server/bartender suggested a Friulano Friuli Colli Orientali, which was perfect, complex but not pretentious, a perfect paring with my first course. I enjoyed this lovely and perfectly balanced starter of flavorful fresh pea shoots against the char of artichoke and Umbrian chick peas (they are smaller than what your used to and packed with flavor. If it weren't gosh, I would have used a spoon to get all of those flavors in my mouth at the same time. My forever partner order the bruschetta made up of grilled bread, fresh burrata and prosciutto. On their own all of these components were delicious, however I found the saltness and the char overpowering the burrata and prosciutto. I'm being very very particular on this point only because I grew up eating this stuff. So its more of a personal preference than a critique. Let's move onto the entrees which arrived at the perfect time as a result of the impeccable service bravo girlfriend, you killed it. Forever partner had a deliciously delicate halibut filet partnered with fiddleheads, coin pasta and a deliciously balanced lemon sauce. I went out of my comfort zone of ordering anything and everything with red sauce and order this wonderful melee of lobster, asparagus, violin spaghetti and goat cheese that remained memorable with every bite. We kept switching plates because we couldn't get enough of the wonderful and perfect blends of taste profiles. You can do this unabashedly after 29 years of marriage. Anyway, what more can I say other then the flavors were superb and the service was excellent. I don't care how in advance you have to make a reservation DO IT!!!!"

Celestial Cafe

Celestial Cafe

South County Trail, Exeter, 02877, United States Of America

Cafe • Coffee • American • International


"It was my second visit to Celestial Cafe, and my only regret is that I have not returned sooner. To celebrate the return of my nephew from deployment, we had a party of 12 guests. The server was pleasant, attentive, and we never felt rushed even though we may have overstayed our welcome since everyone was so eager to catch up with one another, especially my nephew. We went for brunch, and the food was excellent. Unfortunately, I only recall a few of the dishes I photographed and their brunch menu is not available online. I enjoyed a delicious waffle with berries and strawberries on top along with a scrambled egg. You should pass on this if you are not a fan of overly sweet foods. Despite being amazing, it was very rich. A classic eggs Benedict was ordered by my husband, while my nephew ordered an omelet that referenced an Italian food . The name of the omelet was unusual and I wish I could recall it. Nevertheless, he declared it to be delicious. My niece enjoyed the tree hugger 's omelet. We all had a wonderful experience. It is important to note that if you are making reservations for a large party, they are only open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Additionally, there are only long tables available, so it is unlikely that you will be able to have a conversation with everyone in your party. If anyone is concerned about accessibility, we had a friend attend who just had foot surgery and was very comfortable using a knee scooter. There is a focus on serving brunch and lunch at a price point of contemporary casual dining. I would like to return in the evening to try some of their mouth-watering dinner dishes. To conclude, I would recommend that you visit this charming establishment that has a romantic bistro feel and serves flavorful and unique dishes."