The Works Bakery Cafe serves a variety of natural, preservative-free bagels, with nearly two dozen flavors freshly baked on site at its six locations in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont. Portsmouth Assistant Manager Joshua Runyan says he’s proud to offer traditional New York–style bagels to the Seacoast, and hopes to do so for many years to come. 9 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-4434, worksbakerycafe.com

Decadent desserts, artisan breads, and scrumptious pastries are the staples of Beach Pea’s full menu of all-natural breakfast, lunch, and take-home items, and their attention to green practices through the use of local ingredients and compostable containers warms the heart as well as the belly. 53 State Road (Route 1), Kittery, Maine, 207-439-3555, beachpeabaking.com

Longtime regulars and first-time visitors love The Portsmouth Brewery, where 10 handcrafted beers are available on draft daily, along with lots of bottled choices. There are actually two bars here: the lively main bar, visible from Market Street, and the more intimate Jimmy LaPanza Lounge tucked away downstairs. Special events like Meet the Brewer and Cooking with Beer take place throughout the year. 56 Market Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-1115, portsmouthbrewery.com

The Portsmouth Brewery continues its Best Bar Food reign with locally sourced ingredients, fresh-made menu selections, and beer-based specialties. “A lot of thought goes into our ingredients,” says Executive Chef Todd Sweet. Don’t miss their heaping bowl of whole mussels steamed in Blonde Ale broth, or bar snacks like Beer Battered Fried Chicken Tenders, hand-cut chicken served with a choice of four sauces. 56 Market Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-1115, portsmouthbrewery.com

If you’re in the mood for some finger-lickin’-good, authentic Southern barbecue, Mojo’s will do you proud. Start with a cup of Award-Winning Beef Brisket Chili, then dive in to a BBQ plate, with your choice of dry-rubbed ribs, chicken, brisket, or their signature 14 Hour Slow Smoked Pulled Pork. Half-pound burgers are also a good bet, served with Mojo’s own Arkansawce. 70 Wallingford Square, Kittery, Maine, 207-703-2324, and 95 Brewery Lane, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-6656, mojosbbqshack.com

The five lodges of the York Harbor Inn offer an elaborate continental breakfast. A full selection of morning pastries made by Pastry Chef Dan Boucher, as well as an engaging and attentive staff, make this deluxe morning meal an event. Executive Chef Gerald Bonsey’s house-made granola is also popular, and guests have been known to take home a souvenir copy of the recipe. 480 York Street, York Harbor, Maine, 207-363-5119, yorkharborinn.com

The Golden Egg has been a favorite with locals since Tom and Debbie Gosselin opened the place in 1983. “We’re not just regular old bacon and eggs,” says Debbie. Indeed, the restaurant focuses on fresh items like homemade granola and from-scratch baked goods. Plus there’s the stellar service staff, some of whom have been at the Egg for two decades. 960 Sagamore Avenue, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-0519, goldeneggrestaurant.com

For 21 years, the Portsmouth Brewery has given Seacoast diners delicious food, friendly service, and superior brews in a can’t-be-beat downtown location. Whether people-watching from the main bar’s window seating (known by regulars as “the fishbowl”), enjoying the New Hampshire summer season out on the patio, or stealing fries off your date’s plate in the main dining room, there’s no better spot to enjoy a cold one and a hearty New England meal. 56 Market Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-1115, portsmouthbrewery.com

Wentworth by the Sea’s Bubbles and Jazz Sunday brunch offers an elegant, gourmet start to the week with hosted cooking stations, scrumptious sweet and savory entrees, and succulent desserts served in the historic seaside hotel’s grand dining room. Oysters on the half shell, prime rib, and decadent cream cheese–stuffed French toast are popular choices, all wonderful with a flute of chilled champagne. 588 Wentworth Road, Newcastle, N.H., 603-422-7322, wentworth.com

No frozen patties or fries here. Wild Willy’s serves certified Angus beef patties, handmade daily and cooked over a char-broiler for that backyard smoky flavor. A classic like the Willy (with American cheese) is always a good bet, and for something different try a Buffalo Bill bison burger with horseradish, Cheddar, and mushrooms. Hand-cut fries are made from Fryeburg, Maine, potatoes. 765 Route 1, York, Maine, 207-363-9924, wildwillysburgers.com

Loco Coco’s brings a little bit of Mexico to the Northeast, with fresh ingredients and unique flavors making its hefty burritos the Seacoast favorite. These authentic, San Diego–style burritos are massive. Favorites include Chicken, with rice, beans, and Cheddar jack cheese; the steak, fries and gaucamole–packed California; and the Tia Margarita Fish burrito, from a generations-old family recipe. 36 Walker Street, Kittery, Maine, 207-438-9322, locococos.com

Owner Bruce Belanger is proud to offer a beautifully appointed, historic property with a great atmosphere to local and regional business diners seeking a quiet table. Located just a stroll from the dozens of offices lining State and Court Streets, The Library can serve up steaks, sandwiches, and burgers in a jiffy, but guests are welcome to linger for a more leisurely lunch, perhaps with a cocktail. 401 State Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-5202, libraryrestaurant.com

Lifelong friends Jason Parent and Justin Rosberg founded The Meat House in Portsmouth in 2003, hoping to bring back the traditional neighborhood butcher of yesteryear. Today their shops are found in 10 states, all providing customers with a wide selection of premium meats, fine cheeses, gourmet grocery items, and over 200 varieties of wine. 2222 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-422-6328, themeathouse.com

Liberty Lane Catering (formerly called Galley Hatch Catering) has been the culinary magic behind countless Seacoast events for 15 years. With a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts for parties of all sizes, Liberty Lane uses the freshest ingredients possible. Their pickup party menu is the perfect solution for the impromptu gathering, and can be ordered with as little as 48 hours’ advance notice. 1 Liberty Lane, Hampton, N.H., 603-926-1545, libertylanecatering.com.

C’est Cheese offers a little taste of Europe in New Hampshire. A bountiful selection of artisan cheeses, international products, and modestly priced wines makes this a must-visit market when shopping for a casual picnic or the fanciest of parties. Owner Nancy Briggs encourages all customers to try before they buy and offers monthly in-store tasting events. 61 Lafayette Road, North Hampton, N.H., 603-964-2272, c-estcheese.com

When asked what sets him apart from other Seacoast-area chefs, Evan Mallet is at a loss for words. He thinks for a moment, then credits his “monomaniacal quest” for getting as close to the source of food as possible. He and his staff voluntarily tend Black Trumpet’s kitchen garden at Meadow’s Mirth Farm in Stratham. “The heirloom crops that we grow there feed not only our restaurant guests,” he says, “but also our staff themselves.” 29 Ceres Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-0887, blacktrumpetbistro.com

Chili cook-offs have their followings, and there’s always the ongoing debate whether to bean or not to bean, ground meat or chopped, beef or pork. Loco Coco’s hearty, tomatillo-based Chili Verde, with chunky tomatoes, pork, and roasted corn, was our readers’ hands-down favorite. The tomatillos add just the right amount of tang, and the sour cream, jack cheese, and fresh cilantro makes chili perfection. 36 Walker Street, Kittery, Maine, 207-438-9322, locococos.com

In 1879 in Berne, Switzerland, Rodolphe Lindt invented conching, a technique that makes chocolate especially smooth and silky. Over a century later, in 1989, the European Lindt company opened an American branch in Stratham. Rich Excellence bars in over a dozen styles (from Extra Creamy Milk to intense 99% Cocoa), Lindor Truffles, and other delectable Swiss chocolates are available at this factory outlet store, and at locations in Portsmouth and Kittery as well. 1 Fine Chocolate Place, Stratham, N.H., 603-778-8100, lindtusa.com

Petey’s has long offered lobster bisque, fish chowder, and seafood chowder. Five years ago they added a thick and creamy clam chowder, much to the delight of Seacoast diners. Owner Peter Aikens Jr. says the key to his success is that he makes all the soups from scratch, using fresh ingredients. “With the premade stuff you have to add a lot of salt and preservatives,” he says. “It doesn’t taste as good.” 1323 Ocean Boulevard, Rye, N.H., 603-433-1937, peteys.com

Despite some stiff competition from at least five other establishments within walking distance, Breaking New Grounds is regularly voted the best coffeehouse in town. Owner Matt Govoni roasts his beans onsite and sources the shop’s milk and cream from a local dairy farm. With indoor and outdoor seating, the Market Square shop welcomes a diverse crowd, from businessmen to bookworms to bikers. 14 Market Square, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-9555

 The Common Man

 The Common Man has long been a New Hampshire favorite, so when the Portsmouth location opened in 2009, Seacoast diners rejoiced. Cozy favorites like New England Pot Roast, Roasted Chicken, and Country Meatloaf are warm, satisfying, and generously portioned. Exclusive to the Portsmouth location is the Portsmouth Pie, a bubbling seafood casserole baked in rich lobster cream sauce beneath golden crisp bread crumbs. 96 State Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-334-6225, thecman.com

Whether you’re part of a bridal party looking for a group event, a foodie wanting to brush up on your kitchen techniques, or a newbie learning to boil water, Stonewall Kitchen has a class for you. According to Janine Somers, director of marketing, the school not only has top-flight instructors on staff, it also invites the country’s best restaurant chefs, cookbook authors, and cooking professionals to share their secrets with students in a “relaxed, comfortable, and friendly atmosphere.” 2 Stonewall Lane, York, Maine, 877-899-8363, stonewallkitchen.com

This winner stands out from the crowd because it’s all crab and no cake. “We use the freshest ingredients available, refuse to drown the crab in tartar sauce, and wouldn’t drop it in a fryer even if you pinched us,” says general manager Kate McGrath. One bite of this lump crab goodness and you won’t be able to keep your claws off it. 150 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-766-3474, jumpinjays.com

Perched above the Piscataqua along Portsmouth’s historic waterfront, The Old Ferry Landing offers visitors more than just a pretty view. This seasonal deck with a retractable roof features fresh seafood, grilled and golden fried, as well as two sizes of lobster roll made with creamy mayonnaise and rich Maine lobster. Wash it down with a Jimmy Juice, the bar’s signature rum punch. 10 Ceres Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-5510, oldferrylanding.com

This family-owned and operated deli has served the Seacoast since 1984, offering a wide variety of sandwiches served on your choice of 14 breads and wraps. Joe’s also prepares several green, pasta, and potato salads, soups, baked beans, take-home entrees, and cookies. 229 Atlantic Ave., North Hampton, N.H., 603-964-6152, joesmeatshoppe.com

Celebrating a big anniversary this year is Gilley’s PM Lunch, a landmark diner that has quieted growling bellies in Portsmouth since 1912. Current owners Stephen and Gina Kennedy honor Gilley’s 100-year history with traditional favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Homemade baked beans, grilled sandwiches, and a rich corn chowder have contributed to the diner’s evolution. “We’ve expanded the menu,” says Kennedy. “We reach more customers that way.” 175 Fleet Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-6343, gilleyspmlunch.com

Portsmouth’s weekly farmers’ market welcomes over 100 growers and local producers throughout the season and is the place for anyone looking for true locavore finds. On Saturday mornings between May and October you can buy produce, flowers, handmade soaps, honey, sauces, jams, salsas, dairy items, meats, seafood, and much more. City Hall Lot, 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, N.H., seacoastgrowers.org/portsmouth-farmers-market

Executive Chef Evan Mallet and the five-year-old bistro he co-owns with wife Denise are no strangers to recognition. Still, despite Black Trumpet’s many accolades, it remains an unpretentious and inviting spot with a dedicated staff, incredible locally sourced dishes, and an extensive wine list. “It also doesn’t hurt that the charmingly historic building that houses our restaurant fills our guests with a sense of warmth and comfort,” says the ever-humble Mallet. 29 Ceres Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-0887, blacktrumpetbistro.com

This local hotspot is famous for its golden fried clams. But the fried lobster tail is gaining in popularity; owner Peter Aikens Jr. and his staff often catch the lobsters themselves. Clams, lobster, haddock, scallops, and shrimp—all are deep-fried in 100 percent vegetable oil and available as an appetizer, basket, or dinner plate with sides like fries and coleslaw. Petey’s also offers your favorites from the sea broiled or baked. 1323 Ocean Boulevard, Rye, N.H., 603-433-1937, peteys.com

The produce from owner Scott Nelson’s organic farm often shows up on the shelves and in the prepared dishes at Portsmouth Health Food Center. And don’t forget to visit the store’s cafe, Madeline’s Truly Organic Kitchen, which serves yummy organic, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free goodies like smoothies, soups, and sandwiches. 151 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-1722, portsmouthhealthfood.com

Creativity is swirled through every batch of homemade ice cream at Lago’s. The folks at the Rye ice cream shop are always experimenting with new flavors, creating unforgettable cones like the Salty Sailor: salted caramel ice cream that’s studded with chocolate-covered pretzels. “I think creativity really gives us a leg up on everybody else,” says owner Stephen Grenier. 71 Lafayette Road (Route 1), Rye, N.H., 603-964-9880, lagosicecream.com

There’s a lot for kids to love about Flatbread Company, with its huge wood-burning earthen ovens, colorful decor, and easygoing staff. “Kids are especially welcome at Flatbread because of our family-style restaurant that has a very comfortable and inviting atmosphere,” says Portsmouth manager Kevin Pine. And with the organic ingredients and nitrate-free meats, pizza for dinner is awesome for kids and guilt-free for parents. 5 Market Square, Amesbury, Mass., 978-834-9800, and 138 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-7888, flatbreadcompany.com

Specialty foods, kitchen gadgets, tastings, and demonstrations await those who visit Stonewall Kitchen’s flagship store in York. Visitors will also get the story behind each new specialty food item, says Janine Somers, director of marketing, so that “guests can get a sense for how we envision the product being used and where it fits into their lifestyle.” 2 Stonewall Lane, York, Maine, 207-351-2712, stonewallkitchen.com

Gilley’s PM Lunch, a gastronomic Port City icon, is tucked alongside Portsmouth’s central parking garage just steps from most of the town’s popular bars. It’s that location, and the mouthwatering burgers, dogs, and sandwiches, which make a visit nearly impossible to resist after a night on the town. 175 Fleet Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-6343, gilleyspmlunch.com

What started as a working lobster pier more than 50 years ago has evolved into the home of the Seacoast’s favorite lobster dinner. BYOB, sit on the deck, and tie on a lobster bib for a dining experience that’s synonymous with summer in Maine. 16 Chauncey Creek Road, Kittery Point, Maine, 207-439-1030, chaunceycreek.com

Lobster lovers rejoice: whether you opt for the 7 ounce, the 10 ounce, the foot-long, the lobster sub, or the lobster club at The Beach Plum, it will be stuffed to the gills with high-quality meat from hard-shelled lobsters, with only enough mayo to hold things together. “We put our heart and soul into the way we make them,” says Debbie Tsoronis, manager of the North Hampton location. 17 Ocean Boulevard (Route 1A), North Hampton, N.H., 603-964-7451, and 2800 Lafayette Road (Route 1), Portsmouth, N.H., 603-433-3339, thebeachplum.net or lobsterrolls.com

Local farms and dairies provide the fresh produce and other ingredients for Flatbread Company, where “local” is more than just a trend. “Knowing where your food is coming from is very important to our customers,” says Portsmouth manager Kevin Pine. “It is also important to support the community that we are involved in because they support us day in and day out.” 5 Market Square, Amesbury, Mass., 978-834-9800, and 138 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-7888, flatbreadcompany.com

 The freshest, most basic ingredients are at the heart of the well-loved margaritas at Agave Mexican Bistro. “We have some margaritas that are pretty pure and pretty fantastic,” says manager Jason Morin. In addition to the 13 varieties currently on the menu, Morin says Agave’s mixologists are always working on developing new ones, like the Flama Blanca, which uses tequila infused with habanero, mango, and cucumber. 111 State Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-427-5300, and 50 State Street, Newburyport, Mass., 978-499-0428, agavedos.com

With wins in the martini category for several years running, you’d think Deb Weeks might be content to rest on her laurels, but The Green Monkey owner and her mixologists are always stirring up something new behind the bar. The ever-changing selection has a couple of constants: high-quality liquors and homemade mix-ins. Everything from the infused simple syrups to the fruit purees to the sour mix is made on site. “It just makes a difference,” Weeks says. 86 Pleasant Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-427-1010, thegreenmonkey.net

When Pigs Fly is already a favorite among bread lovers, and now the company has expanded its stellar repertoire to include an artisan pizzeria. The fresh dough and specially made mozzarella have customers making comparisons to Italy and Boston’s North End. “They’ve never had better pizza,” says manager Cindy Kanaley. 460 Route 1, Kittery, Maine, 207-438-7036, sendbread.com/pizza.php

With four live-entertainment venues under one roof, Portsmouth Gas Light Co. certainly has options for everyone. Travis Glazier, marketing and design director, points to a few of them: Open mic and trivia nights in the Pizza Pub, acoustic performances in the Grill, live rock bands on the Deck, and the Third Floor Night Club, which hosts some of the hottest DJ’s New England has to offer. 64 Market Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-430-9122, portsmouthgaslight.com

Any way you slice it, Flatbread’s pizza stands apart from the typical delivery fare. Portsmouth manager Kevin Pine chalks it up to the locally sourced ingredients, community involvement, and awesome service. “No other pizza spot on the Seacoast compares to any of these aspects we thrive in,” he says. 5 Market Square, Amesbury, Mass., 978-834-9800, and 138 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-7888, flatbreadcompany.com

Radici

Radici owner Jay Krecklow might have a mantra: “‘Fresh and affordable’ is what I say a lot,” he asserts. And that’s a good way to describe everything about the 2012 Best Restaurant winner, from the delicious food to the relaxed atmosphere. “We just focus on simple, fresh ingredients,” he says. The menu changes seasonally; this summer, look for dishes like Crostada al Pomodoro (with fresh tomatoes and goat cheese) and Lobster Truffle Risotto. Krecklow has owned Radici for five years, adding a weekend brunch and more gluten-free options. For his win this year, his second in a row, Krecklow gives a shout-out to his staff, Executive Chef Dan “Champ” Rean, and his customers, “the best regulars ever.” 142-144 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-373-6464, radicirestaurant.com

With a window-lined dining room and three outdoor decks, every seat has an ocean view at Latitudes at Wentworth by the Sea. “It’s beautiful for sunsets,” says General Manager Kristen Ade. Overlooking a marina and harbor, guests can bask in the Seacoast’s nautical traditions while dining on lobster and other goodies. Wentworth by the Sea, 588 Wentworth Road, New Castle, N.H., 603-422-7322, wentworth.com

Marriage proposals are a common occurrence at Ristorante Massimo, and owner Massimo Morgia loves each and every one of them. “It’s always really exciting,” he says. Secluded corner tables, fantastic cuisine, and terrific service add up to the Seacoast’s most romantic dining spot, but there’s also something else. As Morgia says, “Part of the romance here is the feeling of the restaurant, the ambience itself.” 59 Penhallow Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-4000, ristorantemassimo.com

A sandwich is a sandwich, right? Not at Moe’s Italian Sandwiches, where the pickles and salami are made from proprietary recipes and the bread is delivered fresh every day. “It’s not a sandwich you can find at any other shop,” says CEO Cheryl Pagano. Plus, a limited menu allows Moe’s to keep the fixings super fresh and super delicious. 22 Daniel Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-2327, moesitaliansandwiches.com

For sophisticated seafood, Jumpin’ Jay’s takes the (crab)cake, with simple yet elegant specialties like Haddock Piccata and San Francisco Cioppino proving that less is more. The ever-popular Fresh Catch entrees come with your choice of pan seared or grilled fish and a variety of sauces, like Salsa Verde or Pineapple Coconut Red Curry. 150 Congress Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-766-3474, jumpinjays.com

An evening at Latitudes is “kind of like a mini vacation,” says general manager Kristen Ade. Housed on the marina of the historic grand hotel Wentworth by the Sea and overlooking the water, Latitudes has all the ingredients for a special night out: polished service, spectacular food, and a beautiful setting. Wentworth by the Sea, 588 Wentworth Road, New Castle, N.H., 603-422-7322, wentworth.com

Ask why The Page is a repeat winner in this category and manager Jon Wells will give you a simple answer: “Cause we’re awesome!” he laughs. Whether you come to watch the Red Sox on the 110-inch projection screen, scarf down fiery wings with $3 pints on Thirsty Thursdays, or try your hand at trivia, a fun night is guaranteed at The Page. “It’s a one-stop place,” Wells says. “You come in here and don’t leave.” 172 Hanover Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-436-0004, pageportsmouth.com

Housed in a brick mansion that was once the home of Judge Woodbury Langdon, a colorful Revolution-era figure, this circa 1785 building is the ideal setting for a stately steakhouse. But don’t be fooled by the splendid surroundings. “We like to provide casual, affordable elegance,” says general manager Lauren Looser. Although the sides and other entrees are great, too, the fresh, high-quality steak is the star. 401 State Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-431-5202, libraryrestaurant.com

“We do have the freshest fish of the day,” says Shio owner Alvin Ooi, who credits its multi year wins in the category to high-quality fish and a quick turnover. Ooi also takes pride in Shio’s creativity. His chefs will often custom-make rolls for their diners, re-creating dishes that they’ve had all over the country. “We create them a different version, exactly the same as their favorite,” Ooi says. 2454 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-319-1638, shiorestaurant.com

Blue Moon Evolution has had the same “vegetarian philosophy” since 1995, says owner Kathy Gallant: “Complete respect for our diners, the environment, and the planet. Each dish is prepared with the absolute best ingredients: seasonal, organic, real food, crafted with balanced flavors and visual delight, smiles, and good vibes.” 8 Clifford Street, Exeter, N.H., 603-778-6850, bluemoonevolution.com

At Cavas Tapas & Wine Bar, every single bottled wine, even the most expensive, is available by the half and full glass. “People are able to experiment with different wines,” which aren’t available at typical liquor stores, says John Akar, co-owner and general manager. Plus, if diners try a wine and like it, they can buy the rest of the bottle to take home. 10 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-319-1575, cavatapasandwinebar.com

David Campbell’s feelings about wine are as deep as the notes in an excellent bottle of red. The proprietor of Ceres Street Wine Merchants says wine should be unpretentious, provide a sense of place, be “minimally manipulated,” and offer a good value. Just don’t ask Campbell to name his top choice. “These are all my children,” he says. “I can’t pick a favorite.” 65 Ceres Street, 603-431-2640, Portsmouth, N.H., cereswine.com

Beautiful and delicious might be two ways to describe Flag Hill Winery. First, the beauty: the winery is housed in a converted family farm built in 1796, surrounded by picturesque vineyards. Then, the deliciousness: Flag Hill makes its wines from only New Hampshire–grown grapes. Its star is Cayuga White, a variety that’s well suited to the Granite State’s climate, says Flag Hill president Frank Reinhold. 297 North River Road (Route 155), Lee, N.H., 603-659-2949, flaghill.com

The secret behind the wings at Fat Belly’s isn’t complicated. Says owner Joe Kelley, “We cook them better than most places.” The fresh chicken, homemade sauce, and extra-crispy texture don’t hurt either. There are at least 10 different sauces to choose from, including Western Apricot and Chernobyl, which is flavorful and spicy, but not so painfully hot that it “ruins your day,” Kelley says. 2 Bow Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 603-610-4227, fatbellysgrillandbar.com