Everything about Julie Cutting is bold, from her flowing blonde hair and flashing megawatt smile to her tangential opinions on food to the flavors at Cure, her new American comfort-food style bistro in downtown Portsmouth in the space formerly occupied by Four Restaurant. Fans of the Food Network show Cutthroat Kitchen may recognize Cutting as a contestant on episode four of the first season, but locals are beginning to recognize her as the bubbly, smiling face behind the stove at this sunny neighborhood spot. Cutting grew up in South Berwick, Maine, and had dreamed of opening her own restaurant since 2004, while attending the Atlantic Culinary Academy in Dover. Over the past decade, she has worked her way down the coast, including The Front Room in Portland, Brazo in Portsmouth, and Seaport Fish in Kittery. Despite the crazy hours and stress of being a business owner, she couldn’t be happier. Read more...

With its lakeside-lodge decor, crackling fireplaces, private beach, and walking-distance location to downtown Wolfeboro’s quaint shops, Wolfeboro Inn might just be the perfect Winnipesaukee escape. “You’re surrounded by Belknap Mountain, the tall trees, and Wolfeboro Bay in the distance,” says Lucy Van Cleve, director of sales and marketing at the inn. “It captures the essence of a New England escape.” Read more...

Starting in the 1990s, American brewing has undergone a steady resurrection from the decades-long decline since the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. By the late 1970s, the industry was dominated by a handful of heavy hitters, with only 79 registered breweries nationwide. By June of 2013, there were 2,538 registered American breweries, an increase of over 400 since 2011, the year New Hampshire passed a law making it easier for small-scale breweries to operate. From bitters to Belgians, stouts to sours, and just about every pale and porter in between, America has most definitely rediscovered its brewing voice. Read more...

Great hotel restaurants appeal to an eclectic clientele, including locals, weekend guests, and business travelers alike. With several indoor seating options and a varied, regionally inspired menu, Salt Kitchen & Bar is Wentworth by the Sea's new restaurant, located in the renovated dining room, and was voted Best Hotel Restaurant in this year's Best of Taste awards. The staff, under the direction of Executive Chef Ken Lingle and Food and Beverage Director Gabe Cogley, is focused on executing their motto, "Fresh, Local, and Lively." Read more...