Elm St. Eats

Elm St. Eats

By: Alyssa Buckley, Marketing Coordinator at Innerspire.

We make decisions every day. One of the hardest decisions comes around 12 o’clock, lunch time. Not a problem when you’re office is in the heart of downtown Manchester – where do you start? The restaurants, bistros and cafes that are woven down and around Elm Street offer quite the array for all appetites. Everyone who sits in an office from 8am to 6pm, sometimes earlier or later, anticipates that window of time where they can eat and relax (or think about the stack of papers on their desk or 4 missed calls). It’s also a great way to network and interact with your community. Pack a lunch? Hit up one of the picnic tables outside of City Hall and give a wave to the Mayor.

We’re big fans of most of the downtown eats. You can usually find us at Republic enjoying a fresh, brewed cup of coffee and a scone or at Mint Bistro destroying a plate of sushi – amazing atmosphere in both.

For a tasty and speedy service we order take out from Bridge Street Café. Quick tip, avoid the line by going a couple minutes before noon or after one. You’re usually safe by then. We recommend the Medusa Wrap, Egg Salad BLT or the Bridge. Like spicy sauce? Ask ‘em about it! Having their breakfast is also on our to-do list. Did you know they cater, too?

J Dubs has some of the best customer service. They are always introducing the next best thing in coffee, desserts, soups & more. We like how they display a lot of student artwork from NH Institute of Art. Follow them on Twitter – They are always posting what’s on the menu!

Z Food and Drink recently had Phantom Gourmet visit their spot and for good reason. Their dishes are delicious. Tom and his crew are forward thinking and have some unique items on their menu. Ever had their beef tongue tacos? They’re good! Really. Weird, but good!

As you make your way towards The Verizon Wireless Arena, be sure to stop at Queen City Cupcakesbut HURRY! They usually sell out by 1 o’clock. We recommend the Almond Joy or Carrot Cake – grab some milk while you’re there, too.

Not in the mood for dessert? Right next door is Portland Pie. Great Diamond pizza is out of this world and the choice of crust is unique downtown. Beer, basil, wheat or gluten-free – you pick!

There’s a lot more spots on our bucket lists that will have to wait till our next lunch break. So next time you feel like breaking loose from the office or have a meeting with a client, check out what downtown Manchester has to offer. Give us a call, we’d love to get some grub with you – and if you’re really nice…maybe we’ll get the check…