I’ve wanted to visit The Stage Restaurant in Keene for more than a year now. Last weekend after moving our sophomore son into his dorm at Keene State College, we finally got the chance. The weather was absolutely perfect for sitting outside for our early dinner.
The Stage Restaurant has been a downtown Keene fixture since 1981, and it has seen many renovations and expansions. What started as a coffeeshop is now a warm bistro and bar that can accomodate 110 patrons.
Outdoor Dining on Central Square in Keene NH
In addition to the sidewalk dining area, there is a narrow ivy-covered alley between the restaurant and the church next door that they call “The Grotto.” This is a beautiful and quiet little place to eat, and you’d never know you were literally steps off of busy Central Square. It feels private and a little secretive.
We enjoyed a great meal and wonderful service, although we felt bad that our server had to come all the way outside and around the building to check on us.
Cocktails in The Grotto
Hail Caesar: vodka with olive and pepperoncini brine, and a caesar infusion
Oh Honey Don’t: Bar Hill Gin and tart cherry juice, with notes of lemon, honey and vanilla.
Appetizers at The Stage Restaurant
Crab Brulee dip: a fusion of crab rangoon and creme brulee, compete with caramelized sugar layer on top that you have to crack open. The wonton chips were perfect with this. Fun appetizer to eat!
Korean Popcorn Chicken: had a sweet and spicy gochujang glaze, and the carrot ginger slaw was absolutely perfect with the chicken.
Not Your Traditional Carbonara
Stage Carbonara: This is absolutely not the traditional Roman carbonara, this is The Stage’s own creative spin on the classic. It’s more of a linguine tossed in a smoky red pepper cream sauce with bacon and prosciutto. Very interesting and different, and quite a large serving, too. The garlic bread was especially good.
After enjoying such a lovely meal in the beautiful Grotto, it is easy to see why The Stage is such a beloved Keene restaurant. They also do a weekend brunch that sounds absolutely amazing. Maybe brunch will be our next visit to The Stage?
MORE KEENE AND MONADNOCK REGION NH RESTAURANTS
New Hampshire Food Photography
Erika Follansbee is a published Goffstown, NH food photographer whose job is to make food look amazing. She is available for hire to help small restaurants and cafes to create beautiful images of their dishes to use for marketing, websites, and social media. Magazine-quality food images are the best form of advertisement.
Erika is also a wedding photographer. Visit www.erikafollansbee.com for more information.
