Finding a decent bar can sometimes prove difficult. You want a bartender who can make a drink the way you want and a restaurant that provides good food to go with it and not just castoffs relegated from the kitchen. Then there is the service that is always a crap shoot and you look for those establishments where you are treated with respect whether you are a regular or not. That brings us to Riddle's Tavern at Buckley's Steakhouse where we believe that you will get all of that. Simply put they are one of the best bars/taverns in the state.
Riddle's Tavern sits to the left of the main dining room. As you walk in there is a bar to the right with a few tables in back and then the area that we prefer where you step down some stairs to a lower level where there are several tables and also a fireplace that burns in the cooler weather. The environment is more relaxed and not so dressy as the main dining area.
The drinks here are made well and what you would expect at a steakhouse. While I’m more of a beer/wine drinker, I decided to order a martini on this visit. A dirty martini served straight up with blue cheese stuffed olives was a wise choice. I chose Tito’s vodka which provided a smooth finish.
The menu at Riddle's Tavern focuses on what else but steak and you can get just about any cut whether it be a filet, rib eye, strip loin or prime rib. Another benefit of dining in the bar area is the menu includes some lighter fare such as burgers and sandwiches. There are seafood options as well and because it was a warmer day that was our preference.
This was served with roasted red potatoes, artichokes, roasted red pepper with arugula chimichurri and tomato puree. Cod by itself has very little taste so the stronger flavors combined complemented it nicely.
Next up my wife chose one of their specials, the lobster cobb salad:
Served with fresh lobster, corn, tomatoes, bacon, and a hard boiled egg, the vegetables were very fresh and the dish was quite tasty. The kitchen forgot to add the bacon but it was brought out immediately once she told the server. The dressing that was to be served was “green goddess” which my wife substituted for ranch instead. All in all the salad hit the spot.
For desert we went with the chocolate mousse cake:
As with all of the food at Riddle's Tavern, the desserts are excellent and this selection was terrific.
So with that we say that Riddle'sTavern is a top choice for all in New Hampshire. We have been there several times and have always had a wonderful time. Now, it is your turn to experience one of the best.
Address:
438 Daniel Webster Highway, Route 3
Merrimack, NH 03054
Phone: 603-424-0995
Website:
www.buckleysgreatsteaks.com