Are you passionate about food and travel? Explore the diverse culinary scene along the East Coast with Benchmark Resorts & Hotels' curated list of top-notch destinations for food lovers, along with recommended must-try bites.
Make Lobster the Main(e) Event in Boothbay Harbor
Eat: Shannon’s Unshelled
Indulge in fresh, locally sourced seafood at Shannon’s Unshelled, celebrated for its lobster-centric menu and Maine-inspired flavors. A must-try is their signature lobster roll, overflowing with chunks of lobster meat, lightly dressed in butter and served on a perfectly toasted bun.
Stay: The Spruce Point Inn
Naturally situated for coastal exploration, Spruce Point Inn offers a charming base to discover Boothbay Harbor's culinary treasures. Enjoy luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views and partake in the inn's fireside s'mores party, where guests can learn the science behind making the perfect s'more.
Don’t Miss Breakfast in New Hampshire’s Hanover
Eat: Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery
Serving breakfast all day, Lou’s is a local institution renowned for its hearty breakfast dishes, delicious baked goods and classic American diner fare. Don’t miss their famous cruller French toast and hearty corned beef hash.
Stay: Hanover Inn Dartmouth
Immerse yourself in Hanover's vibrant food scene and rich history at Hanover Inn Dartmouth. Nestled on the picturesque Dartmouth College campus, the inn offers a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty and historical charm of this iconic Ivy League institution.
Dig into New England’s Colonial History in Manchester, Vermont
Eat: Ye Olde Tavern
This Colonial-era tavern serves traditional comfort food in a historic 1790s inn, offering hearty dishes like Cheddar & Ale Onion Soup complemented by cranberry fritters and Vermont maple butter. Enjoy a meal surrounded by the ambiance of antique furnishings and fireplaces.
Stay: The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa
Relax and rejuvenate amidst Vermont's picturesque landscapes at The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa. Enjoy a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility with activities such as golfing, fly fishing, biking, and boating, offering endless opportunities for both excitement and relaxation.
Enjoy the Fresh Catch in Cape Cod’s Chatham, MA
Eat: The Impudent Oyster
Dine in a historic church-turned-restaurant at The Impudent Oyster, known for its fresh seafood and New England classics. Savor dishes like the seared sea scallops or the renowned seafood stew in a cozy, unique setting.
Stay: Chatham Bars Inn
Experience Cape Cod's coastal elegance at Chatham Bars Inn, where timeless charm meets stunning oceanfront views. Enjoy activities such as whale watching or a sailing trip, offering sweeping vistas of the coastline and iconic landmarks like the Chatham Lighthouse. And don’t miss the resort’s own culinary offerings, including the new Beach Lawn with an innovative outdoor concept.
Eat Your Way Through Beantown in Boston
Eat: Nebo
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Nebo, where each dish captures the essence of home-cooked Pugliese cuisine. Highlights include their signature "Nebo Ragu" and hand-made pastas that transport you straight to Italy.
Stay:Boston Harbor Hotel
Experience Boston's rich culinary scene and cultural offerings at the luxurious Boston Harbor Hotel. With its prime waterfront location, the hotel offers easy access to the city's top dining spots and historic sites, including the famous Boston Freedom Trail, making it an ideal choice for history and foodie enthusiasts.
From Classic Chowder to Mansion Tours in Newport, RI
Eat: The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
Enjoy waterfront dining at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, known for its fresh seafood and breathtaking views. Signature dishes include the "Bag of Doughnuts" (lobster fritters) and their expertly crafted seafood chowder.
Stay: Wayfinder Newport
Discover Newport's coastal allure from the stylish comfort of Wayfinder Newport. Located in the North End, the hotel places you just minutes from top attractions, including Gilded Age mansions and stunning waterfront views. Enjoy sailing into the sunset, catching a wave, or exploring historic sites, all while experiencing the unique charm of this classic New England town.
Get a Taste for the Chesapeake in St. Michaels, Maryland
Indulge in brunch at T at the General Store, where tea-inspired cuisine meets historic charm. Delight in their "Chesapeake Benedict" featuring crab cakes and Old Bay hollandaise, paired perfectly with a selection of fine teas.
Stay: Inn at Perry Cabin
Escape to Chesapeake Bay's tranquil shores at the Inn at Perry Cabin, a picturesque waterfront retreat. Play a round of golf at the renowned Links at Perry Cabin, delve into St. Michaels' rich history with a guided walking tour and savor dining that highlights local seafood and farm-to-table cuisine.
Snag a Gourmet Dog in New Brunswick, NJ
Eat: Destination Dogs
Delight in gourmet hot dogs and sausages at Destination Dogs, where global flavors meet laid-back vibes in downtown New Brunswick. Try inventive creations like the "Sgt. Pepper" with spicy chorizo or the "Tokyo Dog" featuring teriyaki-glazed sausage.
Stay: The Heldrich
Experience The Heldrich, where you can enjoy a charming boutique hotel experience. Centrally located, it’s an effortless launchpad to explore the city’s culinary hotspots and vibrant theater scene.
