Nashua has so many seafood spots, there’s even one (for better or worse) that serves lobster rolls year-round. These restaurants can be some of the most delicious in town—but they can also be the priciest, with $40+ entrees becoming common at waterfront spots. That’s where this guide comes in.
Temple Street Diner
$ | (603) 521-7133 | WEBSITE
While Temple Street Diner’s big breakfast is technically one meal, you’ll end up with closer to a feast as each plate is a generous portion of their most popular morning dishes. It’s a great way to taste about 70% of their breakfast offerings, which should really be the point here, considering every item makes good use of the freshest ingredients that come in daily from local suppliers.
On a recent visit, we were served fluffy waffles with real maple syrup and crispy bacon, French toast dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, and perfectly cooked eggs benedict topped with fresh seafood that reminded us of the perfect coastal brunch. Their excellent coffee is also always included and available for constant refills by the attentive waitstaff.
Riviera Nayarit Mexican Style Seafood & Grill
$$ | (603) 521-8429 | WEBSITE
At Riviera Nayarit Mexican Style Seafood & Grill, the steak tacos get their authentic flavor from traditional preparation, and the coconut shrimp are served with a zesty dipping sauce. Like the regular menu, this Mexican seafood restaurant in Nashua punches up dishes with unexpected delights. It’s a family-friendly spread of everything from seafood chimichangas and pollo fondito to birria and street tacos for the main event.
This spacious yet warm space is filled with a large bar and inviting seating, and is where you’ll want to spend hours enjoying the great music and sharing stories with friends. Just keep the 32oz beers and Mexican cocktails coming.
Lilac Blossom (Sky Meadow)
$$ | (603) 888-9588 | WEBSITE
Lilac Blossom (Sky Meadow) in Nashua offers some of the most satisfying Chinese classics in the area. For around $18, you get generous plates like the shrimp lo mein and chicken lo mein that will easily satisfy whatever comfort food craving brought you here. This Chinese spot also features hits like the beef teriyaki and Sizzlin Seafood Delight that keep regulars coming back. Whichever dish you choose, know that you can also add some appetizers to round out your meal.
We like the well-appointed dining room with space between tables and a rug on the floor, which creates a comfortable atmosphere perfect for meeting and talking over dinner.
Yoshimama Japanese Sushi Bar
$$ | (603) 718-8316 | WEBSITE
Sushi is the star of the show at this Japanese restaurant in Nashua. Crispy tempura flakes crown the Louisiana Maki, and rich spicy mayo gives tender tuna rolls extra complexity. The menu offers plenty of variety, so we can’t tell you exactly what to order. But like so many spots on this list, it plays up fresh ingredients. Here that means towers of salmon and avocado, and bento boxes with chunks of perfectly fried pork katsu.
Sitting inside the elegant, inviting space to get into everything is one ideal way to spend a special celebration or ring in another year around the sun.
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
$ | (603) 891-0055 | WEBSITE
The chicken burrito a la carte at La Carreta is a reliable way to sample this vibrant Nashua Mexican restaurant’s most satisfying staples, including the flavorful shredded chicken quesadilla and chile rellenos with grilled chicken that deliver bold, comforting notes like they’ve been perfecting the recipe for generations. Portions during busy nights can sometimes lean dry or reheated, so be sure to add at least one extra, like the house hot sauce that elevates the basic salsa served with chips.
If you’re opting for the lunch special, the price is just as reasonable as the dinner options.
Mint Cafe
$ | (603) 316-6788 | WEBSITE
This Nashua spot feels like a neighborhood takeout treasure. Their cozy dining area is filled with simple tables, quick service keeps things moving, and regulars swear by the best egg rolls in the area. The pupu for 2 ($24) is a solid option if you want to try appetizers and shareable dishes from their reliable Chinese menu. Think crispy egg rolls, hot fresh entrees, and satisfying meals that have kept locals coming back for almost a decade.
Milano House of Pizza – Nashua
$ | (603) 883-6610 | WEBSITE
The seafood platter at this downtown Nashua spot won’t reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t have to—it’s $24, and the most bang-for-your-buck feast in the area. The family-owned pizzeria keeps the menu consistent, but you’re always guaranteed crowd-pleasers like fried haddock special and seafood chowder, plus that legendary cole slaw. The whole belly fried clams remain unchanged from decades past, served in generous portions that leave you satisfied without breaking the bank.
With street parking available and TVs scattered throughout the relaxed space, it’s the perfect place to unwind over fish and chips that taste like they cost twice as much.
Surf Restaurant
$$$ | (603) 595-9293 | WEBSITE
The seafood spot in Nashua is a destination restaurant to pull out for celebrations and special occasions—and a place to drop in casually for cocktails and some fresh scallops. This isn’t a traditional New England seafood shack serving heavy fried platters or basic lobster rolls.
Here you’ll get things like perfectly seared haddock with seasonal vegetables, shrimp pasta in a light garlic sauce, and creative sushi rolls, all served in a beach-themed setting that makes you feel like you’ve escaped to the coast. There’s also a varied menu that offers everything from seafood and pasta to steaks. And, like the wine list and cocktail menu, it provides plenty of options to suit different tastes.
Aegean pizza and Seafood
$ | (603) 718-8417 | WEBSITE
The Chicken Broccoli Alfredo pizza at Aegean Pizza and Seafood is $24, which feels like a steal considering the generous portion and consistent high quality you get with every bite. Since this long-time favorite spot is known for its great service and quick orders, it’s no surprise that it knocks the food out of the park. The meal kicks off with freshly prepared appetizers like onion rings and spicy fries.
You’ll then dive into more dishes like the highly recommended calzones, the praised Hawaiian Pizza, and the excellent steak bombs. Dinner goes down in a cozy space lit up by warm overhead lights—ideal for casual family dinners that require the comfort levels to be turned up to max.
India Palace
$ | (603) 891-1140 | WEBSITE
At India Palace, $19 gets you a fantastic Chicken Tikka Masala, oftentimes with a bonus side of rice or naan. The menu features a wide range often, but count yourself lucky if you get a piece of tender lamb in the Vindaloo or the extra spicy Curry. While this restaurant offers much for atmosphere with authentic decor and comfortable seating, you can’t find a better deal for authentic Indian food anywhere else in Nashua.
Burtons Grill & Bar
$$ | (603) 888-4880 | WEBSITE
Burtons Grill & Bar offers a fantastic dining experience in a clean and cozy, classy establishment. That classy vibe turns into a perfect business lunch spot one day, and a place worth driving hours for on your next visit. But mainstays like the fish sandwich, Maxx burger, and Southwest salad never change (ask for gluten-free options). The dining room is mostly spacious four-tops, so keep this place in mind for a meal that’s more satisfying than fast food but doesn’t require dressing up.
Customers appreciate the attentive service and being taken good care of, even during busy times, with all dishes made from scratch daily.