A romantic meal at one of the top Exeter, NH restaurants will set the mood perfectly for any occasion: celebrating an anniversary, enjoying a weekend escape, or simply indulging in a quiet evening with someone special. Exeter is a charming town where history, natural beauty, and a vibrant culinary scene blend seamlessly, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Exeter offers so much more than a great meal and a cozy place to stay, though. There’s a surprising array of things to do in Exeter and the surrounding Seacoast. From a casual stroll through town, admiring the historic architecture and browsing the local shops, to beautiful walks along coastal beaches and trails, there’s always something to do in this remarkable area. If you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, outdoor activities are nearby for the perfect New Hampshire getaway this winter. Exeter offers a range of experiences that will make your trip even more memorable.
Our Boutique Hotel in Exeter, NH is a charming, historic property in the heart of Exeter, just steps away from the town’s main attractions. Our Inn also happens to be the home of one of the best Exeter, NH restaurants, Ambrose! The Inn’s cozy rooms, elegant decor, and exceptional service provide a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration – and a stay here is only made better by the delicious ease of dining with us. Whether unwinding with a glass of wine in front of the fireplace or enjoying a restful night’s sleep, the Inn by the Bandstand is the perfect retreat. Book your room at one of the best boutique hotels in Exeter, NH today!

The Five Most Romantic Exeter, NH Restaurants
Whether you’re foodies on the hunt for your next culinary adventure or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal with your partner, there are several wonderful Exeter, NH restaurants to choose from. None, however, are more special or refined than Ambrose Restaurant, located right here in the main dining room of our hotel in Exeter, NH. Just steps away from your room, you’ll find contemporary cuisine prepared with seasonal, locally sourced products and creative plates that are designed for sharing.
During the winter, you’ll enjoy your elevated meal at one of the most celebrated Exeter, NH restaurants in our dining room. It’s an intimate space with just six tables, elegant decor, and a fireplace. To accompany your meal, we offer a fine selection of wine, beer, and craft cocktails to complement any meal on the menu. Of course, there are so many fantastic small plates at Ambrose that you can easily enjoy several meals here. But there’s plenty of variety to enjoy in town, too.
From upscale bistros to laid-back cafés, this quaint New England town is a food lover’s paradise. We’ve listed a few more of our favorite Exeter, NH restaurants below!
- Our neighbor, co-located on the grounds at our Exeter hotel, is Otis Restaurant. This spot, like Ambrose, is delightful and is rated as one of the best Exeter, NH restaurants. The chef here makes every meal feel special with seasonal, fresh ingredients, along with creative and beautifully presented dishes. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty steak or sharing a fresh pizza, you’ll enjoy your evening at Otis.
- The sophisticated ambiance, intimate setting, and understated elegance make Epoch Restaurant and Bar a wonderful choice for couples looking for a romantic evening out. Their carefully crafted menu with fresh, local ingredients and beautifully plated dishes ensures that every meal feels special.
- If you’re craving pasta, don’t miss Vino e Vivo, one of the best Exeter, NH restaurants for Italian fare! This rustic yet refined eatery transports you straight to Italy with classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and expertly crafted cocktails.
- With its sophisticated ambiance, exceptional food, and excellent service, Cornicello is an ideal choice for a romantic date. As one of the most highly rated Exeter, NH restaurants, their menu has something for everyone: pasta, seafood, vegetarian options, and decadent desserts!
All of these romantic Exeter, NH restaurants are within walking distance of the Inn by the Bandstand, one of the top-rated hotels in Exeter, NH. o

Romanic Lodging at One of the Best Hotels in Exeter, NH
Our Inn is considered one of the best hotels in Exeter, NH, and we promise the perfect romantic backdrop any time of the year. Our award-winning boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of historic downtown Exeter and stands as one of the premier accommodations on the New Hampshire Seacoast. From our AAA Four-Diamond designation and membership in the Select Registry portfolio to our exceptional 5-star reviews, it’s easy to see why the Inn by the Bandstand stands as one of the best hotels in Exeter, NH.
Housed in a beautifully restored 1809 Federal-style mansion, our historic Boutique Hotel is just minutes away from the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy, eight miles from the Seacoast, and a short 20-minute drive to Portsmouth. Manchester’s airport is only 30 minutes away, making it conveniently located no matter your reason for visiting. Of course, our convenient location in the heart of downtown Exeter is just one of many reasons our Hotel is so highly rated.
This elegant inn offers eight tastefully appointed rooms, each filled with exquisite antiques and works of art. All rooms feature private baths and luxurious linens, and seven have working fireplaces. We offer a range of accommodations perfect for couples, solo travelers, and those traveling through the area with kids. We even have a pet-friendly guest room for those in the company of their furry friend! As a proud member of the Select Registry and one of the few Four Diamond AAA Inspected and Approved properties in New England, the Inn by the Bandstand delivers the kind of refined experience you’d expect from a distinguished boutique hotel.
Part of what makes us one of the best hotels in Exeter, NH are our getaway specials, like our romantic escape and anniversary packages. After your in-room massage, wander down to Ambrose, one of the top Exeter, NH restaurants, for tapas and a craft cocktail. There’s no better place to stay on the Seacoast. With just eight rooms, a stay at our Inn is an exclusive experience. Book your stay today!