CrowBar Hardware Store — Restaurant in Claremont

Nestled inconspicuously behind boarded-up windows that give it the appearance of a vintage hardware store lies the Crowbar Hardware Store "restaurant", a true hidden gem in Claremont, NH. This chic establishment takes you on a journey back to the 1920s, embracing the ambiance of a speakeasy with a remarkable food and drink menu that captivates the senses.

Upon entering the Crowbar, guests are immediately transported to the Prohibition era, where the décor and art evoke the nostalgia of the Roaring Twenties. The atmosphere is immersive, with every corner adorned with period-specific memorabilia, creating an ambiance that feels authentic and inviting.

What sets Crowbar apart is its commitment to detail. The staff is dressed impeccably in 1920s attire, contributing to the overall charm and allure of the place. The dedication to the theme extends beyond aesthetics; it permeates the entire experience, making dining at Crowbar an unforgettable journey into a bygone era.

The drink menu is a highlight, boasting an impressive selection of craft cocktails that pay homage to classic concoctions from the Prohibition era. Expertly crafted by skilled mixologists, each cocktail tells its own story, incorporating quality spirits and creative ingredients that tantalize the palate.

The food menu at Crowbar goes from small plates to hearty entrees, the culinary offerings showcase inventive flavors and presentation. Diners can expect a fusion of traditional comfort food and modern culinary techniques, appealing to a diverse range of tastes.

Beyond the gastronomic delights, what truly sets Crowbar apart is the overall experience. The melding of historical ambiance, attentive service, and exceptional cuisine creates an immersive and enchanting dining escapade. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food connoisseur, or simply seeking a unique dining experience, Crowbar delivers on all fronts.

However, being a hidden gem might pose a challenge for some visitors in locating the restaurant due to its unassuming exterior. Nevertheless, the surprise and delight upon discovery make the experience even more special. Don't forget to ring the bell to enter.

The Crowbar Hardware Store is more than just a restaurant; it's an experiential journey through time, offering patrons a glimpse into the glamorous yet secretive world of the 1920s speakeasies. With its captivating ambiance, delectable menu, and attentive service, Crowbar stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable...

Update in October, 2025: My original review below knocked a point off for the food. I'm dutifully updating this review to note that they have a new chef and a new menu and everything is now quite amazing! They still have the "Leatherhead" smokey Old Fashioned... and more tricks and surprises! Here's my original review from a couple of years ago: Looking for just the right screwdriver because you don't have any orange juice at home? Visit the CrowBar and I'm sure you'll walk away with exactly what you need. To say, "not your ordinary restaurant" would be quite an understatement as this (intentionally) hidden gem has many surprises that will put a smile on your face for sure. It's a speakeasy, but don't let the owners know that I let the cat out of the bag. We started our dinner with drinks and the charcuterie for two. The selection of meats, cheeses and condiments pleasantly surprised me. Goat cheese with blueberries, pickled watermelon, fig jam, a selection of salami and prosciutto. They were all delightful as we relaxed and sipped on a couple of amazing house drinks. They have a "smokey" take on an old fashioned that was so good we had to order another. Dinner consisted of a Mediterranean lamb and a home style meatloaf. While we loved both dishes, it would be unfair to not mention that a couple of items, including the potato pancakes and super thin onion rings were a bit on the overcooked side; however, they didn't detract from the overall deliciousness of the meal and I'm looking forward to going back ASAP to try more! If you're looking for a unique experience in Claremont, you have to try the CrowBar. Just don't tell them I was the snitch - and please don't report them to the prohibition...

First let me say this place has a fun concept, from the way you enter at the front door to the atmosphere once inside to the sweet little whiskey room downstairs. Where they run into problems is the quality of food and the high prices. We were a party of 5 with a reservation. We were seated at a table with a couch on one side and 2 chairs on the other. Sitting on the couch and reaching the table was very awkward, hence it made eating and drinking uncomfortable. There were few if any drinks under $15 and the dinners were $30 plus for entrees, unless you wanted a burger. I feel these prices are quite high for Claremont. Maybe in a big city, but not Claremont. All of the servings of French fries at our table arrived cool, not hot, and I was told that they had run out of scallops as the rest of my friends were being served their dinners. This after being told they had run out of Filet. And it was a Saturday night. They did comp my meal when it finally arrived and we had a wonderful time after dinner in the downstairs whiskey bar. The bartender down there was exceptional. I really wanted to...