Ottos inhabits the space that used to be Machina Arts. My partner and I ate dinner here on a pleasant Friday June evening. Service was friendly and knowledgeable. The beer selection is good, covering a wide range of tastes, and the cocktails are inventive and tasty. On a nice night, the sidewalk tables are the place to be. Our server generously provided a dish of water for our pup.
We grazed - shared three appetizers and one entree. It was the perfect amount of food. Portions are moderately sized (this ain't Carmines) the focus is on quality, not quantity.
The tuna crudo was off the charts fantastic. One of the best dishes I've had anywhere in Keene. The beef hand pies were savory and delicious also. Incredibly tender beef in a surprisingly light pastry package, with some preternaturally delicious mushrooms on the side .
The appetizer from the specials menu (pictured here) was a very ambitious octopus thang, with hot pepper and a cucumber-lime sauce. As you can see, like everything we ordered, the presentation was absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately the flavor didn't live up to its appearance. It was unbalanced, with the hot pepper taking over. And we both like hot stuff, too. We each ate one tiny slice of pepper, that was enough. The cucumber sauce was nicely tangy, but unfortunately very bitter, I assume from the cucumber. It was as if the chef hadn't tasted the components before assembling the dish, which is unfortunate.
Our entree was duck breast with lavender and a nectarine-bourbon sauce and some other stuff. When asked, we specified for it to be cooked medium-rare, and that's exactly how it arrived. Another very beautiful presentation, and very delicious.
Prices are on the high end for Keene, but so is the quality. Ottos has been open since January 2025 according to our server. The dining room was very quiet for a Friday night, which was concerning. We hope they are doing OK. You should definitely check them out. They deserve to be rewarded for pushing the boundaries in this corner of New Hampshire. This is creative and adventurous food that would cost you twice as much in Boston or New York, and it's right here in Cheshire county. We will...
Read moreif you’re looking for higher-end more experimental cuisine without the insane price tag, Otto’s is the place to go. They have a consistently changing menu as well as occasional specials that are not worth the miss. My personal favorite is the petite tenderloin, always cooked to perfection. They also always have delicious raw oysters available lunch and dinner. Their Sunday brunch is also incredible.
They have a beautiful space with a fully stocked bar, and a quieter dining room with a couple nooks for someone looking for a quieter meal.
I will say picky eaters beware as substitutions aren’t typically recommended, and frankly not needed, unless it’s an allergy! (They have an incredible appreciation for those with gluten free, dairy free, or any allergy restrictions…)
I highly recommend for anyone looking for a nice date or simply a meal with a...
Read moreOtto's is an absolute gem in downtown Keene! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with warm, friendly service and an atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between inviting and elevated. The food is fantastic. It is fresh, flavorful, and clearly crafted by a talented chef who knows how to create exciting, inspired dishes.
What really sets Otto's apart is the presence and care of the owners, Kaycie & Kyle, who are both hands-on and deeply committed to making every experience seamless. Even Otto himself gets in on the action, graciously helping to host and making guests feel right at home.
Whether you're local or just passing through, I highly recommend making a reservation at this new...
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