Puritan Backroom Restaurant
Puritan Backroom Restaurant things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Description
Famous for its chicken tenders, this laid-back institution serves up classic American meals.
attractions: Livingston Park, McIntyre Ski Area, Puritan Conference Center, Dorrs Pond, restaurants: Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese, Villaggio Ristorante, Pizza 911, La Carreta, Luisa's Italian Pizzeria, Bearded Baking Co., Nadeau's Subs Salads Wraps, Cheng Du Kitchen, Wrap City Sandwiches Manchester, Playa Bowls
Ratings
Description
Famous for its chicken tenders, this laid-back institution serves up classic American meals.
Posts
After giving them an outstanding review last summer, it pains me to have to admit that yesterday my meal was horrible and our servicer couldn't answer questions that really weren't hard. I brought a friend, new to the area, because he saw a YouTuber video about their chicken tenders and that they're the restaurant that invented them. When the waitress came over he wanted one of their famous mudslides and asked if it was very thick/heavy. She said she had no idea, she doesn't drink them. I told him to go for it because the place is known for them. He opted for the peanut butter one. Unfortunately it lacked peanut butter flavor when he took his first taste. As for the food, we decided to ask her if it was fact that they developed the chicken tenders and she said, I don't know very abruptly. Most wait staff who don't know the answer would at least offer to inquire on your behalf. He ordered them and I ordered their baked haddock, which was outstanding last summer. The crumbs on top of the haddock weren't even wet, they were like dry sand poured over the fish. The casserole had zero flavor even the haddock. His chicken tenders were dry. I tried them because I was shocked since they're a top seller for them. It being Christmas we did not complain. Our waitress's persona took a turn twords the end of the visit, which to me, is when the bill is coming, and it's tip time. I left the worst tip I think I've ever left a waitress. If the place was packed I'd understand but this was before the dinner rush hour and plenty of empty tables. As for my buddy he's not returning. I told him to give them another try but he was right when he said there's just too many restaurants out there to try to give them a second shot. I'll return because I've been coming here for over 30 years and everyplace has an off night.
Dee MandoleseDee Mandolese
60
Over-rated, in my honest opinion. We arrived at 12:05 on a Friday and there was already a short wait. This makes one think " promising." It's long time residency is a tourist attraction. My husband and I have been meaning to dine here for some time. The chicken fingers came recommended time & time again. Finally, we have set foot. Observations. 1. Menu is broad with lots of different options. 2. The average age in this restaurant was easily 65 3. Very clean. Our server Sara was really polite, knowledgeable & swift. We received complimentary bread. I was disappointed because you could tell it was warmed in the microwave ( we've all done it), but it had that rubbery rippy texture. I ordered the turkey club on wheat. It arrived soggy because they put all of my fries ONTOP of the sandwich. So I had to dig through fries to find my club and then to discover the bread was no longer toasty because it had been steamed. Hubby ordered the chicken fingers. The batter is SWEET. Definitely not what was expected. Perhaps if I was ordering chicken & and waffles, this flavor would be acceptable. I'm super disappointed after all the hootin& hollerin we've received from peers. Sadly, we left with upset stomachs, overall disappointed and wondering why this place is always busy.
IrenemarieIrenemarie
00
Heard some rumors from family about this place specifically to their chicken tenders. They are not rumors any longer just facts now! I think I can say that they make the best chicken tenders ever! There is a slight hint of sweetness to perfectly balance the salty and savory of the lightly breaded strips. This is not a place that gives more breading on the tenders there is delicious meat inside. Also had the scallop roll which was delicious and the scallops melt in your mouth as they should. Topped with some baklava and a chocolate fudge cake. The place is busy but the staff are friendly and amazing. This is also a large place to easy accomodate groups and families. I didn’t try their ice cream but if the people stopping in for only ice cream coupled with the quality in their other items I can imagine it is world class as well. Puritan back room is well known In Manchester and soon all of NH will know!
Mark HayesMark Hayes
30
My Tumor Potato - This is not the first time I have gotten a baked potato like this from takeout at the Puritan. I called up and spoke to Erin, who said she was the manager on duty and would be refunding my chicken kabob meal and I should see the results in about a week. The food can be good at the Puritan as long as your are ordering one of their specialty items like the chicken, but it is a 50/50 chance that you have either the right stuff of all of your items ordered when you go through the takeout. They continually hire high school kids to work the front and help out in the kitchen. They need to hire adults who are paid a decent wage and benefits, so that they will stay there for years. It is not like the place is lacking in money, it is always crowded, but inconsistent with quality. This place could do a lot to make improvements on with its Takeout portion of the business.
Todd WimpelTodd Wimpel
00
It's now been my second trip to Manchester and thus second trip to the Puritan and believe me, this place does not disappoint. For years, my wife raved about their chicken strips and she was right. They're phenomenal, with and without The Puritan's duck sauce that accompanies them. I like the regular and the spicy tenders but I think my wife just prefers the regular. She tried the coconut today and wasn't a fan but that will not stop us from coming back. The Backroom at the Puritan has an impressive drink selection as well and a beautiful bar. A word of caution...an order of chicken tenders is a dozen. Yes, that's right...a dozen. It's a LOT of food. For two orders of chicken fingers, one of their legendary mudslides and an Allagash White, our tab was about $50, which is a bit steep. But the food is worth it and we look forward to coming here every time we're in Manchester.
Andrew CollinsAndrew Collins
00
Traditional wood paneling atmosphere. They are known for their chicken fingers, but I got a Reuben. I was disappointed that any side other than French fries was an unchange, so my companion and I just asked for a side of tomato. I got 4 slices of tomato and a Kosher dill pickle. My companion got a roast beef sandwich on a bun. He said it is really good. My Reuben had a great taste, too, grilled nice. They make their own ice cream at the restaurant, so we do not leave without dessert. My companion decided that since a sundae was only two dollars more than a bowl of ice cream, it was a no-brainer to get it. Chocolate M&M ice cream, whipped cream, hot fudge, chopped peanuts, and a cherry really hit the spot. I had the strawberry shortcake. Two small sweet biscuits with a lot of creamy ice cream, homemade strawberry sauce, and whipped cream. Yum. The service was good.
Tara KirbyTara Kirby
00
Nearby Attractions Of Puritan Backroom Restaurant
Livingston Park
McIntyre Ski Area
Puritan Conference Center
Dorrs Pond

Livingston Park
4.6
(834)Click for details

McIntyre Ski Area
4.5
(575)Click for details

Puritan Conference Center
4.6
(85)Click for details

Dorrs Pond
4.8
(49)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Puritan Backroom Restaurant
Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese
Villaggio Ristorante
Pizza 911
La Carreta
Luisa's Italian Pizzeria
Bearded Baking Co.
Nadeau's Subs Salads Wraps
Cheng Du Kitchen
Wrap City Sandwiches Manchester
Playa Bowls

Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese
4.7
(1.2K)$$
Click for details

Villaggio Ristorante
4.6
(410)$$
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Pizza 911
3.6
(328)$$
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La Carreta
4.4
(591)$
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