Manchester is home to a plethora of restaurants representing an assortment of cuisines, but few qualify as genuine fine-dining. Among these few is the Hanover Street Chophouse, a destination for those seeking a high-end meal in a stylish setting.
Since 2005, the Chophouse has been serving high quality and expertly-prepared steaks, chops and seafood housed in a former bank. “It’s a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Manchester,” said General Manager Tony Chapman, who has been a part of the Chophouse team for 10 years.
Starters include a thick cut bacon “sizzler” served over a cheddar-chive potato cake with maple bourbon glaze and fried calamari with pepperoncini peppers. The raw bar menu features classics like shrimp cocktail, oysters on the half shell and a full seafood platter.
Steaks and Chops, many of which are sourced from independent butchers, act as the centerpiece of the menu. Some steaks, such as the bone-in New York strip, undergo dry-aging, a process that tenderizes the beef and concentrates its flavor. The chophouse also locally sources produce during the summer months. “We have our own farm plots at Joppa Hill Farm in Bedford [New Hampshire],” said Chapman. “[We grow] spices, tomatoes, brussels sprouts, peppers and other produce on the farm.”
Filet mignon is a particularly popular choice; diners can choose between an eight-ounce or twelve-ounce filet. This tender cut is offered plain or with a variety of accompaniments including bacon maple bourbon jam, local mushrooms or cheddar ancho jam. For a truly decadent option, choose the truffle butter, which blends hand-shaved truffles and Worcestershire sauce with fresh butter.
The bar menu features many dishes priced under fifteen dollars. An eight-ounce burger topped with Vermont cheddar and bacon and sherry-laced lobster mac and cheese are among the budget-friendly options.
All the items on the tempting dessert menu are made in-house. Options include the signature carrot cake paired with toasted coconut, pecans, pineapple compote and vanilla bean ice cream. If navigating the selection becomes unbearable, diners can order the dessert collection, which features a sampling of favorites from the dessert menu.
The classy, trendy environment is complimented by a full bar with a well-known whiskey and wine selection. “We are trying to deliver an experience where people forget they’re in Manchester,” said Chapman. “We want to make them feel special and welcome, almost like family.”
When asked what his plans are for the future, Chapman said, “We want to be constantly improving and upholding the standards that we hold ourselves to.”
The Chophouse’s successful formula of high-end eats, polished service and classic atmosphere ensures that New Hampshire residents will continue to be treated for years to come.
