100-Year-Old NH Restaurant Wins A Coveted American Classics Award
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Puritan Backroom in Manchester, N.H., opened as Puritan Confectionary Company in 1917. Now, after more than 100 years serving simple, but delicious food to locals and visitors (including a few famous politicians), they are finally getting the recognition they deserve.
On February 20, the James Beard Foundation named Puritan Backroom one of their six choices for the 2020 America’s Classics Award. The annual award honors restaurants that embody the character of their community.
Friends and Greek immigrants Arthur Pappas and Louis Canotas originally founded the restaurant as a simple ice cream and snack stand. In 1974, their children added a sit-down restaurant, and later a takeout business and conference center.
Manchester, N.H. is a well-known stop for politicians on the campaign trail, many of whom have stopped in to enjoy some of Puritan Backroom's famous chicken nuggets. They most recently had visits from presidential candidates, Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders - not at the same time, of course!
US Representative Chris Pappas, who represents New Hampshire’s 1st district, also happens to be a co-owner.
Stop in for some delicious American favorites and a signature mudslide made from Puritan's real ice cream flavors!
You can view all six of the 2020 America’s Classics Award winners here.