“It’s the place the New York Times calls “hip”. “
We’re talkin’ Cotton, an eclectic downtown Manchester, NH restaurant located in the Historic Millyard District.
“Cotton is known for exceptional food, friendly yet professional service and an inviting, casual upscale atmosphere.”
Love the reclaimed mill building, the exposed pipes and beams.
Cotton is listed as one of the ten best neighborhood restaurants in the Northeast by Bon Appetit Magazine.
There’s great artwork on the walls…
A wonderful atmosphere sets the tone for a great meal…
On this day, we enjoyed lunch. The Grilled Salmon was served on a bed of baby spinach with maple balsamic vinaigrette, shaved red onions, dried cranberries, toasted pecans and crumbled bleu cheese.
And how ’bout this great salad? Pan-seared Sea Scallops over mixed greens, baby tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette.
Cotton serves a wonderful and refreshing Blueberry Basil Mojito. (My fave.)
Must. Have. Dessert. (Especially with a a birthday girl in the mix.) Toffee Cheesecake with caramel drizzle.
And a special that day: homemade Pistachio Ice-cream. Oooo-eee!
I’ve had the wonderful pleasure of dining here at Cotton with friends several times. I must agree with Bon Appetit: this is definitely one of the ten best neighborhood restaurants in the Northeast.
I love the ambience and excellent menu choices. Over forty wines served by the glass, also wonderful cocktails at the full bar. The day Through Her Looking Glass launched last fall, Jon swooped me out to dinner here. Yeah, he knows I love this place!
Sure hope you’ll visit Cotton someday soon, you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re visiting the Manchester, NH area, I also highly recommend the Millyard Museum nearby, run by the Manchester Historic Association. Housed in the former Amoskeag Mills, you’ll experience excellent, interactive exhibits with fascinating artifacts and history of the Manchester mills.
“The exhibit includes the story of the development of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company (in the 1800’s). This powerful corporation would become one of the largest textile producing company in the world, employing over 17,000 people, including immigrants from many countries. The company’s vast brick millyard still dominates the cityscape today. The story continues into the 20th century, as innovative businesses flourish in the city and new groups of immigrants came to Manchester to start new lives.”
Related post: Bedford Village Inn
aunt pinkie says
You find the most enchanting places- thanks for sharing!
Jen says
All of it looks delicious!
Rebekah says
Cotton was one of our favorites when we lived in Manchester!
Linda Jenkins says
I have had the pleasure of dining at Cotton on more than one occasion. I agree with everything you said. I love the relaxed atmosphere and the always delicious food. The wait staff are so personable and definitely add to the dining experience. Cotton is one of the jewels of the Queen City.
Tracy Costa says
I have also dined at Cotton. You are right, great food and a wonderful atmosphere! I haven’t been in awhile. Your pictures are beautiful! Very enticing! I’ll have to go back soon. Thanks for the idea!
nikkiana says
Loved that place when I was living in NH!
Susie says
This place looks great! So many places I want to see when we come up to New England! Cotton reminds me of a restaurant in Charlotte called Bonterra. The building used to be a church. It is the coolest place, has wonderful food and service, and a fabulous wine list.
Christy says
Sure wish there was a Cotton out west. The ambience and food look like a delightful cocktail of fun!!
Erin @ Miss Scrambled Egg says
Cotton looks like a winner in my book especially with that blueberry mojito!
Candace says
I love the atmosphere and charm of this place! That food is mouth watering. My husband and I absolutely love eating out. We would be all over that place if we lived closer :). It looks right up our alley!
Karen @ On the Banks of Salt Creek says
My father’s side of the family are all from the NE . I’ve never been but my dream for the past six years has been to take a field trip and see all the historic parts of our country.
Portland OR does a pretty good job of keeping historic buildings but we just don’t have the history that the east coast does. Plus, since we’ve been homeschooling American History is one of my favorite subjects.
Barbara Child says
Haven’t been there, but sounds like a “must try” place. Thanks for the detailed description and beautiful pictures!
Diana says
Wow, what great pictures!! The food looks awesome!! We went there over 10 years ago, time to go again.
Ruth Anne Fuller says
Never been there but hope to make a New England trip in not too distant future. Allie…we just returned from a qujck trip to SC for our granddaughter’s junior piano recital. Stayed with Merrill and Peggy…Bethy and baby flew in Sunday night, staying 3 weeks. So good to see them and M & P. Take care…RA
Jeffrey @ Cotton says
Thank you for the wonderful Cotton photo essay you featured on your blog. You did a great job capturing Cotton’s spirit, especially with your photos.
Your support and patronage are truly appreciated.
Fun and safe travels on your future Through Her Looking Glass adventures.
Best wishes-
Jeffrey Paige – Chef/Owner
Cotton
Manchester, NH