Family Dinner at The Homestead

On Friday evening, my family and I took my brother out for his 29th birthday. We decided to try a new (to us) restaurant in Merrimack, N.H. (where my parents live/where I grew up)  – The Homestead - that my parents had been to once before and enjoyed.

The Homestead took over the spot that used to be Silo’s Steakhouse, a former restaurant staple in Merrimack. The owners totally renovated the place, making the former red, barn-like structure into a bright, inviting space.

Upon walking inside, I was immediately impressed with the homey, cottage-like décor. Complete with dim lighting, the restaurant had a lower level dining room as well as an upstairs lounge area, which is where we chose to sit. The wood plank ceilings and cozy atmosphere made me immediately comfortable and ready for a warm, satisfying meal.

My brother spotted Shipyard Pumpkinhead on tap, so we both ordered a pint while we ate the complimentary crackers and dip, as well as the warm rolls (slices of sweet bread were also in the basket).

The menu at The Homestead is chocked full of classic dishes, ranging from Chicken Cordon Bleu ($17.99) to Baked Stuffed Haddock ($19.99) to Home-style Meatloaf ($15.99). Despite the meat-focused menu, The Homestead is also conscious of vegetarian diets, with dishes like Goat Cheese and Sun-dried Tomato Flatbread ($9.99) as well as Vegetarian Ravioli ($15.99), which is what I ordered for dinner.

The ravioli came piled high with asparagus, portabella mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, broccoli, artichoke hearts, and tomatoes, sautéed with garlic, fresh herbs, and white wine. The ravioli itself was filled with grilled vegetables. This dish could have easily been simple and bland, but it was the complete opposite. The amount of vegetables in the dish was outstanding, and the white wine sauce was addictive – I literally lapped up the remains with a spoon. This dish was also really hearty, and washed down with a glass of pinot grigio - it was just about perfect.

My pasta dish also came with one side, so I ordered more asparagus.

Our meal at The Homestead was a great one, and my brother really enjoyed having his birthday dinner there. I’d like to also note that our waitress was very friendly, attentive and accommodating. I’d love to go back there for some drinks and appetizers on their outdoor patio before it gets too cold!

What are some culinary highlights from your long weekend?

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