Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, and a Coffee Shop Comeback: 8 New Restaurants Open in New Hampshire

Eight new restaurants opened across New Hampshire in September and October 2026, adding dining options from Hudson to Portsmouth. The group includes major national chains, expanding local favorites, and independent chef-driven spots.

The Grind, a coffee and food chain, opened its third New Hampshire location in September. The expansion follows a recent history for the brand. It originally opened in Derry in 2014 but closed in 2023. Derry News reported that the original owner sold the business to Vanessa DeCesare. DeCesare was a former employee and a friend of the founder’s daughter. She reopened the brand in 2024.

Within two years of reopening, The Grind added two new locations in Durham and Manchester. DeCesare credited her team for the growth. In an Instagram post marking the opening of the newest spot, she called the team behind the three locations one of her “greatest accomplishments.”

The new restaurants include a Chipotle location in Durham. The source notes that this opening brings a popular chain to the city. It also lists a Chick-fil-A, though it does not specify the city for that location.

Chef-driven concepts are part of the new lineup. Ember & Elm opened in Marlborough. The source describes it as a chef-driven spot, distinct from the chain restaurants. It offers an intimate dining experience.

Other new venues provide French and Mediterranean cuisine. The source states that the variety of food options continues to grow. It lists these cuisines among the choices available to residents in the eight new eateries.

The openings span the state, reaching towns like Hudson and Portsmouth. The source contrasts these openings with four restaurants that closed in September. It notes that the new venues offer fresh variety for diners looking to update their food plans.