This Candlelit Restaurant in New Hampshire is Perfect for a Cozy Night Out

If you have read any of my previous articles (and I sure hope that you did), you probably already know that I have an extreme fondness for antique inns and historic restaurants. I find it absolutely fascinating to be able to sleep or eat in a place where hundreds of years of history unfolded behind the very walls where I stand. I also have a deep appreciation for those souls who lovingly preserved these properties and saved them from ruin. I’ve recently discovered a phenomenal property in Durham, New Hampshire, where history, food, and candlelight come together to create an amazing experience. Allow me to tell you about the Three Chimneys Inn.

Whenever I think of Durham, my thoughts drift back to visiting friends at UNH many years ago. However, the quaint place is much more than a college town. Durham is rich in history and still has many old buildings intact, including the Three Chimneys Inn, housed on a property dating back to 1649. The building is the oldest house in Durham, as well as one of the oldest homes in the state. A trip here is like travelling back in time.

Guests who visit the property (for a stay or just to eat) have several dining options. The comfy ffrost Sawyer Tavern is always a popular choice, as is Coppers, the home's original winter kitchen. The Terrace is also a beautiful spot to dine outside in the garden in the warmer months. However, I am most intrigued by the Maples Dining Room, an intimate space that hosts cozy candlelit dinners. Architectural aspects of this special room date back centuries and give guests the feeling of dining in Colonial New England, but luckily with much better cuisine.  

The dinner menu at the Three Chimneys Inn is filled with warm comfort food and hearty regional favorites such as New England pot roast, butternut squash & apple risotto, and seasonal ravioli. Guests can also enjoy a variety of appetizers, sides, and craft cocktails. And there is also a special menu for the little ones in your group. 

If you decide to stay overnight at the inn, there are several rooms to choose from, including some jacuzzi and pet-friendly rooms. All guest rooms offer comfortable modern amenities and eco-friendly bath products. But don't worry, they haven’t lost their historical charm. Old brick fireplaces, exposed beams, and antique furnishings are found in many of the rooms. Whether you decide to stay for a romantic weekend getaway or just visit for a cozy dinner out, a trip to the Three Chimneys Inn is sure to be a memorable experience. 

Have you ever visited the Three Chimneys Inn? If so, please tell us about your visit. Please note that the restaurant is only open for dinner service. You can find out more about this cozy restaurant at the Three Chimneys Inn website and the Three Chimneys Inn Facebook page. For even more romance in New Hampshire, check out these ten date ideas. And be sure to use the customized Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner for all of your New Hampshire travels.