There’s something about the 1950’s that evokes a cheerful sense of nostalgia – even for people like me, who weren’t even alive back then. Despite being born in the 70’s, I love the 50’s music, cars and culture. The world has moved on from that time, but a few places enshrine the best from what was probably America’s happiest decade. Locally, the Roundabout Diner is the finest example.
Situated on the Portsmouth Traffic Circle, next to the Best Western hotel, this local favorite boasts a great menu, daily specials, and of course, a generous portion of 50’s fanaticism. The walls are covered in road maps and wallpaper that features cars with big fenders and even bigger fins. “Oldies” songs play over the speaker, and for a little while, you can slip back into a simpler time.
If time seems to have stood still for the atmosphere here, it’s a different story with the menu. From Grand Marnier French toast to veggie burgers, the Roundabout keeps their offerings current and creative.
Today, I tried a selection from the specials menu, the Brisket Scramble. Made with brisket (of course), scrambled eggs, spinach, tomato, and sweet corn, and served with crispy home fries and toasted banana walnut bread, this delightful meal satisfied my taste buds and my hunger without leaving me stuffed.
I especially appreciated the banana walnut toast, which added a sweet touch to this savory special. I felt tempted to try something from the bakery case, which offered seasonal treats like a pumpkin spice cake and a chocolate frosting-topped pumpkin pie, but it was 9:00 a.m., and I just wasn’t ready for desert.
But trust me, I’ll be back.
On a future visit, I might try the Cuban Sandwich, Portabella Vegetable Benedict, or the Phantom Gourmet’s Best BBQ Pulled Pork. You can view these meals on the Roundabout Diner’s website at https://www.roundaboutdiner.com/the-best-diner-food-in-nh-menu
If you want an adult beverage to go with your meal, the Roundabout has a lounge with a full bar with their own cocktail creations. Discerning drinkers might delight in the Pomegranate Cosmo or the Muddy Martini. (Again, it being 9:00 in the morning, I didn’t quite feel ready for a martini – but there’s always next time.)
For younger diners, the menu includes several options, including a Kids Chicken Dinner, Mac n’ Cheese, and Kids Pancakes.
The impressive menu and fun décor at this delightful local fixture won’t quite take you back in time, but your appetite and your nostalgia will be roused. Whether you love the 50’s because you lived through them, or because of a parent’s stories or even the TV show Happy Days, you’ll want to “‘round, ‘round’ get around” to the Roundabout Diner.
The Roundabout Diner is located at 580 US Highway 1 Bypass. They may be reached at 431-1440. The restaurant is open 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Feature photo: tripadvisor.com
