We put our heads together and came up with some staff picks for the Cappies issue. These Insider Favorites are winners in our eyes.
Best gluten free brownie: Just Like Mom's Pastries
Are you living the gluten-free life? And dying for a brownie? Look no further than Just Like Mom’s Pastries (353 Riverdale Road in Weare.) This bakery routinely stocks several varieties of moist, fudgy gluten-free brownies. You can also order gluten-free cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, even weddings.
For more, call 529-6669 or log on to justlikemomspastries.com
Best tea selection: True Brew Barista
We’re not gonna lie: we were a little disappointed that True Brew Barista didn’t crack the top three for best coffee shop category. Alas, we are awarding an honorary title of best tea selection to the café.
True Brew has about 40 different flavors of tea in green, white, black, red, oolong, herbal and chai varieties. You can order any beverage hot or cold, and the shop is now making smoothies with its green mango tea. How cool is that?
If you’re flustered by all the choices, the staff won’t hesitate to recommend something. Owner Robert Zinser’s favorite flavor? Ginger peach apricot black tea. Now we’re getting thirsty.
Where to find them:
3 Bicentennial Square
Phone: 225-2776
Best unusual party food: German John's Bakery
You’ve heard of 15-foot long hoagies and the giant party pizzas, but have you ever thought of a super-sized pretzel to feed to masses at your next gathering? German John’s Bakery (5 West Main Street in Hillsboro) makes 2 lb pretzels. Stuff one of these babies with meats and cheese, and you’ve got enough for 10 large sandwiches.
For more, call 464-5079 or log on to germanjohnsbakery.net
Best beer selection: Barb's Beer Emporium
Barb’s Beer Emporium (208 North Main Street in Concord) doesn’t disappoint. The store is packed with nearly 300 varieties of beer from around the world. Big bottles, little bottles, cases, six-packs and singles. You name it, Barb’s probably has it. The shop also hosts regular beer-tasting events, and stocks some fun trinkets for the lager lover in your life. Pint-glass candles anyone?
For more, call 369-4501 or log on to barbsbeeremporium.com
Best place for a kids birthday party:Abigail's Bakery
Clowns, bounce houses and swimming pools are great and all, but how about baking? You provide the kids and Abigail’s Bakery (352 South Sugar Hill Road in Weare) provides dough, cupcakes and plenty of space. Each party guests shapes a loaf of bread to take home and decorates a pre-made cupcake.
For more, call 724-6544 or log on to abigailsbakery.com
