Another Amazing New Hampshire Restaurant is Closing, But Hints at Exciting New Project

Another restaurant in New Hampshire is closing it's doors, but this time it doesn't feel like it's going to close forever.  Otis. Restaurant at 4 Front Street in Exeter, New Hampshire is saying good-bye, but it feels like a "for now."

If you've ever dined at Otis, you know it's an experience.  There is some choice on the menu between two dishes at each course based on what the Chef is able to get.  For instance, you are not going to get fiddleheads in the dead of winter, they aren't available.  Get it?  Otis has always been able to accommodate everyone if you have dietary restrictions of course.  According to their website, it is currently set at $80 per person.

Chef Lee Frank has been in the Seacoast for decades.  He first took over Bonta Restaurant in Hampton, which turned into CR's, which is now owned by Michael Buckley as Buckley's Burgers and Steaks.  An opportunity came along for him to own his own restaurant when the owners of the Inn by the Bandstand made him an offer to create his own space and Otis. Restaurant was born.

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On Otis' Facebook page, it implies that this was not a decision that Chef Lee wanted to make, however, the landlord is not going to renew the lease, so they have to vacate the premises.  The closing date isn't set yet, however, it will be sometime in May.

Did NH Chef Lee Imply Opening Up Another Restaurant?

On the Facebook page announcement, Chef Lee said:

Stay tuned, as I can say that I am extremely excited for this next project.

Doesn't that sound like he'll open another place soon?  I'm thinking it does.

Chef Lee has been recognized from the James Beard Foundation as one of the best Chef's in the Northeast.  So - if you want to try his food, you better get to Otis soon or wait for the implied new restaurant in the future.  I'm going with the latter, myself.