Big flavor, big personality, and big achievements — Episode 26 brings Bobby Marcotte to the table! The chef behind Tuckaway Tavern, Hop & Grind, Rise & Grind, and The Barn at Merry Hill, whose work has caught national eyes far beyond New Hampshire. We dive into creativity, hustle, and what it takes to stand out. You don’t want to miss this one!

I sat down with Judi Window of Diz’s Cafe—a true Manchester NH pillar. We talk front-of-house hospitality, Gary running the back, a crew full of family, and why you might literally be eating off your great-grandmother’s plate. Eclectic, funky, warm… this is what “supper” feels like downtown.

Ken Sheldon, better known as Fred Marple of Frost Heaves, joins me for a conversation filled with laughter, storytelling, and pure New Hampshire charm. From small-town humor to big-hearted lessons, this episode celebrates community, kindness, and his newest book, “Utter Nonsense.”

Sip Woodod joins me to share the journey from washing dishes to leading three local favorites: USA Chicken & Biscuit, The Halal Spot, and Rumi Kabob House. We talk resilience, family, faith, flavors, and what it really takes to keep guests coming back!

For the first time ever, I took Beyond the Plate with Carol on the road to the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival and I got to chat with Nicki Courtois, owner of Lupe’s 55 Cantina!Nicki brings big energy, bold flavors, and serious heart to everything at Lupe’s. With creative dishes like her street tacos - she’s built a place that locals and tourist can’t stop talking about!!This episode is all about passion for food, building community, and what it takes to keep things cooking on Hampton Beach.

Step inside 815 Cocktails & Provisions with co-owners Sarah Maillet and Ryan McCabe. They’ve built more than a restaurant — it’s a space where great food, creative drinks, and genuine hospitality come together beautifully.

This week’s episode is with Jeff Hastings — a true storyteller behind the lens! His eye for detail and heart for people are what make his work so special. We talked about what keeps him inspired, the power of community, and the importance of capturing life as it happens. Such a thoughtful, inspiring chat!

I sat down with Sue Pappalardo, the heartbeat of Aunty’s Italian Kitchen. We talk growing up in an Italian home, learning to cook from her dad, and why she insists on scratch sauce, hand-pounded cutlets, and doing things the right way.If you love stories about grit, family, and food that sells out because it’s made with care—this one’s for you.

This episode features Chelsea Stoddard, the creative force behind Queen City Cupcakes. We talk about how her shop came to life, the joy of dreaming up new flavors, and the everyday fun that comes with running a business. It’s lighthearted, it’s inspiring, and it’s guaranteed to make you smile.

It all starts with KC’s Rib Shack: a barbecue joint born from weekend cookouts that became a true New Hampshire landmark. Over the years, the space has grown and transformed, adding unique touches like a tiki bar, beautiful Barn, and a thriving catering arm. And now, the latest chapter unfolds with Rock N Roll Meatballs — a bold new take mixing music, meatball flights, and plenty of flavor!

Join me for a conversation with Chef Chris Noble as we look back on how he got started, the lessons learned along the way, and what it means to cook from the heart. We also talk about his latest chapter at Figaro’s and how he’s bringing his own style and passion to the menu.

In this episode, I chatted with Phil Pelletier, the flavor mastermind behind Smokin’ Tin Roof. We talked about the leap from IT to food entrepreneur, the art of creating sauces that wow your taste buds, and the joy of seeing customers come back for more. A fun, flavorful journey that goes well BEYOND the plate.

Hospitality, history, and heart — that’s what The Crown Tavern is all about. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Zach Graham to hear how he grew with the Crown, why customer service drives everything they do, and what guests can expect when they walk through those iconic doors. Plus, a fun reveal at the end!

Pizza, people, and passion — Episode 13 had it all! My guest, Eliot Lawrence of Alley Cat Pizzeria, joined me in the Glenn Room for a conversation that was as fun as it was flavorful. This one goes BEYOND the dough, BEYOND the toppings…and straight into what keeps the Alley Cat clawing its way to the top.

Pam Provencher walks us through her creative process at Granite State Escape – from dreaming up new worlds to watching players celebrate that big win. These rooms are more than games… they’re experiences.

Episode 11 is a deep dive into Manchester’s dining scene with Justin Clutter, the driving force behind three incredible restaurants. We talk about what it takes to keep guests coming back and the exciting plans for the future. Click below to watch!

It’s Episode 10! I sat down with my dear friend and powerhouse restaurateur Priscilla Rondeau of 900 Degrees. We talked pizza, wings, grandbabies, and what 18 years in the business really looks like. This one’s full of warmth, laughter, and love.

I sat down with Dante Marino—the loud, creative force behind Deadproof Pizza—to peel back the layers of pop‑ups, record‑breaking nights, and what makes their fans keep coming back.

In this episode of Beyond the Plate, I get into the weeds with Neville Perera to talk restaurant roots, reinventing spaces, and the power of outdoor seating in the heart of Manchester.

What happens when you combine a love for hospitality, family roots in baking, and a heart for people? You get Just the Sip. Chrystina and I talk about food, flavor, faith, and how a humble food truck is becoming a true community staple.