Canadian Whisky - BlueToad

the RestauR ateuR
L. to r.: Chuck rolecek,
owner of the hanover street
Chophouse, and steven
Cutter, director of operations,
with two customer favorites:
theahi tuna tartare and
seafood tower.
Downtown Sophistication
hanover street chophouse in manchester
Whether it’s hosting
national politicians and
the media, local businesspeople,
or couples celebrating a special
occasion, the Hanover Street Chophouse
is among the “go to” spots for
fine dining in downtown Manchester.
Located in a renovated bank in
Manchester’s downtown arts district,
Hanover Street Chophouse exudes
warmth and sophistication, with its
mahogany paneling, crisp white tablecloths,
and black leather banquettes.
“We market ourselves as a quality
steakhouse, just as good as one you
might find in Boston or New York
City,” says Chuck Rolecek, owner
of the former Bedford eatery, C.R.
Sparks. “Many of our customers travel
here from the Boston area.”
The Chophouse has successfully
survived the economic tides of the last
few years and just completed its most
profitable year since opening in 2005.
Its reputation for fine dining is enhanced
by the staff’s attention to quality
and detail. Having worked in and
around the restaurant and hospitality
industries his entire career, Rolecek
is keenly aware of the importance of
customer service. His staff regularly
reads customer comments on websites
such as Yelp and Open Table and social
media sites like Facebook and Twitter
have helped the Chophouse connect
with a 30-something clientele seeking
what Rolecek calls a “white tableclothtype
experience.”
Not surprisingly, steak is a highlight
of the menu. Executive Chef Stuart
Cameron, who’s been at the Chophouse
since it opened, adheres to the
restaurant’s classic American steakhouse
repertoire but enjoys being playful,
adding fish and game dishes to the
menu when possible (“My passion is
fish and I think ours is the best in New
Hampshire,” he says). He also tries to
offer unusual meat choices. “I really
work hard to offer meat choices that
aren’t the same old cuts,” he adds, “so
12 | celebrate NH • march 2o12
photographs by john W. hession