New Hampshire Feature

Red Arrow Diner. Once named one of the country's "top 10 diners" by USA Today, the bustling Red Arrow Diner is open 24/7 and caters to politicos, students, artists, and regular Janes and Joes in the heart of the Granite State's largest city. The 1922 diner's daily "Blue Plate Specials" are served on actual blue plates, and you'll find such regular items as kielbasa and beans and house-brewed Arrow root beer and cream soda. 61 Lowell St., Manchester, NH, 03101. 603/626-1118. www.redarrowdiner.com. 63 Union Sq, ., Milford, 03055. 603/249-9222. www.redarrowdiner.com.

Sunny Day Diner. Up in the skiing and hiking haven of Lincoln, outdoorsy souls fuel up on hearty fare like banana-bread French toast and cherry pie à la mode at the cozy Sunny Day Diner, a handsomely restored building from the late 1950s. U.S. 3, just off I-93, Exit 33, Lincoln, NH, 03251. 603/745-4833.

Tilt'n Diner. Travelers to the state's Lakes Region have long been familiar with the flashy pink exterior and neon signage of the Tilt'n Diner, a convivial 1950s-style restaurant that's known for its baked shepherd's pie and Southern breakfast—sausage gravy, biscuits, and baked beans with two eggs—served all day. On sunny days, dine at one of the picnic tables. 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton, NH, 03276. 603/286-2204. www.thecman.com.

Lou's Restaurant. Dartmouth students and professors hobnob over stellar breakfast victuals at Lou's Restaurant, a cheap-and-cheerful storefront diner that serves up prodigious portions of corned-beef hash and eggs Benedict, as well as artfully decorated cupcakes and house-made donuts. Just beware of the long lines on weekend mornings. 30 S. Main St., Hanover, NH, 03755. 603/643-3321. www.lousrestaurant.net.

Friendly Toast. In the historic coastal city of Portsmouth, the Friendly Toast might be the most vaunted breakfast spot in the state. Creative fare like Almond Joy pancakes (with coconut, chocolate chips, and almonds) and the "Flying Fish scramble" (eggs with smoked salmon, fresh dill, and cheddar) keep hungry bellies coming back again and again. 113 Congress St., Portsmouth, NH, 03801. 603/430-2154. www.thefriendlytoast.net.