Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Bruschetta Olio Nuova
Tarocco con Finocchio
Radicchio alla Griglia con Burrata
Barbabietole Sulla Spuma di Ceci
About
Il Cornicello
Welcome to Il Cornicello, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of downtown Exeter, New Hampshire. This charming restaurant delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on your palate. Located at 11 Water St, and easily reachable at +1 603-580-4604, Il Cornicello is the perfect spot for anyone looking to indulge in freshly made dishes that bring together the simplicity of home-cooked meals and the sophistication of a fine dining experience.
The menu here is a delightful compilation of seasonal flavors, featuring handmade pasta and locally sourced ingredients that change regularly, ensuring each visit reveals new culinary treasures. Start your meal with the Bruschetta Olio Nuova, featuring grilled bread doused in exquisite Poggio Alloro extra virgin olive oil, or savor the refreshing Tarocco con Finocchio salad, which combines blood orange segments, prosciutto di Parma, and shaved fennel in a symphony of taste. Each appetizer is crafted with attention to detail, befitting the restaurant's reputation.
Moving on to the primo piatti, you can’t help but crave the Ravioli di Funghi Misti, a rich mix of mushrooms and thyme enveloped in handcrafted pasta, drenched in a luscious cream sauce that tantalizes the senses. For an elevated taste experience, try the Carbonara al Limone con Capasante, where pan-seared scallops meet a fragrant lemon cream sauce, served atop squid ink corzetti pasta. It’s dishes like these that not only showcase the chefs' skill but also illuminate the essence of Italian culinary tradition.
When it’s time for dessert, let the Pistachio Olive Oil Cake be your sweet conclusion; it’s a heavenly treat that hits all the right notes. Patrons rave about the extensive wine list and the knowledgeable staff who expertly curate pairings that complement each dish flawlessly.
The ambience at Il Cornicello is equally essential to the dining experience—cozy and intimate, with a bar area that invites laughter and warmth. Guests consistently praise the attentive service, noting how the staff goes above and beyond to ensure every visit is special. As one delighted diner, Mary Strathern, aptly puts it—“Make your reservation now, you won’t regret it!”
Whether you are a local or a visitor, Il Cornicello offers more than just food; it serves a memorable experience wrapped in the nostalgia of Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to book your table in advance, as word of this exquisite restaurant spreads rapidly. Each visit is a chance to celebrate authentic Italian flavors in a charming setting, making Il Cornicello a must-visit destination in Exeter.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Cute and cozy this small town restaurant is a must. The menu is small but has something for everyone however they will whip something up for you special if you need something else. The wait staff is great, they stop by and see how you are doing even if you're not in their section. Bar seating available too. Bar just opened up in the basement and is worth it. ”
“ Lauding this establishment will only contribute to the competition for future reservations but the food, services, and unique and cozy atmosphere require accolades. We’ve been here multiple times. A changing menu always keeps things interesting and everything that we’ve ordered has left lasting delicious memories. The staff is knowledgeable, warm and attentive. The restaurant is small in a lovely location which adds to its charm. A gem! ”
“ It’s always a treat dining at downtown Exeter’s Cornicello! From the very attentive staff, extensive wine list, cozy atmosphere, flavorful fresh dishes to the delightful desserts. Make your reservation now, you won’t regret it! ”
“ Hands down the best Italian restaurant around. The food and service is always outstanding. The menu changes regularly based on local in-season ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a new experience. The pastas are all made in-house and always incredibly delicious. You will be happy with whatever you order! I always look forward to our visits to Cornicello! ”
“ Fantastic little spot. Handmade pasta daily. Sign me up. We booked reservations at the bar. Checked in 10min prior and we were seated pretty much right away. Staff was very attentive, friendly and knowledgeable about what to recommend. We ordered a blueberry and goat cheese bruschetta, meatballs in broth, and I had ravioli while my girl had the braised short rib and pasta choice. And we had their olive oil cake. Flavors were awesome, everything just melted in your mouth. I really don't think you would find anything you don't like on this menu or that isn't prepped, cooked, and constructed with precision and thought. Street parking wasn't an issue. The atmosphere is cozy, fairly low key, quiet, and relaxed. 7tables and the bar seating keeps it that way. Book ahead of time they seemingly are booked out weeks/months. If you get a chance, stop in. If you like authentic Italian cuisine, you will be pleased. ”
“ We’ve been to this restaurant quite a few times now, and somehow it just keeps getting better. The food is consistently amazing—each dish packed with exceptional flavors and attention to detail. We travel often and really value memorable dining experiences, especially when it comes to food, and this place never disappoints. Most recently, we were in Bangkok dining at a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant, and honestly, this place surpasses even that. It’s truly that outstanding. From the quality of ingredients to the creativity behind every dish, it’s clear the team here takes real pride in what they do. Can’t recommend it enough! ”
“ Outstanding service. The staff is professional and friendly. The atmosphere is charming, inside and out. We dined with a view of rapids and a quaint setting. Plenty of wines from which to choose. The entrees were delicious and unusual. Don’t forget dessert. ”
“ I was visiting from Hayesville North Carolina for my birthday. My sister and brother in law brought me to your fine establishment. Sophia made sure everything was grand in every way. Fabulous pasta, seafood and drinks! Thank you Sophia for making my birthday wonderful. ”