Opening of Evolution Bistro & Bar on Elm; Codex BAR Speakeasy in Nashua closed

Oct. 18 – Changes to dining options in downtown Manchester and Nashua

A RESTAURANT on Elm Street in Manchester is slowly evolving into a new identity.

The BluAqua Restobar is being completely redesigned and renamed Evolution Bistro & Bar. The new restaurant promises “a delicious fusion of modern American cuisine with a European flair” in an upscale pub atmosphere.

The new location is expected to open in November. It’s the second restaurant from Gourmet Grove Restaurant Group, led by restaurateurs Scott Forrester and David Schleyer of Elm Grove Cos., after it acquired 1750 Taphouse in Bedford earlier this year.

The big change will be a menu developed by Chef Anthony Dispensa, “whose culinary journey has taken him from New York to London and to Michelin-starred kitchens around the globe.”

“I’m delighted to bring a fresh culinary experience to Manchester,” Dispensa said in a statement. “Evolution Bistro & Bar is all about combining the familiar with the innovative, and I can’t wait for our guests to explore our menu that celebrates both American and European techniques.”

The “cocktail program” is led by Bryan Thibault and “features unique drinks that complement the unique dining experience.”

Renovations began last summer at 930 Elm St. as BluAqua remained open. The changes were documented on social media.

This is just the beginning of development along Elm. More will follow soon.

Speakeasy shutdown

Prohibition has caught up with Codex BAR in Nashua, which has captivated guests with its speakeasy theme since it opened in 2015. The hidden entrance involved pulling out the correct book from a bookshelf to gain access.

The bar — or Books, Antiques & Curiosities — has called 112 W. Pearl St. its home since 2015.

“As we close this chapter at 112 West Pearl, something exciting and unexpected will soon unfold within these walls – something that will carry on the spirit and passion you have come to know. Stay curious because what comes next is sure to surprise you,” reads a Facebook post.

The post continued: “As for Codex BAR, we will neither confirm nor deny rumors of a return to Nashua. A familiar door may reveal itself once more, hidden in plain sight.”

Extend the breeze

The Breeze, a seafood restaurant in Gilford, has opened a second location with a name that sounds familiar: The Breeze by the Bay.

The new location opened Oct. 12 at 7 Main St. in Meredith.

Breeze is known for “casual, fine dining with views of Lake Winnipesaukee.” The original location opened in April 2022.

“Collect and refuel”

The Juicery, with locations in Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, is opening its newest location in Dover on Saturday. Each location has its own charm with the common goal of “providing a place to gather and recharge.”

The new location is at 301 Central Ave., which has been home to several small businesses in the past.

The menu includes organic juices, smoothies and smoothie bowls with “nutritional supplements.”

According to its website, the company started in 2008 in a 100 square meter space in Portsmouth. Dover is the sixth location in New Hampshire and 13th overall.

Corn dogs and bubble tea

Corn dogs will soon join the mix of burgers, pizza and teriyaki dishes at the Rockingham Park mall’s food court.

Kong Dog, a chain that makes homemade corn dogs, is scheduled to open in November or early December.

The fillings include either beef, chicken or plant-based sausage. Mozzarella and half beef, half mozzarella are also offered. Bubble tea is also on the drinks menu.

Do you have an idea for a new business? Email reporter Jonathan Phelps at [email protected].