Shows
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLGeorge Kokkinos Margie’s Dream & Charlie’s Homestyle Diner’s | Manchester’s Best-Kept Secret | Ep 36George Kokkinos has been feeding Manchester for over 15 years – but Margie's Dream Diner has been a neighborhood staple since 1975. That's 50 years of breakfast, lunch, and community packed into a tiny diner with just 8 booths and 5 counter seats.
In this episode, Carol sits down with her longtime friend George to talk about taking over Margie's after being a regular customer for nearly 20 years, the advice Carol's father gave him before he got into the business ("You gotta be a people person, and you gotta sell a lot of eggs to make money"), his mom's sp...
2026-02-1737 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLAt the Plate: Carol Lawrence & Brent Marshall Talk NH Food | Ep 35 | Granite TapasWelcome to AT THE PLATE - a new format where it's just food conversation.
Carol Lawrence- Erickson sat down with Brent Marshall (Bikes & Bites) at Granite Tapas & Cocktail Lounge in Hooksett, NH, and they did what they do best: talked about food for 90 minutes straight.
No formal interview structure. No script. Just two members of the New Hampshire Eats community connecting over salted caramel wings, dirty martinis, and a shared love of great food.
This episode is different. It's casual. It's...
2026-02-141h 22
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLAmy LaBelle: Way Beyond Wine — Building a Hospitality Empire in NH | Ep 34 Beyond The PlateFrom corporate attorney to NH Winery of the Year — Amy LaBelle's 4,083-day journey to building one of New Hampshire's most beloved hospitality destinations.
In this episode, Amy gets real about what it takes to build something that goes way beyond wine — two award-winning restaurants, a golf course, a holiday light show that draws 80,000 visitors, and a luxury guest house in the works.
We talk about:
→ The moment she knew wine alone wouldn't survive in New England
→ Why hospitality is "like a theater performance every single d...
2026-02-1045 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLBen Normandeau & Andrew Moran | 603 BBQ Concord NH | EP 33Ben Normandeau was an electrician when the pandemic hit. Bored, he picked up a Weber kettle and started smoking meat. Then he cold-called over 50 of the best barbecue joints in Texas — only Joseph at Zavala’s BBQ in Grand Prairie responded. Ben flew down, showed up at 2 in the morning, and trained. He came home, built a food truck, parked it in his mom’s driveway, and 603 BBQ was born.
Now he and pitmaster Andrew Moran run one of the most talked-about barbecue spots in New England. Lines out the door every day. Sold o...
2026-02-0356 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLLisa DeSisto: 25 Years of Rig A’ Tony’s & Saving Clam Haven | Beyond the Plate Ep. 32What does it take to leave a corporate kitchen and build something of your own for 25 years?
In this episode of Beyond the Plate with Carol, I sit down with Lisa DeSisto, owner of Rig A' Tony's Italian Takeout & Catering in Derry, NH and Clam Haven. Lisa left Bertucci's in 2000 to start Rig A' Tony's — and she's been a Derry staple ever since. In 2020, she bought the 70-year-old Clam Haven to preserve its legacy and keep the tradition alive.
If you've seen her on WMUR Chronicle, you already know — she's hilarious, she's passionate, and...
2026-01-2756 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLJeffrey & Peaches Paige: 25 Years of Cotton | Ep. 31What does it take to run a restaurant for 25 years? Chef Jeffrey Paige and his wife Peaches have the answer.
In this episode of Beyond the Plate with Carol, I sit down with the couple behind Cotton in Manchester's Millyard. Jeffrey started washing dishes at 13 and was an executive chef by 21. He cooked for Julia Child, got featured on Good Morning America, wrote a cookbook that sold over 300,000 copies, and pioneered farm-to-table in New Hampshire back in 1991 — long before it was trendy.
Peaches runs the front of house and is the mastermind behind Co...
2026-01-2049 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLErik Lesniak: 20 Years of Showing Up for Manchester | Ep. 30How do you spend 20 years building relationships in one city — and then find an even better way to give back?
In this episode of Beyond the Plate with Carol, I sit down with Erik Lesniak, Business Liaison for the City of Manchester's Economic Development Office. Erik spent nearly two decades with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats before stepping into a brand-new role helping small businesses navigate and thrive in Manchester.
WE TALK ABOUT:
20 years with the Fisher Cats and why he made the jump
2026-01-1346 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 29: From Pager Money to Pink Chef Jacket | Chef Nicole BarreraHow do restaurant menus actually get made? In this episode of Beyond the Plate with Carol, Chef Nicole Barrera — Director of Marketing & Menus at Great NH Restaurants — shares how she went from busing tables at 14 to writing the menus for T-Bones, Cactus Jack's, and Copper Door in New Hampshire.
We talk about:
-How restaurant menus are developed
-The story behind her famous pink chef jacket
-FEED NH and giving back over $1M to New Hampshire communities
-Why CTE culinary programs matter
...
2025-12-301h 02
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 28: Evviva Trattoria with Shelby Rossetti - Family, Flavor, and 30 Years of HospitalityShelby Rossetti didn't plan on a 30-year restaurant career, but here we are. From starting as a waitress at Ground Round (where she met her husband!), to managing TGI Fridays locations across New England, to now leading Evviva Trattoria in Bedford—Shelby's journey is the real deal.
We talk pandemic pivots, team culture that "feels like home," and why those Italian Street Fries are worth the drive to Bedford. Plus, what she'd be doing if she wasn't in restaurants (hint: electrician or plumber).
Hosted by Carol Lawrence, owner of the iconic Red Arrow Diners.
...
2025-12-2337 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 28: Evviva Trattoria with Shelby Rossetti - Family, Flavor, and 30 Years of HospitalityShelby Rossetti didn't plan on a restaurant career when she walked into a Ground Round at 18 to pay for college—but she met her husband there, made great money, and never looked back. Thirty years later, after managing TGI Fridays locations across New England (including opening AND closing the South Willow location) and running her own weighted blanket business, she's now the General Manager at Evviva Trattoria in Bedford, bringing her decades of hospitality experience to this family-owned modern Italian concept.
From signature Italian Street Fries to creating a team culture that "feels like home," Shelby sh...
2025-12-2337 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 27: La Carreta S.Willow w Jefferson Moreno Rivera-Leadership, Legacy & Krystal’s Bar MagicEpisode 27 is all about the heart and hustle behind La Carreta S. Willow Manchester NH! Jefferson Moreno Rivera shares how this spot keeps evolving, and Krystal jumps in with the kind of behind‑the‑bar magic that keeps the place glowing. Food, vibes, stories — this one has it all.
2025-12-161h 07
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 26: Flavor, Hustle & Hospitality — Bobby Marcotte’s JourneyBig 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!
2025-11-261h 03
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 25: Family, Supper & Stories — Judi Window of Diz’s CafeI 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.
2025-11-1449 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 24: Ken Sheldon and the World of Fred Marple in Frost HeavesKen 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.”
2025-11-0440 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 23: From Family Roots to Restaurant Success — USA Chicken, The Halal Spot & Rumi KabobSip 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!
2025-10-2945 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 22: Inside Lupe’s 55 Cantina with Nicki Courtois — Flavor, Vision, and DeterminationFor 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...
2025-10-2119 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 21: Inside 815 Cocktails & Provisions with Sarah Maillet & Ryan McCabeStep 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.
2025-10-1444 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 20: Jeff Hastings on capturing Manchester, moment by momentThis 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!
2025-10-0756 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 19: Aunty’s Italian Kitchen — Tradition, Hustle, and Scratch-Made ItalianI 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.
2025-10-0138 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 18: Queen City Cupcakes — Community, Creativity, and Cupcakes GaloreThis 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.
2025-09-2337 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 17: Building Vibes and Flavor — KC’s Rib Shack to Rock n’ Roll MeatballsIt 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!
2025-09-1639 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 16: Chef Chris Noble at Figaro’s Martini Bar & KitchenJoin 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.
2025-09-0938 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 15: Beyond the Heat with Phil Pelletier of Smokin’ Tin RoofIn 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.
2025-09-0433 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 14: Inside The Crown Tavern with Zach GrahamHospitality, 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!
2025-08-2736 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 13: Going BEYOND the Crust with Eliot Lawrence of Alley CatPizza, 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.
2025-08-1930 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 12: Pam Provencher on Building Next-Level Escape Room ExperiencesPam 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.
2025-08-1533 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 11: Inside the World of The Chop House, The Crown & The KitchenEpisode 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!
2025-08-1242 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 10: A Slice of Life with Priscilla Rondeau of 900 DegreesIt’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.
2025-08-0535 minBEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 6: CAROL MEETS DEADPROOFI 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.
2025-08-0547 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 9: Manchester’s Hidden Gem with Neville at The HillIn 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.
2025-07-3036 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 8: Honest Food, Real Talk — Just the Sip with Chrystina MoranWhat 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.
2025-07-2230 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 7: Food, Architecture, and Frank Lloyd Wright — My Conversation with Steven FreemanI sat down with Steven Freeman, the heart behind Angela’s Pasta & Cheese Shop in Manchester, NH. We talked about everything from homemade pasta to his passion for Frank Lloyd Wright — including his incredible journey visiting Wright homes and preparing meals in their kitchens. It’s a story about food, design, and the joy of meaningful connections.
2025-07-1743 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 5: Building Bonfire & Supporting the Community with Pat MillsPat Mills isn’t just the guy behind Bonfire Bar—he’s all heart for Manchester. Carol sits down with Pat to talk about running a popular bar, staying involved in the community, and why giving back matters.
2025-06-3049 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 4: Indian Roots & Food Truths with Keith Sarasin (and Chef Jeffrey Too)Chef Keith Sarasin takes the mic with Carol to talk about the heart behind Aatma Curry House—his commissary-style Indian curry kitchen—and the stories that shaped his culinary journey. It’s a soulful, honest chat about doing the work, staying curious, and leading with love in the kitchen. Joining them is Keith’s friend and fellow chef, Jeffrey Schlissel, who adds good energy and thoughtful perspective along the way.
2025-06-2947 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 3: Real Talk with Nick Carnes of Shoppers PubShoppers Pub GM Nick Carnes joins Carol for a one-on-one conversation filled with laughs, stories, and some hometown perspective.
2025-06-2839 min
BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROLEpisode 2: Beyond the Mic – Carol & Michelle on Their Podcasts and What’s AheadIn this episode, Carol sits down with Michelle Chretien to talk about the launch of Made in MHT and the future of Beyond the Plate. They break down what inspired their shows, what listeners can expect, and how each podcast aims to spotlight unique voices across New Hampshire and beyond.
2025-06-2325 min