Impasto restaurant opened on Main Street in Hanover with big shoes to fill: it replaced the popular Market Table, which closed last October due to the economic stresses linked to COVID-19.

Impasto encountered the same challenges trying to gain a foothold in Hanover the last few months, as pandemic restrictions lessened but labor shortages remained. Impasto’s owner, Nigel Leeming, describes the difficulties he encountered in trying to hire temporary service workers as one of the biggest challenges the restaurant has faced since its opening. Leeming remains confident in the strength of his business to continue to thrive, however, even as the rise of the Delta variant pushes a possible end to the pandemic further out of reach.

Impasto’s website describes the new Italian eatery as a “break of fresh air for Hanover and the Upper Valley” and promises traditional dishes with a unique twist. They serve fresh pasta, salads, and flatbread dishes, as well as a selection of non-pasta-based entrées for customers looking for steak, salmon, lobster, or swordfish. They also serve five hand-crafted cocktails and an assortment of Italian desserts, including, but not limited to, biscotti and cannoli. Unlike other traditional Italian restaurants, Impasto also provides options suitable for various dietary restrictions, including vegetarians, but extending also to include pescatarian, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives. “Italian food was not represented in Hanover,” says Nigel Leeming. “The menu is designed to capture the interest of the demographic we live in.” And Leeming understands the Hanover food scene; he has lived here since he opened Murphy’s in 1992, almost thirty years ago. 

Like Murphy’s, Impasto offers a slow-paced dining experience perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or entertaining visitors during Dartmouth’s family weekends. No matter what the next few months bring, Leeming hopes to continue to provide that experience to Upper Valley patrons. “My hope is that we keep growing revenue and keep focused on what the public enjoys,” he says. Reserve a table at Impasto here, or order takeout: Call 603-448-0000.