Blog: Lunch Bunch at the Firefly

by GSA Sue Geyer, Currier Museum of Art Class of 2010

It is hard to believe that the GSA lunch bunch started frequenting restaurants around New Hampshire 7 years ago. The Firefly American Bistro & Bar was our first outing that included only 3 participants. Since then we have had 37 lunches and assorted social events. Now that we clearly had the interest and momentum, I thought it was time to circle back to where we began. This month 30 GSAs enjoyed another fantastic experience at the Firefly.

We were seated in an area to ourselves on one side of the restaurant. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable and the menu intriguing with a wonderful variety. They very generously started us off with some complimentary “go-go” bread for each table. This is their signature appetizer, which is warm garlic bread with Gorgonzola fondue. It was delicious and got our juices flowing.

As everyone got settled and ordered, Diane Downing, the owner and general manager came around to the tables to introduce herself and answer questions. Later David Becker, the chef, co-owner and also Diane’s brother came around to talk to us. They are very friendly and personable and made everyone comfortable.

Our servers, Bradford, Chris, and Melinda were amazing and took such good care of us! They were efficient and friendly. Everyone was commenting on how well they did with a big group.

As I spoke with folks afterwards, they couldn’t say enough about how fabulous the experience was. The food was delicious and very well prepared. I had a Cobb salad with an extremely tasty balsamic vinaigrette dress that was made in house.  I also shared a crème brûlée that was amazing.

Personally, I’ve been back many times during the 7 years between our GSA visits. I have recommended them often to our guests while volunteering at the airport.  It’s a great choice for a family get together, celebration, dinner for 2 or a quick meal. Since one of the GSA’s in our group had a birthday, we were able to see them in action, delivering a delicious piece of cake with Happy Birthday written on the plate. If you haven’t been there, it is definitely worth the trip! For more information about Firefly, checkout their website.  www.fireflynh.com

Here is feedback from some of those attending:

Impressive: I had the noodle salad with chicken and it was very tasty, I would order it again.  The service was excellent; I liked the way they set up the tables so you could get around.  So convenient to park and get to.  I’ll definitely be back! ~ Maryellen M

Their house burger with house coleslaw was outstanding. I ate the whole thing so that tells you how much I enjoyed it. Great place to grab a lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch. Love the atmosphere. ~Kathryn S

Our waiter was pleasant, efficient and most attentive.  Food was delicious and the crème brûlée was the perfect ending.  It’s always fun to visit with different GSAs.  ~ Betsy B

Great ambiance and menu. Service was excellent and we were served very quickly given the size of our group!!  ~ Vangie C

The Firefly Burger was delicious–and done the way I like it.  Side of Cole Slaw also great!! ~ Gretchen Z

Nice touch that owner visited with us and her brother, the chef too! Ambiance very nice. ~Faye T

Anne and I thoroughly enjoyed the interesting choices on the menu. Our lunches were delicious, ample and priced reasonably well. Service was very good too!

Two thumbs up from the Hatins! ~ Dick & Anne

Great lunch, great service, beautiful restaurant and lovely private space for our group. Also easy parking and very friendly owners. ~ Joan & Dave B.

What a wonderful luncheon at the Firefly in Manchester. Great food and excellent service, I had the Cobb salad and it was very fresh and full of great toppings. Thanks for organizing! ~ Brenda

The staff were excellent and service quick. The BLT had thick cut bacon and ripe tomatoes, delicious. ~ Sarah B

Wonderful place. Great food, smart and efficient service, and a good time with friends. A trifecta! ~ Jan B

Chris was a great waiter!! Excellent food and nice touch by the owners to visit with us. ~ Mark 0

Firefly gets good marks. The service staff did a wonderful job. It was great to have a private space for our group so that we could visit. So fun to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. ~ Joyce H

The food was delicious and the service was wonderful! ~ Emily G

Great food; great company; great time; gracious host and hostess!!! ~ Kathie O

Truly enjoyed the lunch at Firefly. Food was excellent, especially the onion rings! (Balanced them off with a delicious salmon burger.) The service was efficient and friendly. I especially enjoyed seeing all my GSA friends again.  ~ Marty