In November 2018, Derry welcomed a new culinary destination, On the Corner Grill, nestled at the Cowbell Corner development at 418 Island Pond Road. Quietly opening its doors, this restaurant and bar brings a breath of fresh air to the local dining scene. The development itself, envisioned and executed by David Framm between fall 2017 and earlier in 2018, occupies a strategic location at the intersection of Island Pond Road and Route 111. Its proximity to the borders of Hampstead and Salem makes it a convenient spot for a wide array of patrons. On the Corner Grill, aptly named for its corner position within this bustling development, is more than just a new name in dining; it represents a reimagined concept from its predecessor, Buono Panini in Salem, promising an expanded menu that extends well beyond its panini roots.
The transformation from Buono Panini to On the Corner Grill was driven by a desire to offer a more diverse dining experience. The new establishment boasts a full bar, espresso cafe, and comprehensive lunch and dinner menus, all under the guidance of owner George Chichio. Notably, the move to Derry was also a strategic decision to overcome challenges related to visibility and competition faced at the previous location in Salem. The new venue in Derry not only offers increased seating capacity, thanks to a larger bar area accommodating 86 seats compared to the former’s 76, but it also marks a significant enhancement in terms of both location and offering. In its early days, On the Corner Grill has already shown remarkable success, contributing to the vibrant commercial appeal of the Cowbell Corner development, which also hosts other businesses, including a nail salon and kids gym, further enriching the community’s retail and leisure options.
The introduction of On the Corner Grill to the southeast section of Derry has been met with enthusiastic approval from both the community and local planning officials. It stands as a testament to the area’s growing appeal as a dining and social hub, bordering the towns of Hampstead and Salem. The establishment’s impact extends beyond just providing another food and beverage option; it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the vibrancy and attractiveness of Cowbell Corner, signaling positive growth and development within the area. This echoes the sentiments shared by the town’s assistant planner and further underscores the strategic importance of the location in enriching the community’s lifestyle offerings.
For those eager to explore this fresh dining experience, On the Corner Grill can be reached at (603) 952-4636 or found at 418 Island Pond Rd, Derry, NH. The restaurant also maintains an online presence through its website, https://onthecornergrill.com/, which provides potential visitors with a closer look at its menu, services, and more about what makes it a special addition to Derry’s culinary landscape. Whether it’s for a casual lunch, a fulfilling dinner, or simply to unwind at the bar, On the Corner Grill invites all to discover what makes it a cornerstone of the local dining scene.