25 Incredible Restaurants in Portsmouth, NH
This article was written by local contributor Avery Garcia & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Ah, Portsmouth, New Hampshire - the beautiful and historic seaport city nestled along the picturesque Piscataqua River.
After living here for several years, I've fallen in love with the vibrant culinary scene that this charming New England town has to offer.
From cozy bistros to innovative gastropubs, there's something for every palate, mood, and occasion.
So, let me give you a personal tour of the best restaurants in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, that have become my go-to spots for delicious meals and memorable experiences.
Grab your appetite and join me in exploring our thriving foodie haven.
Bon appétit!
Honey Ham and Subs
I can confidently say that Honey Ham and Subs is the absolute best sandwich spot in town.
I've been a loyal customer for almost 20 years, and the quality of their subs never ceases to amaze me.
My go-to order is always the chicken salad, while my partner can't get enough of the Sante Fe club.
The variety of their menu is impressive, and I've heard nothing but praise from friends and family who have tried other options like the Buffalo bomb, smoked stack, and honey bee club.
You can check their menu and more at Honey Ham and Subs website.
Sure, the place might not look like much from the outside but don't let that deter you from stopping by.
The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh, warm bread and high-quality meats.
So if you're ever in the area and need a break from the usual burgers and fried foods, do yourself a favor and give Honey Ham and Subs a try.
Trust me; you'll be glad you did!
Colby's
One of my go-to spots for a delicious and satisfying breakfast in Portsmouth is definitely Colby's Breakfast & Lunch.
I love the quaint and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed weekend morning.
A visit to their website here will give you an idea of what to expect.
On my recent visit, I enjoyed their scrumptious corned beef hash, which had just the right amount of crisp.
My partner had the breakfast burrito, which was loaded with fluffy eggs and fresh ingredients.
We couldn't help but appreciate the festive Halloween decorations, adding a fun touch to the dining experience.
Sure, you might encounter a bit of a wait at times, but trust me, it's worth it.
The cinnamon swirl French toast is to die for, and the homemade corned beef hash is a must-try.
Colby's is just a short walk away from the heart of town, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before exploring the charming streets of Portsmouth.
Don't miss out on this local gem!
Flatbread Company in Portsmouth
Oh, how I love going to Flatbread Company in Portsmouth.
Whenever I'm in the mood for some amazing wood-fired pizza, this is my go-to spot.
I can't even count how many times I've been here, but every single time, I leave with a full belly and a happy heart.
The ambiance is simply irresistible - cozy and welcoming, with their traditional clay ovens adding a special touch to the experience.
And the food - don't even get me started on their delicious pizzas!
They use organic ingredients and free-range meats, so you know you're in for a high-quality meal.
Each visit, I try to order something different off the menu, but my all-time favorite has to be their chicken bacon ranch flatbread.
It's absolute perfection!
And if you're like my daughter, who has dairy restrictions, they have options for you, too, so nobody feels left out.
To top it all off, the service at Flatbread Company is consistently amazing.
Oh, and their draft beer selection has something for everyone, from local brews to well-known favorites.
And trust me, you don't want to skip dessert – I usually have a hard time choosing between their options!
Green Elephant
Last weekend, I finally had the chance to dine at Green Elephant, and it was such a delightful experience!
I've been hearing great things about this place from friends, and I was not disappointed.
The atmosphere was stylish and had a great vibe, which made for a perfect evening out.
I started with their spicy beet margarita, which I was initially skeptical about since I'm not a fan of beets.
To my surprise, it was amazing!
For my meal, I went with my usual favorite - peanut curry.
It was absolutely delicious, and I even had enough to take home for leftovers.
I also loved their veggie dumplings as an appetizer, and the service was excellent throughout the night.
This restaurant is situated in a lovely walkable area, making it an ideal spot for a night out with friends or a date.
Next time, I plan to order my dishes a bit spicier, as I found out they have a spice-level customization option.
Cure Restaurant
I absolutely love Cure in Portsmouth!
Every time I visit, I am blown away by the quality of the food and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The exposed-brick walls and small bar create an intimate setting that's perfect for a date night or a catch-up with friends.
Whenever I can, I prefer to sit on their lovely patio and take in the ambiance.
During my last visit, I ordered the pork belly appetizer, which was cooked to perfection and full of flavor.
For my main course, I couldn't resist their flat iron steak with a delicious sauce that complemented the steak perfectly.
I ended the meal with a mouthwatering strawberry cream pie for dessert.
I must admit, the prices are slightly higher than some other places in Portsmouth, but it's worth every penny for the incredible dining experience.
One thing I've learned from previous visits is the importance of booking a table in advance through their website, especially if you plan to eat inside.
The restaurant is quite popular and can fill up quickly, especially over the weekends.
But trust me, it's for a good reason – the food is simply amazing, and the service is always top-notch.
Bridge Street Bistrot & Wine Bar
I've discovered the city's hidden gem - Bridge Street Bistrot & Wine Bar.
This charming restaurant serves traditional French-style dinners accompanied by an excellent selection of wine and cocktails, all in a warm and cozy atmosphere.
I've been to the bistro a handful of times now, and the food is consistently delightful.
The Filet au Poivre and Coq au Vin are two of my go-to dishes, and I can't leave without indulging in one of their delicious desserts, like the crème brûlée or profiteroles.
Apart from the fantastic food, another thing I love about Bridge Street Bistrot is its location.
It's tucked away in a quaint residential area, just off the main strip in Portsmouth, making it feel like a hidden treasure.
The service has mostly been spot-on, with just one slightly off experience out of my multiple visits.
Whenever I want a romantic and cozy date night or simply to treat myself to a fantastic French meal, Bridge Street Bistrot & Wine Bar is always my first choice.
Raleigh Wine Bar + Eatery
One of my favorite spots in town is Raleigh Wine Bar + Eatery.
I always look forward to dining there, whether it's during restaurant week or just a casual night out.
Their Crispy Pig Head is honestly one of the best dishes I've ever had!
The pork is delicious, especially with the Dijon mustard.
As for the main course, I tried their Pork Belly + Clam Stew and was blown away by the flavorful broth and generous portion of protein.
I also appreciate their ever-changing menu, which keeps things fresh and exciting.
Although, it's always a good idea to check the menu beforehand since your favorite dish might not be available during your next visit.
But that's what makes Raleigh so special, there's always something new and interesting to try.
What really sets Raleigh apart is their outdoor seating area.
It's perfect during the warmer months, offering plenty of tables, views of the bridge, and shade during dinner time.
Even when the weather isn't ideal, their indoor dining area is just as inviting and cozy.
Ristorante Massimo
One of my favorite places to go for a special night out is Ristorante Massimo.
I've been there a few times, and each experience has been better than the last!
The atmosphere is just perfect for a romantic dinner, with its ornate brick and stone setting, oil paintings on the walls, and dim lighting creating a cozy yet elegant ambiance.
The food at Massimo's never disappoints.
My partner and I particularly love their small plates and cheese samplers, which offer the perfect chance to try a variety of delicious dishes.
The last time we went, we chose the option to have three different small plates for $18, and we were blown away by the flavors and presentation of each dish.
And the cocktails?
Absolutely spectacular.
5 Thai Bistro
The other day, I decided to try out this place called 5 Thai Bistro, and let me tell you, it was a delightful experience!
I instantly fell in love with the cozy and romantic feel of the place.
While browsing through the menu, I noticed a variety of Thai staples, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options.
I opted for the scallion pancakes and crunchy spring rolls as appetizers, and they exceeded my expectations – definitely, the best I've had in the area!
For the main course, I ordered the tofu drunken noodle, which was absolutely delicious and came out hot with just the right amount of spice.
My friend had the shrimp crispy noodles, and she couldn't stop raving about them.
And it wasn't just me who felt this way – I noticed that there was a steady flow of customers and takeout orders, which is always a good sign.
Durbar Square Restaurant
Just the other day, I decided to visit Durbar Square Restaurant to quench my craving for some authentic Nepalese food.
This cozy bi-level eatery is known for its scrumptious curried meat dishes and vegetarian tarkari, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
As I entered, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of spices.
For my meal, I chose to try the lamb and mushroom curry, and my friend opted for the basil chicken.
We also ordered some wild boar momos and herbed bread as appetizers.
The food was absolutely fantastic, with each dish packed full of fresh and aromatic flavors.
The wild boar momos were a delightful surprise and quickly became a personal favorite.
What really stood out, though, was the exceptional service.
Even though the restaurant was bustling with patrons, they remained attentive, polite, and efficient throughout our visit.
Botanica Restaurant and Gin Bar
One of my favorite spots in town has to be Botanica Restaurant and Gin Bar.
I've been there multiple times, and each visit is just as memorable as the last.
The last time I went was just before the Valentine's Day rush, and I sat at the bar for a quiet dinner with my partner.
The mixologist at Botanica never disappoints, crafting the most exquisite drinks I've ever tasted.
The food is always top-notch, too – I had the tender steak frites for dinner, but it was the red cabbage and pork belly starter that stole the show.
The pork belly was so perfectly crispy on the outside, I'm still thinking about it!
Botanica's atmosphere is warm, inviting, and elegant, reminiscent of a European dining experience.
The service is always friendly and attentive, making sure we enjoy every minute of our time there.
Although the venue is on the smaller side, it has a certain charm to it.
The bar area, in particular, makes for an ideal date spot.
On my latest visit, our party of four decided to try a variety of appetizers and entrees, with the half-shell oysters being a personal favorite of mine.
I also indulged in two different gin cocktails, both of which were fantastic.
We ended our meal with a chocolate soufflé that was so fluffy and moist, it was the perfect way to round off a delightful evening.
Ohana Kitchen
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Ohana Kitchen for the first time, and I must say that the experience was quite delightful.
I opted to build my own bowl, and the first bite was nothing short of incredible.
The variety of healthy and accessible options made it a satisfying meal.
To add to my excitement, I tried their tofu musubi, which turned out to be a delicious quick snack that held me over until I could finish the rest of my meal.
Despite being new to Hawaiian cuisine, I was quite impressed.
The flavors at Ohana Kitchen were unique, and I appreciated the healthy aspect of their dishes.
Bennett's Sandwich Shop
Oh, how I love visiting Bennett's Sandwich Shop for a quick and delicious meal!
I've been coming here for years, and it never disappoints.
They're patient, too, especially when I'm indecisive about what sandwich to get or when I bring my picky-eating friends along.
One of my all-time favorites has to be their lobster roll.
It's generously portioned and absolutely mouthwatering.
And I have to agree with my friend's daughter - the bread they use for their sandwiches is incredibly soft and just perfect for holding all the delicious ingredients together.
Of course, Bennett's also offers an amazing breakfast menu, which I occasionally order for takeout.
Their online ordering system is super easy to use, and I love how I can track my order.
The portions are great for the price, too, which is always a bonus.
Bratskellar Pizza Pub
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite and catch a game is the Bratskellar Pizza Pub.
Their menu offers an amazing selection of creative pies, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and ice-cold beer.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with sports playing on the TV and low lighting to add to the cozy vibe.
I can't recommend their wings enough – they're absolutely delicious.
But the real star of the show is the Bavarian pizza, loaded with sliced bratwurst and onions.
I'm telling you, it's a game-changer!
Also, as someone who loves a good Italian sub, the one they serve here is simply to die for.
Cheese Louise Portsmouth
Just the other day, I found myself at Cheese Louise Portsmouth, and I must say, it was a delightful experience!
As someone who absolutely loves cheese, this place immediately caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it out.
I was not disappointed!
From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with great service and a warm, comfortable atmosphere.
The restaurant itself is absolutely adorable, making it a perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a casual date night.
The menu offers a variety of cheesy dishes that are sure to please any cheese lover out there.
I decided to try their signature mac and cheese, which was enjoyable.
However, what truly stole the show were the amazing sandwiches and salads.
The special sauce they use on their sandwiches is seriously to die for, and even my son, who can be quite picky with his food, loved the salad he ordered!
Not only did Cheese Louise satisfy my craving for cheesy goodness, but it also managed to nourish both my childhood and adult self by offering a delicious coffee stout to pair with my meal.
The Franklin
Just last week, I decided to explore more of my city's dining options and give The Franklin a try.
This contemporary tavern and oyster bar had been on my list for a long time, and I have to say, it did not disappoint.
I started off my evening with some delectable oysters during their happy hour, which was just 2 bucks each and paired with a refreshing 5-dollar sparkling wine.
While it was a bit unusual to see pre-shucked oysters, their taste and freshness made up for any initial reservations I had.
As the night progressed, I decided to indulge in some of their global tapas.
I ordered the grilled broccoli, which was cooked to perfection, and the Franklin Fries, a house specialty.
To top it all off, I asked for the house-made Fresno honey hot sauce, which added an incredible kick to my meal.
Moxy
I recently decided to treat myself to a night out at Moxy, a stylish restaurant that offers contemporary American cuisine and a full bar.
I've always been curious about the place, so it was about time I checked it out!
As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the cool vibe and the large, inviting space.
They offered a variety of small sharing plates, which was perfect for trying a little bit of everything.
The menu was broken down into sections, making it easy to navigate and choose dishes that appealed to me.
I decided to go for the fried cauliflower, crispy pork belly, fried pickles, short rib toasts, and a special of Swiss chard and churros.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved the fried cauliflower – it was truly a standout dish.
The crispy pork belly was also delicious and cooked to perfection.
Black Trumpet Bistro
I'm always excited to visit Black Trumpet Bistro for a night out in Portsmouth.
The intimate and romantic setting is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
The globally inspired dishes never disappoint.
One of my favorite things about the Black Trumpet is the seasonal menu that changes every 4-6 weeks.
It keeps me coming back to try new dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients.
The goat tagine I had recently was incredibly flavorful, and the pollock from Maine was cooked to perfection.
My friends and I also love the cheese board; the goat and cheddar cheeses are especially delicious!
The service at Black Trumpet is always outstanding, even on busy nights.
Plus, the upstairs wine bar offers the perfect spot to relax and unwind with a glass of wine.
And let's not forget the beautiful location on quaint Ceres Street, surrounded by art galleries, tugboats, and shopping.
The view of the water from the upstairs tables makes for a picturesque dining experience.
I'm so glad that a gem like Black Trumpet Bistro is here in my town, and I can't wait to see what they come up with next!
Surf Portsmouth
I had a lovely lunch at Surf Portsmouth last Sunday.
I managed to find parking on the street and got a table with a beautiful view of the water.
The atmosphere was comfortable and lively, with people enjoying their meals on the patio.
The service was excellent, and the menu offered a wide variety of creative, coastal cuisine with global accents.
I started my meal with a bowl of delicious clam chowder and the bacon-wrapped scallop appetizer, which was mouth-watering.
I have friends who tried the hot lobster roll and fish and chips, and they were raving about how excellent their dishes were.
110 Grill Portsmouth
As someone who lives in the area, I was excited to try out 110 Grill Portsmouth.
I've heard so many good things about it from friends, so I decided to take my family for a meal.
I was not disappointed!
One of the things that stood out to me was how accommodating they were to dietary restrictions.
The menu had a great variety of options, and the portions were more than generous.
My personal favorite dish was the swordfish, which was cooked to perfection.
The appetizers were also delicious and great for sharing.
Even the kids' menu was impressive, with a wide array of options and portion sizes that you don't usually see at other restaurants.
The service was top-notch, and the value for the quality of food and experience was outstanding.
I'm now a regular at 110 Grill Portsmouth, and I'm always excited to try something new from their menu.
Dinnerhorn
I recently dined at Dinnerhorn, a local favorite known for its seafood-focused menu and family-friendly atmosphere.
From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat.
Being a seafood aficionado, I couldn't resist trying their lobster roll for the first time.
The lobster roll was an immediate 10/10 for me.
My friend chose the seafood combo, and it looked so tempting that I made a mental note to try it on my next visit.
Dinnerhorn's prices were reasonable, and the service was nothing short of exceptional.
One of the standout features of Dinnerhorn is their homemade dressings, which can be enjoyed with a side salad or fries.
I also tried their homemade tartar sauce, which had a delightful mix of sweet relish.
I'm already looking forward to my next visit, where I plan to indulge in their fish tacos, which I've heard are simply outstanding.
Final Thoughts
Portsmouth truly offers a diverse and mouth-watering selection of restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences.
From the cozy and hearty breakfast at Colby's Breakfast & Lunch to the exotic flavors of Durbar Square Restaurant, there's always something new and exciting to try.
No matter what kind of food you're craving, you can always find a satisfying meal in this charming coastal city.
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