Lauren L.
6/28/2025
My second review in a few days! Went to The Rosa again on my stay in Portsmouth and I always sit at the bar. Today I got the Caprese Salad for a starter and it was delicious. Chicken Marsala which...
The Rosa
$$
Closed
(347)
Photos
70 State St
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Set directly beside the picturesque Prescott Park and in front of the colonial atmosphere of Strawbery Banke, this family-style Italian restaurant, once owned by Ralph Rosa, opened its doors on December 22, 1927. Encouraged by his mother, Domenica, an Italian chef, and after having been laid off from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard during a slack period in 1926, Ralph transformed his family home into The Rosa Restaurant. With authentic Italian recipes and an uncompromising desire to treat customers like family, Ralph graciously served patrons for fifty-four years. During that half-century, the Rosa weathered the Great Depression, only closing its doors for a two-month period, and has the distinction of having served the first glass of beer in Portsmouth, a twelve-ounce glass for ten cents, after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.
Also at this address
Reviews
3.0347 reviews
Krista R.
9/20/2025
Beautiful interior with outdoor seating too. Unfortunately the cocktails were one note, extremely overpriced, and the food menu was completely underwhelming. Better Italian elsewhere.
Don B.
11/8/2025
for many this has been our "go to restaurant" when in town and just need dinner. It has had its ups and downs unfortunately this visit was more down than up. The service was excellent, our...
Barry K.
9/16/2025
The only good thing about this place is the service. Overpriced pasta and pizza. Fettuccine Alfredo is bland, pizza is just basic, not a single person in my party enjoyed their meal. Drinks are...
Shawn K.
12/22/2024
We stopped at Rosa with some family that lives in the area on a Thursday night. The service was good and the restaurant is beautiful. My aunt told us about the history of the restaurant before...
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