The Best Italian Places to Eat in Portsmouth

When choosing an Italian restaurant, there are a number of important aspects that one should take into account. The atmosphere, chef, and wine selection are just a few of the things you should consider when heading out for a night of Italian food. The town of Portsmouth has a number of good choices for when the mood should strike you for pasta.

The first place you should check out is The Rosa restaurant located just minutes from downtown. With a friendly hostess showing you to the decadent waiting area and bar, you at first are taken back by the opulent setting. You'd think that the meal would be going to burn a hole in your pocket, but the prices are actually quite reasonable. The sitting area overlooks downtown Portsmouth, offering a very romantic setting. With appetizers like goat cheese ravioli, you know that you are going to be in for a treat with the main entrée. Complimented by an extensive wine list, the pasta fagioli is to die for and is one of the main staples of the menu. Should you feel the need to host a large party or a gathering, The Rosa has a room with seating for 16, plenty of space for receptions and meetings. The Rosa is a must for any Italian food aficionado.

Just down the street from The Rosa is the small and quaint Bella Luna located upstairs from some of the local bars. A person in a hurry would surely miss this tiny hole in the wall, but the dining experience is excellent and the service is above average. At first look it might seem that Bella Luna might be sub par compared to some of its competition, but once seated, it's easy to see why this restaurant has become a local favorite. Small intimate tables overlook the city from the second floor and offer one of the most romantic settings in the entire city. With a confined menu featuring the usual Italian fare like parmigana and excellent lasagna, Bella Luna's chefs offer a distinct twist on some of the traditional meals. Regardless, the menu boasts a number of appealing items and although their wine list is shorter than average, the quality is better than most places in the city. Visit Bella Luna for a great dining experience.

A final place that needs to be enjoyed is the unique Mimmo's located a few towns over in York. With a property right next to the beach, outside seating, and views of amazing sunsets, the atmosphere alone is worth the trip. However, with cheap prices and pasta made from scratch, it's easy to see why Mimmo's has become one of the best-loved eateries in all of Maine. Although Mimmo's is BYOB, Mimmo himself offers complimentary shots of Drambuie and Smabuca to those wanting a nice end to a great meal.

The seacoast is a great place to eat, and it offers unique dining experiences around every corner, and the Italian scene is no different. Visit any of the three aforementioned places for a great dining experience.

The Rosa- 80 State Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire 603-436-9715

Bella Luna- 10 Market St, Portsmouth, NH (603) 436-9800

Mimmo's-Ocean Avenue, York Beach, ME 03910 (207) 363-3807