The Ristorante Massimo Portsmouth NH Restaurant is located at 59 Penhallow Street .
As someone who appreciates fine cuisine, I often dine at Ceia in Newburyport. For a special occasion this past weekend, though, I invited some friends to go to Ristorante Massimo in Portsmouth. In a previous life, Massimo’s (then known as Anthony Alberto’s, prior to Massimo buying out his partner), this had been my favorite restaurant, but I hadn’t been there in over ten years. Now I am fully aware of why I loved it so much! Massimo was overjoyed to see me, we hugged, and then he offered my companions the option of not having to share a table with me. Yes, he remembered me. ☺ A large, personable man, Massimo runs a tight ship. He acts as Maitre D’,greeting everyone as they come in, thanking them as they leave, and patrolling the two dining rooms to make sure everything is perfect. And it is. This place is a class act.
Portsmouth NH Restaurant Review
The service is impeccable without being imposing. This is dining with a clearly European flair, tablecloths, fine china, staff in black tie… The restaurant is in the basement of the former customs house; the granite and brick walls are covered with paintings, and the extensive wine collection covers one interior wall. The wines are very carefully chosen, with a great selection from Italy, and very reasonably priced. Massimo knows his wines well, and you won’t go wrong following the recommendations of the staff.
Summary of Ristorante Massimo Portsmouth NH Restaurant
Our group consisted of several “foodies”, including one former chef. Everyone was ecstatic about the food. I’m not going to bore you with detailed descriptions, but everything was excellent, and none of us could think of anything that could have been prepared better. This was a truly great meal. When the desserts arrived, as we sampled different things, in tasting one dessert I apparently, and unconsciously, reacted with a groan of pleasure. This caused great hilarity and I was mercilessly teased for the rest of the evening. I blame Massimo for this. Ristorante Massimo is possibly the best restaurant on the New Hampshire Seacoast. I know it is once again my favorite, and if I can ever land a date, that’s where I’ll be taking her!!
Visit the Ristorante Massimo Portsmouth NH Restaurant at 59 Penhallow Street .
This Restaurant review was prepared by John Wells, REALTOR at Wellsco Realty. Reach John by phone at 978-518-1481 or by email at john@johnpwells.com.