Fresh Tables for Fall: New(ish) Spots, New Menus & Around the Seacoast

While Portsmouth has long been known as one of New England’s premier dining destinations, fresh concepts, and exciting additions continue to keep the culinary landscape turning. We’ll introduce you to some of the newest (although some might be a year old already) and some that are on the cusp of opening their doors. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, looking for a new date-night destination, or simply hoping to shake up your weeknight offerings, give these spots a place on your autumn dining bucket list.

Nisi Greek Kitchen + Bar Brings Mediterranean Flavor to the West End

One of Portsmouth’s newest additions, Nisi Greek Kitchen + Bar has quickly made an impression in the city’s West End. Inspired by the flavors and traditions of Greece, the restaurant offers a menu built around fresh ingredients, shareable meze, gyros, souvlaki, and Mediterranean specialties. Located in the former Bob’s Broiled Chicken space, Nisi has brought an entirely new dining experience to the neighborhood.

The warm atmosphere encourages you to linger over cocktails, conversation, and multiple courses, making it a perfect destination for a cozy fall evening. Whether you’re splitting small plates with friends or settling in for dinner, Nisi delivers a taste of the Mediterranean right here on the Seacoast.

Their fall menu is slated to appear Sept. 28—we’ll update you! In the meantime, the Mastiha Margarita, we’re told, will remain on the menu. That’s Blanco Tequila, Mastiha* Liquer, Triple Sec and Lime. * Produced using mastic resin harvested exclusively from the southern villages of the Greek island of Chios.

Nichinan Offers an Authentic Taste of Japan

For those looking to explore even more global flavors, Nichinan has become a standout addition to Portsmouth’s restaurant community. Named after Portsmouth’s sister city in Japan, the restaurant offers a menu rooted in traditional Japanese cuisine and introduces guests to dishes well beyond the familiar sushi roll.

The restaurant’s preparation and presentation make every meal feel like an experience. Whether you’re already a fan of Japanese cuisine or eager to try something new, Nichinan offers a memorable opportunity to broaden your culinary horizons this fall. Its intimate atmosphere and carefully crafted menu make it a welcome addition to Portsmouth’s increasingly diverse dining landscape.

Save room for the Taiyaki for dessert: Waffle · Chocolate Ganache · Amaretto Custard · Strawberry · Shaved White Chocolate. Mmmmmm.

Buckley’s on the Water Makes a Splash

One of the Seacoast’s newest waterfront dining destinations, Buckley’s on the Water combines scenic views with the hospitality and culinary expertise that have made Chef Michael Buckley’s restaurants favorites throughout the Granite State.

The menu showcases lobster rolls, great steaks, beef stroganoff and lobster spaghetti – and the view is showcased by the largest dining deck in Portsmouth by far. It’s quickly becoming a popular spot for everything from weekend lunches to nightly dinners and special occasions. The waterfront setting is especially magical in the fall, when crisp air, colorful foliage, and harbor views create quite the backdrop for a great meal.

Whether you’re visiting Portsmouth for the weekend or looking for a new place to gather with friends, Buckley’s on the Water offers another reason to spend time near the Seacoast’s iconicly short shoreline.

The Rosa Begins a New Chapter

A Portsmouth institution since 1927, The Rosa isn’t new, but its recent transition to new ownership has breathed fresh energy into one of downtown’s most recognizable dining destinations. Guests will find updated menus, a larger bar, and renewed attention to classic Italian-American favorites while preserving the traditions that have made the restaurant a local favorite for generations.

It’s a great example of how the city’s restaurants continue to evolve while maintaining the history and charm. Whether you’ve been visiting this State Street spot for years or have never stepped inside, now’s a great time to rediscover this downtown staple.

Check out The Rosa 20/26 pizza if you’re in town: house-made sausage, meatballs, pepperoni, peppers and onions, blended cheeses, and house-made sauce.

Discover 9 Dragons in Seabrook

A short drive from Portsmouth, 9 Dragons in Seabrook offers yet another reason to try a spot beyond downtown. Known for its expansive menu, inviting atmosphere, and broad selection of Asian-inspired dishes, the restaurant has quickly attracted both locals and visitors looking for something different.

Inspired by the culture and energy of 1970s Hong Kong and created in partnership with the family behind the iconic and gigantic Kowloon Restaurant in Saugus, Mass., the restaurant combines Asian-inspired cuisine, daring décor, and a memorable sense of place.

“It has been fantastically fun creating 9 Dragons and Forbidden City (the lounge) with Bob and his managing partners,” said Andre Carrier, president and CEO of Eureka Casinos which owns The Brook. “We set out to not just design a restaurant but an experience. All of us at The Brook are humbled to now be a part of the story of this legendary brand.”

Excuse me Cowboy, are you lost?

The former Buckley’s Market & Café space at 60 Penhallow Street is getting a Lost Cowboy makeover. The expanded taproom will bring more live music, a bigger bourbon selection, games and even more Western flavor to downtown Portsmouth. A grand opening announcement is expected later this fall. No word if there will be a mechanical bull (but we doubt it.)

We Are Holding Our Breath for This One

Julie Cutting-Kelley, the local chef behind the uber-popular Cure on State and Penhallow streets, has another Portsmouth restaurant in the works. Char is coming to 70 Maplewood Ave., bringing a big wood-burning grill, steaks, cocktails and a lower-level piano lounge to the former space. Cutting-Kelley is bringing some familiar Cure faces along for the ride, and Char is expected to open this fall. Expect: Elevated Dining Without the Attitude. We like that tagline.

Make This the Season to Try Something New

One of the most fabulous parts of a visit to the Seacoast is discovering what’s around the next corner. A new restaurant, a fresh menu, or a familiar space reinvented can totally become the highlight of an evening with friends.

Venture beyond your usual favorites. Explore a new neighborhood, make a reservation somewhere you’ve never been, or revisit a familiar address that’s entered a new chapter. From Greek specialties and Japanese cuisine to waterfront dining, Italian classics, and Asian-inspired fare, Portsmouth and the surrounding Seacoast offer countless opportunities to explore.

And if you’re looking for the perfect excuse to plan your next culinary adventure, mark your calendar for Restaurant Week Portsmouth & the Seacoast, Nov. 5-14, 2026. More than 30 restaurants will offer special three-course prix fixe menus at a variety of price points, making it one of the region’s most anticipated dining events.

For participating restaurants, menus, hotel packages, and dining inspiration, visit Restaurant Week Portsmouth & the Seacoast.