The Oar House

"We went with a party of 8 on Friday night. They had no space for us. And were nice enough to accommodate us. The host told us if we didn’t mind waiting an hour so they could find a spot for us and the did. I’m glad we were able to dine here. We were visiting from Florida. First time here, meeting an old high school friend that lives in the area. And we haven’t stopped talking about how good the food was and have literally told everyone we know that this place has by far the best/ freshest oyster I have ever had! And all the food was top notch! Our server was a Honduran guy from Miami, cannot recall his name but he was very awesome and friendly! We stayed until past closing time talking with our group and nobody ever came to kick us out! Will definitely come back when in the area!!! Very cozy/romantic spot. Loved it!!!"

"The Oar House has a festive, cozy atmosphere, perfect for the holiday season. The building is old, with low ceilings and an old grotto. The history made our delicious lunch more special. Another amenity that is unheard of in downtown Portsmouth is they have their own private parking lot. The service was a bit slow but you could tell they were understaffed. Our bartender/server was great and got us everything we needed. He also made the best Mai Tai I have ever had. We would visit again just for the cocktails. The menu is large and primarily seafood-based. My Lobster Roll was stuffed with huge, juicy chunks of lobster meat. One of the best-valued rolls in the area. Overall, we were impressed with the Oar House and unsure why we haven't visited until now."

"Lovely little seafood restaurant right on the water. Appetizers were amazing the oysters, who doesn't like bacon wrapped scallops, and the escargot was scrumptious although could have used a little more garlic. Main course was haddock which was delightful. A great find."

"On vacation and stayed in our old stopping ground Portsmouth for the week. Ate at the OarHouse and thought the meal and the location were great. Elton, our server was wonderful. I had the Halibut, which I thought was exceptional, and she had the Mac & Lobster, which was just ok. Couldn't find the lobster. All in all, it was a very nice lunch. I always loved the atmosphere here. So if you're looking, this is the place to go for one lunch or dinner."

"This was a special birthday dinner on 2/18/23 for 4 guests on the street level. We promptly arrived for our 6:45 reservation. Warm ambience w brick walls and massive wood beams. Charming. The Manhattan, White Russian and wines were served promptly, apps after a while, entrees were served at 8:35. Our affable waiter, John, apologized for the delay as there were only 4 working the kitchen. Oysters quite fresh and briny, harvested from Damariscotta, ME. Beet salad good, needed seasoning. Deep-fried Calamari was exo. Needed seasoning. Their signature seafood casserole was very good. Baked stuffed Lobsters were topped w shrimp and a scallop and it was enjoyed. One guest had a side filet that was tender and flavorful. The flatbread prosciutto was lame, the fig consisted of a jam spread and no taste from the bread. Creme Brûlée was made from a powder mix and not worthwhile. Let’s hope they ramp up the kitchen staff, otherwise, avoid the weekends and the summer crush. With tip, $514.00."