There’s something to be said about good food and the restaurants that make it. A restaurant’s success and longevity can be attributed to both a timeless menu and word of mouth from happy customers. In the seaside city of Portsmouth, one Italian restaurant has worked hard on both of those factors to ensure a long life.

On December 22, 1927, Ralph Rosa opened this family-style Italian restaurant next to Prescott Park in Portsmouth. The restaurant was set in the family home and Ralph was spurred on by his mother Domenica, who just happened to be an Italian chef.
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook
Ralph's vision was to serve authentic Italian cooking to each guest. The welcoming atmosphere of The Rosa treated each customer like a member of the family.
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook
The Rosa began a long run of serving patrons and overcoming challenges like the Great Depression. After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, it had the distinction of pouring the first beer in Portsmouth.
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook

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All of the restaurant's dishes are made with only the finest ingredients sourced from local farms and businesses.
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook
While the space has been remodeled over the years, The Rosa's mission to honor the history and traditions of Ralph and Domenica remains.
The Rosa Restaurant/Facebook

To view the full menu or to book a reservation at The Rosa Restaurant, visit their website. Also, be sure to follow along on Facebook for the latest updates and seasonal and holiday specials.

More historic restaurants can be found all around New Hampshire. Here are 8 eateries to check out, a restaurant that used to be a courthouse, and a place to combine history with the paranormal while enjoying a good meal.

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Featured Addresses
The Rosa Restaurant, 70 State Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA