Lunch Like a Local in Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth has so many great lunch options, narrowing down which places to try might be the most challenging part of your day. One thing you can guarantee is that you won’t be disappointed, with mouth watering aromas greeting you as you turn each street corner. Sandwiches, burgers, lobster rolls, an afternoon brew… you’ll find it all here, try a few of our favorite spots below to keep your taste buds happy.

Lunch

Ceres Bakery

This little bakery continues to impress, it is no wonder why they have stood the test of time (over 40 years in fact). Don’t be fooled by the name as they are much more than a bakery, offering a well thought out, locally curated menu consisting of craft sandwiches, salads and soups that rotate daily. Perfect for a grab and go meal at a friendly price. As others have testified, around here we know Ceres as “An absolute staple of Portsmouth cuisine. You simply cannot talk about Portsmouth's food without mentioning Ceres.”

Hearth Food Garden

Hearth Food Garden has stolen the Portsmouth food-scene buzz ever since they broke grounds with their playful, eye-catching design of this community marketplace. The mixed-use building hosts a number of small venues inside for dining, shopping, and other grocery/market related goods, with the goal of combining natural food with sustainable practices in sources from local artisans and cuisine. They have also brought their grand vision to life as a place for the community to come together to dine, collaborate, co-work, host live music and many more events. As a great place to grab a bite, catch up with friends and colleagues, or just read a book, we welcome Hearth to this eclectic community and look forward to seeing this place become the new go-to spot.

Liar’s Bench

If you’re ready to enjoy a nice cold pint, start here with the little nano-brewery consistently churning out the best local beer that Portsmouth has to offer. Liar’s Bench is a laid back brewpub that welcomes visitors to a playful venue encouraging guests to meet others, share laughs, some tall tales, and of course refreshing beer to pair with brats, sandwiches, and various other small bites. The local owners (and also those brewing the beer) have nailed the small details in everything from stamping their cans with sexy artwork and branding to cultivating a space for their community to gather and mingle. Come for dressed up brats and sandwiches, stay for the good times in good company.

Lauren Burdett