The Oar HouseKid Friendly AND Romantic? Yes.We dined with 6 adults, one child (age 8) and a 4 week old. Two Master's grads honored for their work. It was the perfect spot for a special dinner: Stellar view of the harbor, outdoor dining if desired is right on the pier. (we chose the indoor: it was 94 degrees and we had the baby) The waitress was over the top with our 8 year old, not only asking us if we were ok or needed anything: she chatted with him every time she came to the table. The food was perfect. I had a seared tuna steak, my husband had a steak: both cooked exactly as requested. I love it when food is served artistically, and each dish did not disappoint - every plate was a picture. My husband and I are going back, sans kids, as fast as we possibly can.5/31/2013 12:00:00 AMShipshape Great!Quiet Friday night of Memorial Day weekend made for an extraordinary culinary event harborside in Portsmouth. The best service brought the absolutely best Haddock ever as well as an incredible dish of broiled shrimp, scallops, haddock, sherried lobster sauce and seasoned bread crumbs, a dish on the menu for over 35 years. It was wonderful.5/24/2013 12:00:00 AMgreat graduation dinnerHad a reservation for 7 which got switched to 10 at last minute. This is UNH graduation weekend. Restaurant changed the seating without problem. Room was full but still wonderful, friendly service. Food delivered at one time and everything was cooked perfectly and was hot. We had just about everything from steak to Mac/ cheese/ lobster to salmon etc. Having valet parking and own lot was key as Portsmouth was packed.5/17/2013 12:00:00 AMFabulousWe dined here celebrating our son's graduation from college. The food was amazing! Service great. The only issue, which really wasn't a problem, is the ceilings upstairs are very low and my son and his friend are 6'3 and 6'5 and had to keep ducked, only while standing.5/17/2013 12:00:00 AMRelaxing Mother's Day BrunchBrunch menu was excellent, with various "specialty" choices alongside actual menu. Food was served hot and in reasonable time. Brought my 7mon old son; they were quick to provide highchair and were careful to keep sharp objects and hot plates out of his reach. Server (Paul) was friendly and attentive, if a little slow with drinks (however, was Mother's Day brunch and fairly busy). Will happily visit again.5/12/2013 12:00:00 AMOur 2nd time at the Oar HouseOur 2nd time at the Oar House and not our last! It's nice to dine in an established, historic space with a traditional yet creative menu. Our server, Carly, was THE BEST!!4/28/2013 12:00:00 AMWe went for a late lunch/earlyWe went for a late lunch/early dinner so the restaurant was almost empty...a great time to see how clean and well-cared for it is. The waitress had already worked a long brunch shift, but she was cheerful and attentive. Outstanding Clam Chowder and delicious Haddock. The sides (crisp green beans and sliced, roasted potatoes) were prepared perfectly. We look forward to going back for either lunch or dinner.4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMRequested and received tableRequested and received table for 4 in corner, quiet area where we were able to talk without shouting. Nicole, our waitress was personable, cheerful and there when needed. Food choices were excellent, dishes were nicely presented and enjoyed by all. Loved the exposed huge wooden beams, brick and stone walls and music coming from the bar area. An eening enjoyed by all.4/19/2013 12:00:00 AMVery nice evening at the OarVery nice evening at the Oar House for Restaurant Week. Food was super. Waiter was very friendly and helpful.4/13/2013 12:00:00 AMFood was great, server wasFood was great, server was wonderful and the wine we had was even better. Our server let us taste a couple of different wines, and of course we chose the more expensive one... worth every penny! Food was exactly what we wanted for a nice little date night.4/13/2013 12:00:00 AMoutstanding waitress, lovelyoutstanding waitress, lovely decor, great spot to relax4/6/2013 12:00:00 AMMy husband and I were hereMy husband and I were here for Easter dinner. The mussels we shared for a starter were fabulous!! - some of the best I've ever had. I had the veal and my husband had the lamb dinner - both excellent and filling. Place is very intimate and comfortable, very old feel to it. Waitress was wonderful and very friendly. My only disappointment was the creme brulee which was ok, but not what I'm used to - seemed like very thick vanilla pudding and I didn't finish it. We had a wonderful dinner and highly recommend the Oar House for a nice dinner if you're in Portsmouth.3/31/2013 12:00:00 AMAmazing meal. Super friendlyAmazing meal. Super friendly waitress. Although always good, The Oar House was outstanding this visit!
Highly recommend lobster Mac & Cheese. Valet parking was a huge help for the downtown Portsmouth area.3/30/2013 12:00:00 AM