About Us

This classic Italian restaurant is a Portsmouth staple and has been open since 1927. It was renovated in recent years to feature an open kitchen & a long wood bar for guests to enjoy while dining.

Set directly beside the picturesque Prescott Park and in front of the colonial atmosphere of Strawberu Banke, this family-style Italian restaurant, once owned by Ralph Rosa, opened its doors on December 22, 1927. Encouraged by his mother, Domenica, an Italian chef, and after having been laid off from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard during a slack period in 1926, Ralph transformed his family hone into The Rosa Restaurant.

It is with great excitement that we now reopen the doors at 70 State with an eye on the past and an ear to the wall, remembering what made everyone fall in love with The Rosa when it first began. We are dedicated to creating a rich atmosphere that welcomes friends, family, and visitors to a place they'd be proud to call home.

We hope you enjoy your dining experience at The Rosa as we continue to honor the history and traditions of the past, while moving gracefully toward the future.