The best of Portsmouth, N.H., according to these three insiders
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Julie Cutting Kelley is executive chef and owner of Cure restaurant, a cozy, made-from-scratch comfort food bistro, specializing in brined and slow-cooked meats. She's a two-time contestant on Food Network's 'Chopped' series and one of few award-winning female chefs in the region. Her favorite day at Cure is Wednesday. 'It's perfect for a midweek pick-me-up!' she says. If the weather is cool, grab a table with a view of the kitchen. If it's summer, head to the small garden patio tucked in the backyard. 'The patio is like our secret garden,' Cutting Kelley says. I've worked really hard to cultivate a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. I want you to feel like you're at my dinner party.' Of course, you'll try the signature dish, the Crispy Skin Duck Breast, served with a forbidden black rice mushroom risotto, sherry-wilted spinach, and finished with a beurre blanc and balsamic reduction. Our favorite: the ultra-tender, deeply flavored Red Wine Braised Short Ribs.
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Massimo Morgia is the longtime proprietor of the prestigious
The Crispy Skin Duck Breast is a signature dish at Cure restaurant in Portsmouth, N.H.
Cure
We asked the three chefs a few more questions about their beloved town.
What makes Portsmouth special?
Vargas:
It's deep indigenous and Black history makes this area so special. Anyone visiting should check out the city's rich history. The Black History Trail is a must.
Cutting Kelley:
Portsmouth is one of those towns that blends historic charm with modern twists. We have great museums like Strawbery Banke and the Portsmouth Historical Society. There's also the Music Hall and Jimmy's Jazz club that have great concerts each night, not to mention that most of our restaurants and shops are locally owned. There's just so much to do!
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The historical Music Hall in Portsmouth, N.H., hosts top artists, performers, authors, and filmmakers throughout the year.
JL Stevens for The Collaborative Chamber of Greater Portsmouth
Morgia:
There's so much to love about this town! The Music Hall is incredible, featuring world-class performances. I also love the arts community, including Art Round Town the first Friday of the month, and the local shopping scene, with initiatives like Local Love every third Thursday. The music, cultural events, and overall sense of community truly set Portsmouth and the New Hampshire Seacoast apart.
When you're not at the restaurant or home, where do you like to eat?
Vargas:
You'll always find me eating One Love Jamaican Cuisine at the Fox Run Mall. Don't sleep on this spot. The food, drinks, and owners are incredible; they make you feel so special every time you go.
Cutting Kelley:
I like to go to Street Food 360 for the bibimbap and Bratskeller for pizza. And I always have a great time visiting Massimo's and Cava.
Pasta dishes are house made, and popular, at Ristorante Massimo in Portsmouth, N.H.
Massimo's
Morgia:
There are so many great places in Portsmouth! If it's a beautiful spring day and I've been inside all winter, I love heading to River House for a lobster roll on the deck or Gino's Chowder House along the river. I also adore John from Cava [John Akar, co-owner and general manager of Cava restaurant] and Julie from Cure. Julie is a brilliant chef, and John really understands hospitality.
What are some of your favorite spots in Portsmouth?
Vargas:
Some of my favorite spots are the beaches; we have some incredible waters! And Prescott Park, especially during the summer months when they have concerts in the park.
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Prescott Park is a lovely place to stroll and to watch outdoor concerts in summer.
JL Stevens for The Collaborative Chamber of Greater Portsmouth
Cutting Kelley:
The Press Room has great concerts and dance parties. Prescott Park puts on great shows, and I like to shop at Em and Elle.
Morgia:
The Music Hall, the Repertory Theater, and Jimmy's Blues and Jazz Club all offer world-class shows. Whether you're seeing a performance at one of these venues or attending a play at Prescott Park, the cultural experience in Portsmouth rivals that of a big city. I often work long hours and don't always get to enjoy the city's other amenities, but when I do, I'm always amazed. Walking around Strawbery Banke Museum or strolling through Prescott Park's gardens is a peaceful retreat. On my way back, I love grabbing a popover at Popovers.
What's your favorite Portsmouth in-town activity?
Vargas:
My favorite activity is fishing. We are so blessed to live in this area and be able to enjoy the last wild protein. If we're looking for more in-town activities, I like grabbing a coffee with my wife from Elephantine Bakery or a hot chocolate from Cup of Joe and sitting at the corner bench and watching the city walk by us.
Cutting Kelley:
I really like to go to the shows at Prescott Park and the Seacoast Rep.
Morgia:
A perfect day in Portsmouth for me is enjoying a show at one of our theaters and then dining out afterward.
Any hidden gems? Or local favorites?
Vargas:
During summer, Chauncey's Creek in Kittery is such a great locals', off-the-path spot.
Cutting Kelley:
The Salt Cellar on Commercial Alley.
Morgia:
Burns & Carlson, my favorite chocolatier in the world. You can taste the freshness in every ingredient.
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