Welcome to Library Restaurant
The Library Restaurant in Portsmouth, NH, offers a unique dining experience that combines an inviting library ambiance with top-notch culinary delights. Patrons rave about the meticulous attention to detail in both service and presentation. Highlights include impressive craft cocktails like the Caribbean Cowboy, and stellar dishes such as the Chateaubriand and delectable crab cakes. The restaurant excels in creating unforgettable date nights and special occasions, with a cozy yet upscale atmosphere that is enhanced by attentive staff. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying a night out, The Library Restaurant consistently delivers exquisite food and an enchanting experience.
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401 State Street #5, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States Hotline: +1 603-431-5202
Welcome to the Library Restaurant, a charming gem located at 401 State Street #5 in Portsmouth, NH. This unique establishment combines the cozy, inviting atmosphere of a library with upscale dining, making it an ideal choice for any occasion—from romantic date nights to lively gatherings with friends. With its attention to detail and impeccable service, the Library Restaurant has earned a reputation for excellence that has customers returning year after year.
As you step inside, you're instantly enveloped by an old-world charm that enhances every dining experience. The rich ambiance is complemented by the alluring scent of expertly prepared dishes. Patrons rave about the inventive craft cocktails; the Caribbean Cowboy, a staff favorite, is described as a delightful, smooth blend that dances on the palate. Each drink, like the cocktails crafted by the talented bartenders, is meticulously presented and filled with flavors that elevate the occasion.
The cuisine at the Library Restaurant is a journey in itself. Customers frequently highlight the steaks, with dishes like the Gentleman's Cut and Filet Mignon stealing the spotlight. Reviewers often describe these cuts as perfectly cooked, bursting with flavor—especially those with a smokey finish that adds an impressive depth. The crab cakes, praised as some of the best in New England, and the decadent pork belly are other standout menu items that showcase the chef's commitment to exceptional taste and quality.
Don't overlook the sides and desserts, either. Diners have applauded the potato au gratin and creamy spinach as perfect accompaniments to their meals. And for dessert, the Peanut Butter Pie and chocolate mousse have been described as must-try highlights, capable of impressing even those who aren't typically fond of peanut butter.
The Library Restaurant prides itself on providing a memorable experience that transcends just a meal. As one patron noted, the inviting library vibe transforms the restaurant into a cozy yet elegant space, perfect for unwinding after a long day or celebrating special moments. The warm service, thoughtful recommendations from staff, and an attention to detail all add to the delightful experience. Whether it's a casual lunch, date night, or celebration with loved ones, this restaurant offers a dining experience that consistently exceeds expectations.
So if you find yourself in Portsmouth, NH, be sure to reserve your spot at the Library Restaurant. With a menu filled with culinary delights and a cozy ambiance that makes every visit feel special, it’s a destination that promises not to disappoint.
Date night with hubby was amazing. The attention to detail and service was impeccable from the moment we arrived. The inventive craft cocktails were gorgeously presented and delicious. Our meal was perfect, every single bite. It is a lovely experience all around. We've been coming here for several years, and we've never been disappointed.
We visited The Library for the second time on a much-needed date night away from the kids, and once again, it delivered an unforgettable steakhouse experience. It’s hands down the best we've ever had. This is the only restaurant where I prefer sitting at the bar—the bartenders are incredibly welcoming and craft some of the best drinks you’ll find anywhere. Lance introduced us to a cocktail called the Caribbean Cowboy, and it was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted—warm, smooth, and reminiscent of freshly baked banana bread. Absolutely amazing. The ambiance is rich with character, the service is top-notch, and the steaks? Simply phenomenal.
The last time I've been to The Library, it was for my graduation from UNH, 11 years later, I'm back and I'm happy to say, nothing has changed. It's impossible to overstate what an impression this place gives. From the moment you step in, you know you're in a special place. Then, you are led into thr main dining room and yes, you are in the middle of a library. The pork belly is simply to die for and the crab cakes are a must — having all kinds of crab cakes from different places in New England, the crab cakes here are simply the best. I loved my Gentleman's cut, but felt i should have gone with the Filet Mignon for a more tender bite. To end things off, please get the Peanut Butter Pie!!! I'm not a peanut butter person but the pie rocked my world. So yes, I hope it won't be another 11 years till I'm back again.
My wife and I recently celebrated our anniversary at The Library Restaurant, and we couldn’t have chosen a better place for the occasion. Without a reservation, we took a chance and were lucky to find two great seats at the bar. From the start, the experience was exceptional. Andrew, our mixologist crafted some amazing cocktails that set the tone for the evening. We shared the Chateaubriand, which was perfectly prepared and lived up to every expectation. The old-world ambiance of the restaurant adds to its charm, making every visit feel special. The Library Restaurant consistently delivers top-notch food, drinks, and service. Whether it’s a celebration or just an evening out, this place never disappoints!
Such a lovely place for a day night! I absolutely love the library vibe, it's very well done and makes it feel like a cozy space instead of like a big restaurant. The food is also amazing, and the portions are definitely not small. I really loved the ceviche and burrata appetizers. For entrees, we ordered the steak (of course) and rack of lamb and both were cooked to perfection. I especially liked that the steak had a smokey flavor! For dessert, the chocolate mousse was perfect, definitely don't skip that.
My husband and I have been to The Library Restaurant previously. We decided to dine there again for Mother’s Day 2025. We made a reservation for lunch and we got a phone call the day before letting us know they upgraded us and put us in the main dining room in front of the fireplace, super awesome! When we arrived, we were seated right away and then promptly greeted by our server, Leah K. She was kind, funny, polite and made suggestions every step of the way. We first ordered drinks from the bar, a dirty martini for me and a margarita for the hubby. We then ordered steak tartar from the starter menu. I have had it before at other fine steak houses, but I have to say, this one was not great. It was chewy, lots of fat and not much flavor at all. Next time, we will pass on the appetizer. The main meal: I ordered the 8oz filet medium rare and my husband ordered the gentlemen’s cut rare. Both steaks were done to perfection. We also ordered a side to share, potatoes au gratin, which were amazing. I ordered another drink, but it took so long, I was going to cancel. Our fabulous server, Leah K, said it will be made, but at no charge to us. Very kind of her to rectify the issue. We ordered dessert to go, the chocolate layered cake, chocolate mousse (GF) for my celiac daughter who had to work :( and a slice of carrot cake for me. All desserts were good, flavorful. The carrot cake was really fresh when I had a bite of it before bed, I was so full from lunch, I didn’t get to enjoy it on Mother’s Day. Overall a great meal and wonderful service. I am sure we will be back again.
I had the pleasure of dining at The Library Restaurant with my mom in December to celebrate her birthday before a show at the Music Hall — and it was absolutely amazing. From the moment we walked in, we were swept up in the festive atmosphere. The restaurant was beautifully decorated for the holidays, creating a warm and elegant ambiance that felt truly special. The food was delicious and beautifully presented, and the service was outstanding — friendly, attentive, and perfectly paced for our evening plans. One of the highlights of the night was the group of carolers singing throughout the restaurant, adding an extra touch of holiday magic that made the evening even more memorable. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our night out, and we’ll absolutely be back. Highly recommend for a special occasion or a cozy, elegant dinner out!
Bartender was Great, made some amazing Old Fashions. French Onion soup is a must. I had the Australian Wagyu Sirloin and it was so tender and best bang for your buck. Sides were potato gratin in a bechamel sauce and creamy spinach. This place gets busy quick so make a reservation or get there when the doors open.