Portsmouth Favorites

Experience the enchantment of the seacoast, and take the time to discover our variety of restaurants, parks, scenic views, historic homes and unique shops.

A career in real estate provides one with the opportunity to understand the intricacies of a town or region. Whether born and raised on the seacoast or recent arrivals to the area, Shanley agents have an insider’s view of Portsmouth. Here are some of our favorite spots…

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Dudley Clark:

Behold Portsmouth in all its Splendor –
Surrounded by water and 3 bridges, there are many directions from which to view the city. To Dudley, the most picturesque image of Portsmouth comes from the Piscataqua River. The city’s true essence comes alive when observed from a riverboat, and the result is breathtaking. Fortunately, for those without their own personal boat, Portsmouth Harbor Cruises and Isles of Shoals Steamship Co. offer boat tours daily throughout the summer. Use this opportunity to witness the beauty that is Portsmouth and its harbor.

Ralph Guerra:

Portsmouth’s BEST Italian Food -
Being Italian himself, Ralph is undoubtedly selective when dining out Italian. You can be confident that Ralph’s recommendations offer nothing but delicious, authentic Italian cuisine. His favorite is Café Mediterranean on Fleet Street. He affirms the food and the ambiance are superb. This is a little known jewel, so you may find that many of the restaurant’s patrons have been sent there on Ralph’s recommendation.

Dave Lefebvre:

Tranquil Hampton Setting -
Dave loves the peaceful setting of the marsh in Hampton. One of his favorite things to do is take his Achilles rigid inflatable boat and spend a quiet afternoon among the serene surroundings and the tidal waters.

Michele McCarthy:

Everyone Knows Your Name -
Michele’s favorite place for dining "with a twist" and good local atmosphere is The Green Monkey. This unique dinner spot offering fine American cuisine and a cozy martini bar immediately feels like home. The menu, prepared by chef and co-owner Phelps Dieck, is fabulous. Grab a table or sit at the bar and have a pleasant conversation with Deb, the other co-owner. She’ll know you by name after only a few visits.

Fred Pettigrew:

"If These Walls Could Talk…"
For the true flavor of Portsmouth, no establishment is as beloved and entrenched in the city’s history as Gilley’s. This hot dog and burger landmark began as a sidewalk cart in the 1940s until the city eventually donated a lot for the business to permanently locate. Whether it’s a chili cheese dog, french fries or cheeseburger, patrons savor these classic menu favorites. But the real spirit of Gilly’s lives on in the hearts and memories of these devotees who crowd the stainless steel counters every day. So inspired by the legacy of Gilley’s, Fred wrote and published a poem celebrating the Portsmouth institution titled, "If These Walls Could Talk."

Nancy Rosen:

Relax and take it all in –
Simplicity is the key for one of Nancy’s favorite spots to unwind. She enjoys a bench overlooking Portsmouth’s famous tugboats that requires no admission fee, cover charge or dress code. Situated by the lively restaurants known to locals as, "The Decks," this spot offers a prime view of the Piscataqua River and the bustling heart of the downtown scene. Witness the action and the beauty by grabbing an ice cream cone or lemonade from nearby Izzy’s and passing a few moments on Nancy’s favorite bench.