We did the three course prix fix menu. First course, I had the mezze plate and my friend had the mixed green salad. What to say about the mezze plate other than if you blinked, you’d miss it. It was literally one oyster, a tiny...piece of prosciutto, and a small dumpling. The mixed green salad was more plentiful but flavorless. Second course was potato latke for me and seafood paella for my friend. Both were very tasty but the latke was again small in size. Dessert was the mousse for me and my friend had the cheese course. There was barely any cheese on the cheese plate (you only get one). The mousse was inedible, it tasted like bitter baking chocolate. Not to mention, the wait between courses was unreasonable. We were seated at 8:50 and didn’t see the first course until almost 9:30.... which I don’t understand for a salad and three bites of food. Simply, we were underwhelmed and left hungry after spending $120 for two people. On the bright side, our server was lovely and so kind and very attentive.More

My wife and I met longtime friends here for a nice couples night out. We were given the choice of a table upstairs, or down. We chose up, and there is a view of the river there. Pleasant staff, chef and cooks hard at work....We began with Tempura Fried Squash Blossom and Cheese and Charcuterie Board. Unusual, and outstanding. Quite good. Our main courses included Vietnamese Cabbage Springroll, NH Community Fish, which was haddock, Chicken Tinga Huarachita, and the day's special, which included stuff chicken and risotto. Everything last morsel was succulent and delicious. The Haddock was flaky and mild, the chicken was exceptionally tender, and the risotto simply good. For dessert we split two orders of Stonefruit and Coconut Custard Tart with almond crust. Incredible. Each dish had been thoughtfully planned prior to creation. Each ingredient was the perfect portion and perfectly complimented the other ingredients in the dish. A true balance on every level. Although it was a bit loud, it was just because everyone there was enthusiastically having a good time. Very atmospheric, nice view, patrons not crammed in together. Parking was a bit of a concern, but it resulted in a nice hand-in-hand walk by the water. Cash and credit accepted. This is a great place for couples, small special occasions, and it was just a very nice night out. We were there for two and a half hours and there was no rush, no pressure to leave. We had a fun, relaxing time with our friends. It's important to note that there are Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten Free options on the menu. We made reservations, and you may want to ensure a seat by making some, too.More

We had an outstanding meal at the Black Trumpet. We shared a couple of small plates and also got our own entrees, which was the right amount of food. The Brussels Caesar was delicious, and the scallops as well as the fish special (pollack) were...as fresh as possible and came with creative, delicious sides. Upstairs, the atmosphere is cozy and charming. Also the service was terrific!More

Came here for dinner on a rainy evening. The four of us were seated and looked over the wine menu. Finding a nice white, the waiter mentioned it might not be that cold, so we picked another and was told all the wine was stored...in the same area so that, too, may be at room temperature. A typical restaurant, I might let that slide, but the Trumpet has an extensive wine list with premium prices. That needs to be figure out. After that, smooth sailing! We split plates and sampled many items which were great. Loved the Cauliflower and both desserts were fantastic. Our server tonight was Genesis M, and other than a poor wine explanation, did a fine job. Food here earned the right for us to come back again. But, I think we'll have coffee!More

Just another place that pretends the food is exceptional if you have to google every other word on the menu. Necessary to shout over the noise in the cramped space when ordering or trying to converse while eating. Wait staff unaware that plates should be...cleared when diners are finished. Our main concern here was that management did not discourage the raucous people at the next table from becoming louder and more drunk.More

I'll start with the positives first.. the restraunt had a quaint atmosphere, and the waitress did an excellent job providing us with service one would expect and appreciate. The negative.. We've never see a restraunt work so hard to minimize the plate portions. The chicory...board was a joke. We all looked at it and then each other and commented on how miniscule it was. What is this place thinking? And this was suppose to be for two people? They should be embarrassed. The main meal was good (beef stroganoff), but after eating a few miny portions of appetizers, and then the meal, we were all still hungry. The seasonal drink was very good, but very weak. We won't go back to this restraunt. The food (and portion size) isn't worth the price. Expect to be hungry when you leave the Black Trumpet!!More

Extremely excellent dining. Very tasty selections. Interesting preparations. Wonderfully presented. As good a meal as we have had in ages. The menu changes regularly but our sections were all delicious. The octopus/mussels appetizer was amazing, tasty and perfectly prepared. The scallop main course as well...as the chicken roulette main course were also exceptional in every way. Interesting seasoning and presentations. The desserts were excellent as well. Both the tiramisu and the poached peach desserts were perfect. Excellent wine selections. Fine service. Pleasant setting. Just perfect. Go if you are anywhere near Portsmouth NH. Definitely worth the trip.More

Waited 15 minutes to be waited on. We ordered a bottle of wine from the wine list , they didn't have it. We ordered another bottle of wine, they didn't have that either. Maybe they should update their wine list so they have actually have...what's listed . We also ordered the cheese/ charcuterie plate...$59!!... ordered a salad , never got it [ we weren't charged for it] I had a skirt steak ... it was beyond tough, could barely chew it . We would definitely not return as we had much better diners in Portsmouth for less .More

The restaurant has a charming ambience with an eclectic menu. We ordered several dishes to share and each were extraordinary. We had the beet slaw tacos, tuna dip with toast, and the manti. The house wines were also very good. Our waitress was very attentive...and made some great recommendations. Its also a romantic setting if you are celebrating a special occasion,More

Very nice experience. Fortunately, restaurant was not crowded which helped with the decibels. Server was excellent - fully informed and very helpful in answering questions. Food was delicious although unnecessarily heavy on the pepper on everything. Spices are fine - but pepper for pepper's sake...really hides flavor more than enhances it.More

Probably one of the best meals we’ve ever had with a romantic ambiance. The whole dining experience exceeded our expectations. We celebrated our anniversary and enjoyed every minute and bite. Major compliments to the chef and entire staff!

This restaurant remains my Portsmouth favorite. I love the food and atmosphere. Last night I had meze to start, beef short rib for main and it was fantastic. Thank you to everyone at Black Trumpet!