Carbone
A great dining experience. The atmosphere was very elegant with polite fast service. The good was fantastic as we tried an app, 2 pastas, a haddock, several drinks, dessert and cappuccino. No complaints just sad we haven’t been sooner. Additional we went on our anniversary and they also catered to that with special seating and personal touches in the desserts.
… moreAdam Glick
We had a wonderful day last night at Restaurant Massimo. The staff could not have been more lovely. The atmosphere was classy and cozy and the food was outstanding. We were celebrating my parents 60th wedding anniversary and they made us all feel so special. We tried each of the pasta dishes and they were all excellent. We each had a different favorite. The octopus appetizer was great and unique and a generous portion. Save room for desserts! We tried three different ones and loved them all!
… moreThe Gibby Gallery
This is definitely a 5 star experience! Booked a last minute reservation for my husband’s 30th birthday. The restaurant called me back right away and was able to accommodate us. The server was super knowledgeable about the menu items, made great suggestions and everything we ate was 10/10. Our table was very well tended to and at the end when we got dessert they added a birthday candle to my husband’s dessert without me needing to remind them that it was his birthday. Very professional staff and food that exceeded expectations. Everything we ate we would order again. We definitely enjoyed this restaurant more than some of the other “nicer” restaurants in town like the Library or Cure. If you’re looking for a romantic, fine dining experience with excellent food- this should be your choice.
… morejohn morrison
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An extraordinary dining experience
What an incredible evening at Ristorante Massimo.
Based on the reviews, I had high expectations — but the experience far exceeded them. This was the most professional service and the most delicious meal I’ve had in at least 20 years, yet priced like it was 10 years ago.
I ordered the American Wagyu sirloin, which looked like a filet and was absolutely incredible — tender, rich, and cooked perfectly. The portion was generous and beautifully presented, served over Brussels sprouts and potatoes with a chestnut demi-glace. I was hesitant about the chestnut, but it was phenomenal and tied the dish together perfectly. I’m so glad I didn’t ask for it on the side.
Dessert deserves special recognition. It arrived looking like a chocolate bomb — and it delivered. Quite honestly, it was the best dessert I’ve ever had (and I love dessert). A layer of chocolate cake on the bottom, pure heaven above it, all beneath a delicate chocolate shell. Even the graham cracker crumbs dusted on the plate were outstanding.
Our server, Abby, was exceptional — extremely knowledgeable, attentive, and delivered true five-star service throughout the entire meal. The entire staff was wonderful the owner greeted each table and you can tell the staff really likes working there.
The ambiance was elegant and inviting, the pacing was perfect, and every detail felt intentional. I don’t write many reviews, but this experience absolutely deserved recognition. My wife had the veal and loved her meal as well.
A truly special restaurant and an evening we won’t forget. We will absolutely be back.
… moreKaylynn
We went for our anniversary and they gave us a complimentary dessert. We had a charcuterie board, two bowls of pasta, mocktails, the lamb, and espresso — a real Italian feast. The food was delicious. The waitstaff could not have been more professional or thoughtful. Definitely recommend
… moreGina Lewis
Exceptional service and truly authentic Italian cuisine. The flavors were clean and balanced, showcasing real attention to detail in every dish. The staff was welcoming and attentive, offering a personalized experience that made the meal feel special. We were introduced to fantastic new wine; a great touch that added to the overall discovery. Inviting atmosphere with a fun, relaxed vibe. Highly recommend!
… moreDavid Manning
We celebrated duel birthdays with friends at Massimo’s, and the experience was truly first-class. From the moment we sat down, the ambiance, with its elegant decor and stunning exposed brick and granite, set the perfect tone. Our server, Sandra, was incredible and made the evening seamless.
The meatball appetizer is an absolute must order! I had the duck, which was prepared perfectly, and every meal at our table was a hit. The owner even stopped by to check on us, which was a very gracious touch. A definite must-visit if you’re in Portsmouth.
… moreK Cay
The atmosphere is one of my favorites in Portsmouth with a beautiful upstairs and downstairs. The staff is extremely professional and polite and the food is excellent. I have been once for a normal night, and another time for Portsmouth restaurant week. I got the swordfish as my entree last time and it was cooked perfectly and tasted amazing. The dessert I had after my meal was very unique and is definitely worth getting. If you’re looking for fine dining to celebrate a date night or some other occasion this is a great place to go.
… moreC. Roy
I can’t say anything single thing bad about this restaurant. Everything was top notch. The owner was present and interacting with staff and customers, which I don’t find a common practice in restaurants lately. I liked the look and feel of the downstairs restaurant more than upstairs.
… moreAshley Herrera
Had the best experience for our 1 year wedding anniversary. Our waiter Anthony gave impeccable service and even gave us a free anniversary dessert. It was a handmade cannoli with a sparkling candle. I got the filet mignon and the husband got the bone in ribeye. Felt like something out of a movie and we are very grateful for the experience. Very big and fancy wine collection and nice velvet seating in the private dining hall.
… more