The Rosa to Reopen for Business

John Samonas understands that very few commercial properties located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth ever stay on the market for too long, especially when they enjoy a rich history of serving Seacoast area residents.

Less than one year after The Rosa restaurant on State Street closed, Samonas, owner of Samonas Realty on Bow Street, said that new owners Mark McNabb and Joe Barone purchased the 9,000 square-foot property that includes three buildings for $1.6 million on Dec. 20. The restaurant property was listed for $2 million.

Samonas said the two local businessmen, who currently own Martingale Wharf restaurant on Bow Street, plan to preserve the exterior of The Rosa, retain the original name and the lounge that has a Brunswick bar that was purchased by the former owners in Georgia 27 years ago.

Samonas said they are currently renovating the rest of the restaurant's interior and their goal is to open the Italian-style restaurant "as soon as possible."

Samonas said the new owners also plan to offer the same menu The Rosa has been known for serving for the past 80 years with some new dishes. Overall, Samonas said the new owners' decision to purchase the property and reopen it as The Rosa is very good for Portsmouth.