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Black Trumpet Reviews List
Black Trumpet
Black Trumpet is a two-story bistro and wine bar in the heart of Portsmouth’s historic old port. Both floors offer views of the Piscataqua River and the oft-photographed tugboats that still escort enormous tankers into the harbor. Our first floor dining room offers a cozy, romantic setting with warm, unassuming service. The upstairs wine bar is a more intimate, convivial space. The menu changes every six weeks to capitalize on the freshest seasonal ingredients. The wine list features a variety of unheralded gems that pair well with the bold flavors of Chef Mallett’s cuisine. Black Trumpet’s cuisine reflects the chef-owner’s culinary curiosity, drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean as well as the Americas. A typical Black Trumpet menu may include influences from Spain, North Africa, Turkey and the Mexican heartland. Reservations are accepted in our dining room, the upstairs wine bar is first-come-first-served.
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112 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 112 reviews
5 stars
(68)
4 stars
(34)
3 stars
(5)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(93)
- romantic(83)
- special occasion(70)
- neighborhood gem(52)
- notable wine list(44)
- scenic view(20)
Black Trumpet Reviews List
Review 1 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing meal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Don't know where to start with accolades - first of all food fantastic. Epitome of farm to table: picked ramps, fiddle head ferns and eggs from chef"s garden. Perfect blend if flavors from rhubarb soup to yogurt panacotta. Unusual wine list. Service knowledgable and friendly. Highly recommend but make a reservation."
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was fresh, locally sourced, and innovative without being weird. We shared bites of our appetizers as well as our dinners and everyone liked everything! Great service, relaxed and attentive. The space is a bit small, reservations are a very good idea. Great evening!"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 3 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food small portions
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Place is quiet, rustic and romantic. Upstairs has a great view of river. Food is always unique and delicious. Theit Martinis are also amazing. The only problem is the portions. My boyfriend and I had two apps, they were bit size, then a meal and shared dessert and did not feel full. Great for a light meal or lunch."
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic
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Review 4 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best of New Hampshire
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"New England charm = brick walls, candle light, old beams. Outstanding, inventive, gourmet food. Knowledgeable, attentive staff. We are very frequent diners and Open Table users and feel that after our first visit, this is in our opinion the best dining in New Hampshire."
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 5 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Less for More
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"For the price, the portions were extremely small. Unusual blend of food items and flavorings were sometimes a hit and sometimes a miss."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 6 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Nice place w/ interesting choices;small,med and regular size choices.Local sourcing which we like.
Pricey so a special occasion place.
Very good service.I had called ahead for a "birthday" cupcake or such for my son's 30th.They obliged and he was surprised!"
Pricey so a special occasion place.
Very good service.I had called ahead for a "birthday" cupcake or such for my son's 30th.They obliged and he was surprised!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 7 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful Dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was exceptional! The service was very knowledgeable and quite courteous!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The ambiance and the food were both very good, and our server was top notch. However, the price/value ratio was totally out of wack. $29 for a steak entree is more than reasonable, but $29 for 2-3 oz. of steak carries the chi-chi thing too far."
Dined on 5/02/2013
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Review 9 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Awesome Anniversary!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"What an amazingly awesome spot to celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary! The menu was incredible and very impressive for my wife who is a former chef and big time foodie! The service by Rebecca was just perfect! We will definitely be back!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 10 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We had a very nice dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had a very nice dinner here. We were eating early and the staff treated us like we were the most important people there. It was delicious!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 11 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My fiancee and I live in downtown
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My fiancee and I live in downtown Portsmouth so we are very spoiled when it comes to good food within walking distance from home. That being said, we are big fans of Black Trumpet - it's one of our go-to special occasion restaurants. We love everything about this place! I can not recommend it enough."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 12 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food. Service Good-Fair
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food was incredible. Gourmet's dream. We ate mussels frites - unconstructed with slivers of fries on top of mussels with a delicious topping. Second course crabmeat polenta - delicious and third, Rhode Island Fluke with braised celery, rice pilaf and carrot harissa, all were plated beautifully.
Service: John our waiter was seemingly missing at times - he was obviously busy, but he could have arrived with drinks faster and did not check with us. We needed to stop him to request our bill which he never retrieved. The "water boy" also interrupted my wife to ask her if he should fill her water when we were obviously saying Grace over our food with eyes closed and heads bowed. That had never happened to us!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Local Sourcing with a tasty 'edge'
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Good foods prepared with a careful mind to fresh and seasonal ingredients combined with a tasty 'edge'--enjoyed everything we tried out from the small plates menu. Great time for a special occasion."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 14 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic little restaurant,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Fantastic little restaurant,
If in the Portsmouth area, this is "The" restaurant to stop at, slightly pricey, but worth every penny if you want to celebrate that special occasion, or just a really nice romantic dinner, this is the place to go."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 15 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointment
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
"Several things stuck out. The waiter was rather condescending when asked about items on the menu, body language revealed obvious disappointment with the fact we ordered medium plates. While the meals were good, the "medium" plates were tiny, smaller than one would expect for "small" plates and when I inquired about the dessert we had ordered, because it took so long, he responded, "it was cooking." The dessert, a rhubarb affair, was gritty with not much rhubarb. We travel a lot, enjoy good restaurants...this was a disappointment. Doubt we would return."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
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Review 16 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Black Trumpet is spectacular
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Black Trumpet is spectacular in every aspect: food, service, ambiance. If you are debating about whether to go or not, stop debating. Just. Go."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was my first time at
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was my first time at the Black Trumpet and was extremly please with the entire experience. The food was delicious!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 18 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Awesome service, food/wine
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Awesome service, food/wine and ambiance! Our waitress was very helpful in explaining the restaurant week specials and even helped us pick a delicious wine to pair with it!"
Dined on 04/08/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 19 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Very Disappointed!
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had been looking forward to this meal but it fell far short of expectations.
The room itself is welcoming, cozy and the staff are friendly and efficient.
By the glass list of wines for a property that bills itself as a wine bar was dismal ( only 5 whites) The combination of tastes and textures was way off the mark on all but 1 of the five dishes we tried. The flavors were muddy and in two cases over salted and unpleasant. The presentation was uninspired and rushed looking, capped with the dessert..a non descript tiny square of dry cheesecake with a pile of oreo crumbs, a blob of chocolate sauce and a few flower petals. It isn't often that my wife and I can't find any bright spot in a restaurant experience..."
The room itself is welcoming, cozy and the staff are friendly and efficient.
By the glass list of wines for a property that bills itself as a wine bar was dismal ( only 5 whites) The combination of tastes and textures was way off the mark on all but 1 of the five dishes we tried. The flavors were muddy and in two cases over salted and unpleasant. The presentation was uninspired and rushed looking, capped with the dessert..a non descript tiny square of dry cheesecake with a pile of oreo crumbs, a blob of chocolate sauce and a few flower petals. It isn't often that my wife and I can't find any bright spot in a restaurant experience..."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2013
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Review 20 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Menu thoughtfully designed
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"The menu is thoughtfully designed and reasonably priced. The fried farm egg over sautéed mushrooms and leeks with baby kale chips was a huge hit! The warm duck confit salad with sesame beet dressing is delicious as is the truffled wild mushroom arancini. The Meyer lemon cake roll is a great finish for this well thought out menu!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 21 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We enjoyed our stay. I had
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We enjoyed our stay.
I had told the waitress when I made our reservation that it was my son's birthday
and she said they would bring a cupcake with candle. That did not happen. Perhaps
I was suppose to remind someone but that opportunity did not arise.
I had told the waitress when I made our reservation that it was my son's birthday
and she said they would bring a cupcake with candle. That did not happen. Perhaps
I was suppose to remind someone but that opportunity did not arise.
Service was pretty good. I drink a lot of water and our glasses could have been filled more
often."
often."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2013
Special Features: late-night find, romantic, scenic view
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Review 22 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfection in a gorgeous setting.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Perfection in a gorgeous setting. Just perfection."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 23 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great wine, great specials,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great wine, great specials, delicious food. All win."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 24 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was a special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was a special occasion and they accomodated all my requests. Wait staff was exceptionally friendly and helpful. The upstairs wine bar can get a little boisterous, but the dining can also be initimate; you just have to situate yourself properly"
Dined on 03/30/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Black Trumpet a must.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our party of four had a delightful evening at Black Trumpet. Our server was knowledgeable, articulate and had a good sense of humor. The general service was very attentive, and the wine list, while tending towards the pricey, offered a wide selection of bottles that were not the usual suspects.
It was the food that made the evening so special. Such a treat to have a menu that is truly the combination of a creative mind and a master's hand. Everything was not only delicious, but artfully presented without being precious.
I will certainly return."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 26 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Saturday Night VIsit
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My wife and I visited BT for the first time Saturday and were heartily enthralled by the setting, food and service. I enjoyed the view of the harbor, the historic building features as well as the overall vibe. My wife love the food selections as well as the extensive list of drinks. We both found the food to be delicious, fresh and local - which is important to us. The food presentation was great, with micro cast iron pans and wood bread bowls. Our server was well versed in the varieties of beer served as well as how the food is prepared. She represented Black Trumpet well! We had a salad, small dish, mixed drink, wine, two beers, main course and desert with coffee for $124. We felt the price was fine and comparable to The Republic in Manch"
Dined on 03/23/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view
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Review 27 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Loved it. They were just finishing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Loved it. They were just finishing some renovations on the first floor but that did not cause any problems other than the espresso machine was acting up. Highly unusual. The second floor with a bar was the preferred spot anyway. All courses were inventive and delicious. Wait staff knew lots of details and one fellow owns a local farm. They all knew how to chat but also how to leave us alone. Food was outstanding and because we like to cook it gave us ideas on ways to present and treat food."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 28 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The restaurant has two levels.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The restaurant has two levels. We ate in the bottom bistro level which was small and cozy. The food was very ecletic and unique. We had the Meatball Kefta, Veal Flank Schnitzel, Warm Kale Caesar salad and Fez Fish Stew. All of the dishes were delicious and wonderful. The kale salad and fish stew were especially superb. We asked the waiter to pair wines with our various courses. The pairing with the salad & stew was perfect. Our dinner was for a birthday celebration and the restaurant gave us a piece of their olive oil cake with a candle. It was delicious. Overall, we enjoyed our experience and look forward to coming back and exploring more of their unique creations. Highly recommend for a wonderful, romantic dinner."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
really good interesting food,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"really good interesting food, knowledgeable waitstaff, fun place to go to forage food and drink and embellish conversation"
Dined on 03/15/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 30 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Find
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"An absolutely amazing menu that's executed flawlessly. It's a great spot for anyone who's looking for a creative, adventurous menu with a fun staff and a diverse wine list.
The restaurant is cozy without being cramped, with several small tables. The menu has small and medium plates that are perfect for sharing, and we found that the main courses shared really well too. We ordered 9 plates (a mix of small plates, medium plates, and main courses) for the 4 of us and shared everything without issue. For a creative menu like this, I really think trying a bit of everything is the goal.
A great experience: great food, intriguing menu, fun staff. Must try."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 31 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Friendly staff, dining are
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"Friendly staff, dining are is a good size and still cosy, comprehensive food menu."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 32 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The wait staff at Black Trumpet
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The wait staff at Black Trumpet was great and the food was incredible. I can't get enough of the kale ceasar. I'm not sure they get many toddlers there, but they accommodated us well even checking ahead with us to make sure their high-chair would work for us. Everything was delicious!"
Dined on 03/09/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 33 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was absolutely amazing. Hands down the best meal we have had in Portsmouth. Loved sitting upstairs."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 34 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Overall fantastic!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Menu offerings are very different, but amazing! Service was fantastic. Our waitress was well versed in the food selections and knew the wine list inside and out. Her recommendations were right on. Our food was amazing!!! Cannot wait to go back."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 35 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Some of the best fine dining we've had in New England. When we arrived almost an hour early, staff was very accommodating, seated us at a table for two upstairs and immediately took our food and drink orders. I chose the price fixe menu, an incredible bargain, under $30 for 3 courses; my rare duck breast entrée was beautifully cooked and presented. My husband ordered small plates which were not small; the "frites and moules" were a standout! We enjoy Portsmouth and will return to The Black Trumpet for more delicious dining occasions in the future!"
Dined on 03/03/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 36 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Half way there
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The place is super cute and romantic. They try hard to produce gourmet food and hit on a few items, but miss on others."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2008
Special Features: romantic
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Review 37 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
What a spectacular meal!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What a spectacular meal!! Can't wait to go back!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2013
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Review 38 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I found the food unremarkable,the
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I found the food unremarkable,the noise level unacceptable."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2013
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 39 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Lived up to it's reviews
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We go to Portsmouth every few months, and this was the first time we tried Black Trumpet. Very happy we did. Food and service were spectacular. We went on a Friday night in February, so it was relatively quiet. I imagine on a summer evening the place would be packed. Menu is somewhat food-forward, especially for a town like Portsmouth. But if you aren't intimidated by the unusual, sit back and enjoy. Only down side was that the wine list was a little heavy on the expensive offerings, but we ordered from the bottom half of the price range and were very happy. Highly recommend Black Trumpet."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 40 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We loved it and plan to return.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We loved it and plan to return."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 41 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Latin/Mediterranean, NH style. Huh?
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Honestly we didn't like this place much at all. The menu was some kind of over-thought Latin/Mediterranean vibe made from New Hampshire ingredients. Most offerings were hard to decipher with all the overwrought foodie mumbo jumbo - rather pretentious. The Chef’s Meze Plate appetizer was odd; the spicy goat cheese balls were awful. The cold soup was nice -- the highlight. Entrees were unimpressive in appearance and cooking technique. Seen nicer plating at a diner. Flavors were memorable, but oddly assembled. The wine list was neat and we enjoyed our selections. The upstairs wine bar would the best way to experience this place. I'd read that some get this restaurant or just don't. I didn't."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 42 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Two business colleagues and I met at the Black Trumpet for dinner on a quiet Thursday evening. The attention from the wait staff was very open, personal and unrushed.
The menu on this night was fresh, local cuisine with a North African/Mediterranean theme. Everything was done perfectly from the Kale Caesar salad we all had to the main courses of Braised Shortrib, Rhode Island Fluke and Fez Fish Stew. The portions were plenty without being excessive.
We had two desserts, the Coconut Haupia was light and favorable but the Chocolate Banana Boston Cream Pie was more like a chocolate brownie, not what we expected.
Overall a good experience, the third time I've eaten here."
The menu on this night was fresh, local cuisine with a North African/Mediterranean theme. Everything was done perfectly from the Kale Caesar salad we all had to the main courses of Braised Shortrib, Rhode Island Fluke and Fez Fish Stew. The portions were plenty without being excessive.
We had two desserts, the Coconut Haupia was light and favorable but the Chocolate Banana Boston Cream Pie was more like a chocolate brownie, not what we expected.
Overall a good experience, the third time I've eaten here."
Dined on 02/21/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The Trumpet always seems to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The Trumpet always seems to delivery innovative cooking with a wonderful setting. We dined there last Monday. The seasonal menu was superb: afish stew with mussles was "to-die-for" and the shot rib of beef was excellent. The real winner was the starter. Simple oysters on half shell with little pieces of onion ring and a migionette sauce. Superb! Overall, a real find!"
Dined on 02/18/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 44 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
just say YES!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Menu items and descrptions are quite an adventure to decipher, but well worth the adventure. The kale salad was beyond delicious! Staff wasa excellent, with just the right balance of attentiveness and respect. I'm looking forward to visiting again."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 45 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We were there for a romantic
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We were there for a romantic birhtday and it was a meal to remember, first rate on all accounts."
Dined on 02/10/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always exceptional!! We try
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Always exceptional!! We try to hit the Black Trumpet every few months as the menu changes. The food is incomparable to any other."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 47 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Black Trumpet is a true gem. Small and cozy the ambiance is welcoming as well as the staff. The menu is always changing which makes it easy to keep coming back. The offerings are inspired and always done with a very creative twist which is well presented and for those who enjoy food adventures, with delicious rewards. We were not disappointed with any of the many special dishes we tried during our most recent visit, and we even sampled many interesting wine offerings by the glass."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 48 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Typical "foodie" restaurant
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Typical "foodie" restaurant - while the food was okay, the service was very snooty, and seemed irritated every time we had a question about the menu."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 49 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The combination of the wait
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The combination of the wait staff and the exceptional seasonal choices made the Black Trumpet a wonderful, romantic evening for my husband and I. The waitress was very knowledgeable about the wine and offered wonderful recommendations for pairing with our delicious dinner and dessert choices. Reservations are absolutely needed as more than 20 parties were turned away on the night we went. The growing popularity is justified."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
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Review 50 for Black Trumpet
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Intimiate setting; excellent food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We started with a drink at the bar with a friendly bartender who provided prompt service. The wine and drink list is extensive. When it was time for our reservation, she gave us the option of eating at the bar, at an upstairs table near the bar or in the main dining room. We choose the main dining room which provided a quiet corner. Our server was pleasant, knowledgeable and prompt. The menu provided a striking variety of options that were creative and experimental. The appetizers and main dishes we ordered were all spot-on -- delicious, intriguing blend of flavors, and beautiful presentation. i would recommend Black Trumpet to a friend without hesitation."
Dined on 02/12/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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