The Best Brunch in Portsmouth, NH & Kittery, Maine: A Local Guide

Written By Guest User

There's something special about a slow Seacoast morning, the kind that starts with a warm popover or a flaky croissant, drifts into a mimosa or two, and ends with a stroll along cobblestone streets that smell like fresh coffee and salt air. In Portsmouth, NH, and just across the bridge in Kittery, Maine, brunch isn't just a meal. It's the heart of the weekend.

Whether you're craving a classic Lobster Eggs Benedict, a stack of pancakes the size of dinner plates, or a buttery almond croissant from a café that feels like a trip to Paris, our historic locations put you within walking distance, (perhaps including a quick hop over the Memorial Bridge,) of some of the best brunch spots in New England. Here are our favorites, straight from the people who know this town best: us!

Our Quick Picks

Brunch in Portsmouth

Elephantine Bakery

For a lighter, European-inspired brunch, Elephantine has long been one of downtown Portsmouth's favorite morning destinations. Think Parisian café energy with Seacoast charm—exceptional pastries, artisan bread, expertly crafted espresso, and a full lineup of breakfast dishes alongside the bakery case.

Order this: A fresh croissant (the pistachio and pistachio chocolate varieties are weekend favorites), or the Egg Simit paired with a specialty coffee and their Egyptian bread pudding. It's the perfect first stop before exploring Portsmouth's historic downtown.

La Maison Navarre

Step through the door and you'll swear you've landed in a neighborhood café in Paris. Part bakery, part pâtisserie, part bistro, La Maison Navarre is made for a slow, indulgent morning.

Order this: The Croque Madame is the star here, but the seasonal quiche, crêpes, and almond croissants are just as worthy.

The Friendly Toast

Playful, colorful, and always buzzing, The Friendly Toast has earned its reputation as one of Portsmouth's liveliest brunch destinations. Big portions, bold flavors, and a menu that doesn't take itself too seriously make it a favorite for groups and families alike.

Order this: Start with the churros to share, then dive into a breakfast burrito or the Monster Breakfast if you're especially hungry. If you're feeling festive, order a Loaded Bloody Mary to match the energy of the room.

Popovers on the Square

A true Market Square institution, Popovers on the Square has been welcoming locals and visitors for generations. Their towering golden popovers, served warm with whipped maple butter, are practically a Portsmouth rite of passage.

Order this: Start with the signature popovers and maple butter—or go all in with one of their loaded popovers. Gluten-free diners are well taken care of here too, with several gluten-free options available. After brunch, you're already in the perfect spot to browse the boutiques, galleries, and waterfront just steps away.

BRGR Bar

Who says brunch has to be traditional? BRGR Bar throws out the rulebook, blending classic breakfast comfort with gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and a lively downtown atmosphere.

Order this: The Hangover Burger if you indulged the night before, or the Hash Bennie paired with bottomless mimosas. If you're really treating yourself, don't skip one of their boozy milkshakes.

STREET

Global street food meets weekend brunch at Street, where creative flavors make this a favorite for diners looking to venture beyond the usual eggs and pancakes. It's one of the most inventive brunch menus in Portsmouth and a great choice when everyone at the table is craving something different.

Order this: One of their famous Hollandaise Carriers, sausage gravy and biscuits, or a sticky rice breakfast bowl with scrambled eggs and vegetables. Pair it with one of their inventive brunch cocktails and settle in for a leisurely morning.

The Wilder

For an elevated brunch that's worth dressing up for, The Wilder delivers seasonal, inventive dishes in a beautiful dining room that's perfect for celebrations or a leisurely weekend meal.

Order this: One of the Benedicts or the Chicken and Cheddar Cheese Pancakes (trust us—ask for the Nashville hot sauce). Finish with a seasonal pastry and one of their beautifully crafted cocktails.

Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club

Few brunches are as memorable as one with a live soundtrack. Jimmy's hosts a seasonal Sunday Jazz Brunch from October through May, pairing chef-inspired dishes with performances from nationally recognized jazz and blues artists.

Order this: Brunch is served buffet-style, so come hungry and sample your way through the chef's seasonal offerings alongside a Bloody Mary or mimosa. Since brunch isn't offered during the summer, be sure to check their event calendar and reserve your table in advance.

The Press Room

A beloved Portsmouth institution for music lovers, The Press Room occasionally hosts special brunch events featuring live music that draw locals and visitors alike.

Order this: Whatever is featured on the seasonal brunch menu that weekend, paired with a craft cocktail and a front-row seat to some of the Seacoast's best local and regional musicians. Since brunch isn't offered every weekend, it's worth checking their event schedule before making plans.

Just Across the Bridge: Brunch in Kittery, Maine

One of the best perks of staying with us is how close Kittery, Maine, really is. Two of our properties, Hotel Thaxter and The Sailmaker's House, are in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, while The Water Street Inn sits just over the Memorial Bridge in Kittery. No matter where you stay, another collection of fantastic brunch spots is only a few minutes away. We always recommend exploring both sides of the Piscataqua River—you'll get the best of Portsmouth and Kittery in one trip.

Lil's Café

Home to one of the Seacoast's most iconic pastries, Lil's Café has become a must-stop for locals and visitors alike. The line out the door most mornings tells you everything you need to know.

Order this: The legendary glazed cruller, a freshly baked bagel, fresh quiche, or an egg sandwich, paired with a cappuccino to wash it all down.

Beach Pea Baking Co.

This artisan bakery has earned a loyal following for exceptional bread and pastries made with locally milled grains. It's the kind of place where a quick coffee stop easily turns into a leisurely breakfast.

Order this: A brioche bun, breakfast sandwich, bialy, or bagel. Before you leave, grab a fougasse or loaf of bread to enjoy later.

Blue Mermaid Island Grill

Looking for something different? Blue Mermaid brings Caribbean-inspired flavors and island energy to brunch, offering a vibrant departure from the usual New England fare. Sunday brunch often features live music, adding to the laid-back atmosphere.

Order this: The Bimini French Toast, Short Rib Benedict, Island Hash, or Rum French Toast, paired with a Mimosa Flight or tropical cocktail.

Sunrise Grill

A longtime local favorite, Sunrise Grill keeps things hearty, classic, and comforting—exactly what a weekend morning calls for.

Order this: The Irish Eggs Benedict is the must-order here, but the daily omelet special and blueberry pancakes are close runners-up.

Ore Nell's Barbecue

If your ideal brunch includes smoked brisket instead of pancakes, Ore Nell's delivers one of the Seacoast's most unique weekend brunch experiences. Their seasonal brunch menu (October through May) blends Texas-style barbecue with classic brunch favorites in a way you won't find anywhere else nearby.

Order this: The Brisket Eggs Benedict with cilantro hollandaise is the standout, while the Green Chili Pork Hash is another local favorite. Don't skip the beignets with cinnamon sugar and caramel dipping sauce, and top it all off with a mimosa or Bloody Mary—bonus points if you add burnt ends.

Local Tip: Beat the Brunch Rush

Most Portsmouth brunch spots are busiest between 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., especially during the summer and fall foliage season. If your schedule allows, arriving before 9:30 a.m. or after 1:00 p.m. usually means a shorter wait and a more relaxed experience.

For the most popular spots—especially those with live music or seasonal brunch events—we always recommend making reservations whenever possible. It's also worth taking a look at our concierge recommendations before your visit, where we keep track of what's happening around town so you don't miss a thing.

If you're staying at one of our inns, our concierge team is always happy to recommend a favorite based on what you're craving that morning, whether that's a quick pastry and coffee before exploring or a leisurely brunch with cocktails and live music.

We update this guide regularly so you'll always have the latest recommendations before your visit.

Why a Boutique Hotel Makes Brunch Even Better

Part of what makes a Seacoast brunch crawl so enjoyable is where you're staying. Choosing one of our boutique inns in downtown Portsmouth or just over the bridge in Kittery means many of the restaurants on this list are just a short walk or drive away. There's no need to rush, search for parking, or build your entire day around a single reservation.

A boutique hotel stay also comes with a more personal pace. Smaller, independently owned properties offer thoughtful touches, attentive service, and concierge teams who can recommend the perfect brunch spot based on your mood—or tell you which table to request at The Wilder or when Jimmy's next Jazz Brunch is scheduled.

That local insight, combined with easy access to both Portsmouth and Kittery, makes it easy to linger over a second coffee, browse one more local shop, or completely change your plans on a whim.

It's this relaxed rhythm that turns brunch into more than just a meal—it becomes part of your Seacoast getaway.

Slow Down and Savor the Seacoast

One of the best things about a Portsmouth getaway is slowing down enough to enjoy it. Start the morning with fresh pastries or a leisurely brunch, spend the afternoon exploring locally owned shops, waterfront parks, galleries, and historic neighborhoods, then wind down with dinner, live music, or a sunset walk along the Piscataqua River.

Whether you're craving buttery French pastries, a classic Lobster Eggs Benedict, globally inspired brunch dishes, expertly crafted espresso, or brunch with live music in the background, you'll find it all just minutes from our inns.

Planning Your Brunch Getaway?

Whether you're visiting for a romantic weekend, a foodie getaway, a shopping trip, or simply an excuse to escape for a few days, Portsmouth and Kittery offer some of New England's best brunch experiences—all within easy reach of our boutique inns.

Stay in the heart of downtown Portsmouth at The Sailmaker's House or Hotel Thaxter, or enjoy the quieter charm of The Water Street Inn in Kittery. No matter which property you choose, you'll be perfectly positioned to experience the very best of the Seacoast.

Need a recommendation? Our concierge team is always happy to point you toward a local favorite, help you choose the right brunch spot for your group, or share a hidden gem you might otherwise miss.

After all, the best weekends don't begin with an alarm clock. They begin with great coffee, an unforgettable brunch, and nowhere you need to be.

Before You Go

  • Hours and brunch menus can change seasonally, so we recommend checking each restaurant's website before your visit.

  • Reservations are encouraged for popular weekend brunch spots, especially during the summer and fall foliage season.

  • Staying at one of our boutique inns makes it easy to explore both Portsmouth and Kittery without spending your morning searching for parking.

We hope this guide helps you discover a few new favorites—and gives you another reason to plan your next Seacoast getaway.

Ready to plan your Seacoast getaway?

Stay just minutes from Portsmouth and Kittery's best brunch spots at one of our boutique inns. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a foodie escape, or a relaxing coastal retreat, we're here to help you make the most of your visit.

Explore our rooms and book your stay →

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