DeStefano's Market — Restaurant in Portsmouth

This place has quickly become a regular and favorite stop for me, as I live closeby. The baked goods are what I usually spring for, and have always been really impressed with the consistency and quality of whatever they whip up. Their peach brown butter handpie is really special, but you seriously can't go wrong no matter what you choose. On Saturdays, they make some pretty stellar bombolinis (donuts) that are worthy of a special trip in. I might have even earned a nickname for loving them so much.

Somehow even better than the food is the genuine folks running this spot. These are some very thoughtful and real people who strive to create a strong community atmosphere. The way each person is welcomed upon entry here is very reminiscent of when Portsmouth was a little less hectic, and things felt more communal and comfortable. Everyone that I've met behind the counter has always shown me compassion and kindness much greater than any transaction. A quality group of people to support, and a special shout-out to Liam who has gone above and beyond to make me smile.

If you haven't had the chance to stop in here, do yourself that favor. It really is a gem of a market, and one you'll enjoy working into...

I used to love DeStefano’s focaccia – it was always the highlight of my visit. I would often grab it at the end of the day right before closing, take a bite in my car, and it was pure pleasure: full of flavor, moist, and always fresh. I could count on it being consistently good. However, when I bought it again about a week ago, I was really disappointed. The focaccia tasted like it was at least two days old, even though a young man at the store assured me it was baked that same day. Sadly, the quality was nothing like before, and it completely broke my trust. Consistency is everything in food, and when that’s gone, so is the experience. Unfortunately, I won’t be coming back. Customers deserve reliable quality and only fresh...

Passing through Portsmouth and DeStefano's came up as a good place for a sandwich. Boy was Google right! Me and the kids had the Meatball calzone, it was sooo good. The marinara that came on the side was some of the best sauce I've ever had. The bread around the calzone was very flavorful. My wife had one of the sandwiches and was very happy with her selection.

The person working behind the counter was very personable and engaging. Loved hearing him interact with people coming in while we were sitting there eating.

The one negative was the seating wasn't great for dining in, there were a few very small tables that made it difficult for the family to eat together (we could fit two at the most...