Tuscan Market Portsmouth — Restaurant in Portsmouth

My husband and I were shopping in Portsmouth on Dec 27th and we both wanted pizza for a lunch. We decided to go to one of our favorites Tuscan Market. We typically go to the Salem NH locations but we haven't been in the Portsmouth market since it was redone. We were greeted immediately when we entered and within minutes were seated at a table, a nice table with a view of market square. When we arrived there were (3) other tables with people. We were given menus and water and was told it would be a few minutes. In the meantime another party came in and was seated at a table near us. The waiter was by himself with some kitchen staff that was helping until additional staff came in. It went downhill from here. The table that came in after us were waited on before us for drinks and meal order. The waiter came to us and we ordered (2) glasses of Sangria and a sausage pizza without peppers. Fairly Simple. About 15 minutes or so later the waiter came to us to say that the bartender needed to make more Sangria and it would be a few more minutes. About another 15-20 minutes later our pizza came out but no drinks. The waiter indicated he would check on our drinks. We both looked at the pizza and then each other - the pizza had peppers. Realizing that they were busy we didn't say anything as it would take to long to get another pizza made. At this point our waiter came back to say it would be another 20 minutes before the Sangria would be ready. Really? When we entered the restaurant the bartender was standing there on her phone with only (2) customers at the bar. We said don't bother the water would be enough. Well it would have been if we were offered refills. Needless to say we were extremely disappointed in the service and food. I realize the times we live in right now its tough to get and keep reliable help but I would hope that all restaurants would have back up plans in place if and when this happens. I never expected this type of service and issue at a Tuscan Brands location. I just hope they get additional staff needed. I will definitely think twice before going back to...

Alright… I am not a serial bad reviewer… i really don’t complain unless it is truly a bad experience.

I’ll start with the good: The mussels? DELICIOUS, portsmouth seafood rarely misses. The ricotta was amazing on our pizza, flavorful! The espresso martinis were delightful.

The bad: While our waitress was incredibly nice, she seemed overwhelmed with tables, and only checked in a couple of times. We spent roughly 2 hours in this restaurant as a four top. Only three main entrees. I got the bolognese, which truly tasted the same quality of canned ragu, mushy pasta included… The salmon on my friends salad tasted like the smell of three day old fish, and was very dry. The manager stood behind us, seemingly doing nothing? All night. Except bringing us our bread. Even after i sheepishly sent the food back, he did not come over and apologize, or offer anything but dead stares from behind us… the entire night… While the waitress tended to 6+ tables, he rolled silverware and maybe did some expo?

We waited 30 minutes for appetizers (while the restaurant was essentially empty), and about an hour and a half for entrees that were lukewarm. The wait time for food between finishing drinks/apps/entrees was not the industry standard. There is an apparent lack of good training here that is NOT on the waiters.

It amazes me that an Italian inspired restaurant can do pasta SO dirty.

TDLR: would only attend for drinks, mussels and/or pizza. If you’re expecting a good flavorful Italian meal? Avoid at all costs. Because it’s a chain they are unlikely to be able to actually fix these issues on a management and in house level. Not impressed, but also not an angry Karen. Just will not...

Large selection. Open for breakfast. Breakfast sandwich was good. My order was brought to my table by a friendly server. Very nice inside! Issues: Server could have had help. Maybe not first thing in the morning but a little bit later. Part of the Phantom Gourmet network but staff has had no training in processing Phantom Gourmet gift cards, so, I couldn't use mine! Come on. I thought Subway had problems processing text deals and coupons. I didn't buy anything else because of the server's inability to process gift cards. Wasn't offered a substitute item when I asked for a meatless breakfast sandwich. I also should have thought of it, so I don't blame the server. Sandwich could use a slice of tomato to add a little more flavor. Bring your own ketchup or hot sauce for the potatoes. Coffee, even for medium roast, was a little weak. Could regular oj or cranberry juice be offered? Once they get the gift card situation, which I blame management for, sorted out, I might return. Update: January, 2020; I had a better experience. My Phantom Gourmet gift card still didn't process so they figured out a way to give me credit for it. I had the smoked salmon with Ricotta cheese, capers, roasted onions and olive oil on a croissant instead of the bread that they usually have. I ordered two pastries, which tasted good. Dark roast coffee was better than medium. Fresh squeezed oj. Pricey, but, it was nice to look out the window at the...