Cava

- 10 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, NH 03801

Cava Tapas & Wine Bar stands as a distinctive culinary destination, bringing a vibrant, modern interpretation of Spanish tapas culture to the heart of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Located in the charming and historic downtown, Cava is more than just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience designed to transport its guests to the convivial atmosphere of a European alleyway. Established in 2008 by two high school friends, Chef Gregg Sessler and business partner John Akar, Cava has become a celebrated spot on the New Hampshire Seacoast for its commitment to high-quality ingredients, innovative seasonal menus, and an impressive selection of international wines.

The philosophy at Cava revolves around the spirit of tapas—small, flavorful plates meant for sharing and socializing. This approach encourages diners to explore a wide array of flavors and textures, making every visit a fresh and exciting culinary journey. The menu, which changes seasonally, is a testament to Chef Sessler's deep appreciation for Spanish cuisine and his skill in applying modern, global influences, ensuring both traditional Spanish standards and innovative pairings are available.

For residents and visitors in the New Hampshire area seeking a fine dining experience that is both intimate and lively, Cava offers an appealing combination of sophisticated cuisine and a uniquely memorable setting. From the moment you step into the venue, the focus is on creating a complete, engaging experience—from the first glass of wine to the final sweet churro.

Cava Tapas & Wine Bar is strategically nestled at 10 Commercial Alley in Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA. This location places it right in the middle of historic downtown Portsmouth, making it an easy-to-find gem within a picturesque, quaint alleyway that is home to several small, independent businesses. Commercial Alley is celebrated for its brick-lined charm, which contributes significantly to the restaurant’s overall European ambiance.

Accessibility for local New Hampshire users is convenient. The restaurant is just a brief walk from the Portsmouth Parking Garage, simplifying the process for those driving into the downtown area. The central position makes it an ideal spot for a date night, a celebratory dinner, or a sophisticated gathering before or after exploring the shops and sites of Market Square and the surrounding historic district. Whether arriving on foot from a local hotel or parking nearby, the short, scenic walk through the alleyway adds a pleasing prelude to the dining experience.

Cava provides a range of services designed to enhance the fine dining experience:

• Modern Spanish Tapas Menu: Featuring a frequently changing, innovative selection of small plates, perfect for sharing. Menu items span appetizers, seafood, meats, vegetables, and desserts, often utilizing the freshest quality ingredients.
• Extensive Wine Program: The restaurant boasts a diverse and deep selection of over fifty international wines poured by the glass, curated to pair perfectly with the menu.
• Two Distinct Wine Bars: Offering a dedicated wine bar experience on the street level and a second, more intimate wine bar located in the downstairs 'Wine Cave.'
• Private Event Space: The 'Wine Cave' is available for rental, accommodating private parties of up to 30 people, making it an excellent option for special occasions.
• Chef's Table Dining: Offering an exclusive, involved dining experience with views directly into the open kitchen.
• Outdoor Dining: Seasonal patio seating available in Commercial Alley, famously featuring the unique 'Vertical Garden' (or 'living wall').
• Takeout/Curbside Pickup: Allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite Spanish-inspired dishes at home.

Cava is known for several distinguishing features that set it apart as a premier dining spot in New Hampshire:

• The Vertical Garden: The outdoor patio area is highlighted by New England’s first native outdoor 'living wall,' a stunning backdrop that provides a unique, European, and al fresco dining experience during the warmer months.
• Inspired Cuisine: The menu offers a contemporary take on classic Spanish tapas, moving beyond traditional expectations to include creative, globally-influenced pairings and ingredients. Signature dishes that have been lauded in reviews include the Roasted Medjool Dates wrapped in Serrano Ham, Patatas Bravas with house-made sauces, and authentic Paella.
• The Wine Cave: A distinct and modern downstairs area providing additional seating, a second bar, and a more intimate atmosphere, often used for tastings and private events.
• Seasonal Focus: The menu is constantly evolving with the seasons, ensuring dishes are crafted with the freshest possible ingredients and keeping the offerings exciting for regular patrons.
• Award-Winning Team: Co-owners John Akar and Chef Gregg Sessler bring significant, diverse experience from the restaurant industry, having reunited in their home state of New Hampshire to create this establishment.

For those located in New Hampshire and looking to contact Cava, the relevant information is as follows:

Address: 10 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA

Phone: (603) 319-1575

It is strongly advised that potential patrons call ahead to inquire about reservations, as Cava is a highly popular venue, and securing a table can often require advance planning. Their hours typically include evening service from Wednesday through Sunday, though it is always best to confirm current operating times directly.

Cava Tapas & Wine Bar is a worthy choice for a number of compelling reasons, particularly for the discerning diner in the New Hampshire Seacoast region. It offers a sophisticated, European-inspired dining atmosphere right in Portsmouth's historic downtown, providing a true escape without having to travel far.

The culinary experience is driven by quality and creativity. Chef Sessler’s approach to Spanish tapas—using fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients to create small plates that are both artful and deeply flavorful—provides a dynamic and engaging meal. Unlike traditional fixed-course dining, the tapas structure allows diners to sample a diverse range of dishes, from rich, savory meats and seafood to unique vegetable preparations, catering to a wide variety of palates within a single meal. The commitment to changing the menu seasonally ensures a fresh experience with every return visit.

Moreover, Cava is highly lauded for its unparalleled wine selection, featuring over 50 international wines by the glass. This focus makes it a prime destination for wine enthusiasts, with staff often noted for their knowledge and ability to suggest perfect pairings for the tapas. The unique setting, especially the patio with the celebrated Vertical Garden in the summer, provides an ambiance that is unmatched in the region, often described by customers as feeling like a “quick holiday in Spain.”

However, potential visitors should be aware of the varied customer experiences mentioned in public reviews. While many patrons describe excellent food, outstanding service, and a phenomenal atmosphere, others have reported mixed experiences, citing concerns about portion sizes, the cost-to-portion ratio, and occasional issues with staff demeanor. The small-plate nature of tapas inherently means portions are smaller than typical American entrées, which can sometimes surprise first-time visitors expecting larger portions. Dining here is best approached with the understanding that it is a fine dining, European-style tapas experience focused on quality, flavor, and ambiance, not volume, and reservations are highly recommended to ensure a smooth visit.

In summary, Cava is worth choosing for its exceptional, modern Spanish cuisine, its extensive wine list, and its singularly beautiful atmosphere in the heart of Portsmouth. It is a premier spot for those in New Hampshire looking for a memorable, sophisticated, and flavorful night out.

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Cava

10 Commercial Alley, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA