Ri Ra is located in the historic New Hampshire Bank building which dates back to 1803 and is in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, NH. Despite the classical revival architecture that includes a giant stained glass dome some 30′ above, the place feels very cozy and is a comfortable place to grab a drink or dinner.
The menu is divided into starters and salads that range from $6-$12; main dishes from $14-$19; bar fare which is comprised of options like chips, wings and nachos that cost $7-$11; and simple fare (sandwiches and burgers) $10-$11. In addition there are great happy hour specials that are available weekdays from 4:00-7:00pm.
Depicted below is Ri Ra’s Baked Mac & Cheese with grilled chicken ($18). The dinner came out hot on a skillet with so much food a food coma was all but guaranteed. Below that is the Haddock & Chips ($17) which was very lightly battered and very satisfying with a dash of vinegar for additional flavoring.
Dining at Ri Ra is definitely more informal and relaxed and probably best for groups and friends rather than dates or special occasions. Our meals all arrived together, promptly and thumbs up were immediately provided by everyone as our group simultaneously devoured dinner.
Ri Ra has 11 other locations. You can where at, rira.com.
Start by sautéing carrots and leeks over medium heat in 1tbs of butter, 1/3 cup of white wine and a pinch of salt for 2-3 minutes. This will soften the vegetables and create a base to place your filet. Just prior to adding the salmon in the pan, squeeze the juice of 1/2 of a lemon and let it sit for a minute then add with the lemon juice skin-side down in the pan. Place 1/2 a tbs of butter on the top of the filet and cover the pan. After approximately 3 minutes flip the salmon so the skin is facing up and cover.
