Business Details
Your Historic Bistro & Bar in Old Portsmouth
At Abarbistro, we take immense pride in blending our storied heritage with contemporary hospitality. Established on a site dating back to 1784, our bistro and bar occupy a historic location in Old Portsmouth, opposite the local seafood market and within walking distance of Portsmouth Cathedral and Gunwharf Quays. Our commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of our offering: from Head Chef Adam Makers menus showcasing locally sourced ingredients with bold flavors, to our curated selection of wines from Camber Wines and locally brewed beers served on tap.We create immersive dining experiences through themed events like Fishy Friday and 12 Tuesdays, while our wood-fired pizzas and Sunday roasts remain customer favorites. Our team combines decades of culinary expertise with a passion for hospitality, ensuring every visitor enjoys a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. With panoramic views of the Spinnaker Tower and a reputation as a neighborhood favorite, we strive to honor our past while delivering modern comfort food infused with coastal character.
Services
Wood-Fired Pizza
Sunday Roast
Cocktail Service
Wine Selection
Festive Menus
Gift Vouchers
Lunch & Dinner
Cheese Boards
Kids Menu
Themed Dinners
Highlights and features
- Our menus feature locally sourced, exceptional ingredients with bold flavors
- Head Chef Adam Maker's culinary expertise delivers exceptional dining experiences
- Abarbistro occupies a historic site dating back to 1784
- We offer panoramic views of the Spinnaker Tower from our relaxed ambiance
- Themed events like Fishy Friday and 12 Tuesdays provide diverse experiences
What people say
Best fish and chips
Dare to be different
Great South Runners
Services
Wood-Fired Pizza
Our wood-fired pizzas combine hand-stretched dough with fresh local ingredients in an authentic wood oven. Crafted with coastal influences, options range from classic Margherita to seasonal specials. Perfect for casual dining with friends or family.
Festive Menus
Themed seasonal menus feature traditional British dishes with modern twists. Available during holidays like Christmas and New Year, these menus require advance booking for parties up to 60 guests.
Cocktail Service
Expertly crafted cocktails use premium spirits and house-made syrups. Signature drinks like the Coastal Bellini and A Bar Margarita showcase creative flavor combinations in a sophisticated setting.
Wine Selection
Curated wines from global vineyards pair perfectly with our menus. Options include house whites, reds, and premium bottles, with guidance available from our knowledgeable staff.
Gift Vouchers
Flexible gift vouchers allow recipients to choose their preferred dining experience. Available for any amount, they can be purchased online with digital or physical delivery options.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We serve lunch and dinner Monday-Thursday 12pm-9pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm-9:30pm, and Sunday roast menu 12pm-8pm. The bar operates Monday-Sunday 12pm-late.
Do you offer private dining?
Yes, we can accommodate parties up to 60 people for private events. Please contact us in advance to discuss requirements and pre-order options.
Are reservations required?
While not mandatory, we recommend booking tables for guaranteed seating, especially during popular events like Fishy Friday and 12 Tuesdays.
Can I purchase gift vouchers?
Yes, our customizable gift vouchers are available online in any denomination. Choose between instant digital delivery or physical vouchers posted First Class.
What makes your menu special?
We focus on locally sourced ingredients with bold flavors, featuring wood-fired pizzas, Sunday roasts, and seasonal specials. Head Chef Adam Maker's expertise ensures culinary excellence.
What historical significance does your venue have?
Our site has hosted patrons since 1784, operating under various names including the Shipwrights Arms and American Hotel. The current A Bar celebrates this heritage with modern hospitality.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Debi Reynolds
Dec 28, 2021
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Popped in for a couple of Christmas drinks. Just off the beaten track. Lovely open feel. Light and airy. Great service. Clean and modern feel. Short walk from gunwharf quays.
Erica Abbott
Dec 18, 2021
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Lovely warm & welcoming pub. Great atmosphere. Food was delicious & very fresh. We went for the house red which was lovely too. I will be returning.
Lloyd Emery
Oct 23, 2021
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Update 10/2021: All of the below still applies without question, a very consistent restaurant. Great tasting food from a seasonally changed menu. The surroundings are of superb quality, perfect for a lovely slap up meal, or just drinks if you wish. They have an excellent selection of wines with knowledgeable staff to help you choose. It has a very friendly environment and first class service. The outside seating areas (front and back) are most enjoyable in the summer months.
Parkes Training N. M. F.
Aug 09, 2021
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Amazing place to eat. Fish and chips for me was 10 out 10!! Dogs are allowed in the bar and there's seating outside. Friendly staff, good music and atmosphere. Fantastic food, very trendy place to eat. Perfect finish to our family vacation in Portsmouth. Oh there is parking outside but gets busy during the day and it's 24hrs however prices aren't too bad
Julie Thuy Dang
Jul 19, 2021
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By far, the best restaurant we dined at during our weekend trip to Portsmouth! Delicious, high-quality and reasonably priced! Ordered the Thai Style Mussels, Prawn Tempura (the best Western style I've ever had) and Plaine special main. Welcoming and friendly customer service as well! Within walking distance to Gunwharf Quays - recommending going to watch the sunset afterwards. Also, make sure to book a day beforehand; you probably won't get a table on the day.
Yvonne Hall
Nov 23, 2017
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First time here as not local on honeymoon and had been recommended to eat here. On approaching didn't look like what we thought as loads of people out the front drinking. Guessing you could eat out as tables outside. Once inside a different story, restaurant is lovely not overly big well the part we were in on the left as you come through the door. Amazing selection of wines. Limited menu but something for everyone, the wait is worth it beautiful food and well presented. They do have a specials board. There was a fairly long wait between courses but we don't mind this though one table near us were
