The Unexpected Story Of Hearth Eatery & Bar: Why Portsmouth’s Eclectic Concept Closed And What’s Next
The vibrant and eclectic downtown Portsmouth food scene recently witnessed a significant change with the permanent closure of Hearth Eatery & Bar. As of mid-2025, this unique establishment, known for its diverse offerings and community-focused concept, officially shut its doors, marking the end of a short but memorable run in the Brick Market building. This article, updated for December 2025, dives into the ambitious vision of Hearth, the reasons behind its unexpected closing, and the exciting new culinary chapter set to take its place.
Hearth Eatery & Bar, located at 60 Penhallow Street, was more than just a restaurant; it was a multi-faceted market and social hub. Its initial concept promised a revolutionary blend of a casual eatery, a specialty coffee shop, a craft beverage bar, and a showcase for local New Hampshire goods. The news of its closure has sparked considerable discussion among locals and visitors alike, highlighting the fine line between a great concept and sustainable execution in the competitive restaurant industry.
The Unique Concept of Hearth Eatery & Bar (2023–2025)
Hearth Eatery & Bar, often referred to as Hearth Market, was initially celebrated for its ambitious and unconventional approach to dining and retail. The space was designed to be modular, allowing patrons to transition seamlessly from a lively bar atmosphere to a more relaxed coffee shop vibe. This flexibility was one of its most talked-about features, aiming to cater to a diverse clientele throughout the day.
The Eclectic Menu and Elixir Bar
The culinary offerings at Hearth were as diverse as its concept. The menu was an eclectic mix of casual comfort food and more specialized items, catering to nearly every palate. Key offerings included:
- Vegan and Vegetarian Options: A dedicated focus on plant-based dishes, including various vegan pizzas.
- All-Day Favorites: Classics such as crepes, omelets, and grilled cheese with tomato soup.
- Light Fare: Fresh items like Nicoise Salad and various other salads.
- Craft Beverages: The centerpiece was the "Elixir Bar," which served a wide range of cocktails, beer, and wine, establishing itself as a popular spot for evening drinks.
Beyond the food and drink, the establishment also functioned as a market, selling handcrafted local goods and art, reinforcing its identity as a community-focused "Hearth Market."
The Downfall: Cool Concept, Poor Execution
Despite its initial buzz and unique features, Hearth Eatery & Bar struggled to maintain momentum, ultimately leading to its permanent closure in mid-2025 after a relatively short two-year run. The primary challenge, as frequently noted in community discussions and reviews, was the execution of its ambitious concept.
While the space itself was unique and the idea of a combined market, cafe, and bar was intriguing, customer feedback often pointed to inconsistencies in the core product: the food. Many reviewers expressed that the food, while "edible," lacked the "wow" factor necessary to ensure repeat business in a food-centric city like Portsmouth. The general sentiment was that the execution of the kitchen fell short of the concept's promise.
The highly competitive restaurant landscape in downtown Portsmouth demands not only a great atmosphere but also exceptional culinary quality. Hearth’s inability to consistently deliver a compelling dining experience across its diverse menu proved to be a critical factor in its eventual decision to close its doors. The business officially ceased operations, paving the way for a new venture to take over the prominent 60 Penhallow Street address.
The Future: Buckley’s Market & Cafe Takes the Hearth Spot
The story of 60 Penhallow Street is not ending, but merely beginning a new chapter. The former Hearth Eatery & Bar space is set to be transformed and replaced by a highly anticipated new venture: Buckley’s Market & Cafe. This transition represents a significant and exciting development for the Portsmouth community, promising a return to a more focused, specialty food concept.
A New Vision: Specialty Grocer and Cafe
Buckley's Market & Cafe is expected to open by the end of 2025, bringing a fresh and essential service to the downtown area. The new establishment will focus on high-quality, specialty grocery and prepared foods, leveraging the expertise of a well-regarded New Hampshire Chef.
The new market will offer a curated selection of gourmet goods, including:
- Fresh Meats and Seafood: Providing high-quality, locally sourced protein options.
- Prepared Foods: A rotation of daily fresh-baked pastries, pastas, and sweet treats.
- Cafe Classics: A strong focus on expertly crafted sandwiches, soups, and salads.
- Bakery Items: Fresh-baked goods available daily, enhancing the morning and lunch rush.
Buckley’s Market & Cafe aims to fill a niche in downtown Portsmouth by acting as a specialty grocer and a reliable spot for high-quality, everyday meals. This concept is a deliberate shift from Hearth's diverse market/bar/cafe model to a more streamlined, quality-focused bakery and market, which many locals are eagerly anticipating.
The closure of Hearth Eatery & Bar serves as a recent reminder of the challenges inherent in the hospitality industry, even for concepts that are initially praised for their creativity. While the "Elixir Bar" and eclectic dining of Hearth will be missed by some, the impending arrival of Buckley’s Market & Cafe signals a promising and more focused direction for the Brick Market location, ensuring that 60 Penhallow Street remains a vital and dynamic part of the Portsmouth, NH, culinary map.
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