Seacost on line magazine speaks of Portsmouth book and bar

As the former Customs House is one of the most lovely historic buildings in downtown, let us begin here. It has been too long since the lovely first floor of the former Customs House was fully occupied, but the wait was worth it.

Meet Portsmouth Book & Bar. Even the name is just right. How wonderful to walk inside to a lovingly restored space. These chaps did a marvelous job of restoring and restoration. And, even better, it's now filled with books, books, books and wine and food. Fully rewarding. It is enough just to sit in one of the hugely comfortable chairs and admire the beauty of an old window, lovingly brought back to life.

If ever there is more proof needed for architectural preservation, check out Portsmouth Book & Bar. If only the Connie Bean could be treated with such devotion and care. If only.

Portsmouth book and bar now open

The Portsmouth Book and Bar opened for business on Saturday just in time for the start of the city's holiday season as John Strymish, one of its three owners, had predicted.

According to the restaurant's Facebook page, Strymish and his business partners held an opening party for their customers on Saturday, which coincided with other holiday events such as the Santa Ski New England 2012 and thePortsmouth Holiday Parade. Overall, the turnout and reception were very positive.

Strymish previously told Portsmouth Patch thebusiness owners has been working on renovating the former Customs House space for more than five months and had to obtain the required permits from the city and state before they could open.

On Saturday, Portsmouth Book and Bar patrons were greeted by a completely renovated 2,800 square foot space that included thousands of quality books, shelves, book cases, an impressive bar where they could order beer and wine and tables where they could sit with a hot cup of coffee and peruse books.

In September, David Lovelace, one of the owners, said patrons will be able to order a glass of wine, a pint of beer, coffee and menu items such as small plates of cheese and fruit, salads, sandwiches and soups prepared by Chef Amy Mehaffey.

Strymish said then they also plan to hire 8 to 10 part- and full-time employees to operate the new book store/restaurant.

Lovelace said then patrons will be able to browse books as they do in other book stores, but they can also sit and visit with their friends in what the owners hope will be a unique atmosphere that preserves much of the ornate historic crown mouldings that were part of the original building constructed in 1850.

The Portsmouth Book and Bar's hours are Monday through Wednesday, and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.