REVIEW: Salt, Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Wentworth-by-the-Sea Hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire
On a chilly February afternoon, we ventured out to Salt Kitchen + Bar, located in the historic Wentworth by the Sea Hotel (a Marriott Hotel & Spa) in New Castle, New Hampshire, a charming coastal suburb outside of Portsmouth and an easy drive from Boston. With light snow in the air, it would be an absolutely perfect backdrop to wine and dine ourselves for lunch.
Salt Kitchen + Bar is Wentworth by the Sea's signature fine dining restaurant. The gilded age hotel, circa 1874, is a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Historic Hotels of America. In 1905, the hotel housed the Russian and Japanese delegations, which concluded the Treaty of Portsmouth to end the Russo-Japanese War. Then U.S. President, Theodore Roosevelt, suggested the peace talks and won the Nobel Peace Prize for his actions.
After arriving, we approached the host and were shown to our table, which was a plush white leather banquette with a 360° view of the modern, yet inviting lounge area.
Wentworth-by-the-Sea Hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire
While we perused the menu, our server cordially greeted us with that New Hampshire hospitality that's easy to love. We ending up choosing a Moscow mule cocktail and a glass of pinot noir, certainly warming up the day.
We anticipated on ordering a few different selections and ultimately decided on the Maine sea scallops and Cavatappi pasta.
Wentworth-by-the-Sea Hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire
The Maine sea scallops were absolutely divine and seared to perfection in their tender Atlantic juices. Over squid ink and topped with drizzled honey, it left us craving more.
The rustic, house-made Cavatappi pasta was prepared with both chestnut cream and chestnut honey, sage and shaved sheep's milk cream - giving it a rich, creamy finish.
Wentworth-by-the-Sea Hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire
Wentworth-by-the-Sea Hotel in New Castle, New Hampshire
