Portsmouth has an abundance of great restaurants. We are especially fortunate to have a wide selection of restaurants catering to the oyster lover. This article is the first in an occasional series dedicated to the oyster aficionado. Of particular note is the Franklin Oyster House, also known more simply as “The Franklin”. The Franklin is located in the heart of Portsmouth, on 148 Fleet Street.
The moment you step into the restaurant, you know you have entered someplace unique as opposed to a chain restaurant. The Franklin is one of a kind with an inviting, friendly vibe. The bar is a U shape which fosters conversation and interaction and has just 14 seats, and the restaurant can seat an additional 45 people at tables, some of which are hightops. The top of the U-shaped bar, facing the door for all to see, is the shucker. The shucker is part kitchen staff and part showman; responsible for shucking the oysters in response to your order and setting them on ice. I make an effort to talk to the shucker when I can, as these people work hard and are often oyster experts themselves.
Raw oysters range from $2 each during happy hour (4 – 6 on select days) to $4, with most costing about $3.50 each. Prices and selection varies depending on availability but the night I went featured six different varieties to choose from. “Swell” oysters from nearby Hampton are described as buttery while the Wellfleet oysters have more of a briny taste. They also had oysters named Blue Hill, Blackstone, Moon Dancer and Moon Rise. I tried two of each and found them all to be delicious. Be sure to ask for horseradish if you like it as default presentation is with a vinegar sauce and a cocktail sauce. Personally, I prefer raw oysters with a dash of vinegar and dab of horseradish—just enough to make your eyes water— washed down with a hearty gulp of cold beer, of which there is a nice selection. The shucker told me that he shucks 200 – 300 oysters on a busy night and the manager told me that on peak days they can serve as many as 800.
Oysters are also available grilled and fried, although I didn’t try either of those. They even have oysters in a shot glass called “oyster shooters”.
Beyond Oysters
The restaurant also features a selection of small plates like French fries, cheese, and fish tacos and several entrees such as burgers, chicken and steak. They offer a full-service bar with local beers on tap.
Contact
The Franklin is part of the Jay Group, headed by Jay McSharry, which also includes local restaurants Street, Moxy, Jumpin’ Jays, and Ore Nell’s, all of which are excellent. Reservations are recommended, but you can always walk in and take a seat at the bar, if one is available. Their phone number is 603.373.8500
