This is a “two for one” restaurant review! Bad Lab Beer Company in Somersworth, NH (460 High Street) hosted a pop-up restaurant with The District Restaurant from Portsmouth NH (103 Congress Street). We had the benefit of having some of the amazing beer brewed at Bad Lab. Although Bad Lab does have its own menu this was a night that the District Restaurant took over the kitchen and we could order off of their featured menu. What a great way to try out two restaurants that we have never been to.
Let’s start with Bad Lab Beer Company. When we walked in the first thoughts that came into my head was that the Restaurant was open, relaxed, industrial and friendly. We walked in and took a table close to the open kitchen area where you can see all the action going on. The bar area was on the other side of the restaurant. At the bar, you can sit, grab a beer or two along with dinner and if you want a growler to take with you or you are bringing one back for a refill that’s where you go.
We were handed the evening’s menus and given our beverages of choice right away. Although Bad Lab is known for the craft beers they brew and the selection’s they offer I’m going to focus more on the food. Although we do like many of the craft brews that so many of the restaurants are offering it’s not something I know a lot about. I can say they do have a wide variety to offer including some that are made locally but not on site. We ordered mostly from the pop-up menu, but we did start with the Asiago garlic fries Bad Lab Beer Company offers. Those came out right away and as fast as they came out is about as fast as we ate them. The fries were thin, crispy with shredded Asiago and garlic but not enough to be overpowering. Just enough to enhance those golden crispy fries.
Both of our entrees came from The District Restaurant menu. Jim had the “Food Truck Burger”. I know you are all very surprised by this! Well, what can I say, he loves his burgers! This burger was as good as expected. The “Food Truck Burger” from the District was big and bold with chipotle BBQ sauce, bacon, Maine cheddar cheese curds and crispy fried onions. It was juicy, filling and came with a side of fries. Jim cleaned his plate, so I know it was as good as it looked! That is one good looking burger!
I ordered the Maple Bacon Braised Short Rib with Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus. Let’s talk about the short rib, shall we? I have made short ribs a few times, all were very good and tender, but this was hands down the best short rib I have had. Both in flavor and texture of the meat. The flavors penetrated through the meat. The sweet from the maple and savory/salty from the bacon sauce…wow, the meat was “fall off the bone” tender. No knife needed! Every bite was just as delicious as the bite before. My mouth is watering as I write, it really was just so good. The veggies on the side were nothing to snub at either. The potatoes were golden, tender and well seasoned. The asparagus was tender but still a nice crisp bite, just as you would want it. Absolutely a delicious dinner start to finish.
I have to mention that Bad Lab is a no-tip restaurant and if you do tip the money is donated to charity. So with that being said, I want to tell you our service was nothing less than perfection. From the time we walked in, greeted and all through the dinner, we had plenty of services. Not just one person, but in total I believe we had three people clearing our plates, filling our glasses and prompt service in getting and paying the check. Whoever happens to be going by and notices you may need something, they took care of it.
I know our experience was just a small glimpse of both restaurants. From the atmosphere, service, the beer, and fries we had from Bad Lab to the tasty well thought out menu the District Restaurant provided. In taking some time to look at Bad Labs regular menu, although it is small, it does seem to have something for everyone. There are shareable plates such as sweet and sour meatballs, beef mole tacos and chicken tenders. The “eat with your hands” section of the menu has cheeseburgers, veggie burger, and the fish Rueben. Fish Reuben, you ask? I had a Fish Rueben while in the Florida Keys and it is still one my favorite sandwiches I have ever had. Although this one is slightly different, I know I will be going back to just try this sandwich with blackened white fish, Swiss cheese, caramelized onion and Russian dressed coleslaw on toasted rye bread. Phew, now that is a mouthful! But don’t forget those fries we had earlier. Those are on the menu too along with soup, salads, seafood mac and cheese along with fish and chips!
When I look at the Districts website and their regular menu they also have so much to offer, although they are open just for dinner service Tuesday through Sunday starting at 5 pm and Saturday/Sunday brunch from 10 am. (Closed Mondays). Not only can you get both dinner choices that Jim and I had they have so much more and a seasonally changing menu. They have a menu everyone can relate to. From burgers, wings, and fish tacos to salads. But then they have fried rice and Pad Thai! Yes, please! I am ready to get to The District Restaurant very soon. I also love that they source as much produce they can from our local farmers. Take a look at their website to see the specials, changing menu and all the farmers they support!
Don’t forget to give them some Facebook love and keep up with the latest happening at both Bad Lab Beer Company in Somersworth N.H. and The District Restaurant in Portsmouth N.H.
https://www.facebook.com/badlabbeer/
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