Any restaurant that has survived 14 years must have something good going on. At The Kitchen in Portsmouth, it’s not just the food and the drinks, but the vibe.

“It’s a very hometown place,” my dining partner said after we snagged a free parking space in front of the Islington Street eatery. “It feels like a neighborhood bar.”

Scores for The Kitchen

Atmosphere: 19/20

Menu: 18/20

Food: 19/20

Service: 18/20

Value: 18/20

Total: 92/100

Opened in 2011 by chef/owner Matt Greco, The Kitchen prides itself in being a “Portsmouth staple,” according to its website.

The restaurant’s bar runs along one side of a rectangular room illuminated by large plate-glass windows that face the street.

The ceiling is covered with dollar bills from customers, though our server said it’s been a while since

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