Festina Lente

Honestly 10/10. A small dining room allows this kitchen to take true care with every single dish and it shows. Every appetizer we got ( the carrots, burrata, and focaccia) were so fresh and light and you could tell were very high quality. The ambiance here is local and tasteful. The wine was perfect with every dish and exceeded all expectations. The baked cannelloni had such fresh pasta, you could see them making it in the kitchen. As a local in the Portsmouth area, this is the best Italian food I’ve ever had in the area. Go here!!!! Since it’s small there’s sometimes a wait so grab a drink across the street at the Dram while you wait!!!

What a wonderful place for a date night. The atmosphere was relaxed and cozy. The pasta dishes were so fresh and we loved every bite.

We had not eaten here in several years. We will be back again soon. Go early if you can to be assured a seat. Like Black Birch across the street no reservations but that's to be expected for such a tiny space. Service was efficient yet relaxed. All our food was exceptional but the "simple" mushrooms app (kale, whipped goat cheese, sweet vermouth)...ooo mommy! Very reasonable prices, especially considering the quality of the food.

Lovely atmosphere. Really attentive waitstaff. The lamb bolognese was clean tasting and delicious.

Not sure I have words to express! Yum doesn’t seem quite adequate for the sublime flavors and combos coming from this kitchen. What a treat. Thank you.

Wonderful!! We've been to Italy multiple times so I'm always hesitant to eat Italian in the states. Festina was delicious! Everything was perfect. The small, cozy atmosphere is so inviting.

Wonderful atmosphere with consistently amazing food. Definitely give them a try!

Tiny restaurant with huge quality and flavors. We had small plates that were packed with flavor. The quality was evident in every bite. The wine list was appropriate to the size of the restaurant and the choices were well curated. This is a quality restaurant. The staff were available and friendly without being intrusive. Great meal, Will be back!

I think their pasta is probably the best in the country. I cook pasta for a living (a college student) and I am somewhat of a pasta connoisseur. It’s cheaper to make it from scratch I have learned, too! It becomes easier. But never will my pasta get to the level of this. I will strive for perfection nonetheless.

Took mom for a lovely pasta dinner. The staff is charming and had excellent suggestions, the Cavatelli was SUPERB! I could've pigged out but I refrained, great wine selections and desserts are delicious! You can taste the the quality of the ingredients.

I hate to tell people about this place for fear that I will never be able to get in! It is very small, but the food is terrific. If you're lucky enough to get a seat. The Cannelloni is to die for if you're looking for something hearty. However, the Cacio Pepe is perfect if you want something a little lighter,

Delicious!!!! The food is absolutely an experience, excellent combinations that complimented each other. Fresh , homemade from scratch !

Festina Lente is a total gem. The owner/chef Sam understands the core of Italian food is just the best ingredients and balance of flavor. He nails it. The restaurant is also great with allergies, and the front of the house is friendly and competent. The wine list is carefully curated and prices remarkably reasonable. Some of the best Italian food I've had in the US, and great folks to boot.

Positively fantastic!!!
We ordered multiple apps that were perfectly spaced out, enabling us to savor the night. The food was incredibly flavorful and the wine was perfectly paired. We'll definitely be back for a repeat performance. If you haven't tried this place yet you're in for a treat. They do not take reservations so I would recommend showing up early.

We eat locally quite frequently. Friday night was the best meal we have had in this area since moving to Eliot 3 years ago. This restaurant is a must visit with food and wine that you won't soon forget!

Not so hidden gem of Kittery! Festina Lente is one of our favorite spots in the area. Thoughtfully curated Italian Wine List (hard to find in the area), stunning seasonal dishes, cozy space, friendly staff. You cannot miss with Festina. Wonderful for date nights or to meet a friend for a quick bite (the appetizers are fantastic).

Intimate neighborhood spot, good for an easy weeknight dinner or an indulgent date night. The menu changes seasonally so you'll never get sick of your options. A blend of classic favorites and modern hits, every menu item seems to include fresh, local ingredients. Our group had an excellent risotto, decadent rigatoni, and buccatini with clams that had me sipping the sauce up with a spoon. Paired with excellent cheese, wine, and olives... you can't go wrong.

Small cozy dining area with a small bar. Food is excellent, not an extensive menu but well- curated. Crab fettuccini is outstanding. Staff is knowledgeable and attentive about the food and the wine. Go early to ensure getting a table.

Probably the best italian food I've had till date. Very small unassuming spot and that's probably why you may overlook it. Staff is super friendly and helpful with suggestions. The risotto was brilliant and managed to make my husband a believer who is usually pretty turned off by them for some reason. The panna cotta was a perfect end to an overall surprisingly light meal that didn't leave me feeling I shouldn't be eating for the next three days. Must try if you're in the area and they are able to take reservations.

Wow what a special little place in Kittery Foreside. Very authentic Italian with homemade pastas. Fresh Italian food not heavy Italian food if you know what I mean. Wish they took reservations so we could go more often. Sometimes there can be a crazy wait. Loved the wine. Nice selection.