Sponsor Spotlight: River House
Allison Crosscup: This season marks the fifth year that the River House restaurant has been a Season Sponsor of The Music Hall. What have you enjoyed most about this partnership and in what ways has it added value to your business?
Michael Labrie: The Music Hall has become one of our key community partners and we see this continuing in the future. This partnership allows us to demonstrate our passionate commitment to the people and the arts culture in this great city. In return, the customers that we share support us in appreciation for our mutual love and sponsorship of the arts.
AC: Are there particular performances or events that stand out for you as especially memorable during your time as a Season Sponsor?
ML: I love the fantastic music of Chris Botti, but there are so many incredible and historic performances that I have enjoyed in this intimate setting. I am touched each time that an iconic performer states just how special our venue is.
AC: Can you tell us more about the River House and what visitors to the restaurant can expect?
ML: We are a casual waterfront restaurant occupying a renovated 19th Century brick warehouse. Our menu features locally sourced traditional New England cuisine at reasonable prices. Overlooking the heart of Portsmouth’s historic harbor, guests delight in watching the tugboats pushing and pulling river traffic just yards beyond as they savor a craft beer or a specialty frozen cocktail. Our staff is friendly and strives to make your experience one that you want to repeat.
AC: You recently opened a new sister restaurant in Rye, the Atlantic Grill. How does this location complement and/or differ from the River House?
ML: The Atlantic Grill captures the flavor of the seacoast in a new beautifully designed building. Unlike the river setting, The AG sets among flowing gardens and features a large lively bar, upscale function spaces, and very popular garden courtyard seating. Our menu features classic coastal cuisine, yet our talented chefs are allowed to express their inner foodie as well and often include locally foraged items in their specials.
AC: Is there anything else you would like to add about being a Music Hall sponsor?
ML: The Music Hall and its supporters form a bond which is palpable. We all know that this theater is something special which is worthy of our love and support. This bond does not break when we leave the theater, but it carries on into our friendships and into our businesses.