End of an Era: The Striker Awning in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Has Sadly Come Down

Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire

You may remember when The Striker closed for good on July 3, 2021.  The reason was, according to a story in Boston.com, the owners decided to close after not receiving funding from a recent stimulus package.

The owners when on to say that just because the restrictions were lifted, it doesn't mean there were repercussions from the pandemic.

Recently, from the (un)official City of Portsmouth Facebook page, the awning for the Striker in downtown Portsmouth has been taken down.  It's the end of an era.

What Are People Saying?

Here are some people's comments about the sign coming down from the (un)official City of Portsmouth Facebook Page: 

Karl Mackey says, "One of the great restaurants that made Portsmouth such a great restaurant town. The quality and standards that Peter Rice started upheld in that beautiful little spot made the rest of us step up our games... I am sad today to see this sign come down."

Sharon Patricia Jones said, "Another era closing its doors with all the memories locked inside. The walls are whispering.  I have to say, I loved performing there on a cold and snowy night. People gathered in what seemed like a place out of a very old novel. It was always warm there even when it was cold outside."

(Side note:  Sharon Jones is a Portsmouth icon.  She and her family have been in this area for decades and luckily, you can still hear Sharon sing in other venues.)

What will come of The Striker?

Stacy Kamen made a comment saying:  "Rumor has it, it will be reopening as "the cave" and will have live music. That's the only rumor I've heard!!"

Although it seems that the Striker had to close because of finances, they are certainly no alone.  Real estate in Portsmouth has gone sky high.

Let's hope the owners of the Striker find a new place to go.  Not only was it great food, but a great hang for live music.