About Us
Russ Hammer and Bill Macmillan both bartended at a steakhouse in Portsmouth during the 1970's. In 1978 they seized an opportunity and bought "The Common Crossing." and changed the name to The Rusty Hammer. A few years later, they moved down the street to 49 Pleasant St.
Reviews
This place is exactly what it claims to be. A burger joint and sports bar. Best location in Portsmouth and the menu is extremely reasonable. Nothing fancy here. The food is GOOD. The Burgers are the BEST! And yes it is rustic. Great Local hangout! - via Yelp.com
Right in the middle of beautiful, historic, downtown Portsmouth, The Rusty Hammer is a great place to take the family and/or to meet with friends for cocktails. The food is good and cheap (I swear, the prices haven"t changed since they opened in the 70"s) and their special of the day is usually a great New England seafood plate. I would have to say the best thing about the place is the friendly wait/bar staff! - via TripAdvisor.com
In the News
The Rusty Hammer celebrates 30 years
By Toby Hatchett
business@seacoastonline.com
February 29, 2008 6:00 AM
PORTSMOUTH — Celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, the Rusty Hammer is still banging away at the competition.
"We first opened three doors down from where we are now, and were there for about 6½ years," said Hammer. "[...]It was called 'Common Crossing' then. When this building went up for sale, we bought it."
The rest is pure Portsmouth history. Hammer said they decided to take the risk and just do it.
They began with a restaurant with about 60 seats. Now, the downstairs can accommodate 200 and they have an upstairs room for special functions.
"Wimpy's [are]is still our big seller," said Hammer, referring to their hamburgers. "Our customers love our burgers and until the end of February, we are offering specials to celebrate."
If you haven't already checked out the specials, do it soon. There are some very enticing deals on hand to reward the tourists and regulars.
Hammer credits the long success of his restaurant to locals, regulars and the tourists, who come back every summer. One of the reasons Hammer points to for his success is the people he hires.
"Sheryl has been with us for 29 years," said Hammer. "She does everything for us and is the face at the front of the restaurant. Everyone knows her; this matters."
In addition to Sheryl, the Rusty Hammer employs cooks who have been with the restaurant for 25 years and bartenders who have been with them for more than 20 years. There is minimal turnover, which is what makes the Rusty Hammer a tried and true place.
"We're really a big family," said Hammer. "Our customers see the same faces and this matters. I think this is just one reason we're still in business and continue to get new people, too."
Hammer said it has been interesting to observe all the changes that have taken place in downtown Portsmouth over the years. He said he was there for the first Market Square Day and now has seen and participated in all of them.
Any exciting moments over the years?
"Oh yes," said Hammer. "About five years ago, on Mother's Day, a woman walked into the back bar, went to the ladies room, came out stark naked. She sat at the bar and ordered a martini!"
This was a first, said Hammer. Later, the police found the woman walking up State Street, still au natural, and took care of it. But the restaurateur said it was a day to remember.
Over its long history, the Rusty Hammer has also seen its share of notables and celebrities. John Glenn came in for breakfast. Willie Nelson hung out one night, eating and drinking, and Hugh Downs and his wife came for dinner. Most all of the presidential candidates over the years have made a stop at the Rusty Hammer.
Hammer smiled broadly as he remembered another incident from his long career as a Portsmouth restaurant owner.
"I was dancing with my mother in the bar," said Hammer, "and then I got a letter from the liquor board complaining."
Hammer said the restaurant doesn't have a license for dancing, but in the Live Free or Die state, to dance one night with one's mother was worth it. He said he has no regrets.
One of the keys to the success of the restaurant, according to Hammer, is the diversity of its patrons. From families to single people to business people to locals — they all feel comfortable coming in and, he notes, the prices are still reasonable.
[...]"We see the same construction workers all the time and we welcome them," said Hammer. "It's good to be able to provide good food to all levels of people."
Hammer said he is now seeing the third generations of families he began serving 30 years ago.
Hammer said people just keep coming back and that's a good thing. The changes taking place in the city are a good thing too, he said. Portsmouth is no longer the little town it used to be.
Asked if Hammer had any words to say to the community of Portsmouth, his answer was short and sweet.
"Thanks," he said. "You've all been so good to us and we appreciate it. Just keep coming in."