Brine Oysters, Crudo + Chops

Located on State Street in the historic Fowles building, Nancy Caswell’s Brine Oysters, Crudo + Chops serves up an inventive upscale menu of oysters, chops and more in a nautical atmosphere perfectly fit for a coastal New England town like Newburyport. Grab a front row seat at the bar where the oysters are shucked, a high or low top table in the dining area, or a seat on the patio to enjoy the weather—all seats offer a full dining menu. Reservations are accepted on the patio and in the dining room.

While you may come for the ambiance—including a giant wall mural of an octopus—you will certainly stay for the food and drink menu. Brine’s raw bar will not disappoint with oysters and shrimp cocktail accompanied by the restaurant’s signature sauces—habanero, creme fraiche, mignonette, and cocktail. Or splurge for the Power Tower and indulge in a collection of all items raw and poached. Just as the name eludes, Caswell’s restaurant doesn’t stop at just oysters. Diners can opt for a la carte chops with Brine’s signature steak sauce and pair them up with creative sides or small plates like cauliflower and truffle or smoked gouda grits. And regulars will tell you not to skip out on their deconstructed clam and pork chowder, the biscuits and caviar, or house-made bacon and eggs with fried oysters. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a beer from Brine’s extensive beverage list or opt for one of their delicious cocktails like a tequila and pineapple concoction.

Previously located right next door on State Street, Brine’s move into the Fowles building tripled the restaurant’s capacity, a win for diners hoping to score a seat at this sought after spot. Owner and local Newburyport resident, Nancy Caswell, used the move as an opportunity to revitalize the well know historic location—preserving and maintaining the original character, including the iconic Fowles sign. Much like the building Brine is located in—the restaurant has a bit of history of its own. Brine was New England’s first oyster, crudo and chop bar.

A seasoned and respected restaurant owner, Caswell also owns and operates Brine’s sister restaurant, Oak + Rowan in Boston. At both restaurants she prides herself on having exceptional and knowledgeable staff that is well versed on the food and beverage menus. Patrons can expect attentive service and a quality meal every time.