$$$$Prezzo: moderato • Oyster Bar • Newburyport
BRINE, known for fresh oysters, crudo, and prime cut chops, is Caswell Restaurant Group’s second foray into the eclectic and innately New England dining scene of Newburyport, MA. Proprietor Nancy Batista-Caswell’s appreciation of the local harvest and her affinity for European classics results in a restaurant devoted to flavorful seafood—ceviche, crudo, sashimi, and beyond—and butcher chops, with a healthy dose of Spanish and Italian influences throughout the menu. The main attractions at BRINE are backed up by soups, salads, Po-Boys, and “off the page” daily specials to provide plenty of variety.This neighborhood hangout welcomes all and leaves pretension at the door. The low-key design and elevated standards of service allow the food to speak for itself, and Manager Gissele Tache and her staff are always on hand to recommend an adventurous catch, a fine bottle of wine, or a sweet after-dinner treat.