Planning a well deserved “grown up” trip to the Newburyport area and need a place to eat? Whether you’re looking for date night restaurants or a celebratory spot for a girls’ weekend, we’ve got you covered! All of these restaurants — from Newburyport to Salisbury to Rowley — get rave reviews from us!
Brown Sugar by the Sea
75 Water Street, Newburyport
When you’re in the mood for Thai, Brown Sugar by the Sea serves up the freshest dishes! Some favorites include the drunken noodles, mango fried rice, and pad Thai with shrimp.
Sea Level Oyster Bar
1 Market Square, Newburyport
94 Wharf Street, Salem
Sea Level Oyster Bar boasts an impressive mix of oysters and seafood, but they also have an outstanding selection of creative classics. We love the fresh oysters, Plum Island clambake, and the classic smash burger. Whatever you do, don’t forget dessert!
Black Cow
40 Merrimac Street, Newburyport
The Black Cow is unique because it has a little bit of everything — so it’s likely to please everyone! You can get anything from clam chowder and clam cakes to house tips or confit duck ravioli. If that’s not enough, check out their extensive sushi menu!
Carmine
25 State Street, Newburyport
Be sure to make a reservation here — this Newburyport restaurant is cozy and perfect for date night! The menu at Carmine is full of traditional Italian, Sicilian, and Mediterranean dishes, and the fresh pasta, seafood, and steak are exceptional! Be sure to try the exploding little necks — to die for!
Bar 25
38 State Street, Newburyport
If you’re looking for fun cocktails, this is the place to be! Bar 25’s unique “mezze” (small plates) menu offers a variety of Middle Eastern fusion dishes that are fun and delicious!
Agave Mexican Bistro
50 State Street, Newburyport
Agave offers fresh Mexican food and a fun atmosphere. Don’t forget to try the guacamole, street tacos, and carnitas!
Brine
17 State Street, Newburyport
The seasonal menu at Brine — with Italian and Spanish influences — keeps this restaurant interesting! The raw bar and oyster towers are a sight to behold, and the toasts and crudo are truly unique. Make it a date night to remember by ordering the “overboard” — a daily selection of all things raw and toasted!
Sea Glass
4 Ocean Front North, Salisbury
You truly can’t beat the view from Sea Glass — this is classic oceanfront dining! The menu here is always full of the freshest fish, prime-cut meats, and traditional favorites. This is a great spot for Sunday brunch!
Capri Seaside
3 Central Avenue, Salisbury
If you’re looking for something a little more family friendly that still has fantastic Italian food, this is an awesome choice. We recommend the Francaise with chicken or any of the pizza options.
Phat Cats
65A Market Street, Amesbury
Phat Cats has a delightful, creative menu with ample seafood options. Our favorite, though, is definitely the homemade desserts!
The Rusty Can
6 Fruit Street, Byfield
The Rusty Can doesn’t take reservations, so you may have to wait — but we assure you it’s worth it. Their Thursday nachos are to die for, and, honestly, there isn’t anything on the menu that we don’t recommend!
The Grove at Briar Barn Inn
101 Main Street, Rowley
Here’s what we recommend: Get all of your best girlfriends together, book a room at the inn, go to the spa, and have dinner at the restaurant. Or, if you’re looking for a quick romantic getaway, look no further! We love this farm-to-table menu and the rustic, charming ambiance.
Off the Vine
150 Newburyport Turnpike, Rowley
The extensive salad menu at Off the Vine really shines! We also recommend the osso bucco and the pan seared scallops.