Let me explain the headline: it all began with an email from my favorite jazz band, the New Black Eagle Jazz Band, announcing a concert last Saturday in Newburyport, about 60 miles from our home.

I’ve been an avid fan of the group for at least 35 years, and I try to catch a performance whenever I have the opportunity.  In recent years, the band has had fewer and fewer gigs, so I grabbed this one, and I was delighted when my wife agreed to join me for an afternoon of walking around a charming seaport village, window (and other) shopping, eating dinner, and going to the show.

A little research led me to choose a relatively new restaurant, Brine.  Featuring oysters and crudo, it felt just right for that kind of a day, so I made a reservation for an early table.  We had to ask for a custom side dish for the vegetables, but it worked out beautifully.  I had four Maine oysters and the Tuna crudo (terrific flavors, great presentation).  Barbara chose the Salmon crudo, and we split an heirloom tomato salad with a little avocado.  The chef obliged our vegetables request by poaching some bok choy in butter, and combining it with turnips and onion (creative and delicious).  I actually had a draft beer with the meal and was very happy.

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Heirloom Tomato Salad

It was a lovely summer evening so we walked around town until it was time for the music.  The Black Eagles played two sets, much to the delight of a packed house, and we drove home two and a half hours later, relaxed and happy.