Amazing food - oysters to die for and the bartender's are so very nice! Love this place!

This was my 2nd visit here but my first review. I didn't write my review the first time because my experience with a party of 8 was absolutely perfect. So I thought I HAD to give it a second visit and see if my first time was just a lucky chance. Well, I went today for brunch and experienced another 5 star meal. Since it was as great a meal today, I'll comment on behalf of both. Greeted IMMEDIATELY upon entering the restaurant by a friendly up beat employee. The restaurant was very clean and seemed to be operating at a smooth pace. We were led to our table and handed our menus. Our server was with us almost immediately, smiling and greeting us to the restaurant. Menus were handed out and our questions were answered. We had 5 people in our party and ordered 4 blackberry Bellinis and I had a coffee old fashioned. We ALL raved about our drinks and after a few more questions, we ordered our meals: Crab Cake Benedict, Smoked Salmon Benedict, Chicken Sandwich and a Philly Steak Sandwich. All I can say is that EVERY plate was EMPTY! We ALL LOVED our food! It was hot, fresh tasting and delicious flavors. Even the fries were hot, crisp, fresh and seasoned perfectly. Forgot, Two of our party members ordered the wild mushroom torte, and...NOTHING left on the plate!! Our food was so awesome that we had to try 2 desserts: Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée and the Carrot Cake and yes...they were demolished and joined the 'Clean Plate Club'!!!!! EVERYTHING WAS OUTSTANDING AND EVERYONE IN OUR PARTY LEFT WITH AN AMAZINGLY AWESOME EXPERIENCE! GREAT job by EVERYONE WHO WORKED TODAY. Mic drop experience and I can't wait to go back!!! read more

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Service was excellent throughout. We were in the dining room and it was extremely loud. The oysters were terrific and plentiful and we ordered two dozen the level of Brian in. It's probably a matter of taste and batch because we found one of the less briny ones very briny, but all were small and yummy. Calamari as an appetizer was delicious. The clams casino were just OK and the octopus was very tasty and tender. The lobster and risotto were both average at best. The risotto was underdone (not enough complain about) but enough that the dish wasn't delicious. The crabcake was exceptionally good - all crab very little if any filler, and perfectly cooked. The fish dish, which I don't remember the name of, came out in a very tomatoey sauce, and it was supposed to be more of a New Orleans style. It was tasty and the fish was tender. It was just the sauce was surprising - just too much tomato. Cocktails were fantastic and probably a high point at the beginning of the evening! All in all good, but not a reason to journey as far as we had to travel to get there read more

I first learned of Brine when I was in search of a restaurant for my parents to celebrate their birthdays at a year ago. Being in a different state, I reached out to Brine to coordinate a reservation and purchase a gift card to ensure they were taken care of. They were extremely helpful with making sure it all went smoothly, which made me eager to try the restaurant for myself when I visited this year. Within minutes of stepping through their doors and taking a seat, I knew Brine was going to become one of my new favorites. The staff are all super attentive and really take the time to get to know their guests. It was so nice to hear wait staff greeting their regulars by name, celebrating birthdays with them and talking about important milestones as if they were part of their family. The food completely blew me out of the water - the ingredients fresh and packed with flavor. My family's favorite appetizer is the Brooklyn Style Wings - maybe because we are from Brooklyn, but the wings are addicting with the flavors of sausage, peppers, and a vinegary sauce. The burger was the most surprising of them all, with big flavor and smokiness infused into every bite of meat. Oysters were clean, fish was fresh, and the homemade chips had the perfect crunch. I'm so glad I discovered Brine, but now am so disappointed that I don't live in Sarasota full time to be able to dine here more often. This was definitely one of the best meals of my visit, and I will continuously recommend to everyone! read more

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We stumbled upon this place at random and I'm so happy we did. Kyle at the bar is incredible. He was personable, friendly and extremely talented in his cocktail skills. I ordered his Capresetini Tini and no exaggeration- it was the best drink I've ever had. Kudos to Kyle and the rest of the bar staff for an incredible evening. The service was 10/10, as were the the drinks and oysters. read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

This is a beautiful restaurant! I really loved that everything was so elegant!Our server Kristen was gracious and accommodating-she took good care of us! We had the lobster roll and it was just perfect! So good! I'm still thinking about it! I also ordered a side of focaccia bread-it was honestly the best focaccia bread I have ever had! I am excited to go back again! read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Kyle was amazing, offering insight and suggestions on menu items. My partner ordered the steak and eggs. The filet mignon was too small but very flavorful. Scrambled eggs were prepared properly and potatoes were good even though he does not like peppers. My crab Benedict was very good and I enjoyed the potato side. Mimosa flight was just okay, lacking flavor. Could not easily tell which flavor was which but at least it was not all juice and little champagne. We had been wanting to try it and glad we did. read more

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New Year's Eve, table for 4. Busy place and a big night but they pulled it off well. Two dining rooms with a bar between them. Second visit. I prefer the more formal setting on the left of the bar. Started with some apps.. Octopus was amazing, chargrilled yet so delicate. Good size portion for sharing. Calamari came in a unique sauce (no dipping) that made for a pungent delicious treat. Steak tartar was nicely presented, good flavors. The snapper was the star of the mains that we ordered. I also was impressed with the pork chop with Gouda grits. The lobster tail had mixed reviews The lobster was delicious and served so you didn't have to work to eat it. Comes on bed of risotto that was nearly inedible, felt like it was two batches blended together with half the rice overcooked and mushy blended with undercooked extremely al dente rice. Italian wife was not pleased. Also the server made a big deal over the flavor of the butter for the lobster but both guests that had it thought it just tasted like normal butter. Luckily the Lobster itself was so good. Drinks were excellent. Especially the Cornbread and Coffee old fashioned. This place has an enormous list of bourbon/whiskey available. The local microbrews on tap also impressive. Service was friendly, knowledgeable and did his best on a busy night. Prices, while not cheap, are reasonable for the quality. read more

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I would throw somebody off a cliff to go here again. There was a hostess name Cinda who my family and I would always see and we loved her. The caesar salad there was the best I've ever had. I would also get the Mac and cheese and shrimp appetizer which was delicious. The restaurant had a beautiful atmosphere. It is my favorite restaurant and I love it so much. read more

Excellent! We literally loved the place the minute we walked in the door. Lovely spot with a great vibe. Friendly staff and great service. We had oysters, the mushroom tart, Arugula salad - both were fantastic. And the best crab cake I've ever eaten - including B'more's finest. Good key lime pie and our drinks were great. Priced right. Go. Enjoy. We'll be back. read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - What's left.... LOL. We were busy eating. - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Food, raw oysters,raw scallops and raw clams excellent! Ribeye, fish tacos and crab cakes excellent!! Service, Kyle H., amazing!!! Ambiance great!! We drove front from North Port and it was worth every single dollar we spent!!! We've been to many steak houses and oyster places this, by far is the best!! Thank you Kyle H. For making our experience the best with your knowledge and friendliness!! We appreciate you in every way!! We Will Be Back To See You!! read more

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Service! Outstanding! Eddie was great. Food- oh my lord. I haven't had a good crabcake out in I don't know how long. It's Maryland style and being from up north there isn't any other way to have a crab cake. Food is great. 10 Highly recommended! read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Blackberry mojito.. delish! - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Whiskey Glass III. Brine is the best in Sarasota! Great food, great staff and of course a really good bourbon list. read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Whiskey Glass III - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Stopped here on a whim. Really wanted oysters. They had a large selection of them to choose from. Forgot to take photos. The service was ok. Our server might have been having a bad day because he was super short with us and didn't say much. Basically we ordered and he would walk away instantly. A bit off putting but everyone had their days. The food came out at a good pace and everything tasted fine. Nothing blew me out of the water. It was pretty dead when we arrived and stayed that way throughout the rest of our time there. They have options to sit outside and inside. Pricing a bit high for the food and service we received. read more

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I really enjoy dining at Brine Seafood and Raw Bar--it's a solid neighborhood spot with a laid-back vibe and friendly service. Here's a quick breakdown of my last three visits: 1) Oysters + Scallop Appetizer The oysters from the daily special list are always fresh and satisfying. And when the scallop appetizer makes it onto the menu? I have to order it. It's one of those dishes I look forward to. 2) Short Rib Pappardelle + Snapper The short rib pappardelle has changed--it was dry and lacked the rich flavor I remembered. Interestingly, the diner next to me at the bar also ordered it and left most of it untouched. On the bright side, my forever favorite is the Pan-Seared Snapper with wild mushroom risotto, arugula citrus salad, Asian pear, and truffle oil. This dish is the F'N BOMB. I've been trying to watch my portions lately and would love a half-serving option--it's that good. 3) Oysters + Steak Tartare Last night, I went with oysters and the steak tartare. I was excited to see tartare on the menu, but the flavor just wasn't there. In fact, the last few tartare plates I've had here have fallen flat. A regular at the bar even commented that it looked like corned beef hash (which, honestly, felt a bit rude--but also not entirely inaccurate). Final Thought: Please season the steak tartare--or better yet, consider switching it out for a flavorful steak carpaccio. read more

Absolutely fabulous place. By fabulous i mean : service is 10. Food is 10. Ambience - well you create your own vibe. It wasn't very happening but i want looking for a party or super social place. Food was great. My beef tartar came with a quail egg, which was amazing. The beef tartare stupid fresh. It's exactly what it's supposed to be just the way I like it very plain with some toasted pita bread on the side fantastic. I will come back for this every day. Moving onto next, the wings was great. I ordered the sauce on the side and I'm not a fan but I just like my wings dry up this way and put whatever toppings I like on it so whatever came with it was on the side. I did not like it, but That doesn't mean it's not good. Also, the burger was absolutely amazing. Maid the perfection medium slightly pink, super fresh served with red pickled onions I would say and just fabulous. Mashed potatoes were good I was sold as my partner had them Ceviche was amazing, but very Annie and I like the cilantro flavor so absolutely lovely So guys if you were in the area and you just looking for a really good meal and you're not looking for a party vibe step into this restaurant and you will definitely not regret it in my humble opinion read more

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Stopped for happy hour and learned you have to sit inside for that. The oysters were excellent and I had them 5 times on our recent visit to Florida. Nice decor, a little fancy. The sliders were good, the wings were big. Decent draft beer selection too. Service was a little slow IMO. Glad to see this addition in Gulf Gate. read more

We had a wonderful experience! The oysters were incredibly fresh and delicious, and everything we ordered was full of flavor. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. If you're looking for great seafood, this place is definitely worth a visit. We'll definitely be coming back! read more

Amazing meal! We had a group of twelve and every dish was perfection. The staff was friendly and attentive. We even had a reservation mix up, which they quickly resolved on a busy nice. I highly recommend! read more

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Brine is such an amazing local gem in Gulf Gate! The food is always fresh, and consistent, and the service is truly top tier. One of the things I love most is seeing the same friendly faces each time I visit--it gives the restaurant such a warm, welcoming feel. Cynd'll at the front door greets every guest like an old friend, which immediately sets the tone for a great experience. The bar staff is just as dependable--always on point, mixing consistently delicious drinks and making you feel right at home. I've been here several times and always enjoyed myself, but today really stood out. My server, Justin, went above and beyond. I was in a bit of a rush, and he managed to keep everything running smoothly without ever making me feel rushed. Drinks were timed perfectly, my to-go order was ready when I needed it, and my food came out hot, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. His attentiveness was above average, and his friendly personality made the whole experience even better. I highly recommend asking for him! Brine continues to impress with its food, its people, and its atmosphere. If you haven't tried it yet, do yourself a favor and stop in--you'll see why it's one of the best spots in Gulf Gate. I'll definitely be back! read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Fried chicken, greens and cornbread - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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Rating: 1/2 Crabcake Heaven with a Side of Date Night We had a great evening here--definitely worthy of 4.5 stars! The crab cake....... WOW. Absolutely phenomenal--packed with real crab meat, not filler, and probably one of the best we've ever had. Seriously, we're still thinking about it. The oysters were fresh, but a few were on the larger side, which can be hit or miss depending on your taste. We tend to prefer the smaller, brinier ones, so while not all the oysters were our favorite, they were still good overall. Service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Prices leaned toward the higher end, but for a nice date night, it felt worth it. The wine list was impressive too, with plenty of great pairing options. All in all, it was a really nice experience--cozy ambiance, great food, and solid service. Not quite a five-star blow-you-away kind of night, but pretty darn close. We'll definitely be coming back! read more

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we went with a group, service was fine, as was the food. our server was amy and she was wonderful, we loved her! but the noise level was not only loud, it was excruciating. it was unbearable, how many ways can i say it was intolerable? sure, it was a weekend night, the place was full, even ear plugs would not have helped. at this decibel, i am sure that hearing damage could occur. we couldn't get outta there fast enough after paying our bill. read more

Amazing service! Kyle the bartender was outstanding and the food was fresh and amazing! read more

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My husband and I visited Brine seafood for the first time last Friday after discovering the restaurant on the Rest app, which is promoted by American Express. We experienced excellent customer service during our visit and had a pleasant experience, but we had mixed reviews on the food. We started off with drinks - myself getting a coconut espresso martini and my husband getting a smoked old-fashioned, both of which were very tasty and we would recommend. For our appetizers. we got the focaccia bread, the shrimp cocktail, and the monthly ceviche special. We enjoyed the appetizers, but did find the portion size to be small for the price. For our main entrées, we got the lobster and the steak with a side of mac & cheese. We both were underwhelmed by the lobster and the steak, finding the flavor to be off. I'm a huge lobster fan, but felt the flavor was just not right with this dish and my husbands steak was also no big deal. We both really did not like the Mac n cheese, confused by the choice of noodle and also it really just didn't have flavor. We left the restaurant, unsure of how we would rate it overall, I definitely would come back, especially for drinks and appetizers, but unsure that I would dine in here again for a full meal. read more

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Best oysters and shucker in town!!! Other food is great too. Friendly service from receptionist to wait staff to bartenders. My wife and I do hovered it when we first moved to Sarasota and became "regulars". Happy hours are great! It's our go-to place. Never had a bad experience at Brine. read more

This place's new way to nickel and dime you is to add up charge for substituting their lame side dishes with something edible. Lots of chutzpah Will not be back read more

Great seafood was the best seafood I had while on siesta key and not too far away. Service 5 stars all the way around. Will be back

Good desserts, servers 'on the move'.. Can be loud. This was a Fri night. I've enjoyed it more when less crowded. read more

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Very nice place, very good selection high quality seafood. The staff was very attentive but not intrusive. Place is beautifully decorated.

Food and service always perfect!!! Love Brine Happy Hour! Ronnie, Nathalia, and Nicole are excellent behind the bar! read more

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Popped in to have cocktails tonight with another couple on Valentine's weekend. Everyone at the front desk was super nice and I asked if it was possible to have a bar top table and the answer was yes. Cannot say enough about what a great experience we had just enjoying a couple hours in the bar with friends and great service. read more

first time at Brine and loved it! incredible crab cakes...best I have ever had. Also had the crab bisque which was delicious.

Amazing food and service! Drinks just incredible! We had the halibut, snapper and crab cakes! Egg Nog Martini was incredible! read more

Brine Seafood and Raw Bar - Egg Nog Martini is a must for dessert! Yum! - Seafood Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Once inside, you forget you are in a strip mall. Great vine, great service and amazing food. Loved the crab cakea and calamari. Featured fresh oysters on the raw bar menu were awesome. Will be back. read more

We have always had great food and service here! Kyle our server was spot on with recommendations and accommodating with substitutions. Food was so yummy I cleared my plate. The place can get a bit noisy read more

They really pay attention to their food. The seafood is very well prepared and there are many choices. Their meat dishes are also very good. We had short ribs, the appetizer, spare ribs, crab cakes, mushroom tart, Caesar salad (which tastes it freshly made), and the tartufo and carrot cake dessert. The only dish I wouldn't recommend is the carrot cake. The icing was not great and the cake was bland. But all the meat and seafood dishes, vegetables and salad, we're all very well prepared and tasty, and serve professionally. The Wade staff seems to be a couple of notches up from which you would normally expect. The inside is not to my liking because it's a little dark and there's a TV in the dining room. But the outside is excellent, especially if on a cooler night like it was last night. A very pleasant atmosphere. I recommend the restaurant, make sure you sit outside! read more

Service attentive and friendly. Noisy inside but quieter on patio. Oysters are the star here and worth returning for

We recently went to Brine's in Gulf Gate with 3 other couples. First time visit for all. Seafood, drinks, atmosphere, and service were fantastic. Love the set up of 2 open dining areas with a large bar in between them. Choice of seafood was outstanding. Everyone loved their meals. I had grilled Octopus as an App... it was nice and tender and tasty! Seafood and accompanying sauces were great too. Pricing was good, cheaper than a lot of "tiki bars" that think they have chefs in the kitchen. All in the $20's to low 30's range. Specialty drinks that night were great. They offered. Blood orange margarita. Everyone at the table skipped the wine after having 1 of these margaritas and then we kept on ordering more! The staff was very friendly and on top of their game. We will be going back for many years to come. read more

The best oysters and crab cakes in the area! Will definitely be going back sometime soon

Excellent fresh seafood. Oysters flown in daily. Best crab cakes in SW Florida. Knowledgeable, attentive servers. We're regulars even though it's a bit of a hike from Manatee County. read more