Husband, and wife restaurateurs, Jessica and Chef Davin Waite, are bringing a new innovative seafood concept to the iconic Oceanside pier this summer. Don’t be fooled by its small space – we’re sure it’s going to be packed with big flavor!

The Brine Box is slated to open in late May/early June and promises to deliver sustainable seafood dishes with a modern, irreverent twist that Chef Davin is renowned for.

Here are 5 things locals and visitors alike can expect from the Waite’s new sustainably-minded concept.

A Sustainable Culinary Journey

The Waite’s commitment to sustainability will be reflected in their menu, featuring fully sustainable and zero-waste dishes. The Brine Box will source unique species from local purveyors like famed fishmonger, Tommy Gomes, ensuring that only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients are used.

A revolving specials menu will constantly evolve to reflect what’s available in local harbors, with more rockfish in the winter and an abundance of pelagic fish like swordfish, tuna, and yellowtail in the summer.

A Taste of England

Guests can be prepared to be transported across the pond to the quaint English seaside towns of Whitby and North Shields with Chef Davin’s inspired menu. Growing up, Davin frequented the nostalgic fish and chip shops during summertime visits with family living in Durham, and he brings that same traditional flair to The Brine Box menu.

Menu items include English-style Fish & Chip with Mushy Pea Sauce, the classic “Chips” with Davin’s signature flavors like Curry Chips and Plot Truffle Cheese Chips, Toasts and Sandwiches such as the “Chovy toast,” Boats with options like Tuna Chorizo Elote and Fish on a Stick, and plenty of unique sides.

Reviving the Spirit of English Chippies

What’s an English Chippy? Sometimes referred to as a chip shop, it is a restaurant that specializes in selling fish and chips. In fact, some may even refer to the new pier addition as a “chippy,” a nod to the ubiquitous fish and chip shops in England.

Chef Davin’s upbringing in England will be the inspiration behind the entire concept, from the Brine Box exterior to the menu items. As a child, Davin cherished his visits to the seaside on rare sunny days, and it’s that same spirit of nostalgia and tradition that will be celebrated at The Brine Box.

Joining The Brine Box team as Chef de Cuisine is Rachel Hurley, a SoCal native and long-time friend of Davin’s. Rachel brings with her years of experience working with the Waite at Wrench and Rodent and The Plot and is eager to further her creative talents in the zero-waste, sustainable seafood movement.

Her expertise in fish fabrication will be put to use in developing new and exciting dishes for The Brine Box menu.

Celebrating San Diego’s Coastal Bounty

The Waites’ newest venture will showcase the best of what’s in and on San Diego waters. Although a large portion of the menu will include cooked seafood items, there will be raw fish and plant-based offerings as well. And all items will be pier-friendly, built for walking and taking in the 360-degree ocean views.

With the dynamic duo of Jessica and Chef Davin Waite at the helm, this innovative concept will redefine sustainable seafood dining, offering a playful and contemporary take on classic dishes. Stay tuned for the grand opening and get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other.

Stay up to date with The Brine Box here.

See you there, San Diego!