At 32 years old, Nancy Batista-Caswell, StarChefs’ 2014 “Rising Star Restauranteur” for Coastal New England, is now preparing to open her third restaurant. The restauranteur behind Ceia Kitchen + Bar and BRINE in Newburyport is set to open Oak + Rowan in Fort Point come early 2016 and will have Executive Chef Justin Shoults, longtime BRINE chef, at the helm.
“Boston is chock full of talented chefs and visionaries in the culinary space and we’re looking forward to becoming an integral part of the fabric that makes this city a dining destination,” Batista-Caswell said in a statement. “By bringing our signature Newburyport hospitality, combined with fresh and innovative menus for both food and beverage, we will bring what our guests love to a location that more people can enjoy.”
Showcasing land and sea in a new light, the menu will feature small plates and heartier options including composed seafood, prime steak, an array of crudos, as well as an elevated domestic and international caviar program.
While utilizing locally sourced produce, Oak + Rowan will also offer homemade pastas and bread.
Additionally supporting the local community will be Oak + Rowan’s beverage program. Diners will be able to choose from craft beers and unique finds on the daily rotating wine list that focuses on small boutique and small production wineries. Through the use of table-side liquor carts, guests will have the ability to create custom cocktails.
Batista-Caswell is currently working with Sousa Design of Brookline to transform the raw 5,000-square-foot space on A Street into a comfortable dining destination similar to that of one’s own home. In order to blend modern and historical elements, oak, marble, glass, soft lighting, existing exposed brick, and nearly floor to ceiling windows are being employed.
“The name was inspired by the feeling conjured up when in the space: lofty and open yet safe, similar to when you’re in a tree house as a kid,” added Batista-Caswell. “As we’re expanding our brand and putting roots down in a new city that has copious amounts of history, an oak tree symbolized just that, strong and loyal, combined with Rowan, which alludes to passion, a trait that’s an integral part of our Caswell team.”
Images via Oak + Rowan
