Maine Stay Inn ~ An Insider's Guide to Kennebunkport

Where do you go to celebrate a momentous occasion? A special occasion deserves the best...that's why, here in Kennebunkport, we gathered at The Cape Arundel Inn. With breath taking views of the Atlantic, superb service, the appetizing menu and creative dishes, this beautiful Kennebunkport restaurant is unsurpassed.

And the Celebration? Our celebration is of life changes, big life changes. As of just a few days ago, Janice and I welcomed Walt and Judi Hauer to Kennebunkport as the new owners and innkeepers of The Maine Stay Inn.

We first met Walt and Judi just a few short months ago when they visited The Maine Stay Inn with their daughter, Johanna. Back then we didn't realize that the Hauers would become the next innkeepers of The Maine Stay; however we did recognize immediately that they would make outstanding innkeepers when they found the right property for them.

While the Hauers speak of their good fortune of being the new innkeepers of this gracious and historic property, Janice and I are delighted that the thousands of guests that we have been priviledged to know, will continue to enjoy the exceptional hospitality and service for which The Maine Stay is so well known.

So you see, our celebration is one of new chapters. A new chapter in the lives of the Hauer family, a new chapter for Janice and me and, a new chapter in the rich history of The Maine Stay Inn which has been welcoming guests to Kennebunkport for more than 62 years.

The summer of 2008 is shaping up to be a great one. Make your reservations early; the Hauers are looking forward to welcoming you to this quaint and magical seaside village and to the beautiful Maine Stay Inn.

With just a short time behind them, the Hauers already agree, at The Maine Stay Inn, "We have the nicest guests!"

Labels: Innkeeping, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Restaurants

This sandwich is not from Henry VII's.
Their sandwiches look better.
Henry VIII's is the new guy in town. Janice and I stopped in for a cold drink during a hot August stroll downtown. We found this delicatessen/restaurant to be spacious and "ultra clean." We decided we would return.

Well, we didn't get to Henry VIII's all summer but, at breakfast this morning, two of our guests, Jeff and Sherry, recommended that we try a hand-carved sandwich from Henry VIII's as soon as possible. They suggested that we didn't know what we were missing.

As it turned out, Jeff and Sherry surprised us and brought us back sandwiches. Janice and I each had half of a "Henry VIII" and half of a "Squire" sandwich. To top it off, Jeff and Sherry included a side order of Homemade Coleslaw.

The Signature Henry VIII sandwich is hand-carved roast beef topped with their homemade horseradish sauce. The sauce is mild and delicious, the roast beef is cooked medium and is very lean. All this is served warm on a toasted herb-buttered bun.

The Squire sandwich is hand-carved turkey served warm with turkey gravy and cranberry sauce, all on one of those great toasted herb-buttered buns. This warm sandwich was fantastic.

Henry VIII's gets two thumbs up from this seasoned professional epicure. "I wouldn't have a Willie or a Sam." (Does anyone know what that means?)

Thanks Jeff and Sherry for the sandwiches and for proving that at The Maine Stay Inn, "we have the nicest guests!"

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Restaurants

I like mine with lettuce and tomato, Heinz 57 and french fried potatoes...

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Restaurants, Let's have some fun, Things to do in Kennebunkport

Live piano music at Pier 77. A wonderful touch.
Our Fourth of July evening began with wonderful company at a wonderful restaurant. Janice and I were joined by Pete and Miriam at Pier 77 for our annual pre-fireworks 4th of July dinner.

I have said it before but it is worth repeating, Pier 77 is an excellent restaurant in a fantastic location.

We received a warm greeting from Kate (the owner, along with her husband Pete who was hard at work in the kitchen) when we arrived. Our table was right by the window. Most of the tables are by the windows and, those that aren't have an equally spectacular view anyway.

Pete and Miriam shared a Classic Ceasar Salad to start. It looked delicious and they both confirmed it. For Janice, it was the Spinach Salad, complete with candied pecans and Goat Cheese. It is served with beets but, I didn't mention them as we both hate beets. Sorry, but neither one of us can stand them. Janice loved the salad. The candied pecans are an excellent complement to the Goat Cheese and the vinegarette dressing. For me, I skipped the starter as I was determined to eat light since we were heading out on a boat to see the fireworks.

For the main course, Miriam got the entree with the "wow factor." The Seafood Stew was piled high with clams, mussels, shrimp and fish in a light tomato saffron sauce. She did a good job with it but, Pete was there to take care of making sure there was no waste. Pete, Janice and I all got the special entree. It was Grilled Swordfish that was served over Puerto Rican dirty rice with broccoli rabe. The swordfish was cooked just right, nice and moist. I had never heard of Puerto Rican dirty rice but, it was fantastic. I think it would make a great accompaniment to several of their dishes. The broccoli rabe was very good. I'm not much of a vegetable person but, I ate it all and I liked it.

No dessert tonight, we had to catch the boat and we didn't have time. Next year... we eat earlier. I've had the pleasure of Pier 77's desserts in the past and they shouldn't be missed.

Two reminders, first Pier 77 makes a great spot for a wedding reception. They do a wonderful job. And second, if you are looking for more casual dining (shorts and tee shirt) visit The Ramp Bar and Grille. Tucked under the main restaurant, the Ramp is casual, comfortable, adorned with Pete's sports memorabilia and sits right on the water. Have a "boat drink" and order from the grill menu.

If you are staying with us at The Maine Stay Inn, we'll be happy to make your reservations.

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Restaurants

"The closest you'll find to a table on the ocean"
It has been nearly a year since I last reviewed The Cape Arundel Inn, located across from Walker's Point in Kennebunkport.

In my last review my intent was to share with my readers just how wonderful this unique restaurant truly is.

The Cape Arundel Inn is our special spot for the occasional celebration or, when we want to show off Kennebunkport to special friends.

Last night it was the former, Janice and I celebrated our 24th anniversary. Time flies!

We began the evening the way we always suggest our guests begin their experience at The Cape Arundel Inn. We arrived early so we could enjoy a drink on their incredible front porch. The evening was perfect and so was the weather. We both enjoyed a rum punch and a view that can't be beat.

We were escorted to the best seat in the house (actually, all their seats are excellent). For our First Plate (formerly known as hors d'oeuvres) Janice had the special bisque, Butternut Squash with chunks of Lobster. Janice describes the bisque as fresh and flavorful. It was a great choice. For me, it was the Broiled Maine Crabcakes in a crisp Panko Crust with Spring Vegetable Slaw and Sweet Chili Sesame Remoulade. Now, there are a couple of words in the description of this dish that I don't even understand but, the crabcakes were delicious. So many different and wonderful flavors.

For our Main Maine Course, Janice had a plate of Veal Medallions, Lobster Tail and Shrimp broiled and served on home-made egg noodle pasta with a wonderful tomato garnish. Lucky for me, Janice couldn't eat her entire meal. That's where a good restaurant critic (like me) comes to the rescue. Her meal was excellent.

My entree was the Lazy Lobster. It was simply the best, better than all the rest. It really was unbelievable and there was just the right amount. The vegetables that were included were excellent but they were clearly overshadowed by the outstanding lobster.

And for dessert...yes, this time we had dessert. For Janice it was Gingered Strawberries over a warm buttermilk biscuit topped with whipped cream. A great improvement to Strawberry Shortcake.

I had the Warmed Peaches on Ginger Bread with French Vanilla Gelato and Macadamia Nuts.

And finally, I never under estimate the the importance of a good cup of coffee. In this case it was an outstanding cup of coffee.

An incomparable location, outstanding cuisine and service that is second to none. Is it any wonder that this is our special spot?

Stay at The Maine Stay Inn and dine at The Cape Arundel Inn, what a great combination.

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Restaurants

Brandy is the Wayfarer chef and owner.
I first reviewed The Wayfarer Restaurant after our very first meal there last October. After the fantastic meals we enjoyed last fall, we weren't about to wait too long after The Wayfarer opened for the 2007 season.

Janice started with the Lobster Stew. She described the Stew as awesome. It was the Stuffed Mushrooms for Mike. While I didn't see it, I think he licked the plate. For Peggy and me, we both had the salad with blue cheese dressing.
It was an excellent salad and the dressing was great They also had a dressing with Feta Cheese. I will try that next time.

The famous Wayfarer Pot Roast
As usual, Thursday night at The Wayfarer is Pot Roast night. Of the four of us, only Janice opted for the Pot Roast. I can personally report it was fantastic (I get Janice's leftovers).

Peggy and Mike both got Picattas. For Peggy it was a nightly special of Salmon Picatta and for Mike it was the Chicken Picatta. Two more members of the "clean plate club."

I selected one of the specials as well, The Blackened Swordfish. My fish was done just right. It was spicy and crispy on the outside and juicy in the middle. I love swordfish and this entree was excellent. The side of spaghetti with meat sauce satisfied my pasta craving (I always have a pasta craving).

A couple of reminders, The Wayfarer Restaurant is BYOB. Fortunately, Peggy remembered to bring the B, actually she brought the W, it was Pinot Grigio. Also, no credit cards so don't be caught short.

The Wayfarer is a great choice for a nice casual and relaxing dinner and it's just two miles from The Maine Stay Inn.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

The White Barn is a dining experience. As the only Five Diamond, Five Star restaurant in Maine (in fact it is the only such restaurant northeast of New York City), The White Barn has a lot to live up to. The White Barn not only lives up to its reputation, it exceeds its reputation.

Set in a restored barn that dates back to the mid-1800's, The White Barn successfully combines this rustic decor with their crisp white linen table cloths and napkins to produce an unusual style of elegance. Add in the candlelight and views through their floor-to-ceiling picture window and you have the perfect spot for a very special occasion.

The White Barn offers a four-course prix fixe (I should have stayed awake in French class, sorry Madamoiselle O'Connor) menu that is changed weekly by Executive Chef, Jonathan Cartwright. The food at The White Barn is superb, the service is top-notch, everything you would expect from a Five Star restaurant and more.

Located a very short ride from The Maine Stay Inn, we are happy to make reservations and provide you with directions.

Gentlemen, a jacket is required.

One last thing, always save room for dessert, it's spectacular.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

Maine Stay Inn visitors on Saturday, March 31, 2007 will have an opportunity to join us for a wonderful Tuscan Italian meal paired with complementary wines at Grissini Italian Bistro.

Come join us at one of the region's most celebrated restaurants, for an evening of fireside dining with wine tasting and decadent chocolate.

The wine dinner is priced at $65.00 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. Advance reservations are required.

This should be a wonderful evening for "foodies" like me.

If you are a real foodie, you might want to consider a visit to the Maine Stay Inn on the weekend of April 20 and 21. Boy, do we have a treat in store for you.

At The Maine Stay Inn, "we have the nicest guests."

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants, Specials at The Maine Stay, Things to do in Kennebunkport

I have been reviewing restaurants in and around Kennebunkport for about a year now. I am at a loss to figure out why, until now, I haven't reviewed Federal Jack's.

The casual atmosphere at Federal Jack's is inviting and, although it is a brew pub, it is suitable for families as well as couples looking for a nice dining experience.

Federal Jack's menu is diverse (again, great for families) from your typical "pub" food, to some very impressive entrees like their Potato Encrusted Haddock or their Lobster Ravioli.

While I have tried and loved their Thai Shrimp, typically I go for the pub fare. Their burgers are awesome and when I'm in the burger mood, I always gravitate toward the Cheddar Bacon Burger (No description necessary as it's all in the name).

A more frequent choice for me is the Reuben. Not every place makes a good Reuben but, at Federal Jack's they are great. It's piled high with lean corned beef (don't even think about trying to slip in pastrami on me) on toasted rye bread. Just the right amount of sauerkraut, swiss cheese and thousand island dressing. I'm getting hungry!

I'm sorry, I jumped ahead, let's go back to the beginning. Their beer is unbelievable. They have some wonderful selections and, of course beer is never better than when it is fresh and it doesn't get any fresher than at Federal Jack's. Here's a tip, get the beer sampler. That way you can get a taste of a full range of their brews.

For starters, their Classic New England Clam Chowder is really great but, someone really should get the Award Winning, Texas Two-Pint Chili. If it were me, I'd get the chili and take a taste of the chowder from Janice. Of course, I would give her a taste of my chili (dessert is the only course I don't share).

Okay, now it's onto the Reuben., go back and re-read if you need to.

And finally, for dessert, don't read the menu, I already know what you want. Once again it's Award Winning. The Chocolate Vanilla Float is extraordinary. Made with Federal Jack's homemade chocolate soda, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and a cherry on top. Once you taste it, you will understand why it took first place in the Chocolate Lover's Fling and Auction in Portland, Maine.

When you are in Kennebukport, don't miss Federal Jack's, it is one of The Maine Stay Inn's top picks. It's fun and it has excellent food. And, if there is a ball game on, you won't miss anything, there are flat panel TV's all over the place.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

What is there to do in Kennebunkport? We're glad you asked.

Historic Maine House Party
Saturday, March 3, 2007

This Saturday evening at the Historic Nott House, the Historic Inns of Kennebunkport are hosting a house party and all of our guests are invited.

~This classic 1853 Greek Revival home is furnished with original Victorian period decor.

~Guests will enjoy a reception and special tour of the Historic Nott House, Kennebunkport Historical Society's House Museum.

~Delicious hors d'oeuvres, chocolate desserts and refreshments.

~Raffle for a $100.00 gift certificate to each of the Historic Inns.

Kennebunkport Cookie Madness
Saturday, March 10, 2007

Come discover the art of the Chocolate Chip Cookie as you participate in a tasting tour of the seven Historic Inns of Kennebunkport Inns' secret cookie recipes.

~Enjoy a tour of each of the fine Historic Inns of Kennebunkport.

~Sample each of the Inn's signature cookie and take home their secret recipes.

~Vote for your favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie (vote for the Maine Stay).

The Art of Boat Building
Saturday, March 17, 2007

Have you ever dreamed of building your own boat? How about simply owning one? This weekend's for you!

~Tour the acclaimed Landing Boat School.

~Attend the Portland Boat Building Show.

~Return to the Maine Stay Inn where a gift of delicious chocolate sweets sloops awaits.

Savor Maple Sugaring Memories
Saturday, March 24, 2007

Discover authentic Maine as you take a special guided tour of one of Maine's traditional maple sugar farms.

~See how the native maple trees are tapped and sap collected (and why Maine Maple Syrup is the best).

~View the syrup making process first hand in a genuine Shaker barn.

~Enjoy a New England lunch complete with maple sugar dessert! (with vanilla ice cream)

Wine Tasting, Fine Dining and Decadent Chocolate
Saturday, March 31, 2007

Come join us at Grissini Italian Bistro, one of the region's most celebrated restaurants, for an evening of fine dining with wine tasting and decadent chocolate.

~Indulge in an exquisite four course meal paired with complementary wines.

~Discover the art of fine chocolate dessert.

~Revel in the romantic setting of one of Kennebunkport's most enchanting establishments.

These are just some of the great things to do and this is just for March.

Come join us at The Maine Stay Inn where, "we have the nicest guests."

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Inns, Kennebunkport Restaurants, Specials at The Maine Stay, Things to do in Kennebunkport

What is a Bandaloop? If I were going to define it I would say, "a Bandaloop is a semi-hidden treasure of a restaurant tucked away in the quaint seaside village of Kennebunkport."

However, the definition on Bandaloop's website identifies it as, "the name of a fictional tribe taken from the Tom Robbins’ novel Jitterbug Perfume. In the book, this tribe knew the secret to eternal life."

My suggestion...definately plan on dinner at Bandaloop and you can decide for yourself which definition is more apropos.

Bandaloop is an intimate and comfortable restaurant with a casual and funky ambiance. The owners, Scott and Bridget Lee are dedicated to serving organic, all natural local Maine products whenever possible.

We were joined for dinner this evening by our friends Jan and Rick. We all started with appetizers and, we all ordered the same thing (hey, what kind of restaurant review is this?)...Bandaloop Egg Rolls. Don't chalk this up to coincidence, these Egg Rolls are outrageous. They are filled with red onions, walnuts, gorgonzola (yum), with a sweet and sour port wine reduction for dipping. I know, a more professional restaurant reviewer would have ordered something different in order to expand the scope of the review...too bad, I've had these Egg Rolls before and I wasn't about to pass them up . You shouldn't either.

Next, the main course, for Jan it was the Pan Seared Fresh Escolar Fillet with fresh crab and basil buerre blanc (I know what crab is but the rest, I'm stumped). Jan reported that her meal was wonderful. It was the Bandaloop Cioppino for Rick, a medley of clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops and medallions of fish, steamed in a zesty tomato-lime broth, with Isreali cous cous and basil. Rick's description was, "fantastic, as usual." Janice had the Skewered Large Shrimp with a Zesty Asian Peanut Sauce. Janice talked about how good it was all the way home. And for me, it was the Portobello Mushroom-Sun Dried Tomato and Vegetable Medley with Cavatappi and Shrimp. This medley included red onion, bell pepper, broccoli and basil finished with sherry, Marcona Almonds and Parmesan. Wow, was it good!

And then dessert. I really like dining with people who enjoy dessert. Janice had Bandaloop's version of Chocolate Decadence. She enjoyed about half of it but was very full from her meal and ended up taking home a Georgie Bag. Yippee! It was really good. Jan, Rick and I all got the Mango-Peach Tart with Vanilla ice cream. The tart was warm and excellent but, if you order it, don't forget to eat the ice cream. It was also excellent. Those of you who know me, know that I am an expert when it comes to Vanilla ice cream.

As dessert was arriving, in walked Rob and Leigh from The Captain Fairfield Inn. Fortunately, they sat right next to us. I really like living in a small town.

Good food , good friends and a warm and comfortable setting, what more could we ask for?

At The Maine Stay Inn, we are always pleased to recommend that our guests have dinner at Bandaloop.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

A main stay in Kennebunkport (hey, wait a minute) for more than 30 years, Alisson's is clearly doing something right. Actually, they are doing lots of things very well.

Located right in the center of the action of Kennebunkport's quaint village of Dock Square, Alisson's is well known and frequented by locals and visitors alike.

This evening's meal included the typical Alisson's experience. Janice and I were joined for dinner by Marc and Sue. Our greeting from the hostess was friendly and we were escorted to our table, well away from the entrance (very much appreciated as the outside temperature was about 18 degrees). We were well within view of several of Alisson's seven big-screen TVs (there may have been more that we didn't see) which was perfect since the Patriot's game was about to come on. Go Pats!

It was burgers for both Janice and me. Cheeseburger for Janice and Dee Dee Burger for me. The Dee Dee Burger is topped with bleu cheese dressing, sauteed mushrooms and onions. Sue opted for the Lobster Roll (better known as the Lobsta Roll). As Alisson's advertises, it had "mounds of fresh Lobster meat." Alisson's is well known for their great Lobster Rolls. For Marc, it was "A Fish Called Wanda," a broiled haddock (you could have it fried as well) sandwich with Cheddar Cheese.

All sandwiches come with your choice of french fries or cole slaw. That's no choice for me...it's fries all the way. The fries, like my burger are done just right.

And then my favorite part, dessert, a Peanut Butter Cup Pie. Our waitress was excellent but hey, who told her to bring out two forks? It was so good, I didn't even see what Sue and Marc got for dessert.

Alisson's Restaurant is casual and they don't take reservations. Don't be fooled, they take your food very seriously. Over the years, Janice and I have had many meals at Alisson's and we always leave pleased with our selections. We have sent a countless number of Maine Stay Inn guests to Alisson's and the feedback is always excellent.

I guess that's how a restaurant continues to thrive for more than 30 years.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

A wonderful article appeared in the December '06 edition of Inside Central New Jersey (on April 9, 2007, the author, Sarah Reiss provided us with this updated link as the magazine had rotated the article off their website) magazine.

The article, written by travel writer Sarah Reiss, chronicles her November visit to our community. In her quest to discover the pleasures of the world renowned Maine lobster, Sarah learns that Kennebunkport is much more than just lobster (although, the lobster is awesome).

To see the full article, click the link above, scroll down the page and look for the edition that says, Inside Central NJ - Dec. '06. That will take you to the full magazine. The article begins on page 32. Don't miss the mention of The Maine Stay Inn, as well as, The Artist Studio at CrossTrees on page 35.

Photo by Robert Dennis

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Inns, Kennebunkport Restaurants

Teddy still hasn't ventured ouside of Kennebunkport (that's the only hint on this one). He's anxious to do some real traveling and as a result, this may be the last easy opportunity for a Kennebunkport ~ Maine Stay tee shirt.

Send in your guess as soon as possible. Take as many guesses as you want, there's no penalty for a wrong answer. In other words, guess early and guess often.

Read the rules. First guess wins. And, if you won a tee shirt in the last 90 days, please give someone else a chance.

Also, thanks for all the compliments on Teddy's Christmas sweater.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants, Let's have some fun

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Inns, Kennebunkport Restaurants, Specials at The Maine Stay

We celebrated Christmas with our staff today. We all met at the wonderful Kennebunkport restaurant, Pier 77. What a great place to enjoy a get together with the people that help make the Maine Stay Inn run smoothly.

I remember last year's Christmas Party. Janice mentioned that the group of people that gathered with us was the best group of people the Maine Stay has ever had. Well, this year's group of wonderful people tops them all. How could that be? All of those at last year's party are still with us (or back with us) and we have added a couple more.

And what about Pier 77? A beautiful restaurant in a quaint and picturesque seaside Maine location. Great people and fantastic food. That's why we had our Christmas party at Pier 77.

Labels: Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Kennebunkport Inns, Kennebunkport Restaurants

Well, Kennebunkport is officially in its quiet season. Also known as the serenity season, or the peaceful season, or perhaps the most popular of all (and the least flattering), the off season.

Inevitably the question comes up as to which restaurants are still open. I have compiled a list below and included links to "The Insider's Guide to Kennebunkport" review of each.

The Cape Arundel Inn (upscale dining)

The Hurricane Restaurant (upscale dining)

On The Marsh Restaurant (upscale dining)

Pier 77 Restaurant (upscale dining)

The Wayfarer Restaurant (casual dining)

Windows on the Water (upscale dining)

And there are two others I want to highlight:

Bandaloop Restaurant (casual dining)
I have not yet reviewed this restaurant but, Janice and I have eaten there a few times. The food is consistently fantastic. I'll do a full review after our next visit.

And,

Roly's English Fudge (finger food)

I know...Roly's is not a restaurant. Gimme a break. On several occasions I have made a meal out of their fudge and gelato. I think that qualifies Roly's as one of my restaurants. You however, should go for dessert and bring home some fudge to your friends and family.

There you have it...when it comes to dining these are The Best of Kennebunkport.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

Isn't it great when you try a restaurant and realize that you have found another wonderful place to dine.

While so many of our guests are devoted patrons of the Wayfarer, Janice and I hadn't eaten there in many years.

This evening, when pressed for a place to have a relaxing evening out, Janice, Marc, Sue and I all agreed, "let's try the Wayfarer." We had no reservations and we arrived at 6:30. There was one other party in the entire restaurant and when I asked the hostess if she could accommodate a party of four, I was only kidding. Her response was to study her seating chart for, what seemed like several minutes (it really wasn't, but it seemed like it). Huh, was she kidding me back?

Well, we were seated at our table and promptly presented with a menu and a bottle opener. Wayfarer is BYOB and we had our own B. The menu had several entrees that sounded wonderful but, we realized that we had arrived on the night that we had heard so much about...Thursday night or better known to Wayfarer groupees as "Pot Roast Night."

So for Janice, Marc and Sue it was Pot Roast all around. I, on the other hand, chose the Chicken Satay. You see, I knew I was going to get some of Janice's Pot Roast when she was finished.

The selections all included a salad to start. Usually, for me it's Blue Cheese dressing and most often, a double dose please. In reciting the dressings offered, our waitress mentioned a Feta Cheese Vinaigrette. I guess I am broadening my horizons, I chose the Feta, it sounded Betta. Sorry.

The salad and the dressing were both excellent, as were the crispy rolls that came before them.

The Chicken Satay was a boneless breast of chicken that was grilled and sliced on a bed of rice and topped with a spicy peanut sauce. It was remarkably good. It was surprisingly good. There was just the right amount of spice. It started out fairly light. I mentioned to Janice that I wished it was spicier. I got my wish, the more I ate, the spicier it got. (I should have made some more wishes, I may have been on a roll) The combination and the quantity of peanut and spice were just right.

The others were raving about the Pot Roast. I knew given a short time, Janice would call it quits and I would be able to give a first hand review of the Pot Roast myself. We professional food critics would prefer not to rely on others. You see we have finely tuned taste buds.

The Pot Roast was so good that the next time we go to the Wayfarer, it will be on a Thursday night. What will I order? Stay tuned, it might be next Thursday night.

One last thing...the hostess wasn't kidding me back. You see, we weren't there more than 15 minutes and the place was SRO.

If you are staying at the Maine Stay, you can be sure we will be suggesting a dinner at the Wayfarer.

One more last thing...no credit cards at the Wayfarer. Bring cash.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

Situated at the very tip of Cape Porpoise, Pier 77 overlooks Kennebunkport's picturesque harbor and the comings and goings of the local lobstermen. For many, the scene is exactly what comes to mind when they envision the coast of Maine.


Pier 77 is elegant yet comfortable, it is best described as fine dining yet Pier 77 casual.

This evening's dinner began with the special Portuguese Kale soup for Janice, and Pete's (Pete and Kate are the owners) clam chowder for Marc. Both gave their appetizers high marks. For me, it was the wedge of iceberg lettuce with Maytag blue cheese dressing. I love that and Pier 77's version was superb.

Janice and I ordered the same entree (again). While I very much wanted to try the Lobster Farfalle, neither of us could resist the special this evening. It was grilled Mahi Mahi on a bed of rice topped with a fruit salsa. Along with this was a hot pepper, stuffed with goat cheese and chirizo sausage, breaded and baked. Also on the plate was a wedge of grilled avacado.

The Mahi Mahi was cooked just right and was a delicious portion of fish. It is not often that Janice and I have food cooked the same and both think it is perfect. I like things on the well done side and Janice prefers medium. We both agreed that the Mahi Mahi was cooked just the way we wanted. The fruit salsa complemented both the fish and the rice. The pepper was extra special. What a wonderful combination of flavors. The meal was very filling but, if it came with more peppers, I would have eaten them all. Hey Pete and Kate, those peppers would make a great appetizer.

Marc and Sue also ordered the same entrees. They both ordered the Seafood Mixed Grill. The grilled salmon, scallops and prawns (shrimp to us old fashioned folks) looked wonderful. It was accompanied with mashed potatoes and plenty of delicious looking snap peas. According to both Marc and Sue their meals were also excellent.

And then...NO DESSERT. Here we go again. What kind of people skip dessert? Well, I know the answer. Tired innkeepers sometimes skip dessert.

Well, if anyone else had ordered dessert, I too would have. You see, it isn't that I mind eating dessert alone, it's the fact that when you are the only one having dessert, waiters and waitresses alike, feel compelled to bring four spoons. If you have read my other articles you might already know...I don't share my dessert. So, there you go, no dessert for me.

If I had ordered dessert, it would have been the baked blueberry crumble with the vanilla bean gelato. I'm certain that I would have enjoyed the blueberry crumble but, it was the vanilla bean gelato that would have completed my meal.

Looking for a great spot for a wedding reception? Check out Pier 77. Janice and I went to a wedding here last year and it was terrific.

One other thing...if you are looking for a very casual (shorts and tee shirts) meal, check out the Ramp Bar and Grille. Tucked under the main restaurant, the Ramp is casual, adorned with Pete's sports memorabilia and sits right on the water. Have a "boat drink" and order from the grill menu.

If you are staying at the Maine Stay Inn, have us make reservations for you at Pier 77. I think you'll enjoy your experience just as much as we did.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants

Attention to every detail. When you pull into the parking lot at On the Marsh and exit your vehicle, it begins. Even those less inclined to observe details will be impressed with the manicured grounds. The creativity of the landscaping and the placement of the fashioned ornaments complement the magnificent collection of plantings.

Enter the restored farmhouse and barn and be equally impressed with the eclectic collection of art and antiques. The European and American decor is ever changing and all the furnishings are available for purchase.

The ambiance is elegant, yet comforting.

We were escorted to our window side seats, overlooking the tidal salt marsh. When the hostess noticed my black slacks, she quickly replaced my white linen napkin with a black napkin. I was spared the need to pick lint off my slacks later in the evening. A simple, but a very classy touch.

Once again, Janice and I were enjoying the company of our friends from Nottingham, John and Hazel. On the Marsh certainly added to their favorable impression of Kennebunkport, as they pledged to return next year with their daughter and her family.

Hazel started with a selection of fruit which included strawberries and frozen Champagne grapes. Janice started with the On the Marsh house salad. The salad was made up of arugula fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. What are heirloom tomatoes?? They are pure yellow, but otherwise look and taste exactly like delicious tomatoes.
Hazel appeared to enjoy her fruit and Janice and I both enjoyed the On the Marsh salad.

John tried the Crunchy Gulf Shrimp and Leeks with lemon saffron aioli and fresh herbs. Lucky for me, John gave me one, it was delicious. I started with the Demi Salad. Mixed greens, Champagne vinaigrette and house-made croutons. It was very good but, next time I'll choose the On the Marsh salad. Usually the item named for the restaurant is the best choice and I should have considered that.

For entrees...Hazel had the Oven-Roasted Fresh Maine Halibut Filet. It came served over a sweet summer corn and baby green salad with lemon vinaigrette. She thoroughly enjoyed her choice. Janice had the Seared Hokkaido Sea Scallops and Lobster Risotto with brandied lobster stock, watercress, rice wine vinegar and truffle oil. A wonderful collection of flavors.

John and I both chose the same entree...the On the Marsh Lobster Steak. Wow! The tails and claws of two 1.5 pound lobsters on a bed of roasted garlic wild rice, green beans and lemon buerre blanc (hey, there's that buerre blanc again). I learned from my salad selection. This time I ordered the entree that is named for the restaurant and, was I glad. Lobster lovers listen up...you really need to have the On the Marsh Lobster Steak. It was scrumptious.

Dessert, of course. Janice had the decadent chocolate (it was both). Hazel and I had the Apple Tart with home-made vanilla ice cream. Both the tart and the ice cream were spectacular.

Winner of the 2003, Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, On the Marsh is an excellent choice for small weddings and private functions.

We have had many guests at the Maine Stay Inn, that have attended weddings at On the Marsh. They have had wonderful comments about this superb gem.

Labels: Kennebunkport Restaurants