Kennebunkport Dining Archives - Maine Stay Inn and Cottages

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Favorite Things About Kennebunkport Maine

May 11th, 2013 by mainestayinn

So while last night’s surprise thunderstorms sidelined my plans for some outdoor fun, a day like today reminded me of some of my favorite things about Kennebunkport Maine. Now, we all know that there are way too many amazing things about this seaside town, so I will do my darnedest to keep this list reasonable. But since I am making this a short one, apologies if I left anyone else’s faves off!

The beach – Whenever. No seriously, in rain or shine, snow covered or so-hot-you-could-fry-an-egg, the Kennebunkport Maine beaches are incredible. Mother nature does such a wonderful job at keeping the coastline exciting, and making sure that you can never get bored looking at it! But fortunately for us, the variety of beaches and coastline in and around town has something for everyone – secluded stretches of
How could you not love this coastline?!

sandy beach, classic rocky Maine coast, slips of waterfront meandering through our quaint village, and even beaches with wide paved paths for those who want to enjoy the ocean without dealing with the sand. Plus, unlike many vacation destinations, you can head there on foot from the Maine Stay Inn or by car and not worry about parking – we’ve got plenty!
The food – Most of you know that enjoying great culinary creations is one of my favorite past times, and fortunately for me, Kennebunkport Maine has eateries that can compete with those from any big city. So whether you’re craving a simple boiled lobster or a stunning five-star tasting menu, we’ve got you covered. Yum!
The shops – It makes sense that my two favorite kinds of shopping are for food and room decor, but that doesn’t do me much good come Christmas and birthday time. Fortunately Kennebunkport Maine makes it so easy for me! The amazing mix of stores in Dock Square means that I can find almost anything for that perfect gift. On the rare occasion when I can’t, I know that I’ve got two world-class Outlet centers barely a half hour away!
The outdoor fun – If there’s anything I love more than food, it’s playing outside. So whether it’s enjoying cross country skiing and horse-drawn sleigh riding in the winter or hiking, biking and running in the summer, I am in. Over the past few years, the amount of conservation land in and around Kennebunkport Maine has just exploded, which means that there are about a gagillion options for peaceful and pristine outdoor activities.

I could go on all night about why I love this town, but you’ll just have to come and explore Kennebunkport Maine for yourself!

Tags: kennebunkport beaches, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport restaurants, outdoor activities, Shopping in Kennebunkport, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Watching the Game in Kennebunkport

January 20th, 2013 by mainestayinn

As we all know, today is a big day in the sports world, and it got me thinking about where you can find the best game-watching in Kennebunkport. Now, the really sharp sports fanatic will note that I am writing this entry after the kick-off for the Pats vs. Ravens game, but I am watching, I promise! Nevertheless, in a small town like Kennebunkport, you might think that great sports bars would be tough to find, but think again! Yep, when you’re visiting, you certainly won’t be confined to your room at our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast (though many folks do choose to snuggle in and watch!), so here’s a selection of great local spots to cheer for your favorite team:

Federal Jack’s is definitely a favorite spot, because with a dozen or so big screen TVs you’re sure to get your fill. Plus, as the home of shipyard ales (with seven different homemade brews tapped directly from the brewery below), and a huge assortment of other draft beers, you’ll find just the thing to quench your thirst! Worried about noshing – they’ve got a big
A view of Cape Porpoise Harbor from Pier 77′s The Ramp

menu of traditional pub food (and more sophisticated entrees as well) so nachos and wings are available nearly at the snap of a finger.
Alisson’s Restaurant, located at the very center of Dock Square, just a stone’s throw from the Maine Stay Inn, features quite a few TVs and a great bar. Plus, their assortment of finger food is just as extensive as that at Fed’s.
You’ll find a small gathering of local folks at Pier 77‘s the Ramp, which, while only offering 2 viewing screens, has a great homey atmosphere. Looking around, you will find the walls and ceilings plastered with vintage sports memorabilia, which just adds to the viewing experience. And with standout food choices, this the Ramp is a great spot for the non sports fan and the enthusiast alike.
Looking for something a little different? Check out Pedro’s Mexican Restaurant in Lower Village Kennebunk. The food’s pretty stellar (and not at all like commercialized Mexican eateries) and their margaritas are out of this world. So pull up a seat at the bar and enjoy!

And, really, this is just the tip of the iceberg! We’re really fortunate in Kennebunkport to have tons of great spots to watch your favorite sports games, and even luckier that they are also comfortable and fun for those who aren’t quite so enamored with sports!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Wining and Dining in Kennebunkport

September 7th, 2012 by mainestayinn

The weather has been absolutely fabulous in Kennebunkport lately (Mother Nature, keep up the good work!), and a few nights ago was no exception, so we decided to head to Old Vines Wine Bar for dinner. While its roots were originally as a wine bar, featuring a few delightful nibbles, the repertoire has expanded greatly. The assortment of wines has stayed large and excellent, the menu now includes a full bar. And in addition to cured meats and cheeses, you can now order a variety of light dishes. So on a day when lunch happened rather late and a hearty dinner wasn’t required, we ventured to Old Vines to satiate ourselves. Less than a half

The wall of wine at Old Vines!

mile from our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast, it is an easy walk on streets that have good sidewalks (though that doesn’t always mean well lit, so check your dresser drawer for the flashlight we’ve left – you’ll likely want it on your trip home). Now that they’ve added a great outdoor dining area (complete with a fire pit!), parking is a bit more limited, but, as is the case for much of Kennebunkport, street parking is pretty easy. So if you decide to go with footwear not conducive for meandering, know that driving is definitely an option.

Old Vines sets a great tone for dining in Kennebunkport right from the second you enter. The lighting is intimate, but still provides enough for some solid people watching (if you’re anything like me, that is!). The walls are lined with the wood from different cases of wine, each emblazoned with their signature logo. And just as important, the seating is comfy, but not lounge-chair-like. While enjoying a beverage, we perused the food menu, starting with salads (which were out of this world, BTW!) and progressing to the tapas and hot sandwiches. Unfortunately, we just didn’t have any room for the beautiful assortment of meats and cheeses. Instead, we watched nearby tables gobble theirs up in a snap. Fortunately for guests of the Maine Stay Inn, Old Vines offers a great opportunity for wining and (light or not-so-light) dining in Kennebunkport!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport restaurants, wine tastinig
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Off the Beaten Path Kennebunkport Restaurants

July 20th, 2012 by mainestayinn

On a particularly busy weekend like this one, finding a last-minute Kennebunkport restaurant with open reservations can be a bit of a challenge. And even though we ask all of our visitors about a week in advance if they would like us to make dining reservations for them, sometimes you just want to be spontaneous! But that certainly doesn’t have to mean compromising on good food at a time

Another great dinner at Academe at the Kennebunk Inn!

that works for you. I mean, sure, I could get reservations tonight at my favorite eatery in town, but I was going to have to eat at 5 or at 10. I don’t know about you, but 5 p.m. is just about snack time, and the only thing I eat at 10 is ice cream – that’s a rule! Fortunately, though, there are several lesser known (and maybe a little bit farther away) Kennebunkport restaurants that are perfect, especially for a night like tonight.

Lucas On 9 is one such place, mostly because its location halfway between Cape Porpoise means that it’s not a prime location for foot traffic. It’s a casual spot that is family-friendly and has a great bar, which is something that is definitely tough to find. With a very reasonably priced menu, it fits the bill for almost any traveler. And can they ever cook! Usually causal dining restaurants are the place to order fries and not broccoli, but at Lucas on 9, they do veggies justice. But most importantly, the family that owns and operates Lucas is incredibly kind, hard-working, and dedicated to their patrons – who could ask for more in a place?

Much closer to our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Mekhong Thai is a great spot for a good meal within walking distance. Sure, Maine isn’t exactly known for its curry, but there are plenty of times that lobster just isn’t calling your name. And times like that are what make Mekhong a great fit for the area. And since they don’t compromise quality just because the locals might not know better, the food is always fresh, the vegetables crisp, and the service attentive. It’s a win all around.

A little further away in downtown Kennebunk lie two great restaurants – 50 Local and the Kennebunk Inn. 50 Local is known especially for its funky, modern vibe and use of ingredients sourced from local and organic farms. Directly across the street, you will find Academe, the restaurant inside the Kennebunk Inn. A personal haunt, we visit regularly, almost always sitting at the bar, where the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Now, that doesn’t mean that we don’t like the dining room, because it is spacious and clean, with simple decor, but after a long day, my family and I are ready to talk to someone else – not just each other! Truthfully, though, any of these restaurants are great choices for dining in Kennebunkport, so Bon Appetite!

Tags: dinner kennebunkport maine, Kennebunkport Dining
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Lobster Lunches in Kennebunkport Maine

July 7th, 2012 by mainestayinn

This afternoon I found myself chatting with guests about where they should enjoy a lobster lunch in Kennebunkport, and realized that there happen to be quite a few fantastic options. Much to their chagrin, they had learned that Nunan’s Lobster Hut, our go-to for uber-casual fresh lobster, was only open for dinner. Yes, it’s true! But when they’re out catching your dinner, you really can’t

Enjoy picturesque views like this from Cape Pier Chowder House!

fault them, can you? I mean, I am certainly willing to wait a few extra hours if it means getting my meal fresh off the boat!

Now since I believe that you can’t truly experience lobster without getting messy, it seems like a casual atmosphere puts a place at the top of my list. For that very reason, I definitely recommend Cape Pier Chowder House. Plus, the views are pretty stellar too. So drink in the sights while you wait on their deck for your meal. And the fact that it’s situated right on the pier so you can watch other lobster eaters is just an unexpected bonus! But if you are looking for just a touch more pampering, try the Arundel Wharf Restaurant, located just a block from the Maine Stay Inn. And with tented, outdoor, and dining room settings, the whole family is in for a great treat.

But for the ultimate in casual fare, consider picking up an already-cooked (and still warm!) lobster or two from Port Lobster Company. So pack the paper towels and set up your own seaside picnic or tuck in to the freshest lobsters around in our very own backyard or on our wraparound porch. And with the ability to simply hose things down when you’re done, there’s no fear about making a mess! So crack those shells and enjoy some lobster lunches in Kennebunkport Maine.

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, lunch dining
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Enjoying Outdoor Dining in Kennebunkport

July 2nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

This evening I received a welcome surprise – a visit from some of my oldest friends – which meant that we just had to pick a dinner locale with outdoor dining in Kennebunkport. Today graced us with incredible weather that, while on the warm side, meant that sitting outside for dinner was absolutely perfect – no sweaters required. But on the stroll downtown from our Kennebunkport Bed

You’ll enjoy seeing row boats like these when you experience outdoor dining in Kennebunkport’s Tia’s Topside

and Breakfast, I realized just how lucky we are to have such a great assortment of spots to enjoy a meal in the open air.

Closest to the inn, you’ll find the Arundel Wharf Restaurant with an assortment of indoor, tented, and outdoor dining options. Its varied and well executed menu mirrors the seating arrangements and the location just can’t be beat! But if you find yourself desiring a bird’s eye view of the marinas, you could check out Federal Jack’s, the local brew pub. With a dining room on the second floor and impressive deck space, it is a great option for outdoor dining in Kennebunkport or just enjoying a beer in the open air. Tia’s Topside also offers deck dining, but instead of checking out the swanky yachts in town, you can enjoy a view of the quiet inlet which is now home to a few gently bobbing row boats.

But if you’re looking for something a little more upscale, you can check out the patio at One Dock. View? Not so much, but the food is definitely something to write home about! But it is still outside, and who can beat summertime in New England? One big perk, though, is that it is perfect for people watching, which is something I really enjoy, and the light veil of potted plants and trellises is perfect for concealing my gawking. But since there is live music here nearly every night of the summer, it’s sometimes not the spot for a romantic outdoor dining experience in Kennebunkport. For that, I recommend heading to Old Vines Wine Bar, whose new patio is just calling my name! And it’s location next to the lush gardens of florist Fleurant definitely helps counteract the traffic noise from its location on Route 35. Plus, after a glass of wine or two, it’s sure not to phase you at all! It’s funny to think that this list doesn’t even cover all of the Kennebunkport Maine Restaurants with outdoor dining, and these are just the few within walking distance of the Maine Stay Inn, but it’s true, so get out there and start eating!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport restaurants, Maine Summer Vacation, outdoor activities
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Visiting a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast from Boston

June 29th, 2012 by mainestayinn

As I drove toward our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfastfrom Boston, it struck me how much changes in 86 miles. Yes, that major metropolitan area lies less than an hour and a half away, but it’s worlds apart. The pace here is noticeably slower and the stars brighter. Now I could go on and on about why Kennebunkport Maine is so different from city life, but that’s a matter for a separate blog. But, nevertheless, on my short drive I realized just how many great things there are to do and places to nosh on the trip to

Catch a glimpse of sunsets like this one from the bridge into Kennebunkport!

Kennebunkport. So I started to make a mental note of some of the favorite things guests might enjoy doing to kill some time before 3 pm check-in.

Now, you’re barely out of the city (and the vehicle volume on Route 1 confirms this), when you hit Saugus, home to Karl’s. It’s been a destination in itself for as long as I can remember, but this summer the traditional German sausage kitchen is moving a few doors up and little off the beaten path for a much needed expansion. So this summer, as you cross over the Peabody line, be sure to stop for some cold cuts (they’d be perfect for some picnic lunches at the beach – if they last that long!), or a full lunch at their new location, complete with prepared foods and a traditional German menu. But keep in mind that noshing too much now might mean spoiling your appetite, which comes in handy a few miles further north when you hit Portsmouth. This New Hampshire city has seem a tremendous revitalization over the last few years, and now the Strawberry Banke is known for (no, not the fruit) its wonderful assortment of shops and restaurants.

But mere minutes closer to Kennebunkport lies the well known shopping town of Kittery, ME. Home to a plethora of outlets, Kittery is prime territory for retail therapy. And after some great eats earlier on the trip, the opportunity to stretch your legs is often well received. Plus, guys like my father are often perfectly content to browse at places like the Kittery Trading Post while the girls and I check out our favorite shops. But no trip to Kittery is complete without a stop at Yummies, a candy store with more inventory and variety that any shop I have ever encountered – and if you know my sweet tooth at all, that’s an accomplishment in itself!

Still looking to kill some time before checking in to our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast? Choose a leisurely path up Route 1, and consider stopping at some personal favorites like When Pigs Fly Bakery or the Stonewall Kitchen. Once you hit York, Woods to Goods is a must see, with most products made on the inside to enjoy on the outside – but you won’t find any stonework here, because, after stories like those from Shawshank Redemption, there’s only wood to be found in the penitentiary workshops. Who knows? You might even find a great present or two! And while the towns of York and Ogunquit are great for exploring, there’s often not a more welcome sight than the bridge into Kennebunkport. Your vacation to a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast has arrived!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Shopping in Kennebunkport
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Searching for Sweets in Kennebunkport Maine

June 25th, 2012 by mainestayinn

If you’re anything like me and have more than just a single sweet tooth (I’d say I have a whole mouth full!), look no further than Kennebunkport Maine to quell your cravings. Fortunately, though not for my waistline, there are lots of great options for candy, cookies, and frozen confections just a short stroll from our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast. But if you find yourself hankering for a sugar fix before you even arrive, Yummiescandy store in Kittery is a great place to stop. Not only are they conveniently located for

Check out that candy on display!

some extra retail therapy, they’ve got over 10,000 pounds of sweets on their shelves at all times. You’ll never see anything like it! Assuming you have a teeny bit more control that I do, and you actually make it into Kennebunkport, the very first thing you’ll likely encounter is the Sugar Shack. Located right next to the area Chamber of Commerce, it’s brightly colored sign and inventive window display are sure to catch your attention. And their traditional assortment of sweets come in just as striking tones. Nearby, you’ll find the new Chase Hill Bakery, a once famous bakery, whose owner retired, only to reopen recently. It’s well on its way toward reclaiming its former glory.

As you drive deeper into town, you’ll pass a brand new frozen yogurt shop (stay tuned for more on that one at a later date!) and a great new artisan ice cream shop called Rococo. With rich and flavorful varieties, its definitely a new fave! But if some good old chocolate is what you crave, don’t miss out on the Candy Man. Not only do they offer a mix of sweet munchies by the bin, but their chocolate assortment is out of this world, with the items made at their very own shop in York, ME. No matter what you’re craving though, Kennebunkport Maine has got you covered!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Kennebunkport

June 22nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

Since I was one of those kids that would try (and almost always love) anything you put on my plate, the idea of hunting for restaurants with kids’ menus is pretty foreign, but fortunately for families visiting Kennebunkport, there are quite a few great options for pint-sized visitors. Inspired by a little guy visiting us with his family this week, I decided to look into menus that are

view from Tia's Topside in Kennebunkport

A view of the river from Tia's Topside

specifically designed with kids in mind, because while most Kennebunkport restaurants are happy to tailor their offerings for simpler palates, there aren’t that many who put out a special selection available to kiddos.

A relatively recent addition to the Kennebunkport dining scene, Tia’s Topside has jumped on bandwagon, offering a gluten free and a kids’ menu! A short walk from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, Tia’s overlooks the inlet and river in Dock Square. So while the parents can enjoy an elegant meal in a lovely atmosphere, their tykes can tuck into a special serving of mac & cheese or chicken fingers. Slightly off the beaten path in Cape Porpoise lies Lucas on Nine, a family favorite with a hard-to-find specialty – cooking veggies exactly right! So while the menu doesn’t stand out as being unfriendly for children, the availability of a kids’ menu is sure to please even the fussiest eaters! But despite not having a designated childrens’ menu, the offering at Nunan’s Lobster Hut, bears mentioning. And while likely designed for finicky eaters in mind, the presence of gooey grilled cheese or a piping hot hot dog on their limited menu certainly calls to many of our little friends. But despite the short list of places catering to kids, there are countless restaurants in Kennebunkport that happily adjust their regular menu to meet the needs of Maine Stay Inn guests who can’t yet see over the counter.

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, kid-friendly
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Lookin’ for Lobster Shacks in Kennebunkport Maine

May 31st, 2012 by mainestayinn

If there’s one thing I am asked every day, it is where to find the best lobster shacks in Kennebunkport Maine - and luckily for us (and for you) we have three that are just great! So while I would never attempt to rank them or label one as the “best”, each one has something to make it unique. Just around the corner from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast is The Clam Shack, which sits on the bridge dividing Kennebunkport from the town of Kennebunk. It certainly has top scores for convenience, but doesn’t have

A view from Cape Pier

parking, which can be a drawback for many. Granted, I would definitely suggest walking because a) it’s super close and b) it would take you longer to find a parking spot than it would to hoof it. Plus, it’s an extra excuse to pile on the butter!

Sometimes, though, a picturesque water view is the top priority, in which case I recommend Cape Pier Chowder House, located at the end of Pier Road in Cape Porpoise. Known as the original fishing district of Kennebunkport, Cape Pier sits directly adjacent to a working fish pier. With nearly 360 degree water views, the setting is about as good as they get, more than making up for what they lack in decor. Yes, there are only about three tables (and a dozen large picnic tables), and the menu is walk-up-and-take-a-number style. But the food is fresh, the portions are large, and you can’t beat the sights.

When it comes to straight up lobster, no one has more experience than the folks at Nunan’s Lobster Hut. They’ve been doing it for generations, and that means laying and pulling the traps themselves as well. The only downside to Nunan’s is that they’re not open for lunch, but when being unavailable means making sure you’ve got the freshest lobsters on your plate this evening, I think I can keep my disappointment in check. But no matter your mood, you’re sure to find the perfect lobster shack for your needs not far from the Maine Stay Inn.