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Kennebunkport Restaurants: Dessert Digs

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

So you’ve had dinner and just need a little something before snuggling into your cozy bed at the Maine Stay Inn. Where do you turn? The Maine Stay has you covered!

Dessert dining can be a huge challenge for visitors, because they may have eaten on their way to Kennebunkport and may be uncomfortable going into a restaurant just for dessert. But an evening just isn’t complete without that sweet treat!

So here are some great options in the area for those needing just dessert:

Old Vines (This wine bar in Lower Village Kennebunk is a great stop for after dinner noshing – their selection of cheeses and cured meats are great for non-sweet eaters, their homemade desserts are top notch, and they offer a great assortment of after dinner drinks. The best part? They’re open late!)
Federal Jack’s (While we at the Maine Stay Inn recommend this eatery for Maine basics – fried fish, chowdah, and steamed lobster – their extensive dessert menu has options for all tastes (but pass on the bread pudding – they do other things much better). And like Old Vines, they serve late – in season their “Late Night” menu is available until midnight.)
Ben and Jerry’s (I wouldn’t be a true New Englander if I didn’t mention this area favorite. They’re located just steps from the Maine Stay, so they’re a perfect evening stop after exploring Dock Square. But they’re seasonal, so winter visitors, don’t be disappointed!)
Roly’s English Fudge (Also a short stroll from the Maine Stay Inn, this favorite on Ocean Avenue offers a huge selection of English style fudge – think a bit more crumbly with undertones of caramelized sugar – and gelato. This is a must-taste for chocolate lovers and those looking for something light and fruity. Keep in mind, though, that they operate on limited hours in the winter, so check with the innkeepers before venturing out!)
The Ramp at Pier77 (At the Maine Stay, this one of our personal favorites for a casual lunch or dinner, but their desserts are out of this world. You might be most comfortable digging in at the bar if you’re just ordering that after-dinner snack, but their staff will take great care of you no matter the size of your order!)

Even for that little bedtime snack, Kennebunkport offers ample options. But don’t forget that for just $20, the staff at the Maine Stay Inn will create a homemade dessert and deliver it to your room for the ultimate romantic experience. Kindly give us a few days notice if you think you’d like to indulge!

Tags: Cuisine, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, kennebunkport cottage, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, Kennebunkport restaurants, maine cottage, maine cottages
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Kennebunkport Restaurants: Bandaloop

Monday, March 8th, 2010

Just steps from the Maine Stay Inn’s front door lies a funky restaurant with a name to match – Bandaloop. And while the atmosphere is rustic and Bohemian chic, the cuisine is anything but. Located about three very short blocks from the inn in a residential area adjacent to Dock Square’s shopping district, you might miss it, if not for the bright red door. Walking into this converted barn (that’s how I perceive it, at least), you will find a wide, modern bar and soft lighting, aided by twinkling white Christmas lights along the upper balcony. The upstairs houses a few small tables and a quiet, intimate atmosphere with great views of the roughly hewn rafters and ample opportunity to people watch. And while the downstairs is more tightly packed and bustling, you have a chance to watch the amazing skills of Chef Scott Lee, owner of Bandaloop. Personally, I love an open kitchen – you know the food is hot and fresh, because you see it come out of the pan, onto the plate and into your belly – no waiting under some heat lamp. That would be entirely counterintuitive here, as “fresh is best” clearly dominates this eatery. In the past they have offered a covered, heated patio during the warmer months and into foliage season, but a recent dinnertime visit revealed exterior construction for a more permanent addition of seating area.

The waitstaff at Bandaloop Restaurant is cheerful, but not overbearing, and very helpful to those of us plagued by indecision. But at Bandaloop, indecision must be incredibly common – the menu is just too good! A two-page menu and handful of specials shouldn’t be terribly troubling, but when you consider the option of pairing any protein source with any of their signature sauces (and there are around 7 of each), the menu seems to grow exponentially!

In all honesty, there is nothing that I wouldn’t like at Bandaloop. Their trend is toward organically raised products and interesting combinations, many with an Asian fusion flair. My personal favorite is their grilled salmon or fried tofu with caramelized chili-coconut sauce. But you certainly can’t go wrong with their spinach salad and Mac & Cheese! And the menu offers a host of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options.

No matter the season, we at the Maine Stay Inn recommend reservations – even on a Wednesday in March. So let us make on for you, because Bandaloop is certainly not to be missed!

Tags: Cuisine, dinner kennebunkport maine, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, Kennebunkport restaurants, maine bed and breakfast, maine cottages, restaurants kennebunkport, seafood
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Maine Summer Vacation Package

Sunday, March 7th, 2010

Kennebunkport is the ideal place for your summer vacation – stunning beaches, fine shops and galleries, and incredible restaurants. And Kennebunkport’s location is ideal, as it is just 90 miles from Boston, 30 miles from Portland, ME, and Portsmouth, NH, both home to great cultural opportunities and more great dining (always my primary concern!), and of course, just 40 miles to famed Freeport – the home of L.L. Bean. I just can’t fathom what isn’t to like about Kennebunkport. I mean, I may be biased, but still. Really, though, you can reach Kennebunkport incredibly easily and even without a car. Once you are here, you don’t actually need a car – great sandy beaches are only about a mile away and excellent restaurants and activities are just a short stroll from the inn. The outdoor opportunities are innumerable – and incredible. And did I mention the food?

The Maine Stay Inn, of course, makes it our business to make your vacation better than you imagined. Kennebunkport is wonderful, but a stay at the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages it the key to making your Maine Summer Vacation perfect. So this summer, from June 1 through September 15, the Maine Stay Inn will offer complimentary passes to the Kennebunk Beaches with any two or more night stay. That means you can enjoy the glories of Southern Maine’s incredible beaches at no cost to you!

Tags: beach, Goose Rocks beach, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Inn, maine cottages, maine inn, Maine Summer Vacation, summer in Kennebunkport, summer vacation
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Kennebunkport Bars: Federal Jack’s vs. The Ramp

Monday, March 1st, 2010

While Federal Jack’s Brewpub and The Ramp at Pier 77 both bill themselves as pubs catering to sports fanatics, the similarities stop there. Read on to see how they stack up.

Federal Jack’s Brew Pub sits on prime real estate in Lower Village Kennebunk, right on the river overlooking a marina. It’s second floor location could be a deterrent to some, but an elevator distinguishes it from most places in town. And it is huge. I mean huge. Their dish slide is larger than the entire kitchen at the Maine Stay. During the summertime Federal Jack’s operates five separate serving areas – the main dining room, the bar, the pool room, the outdoor decks, and a smaller dining room.

In contrast, The Ramp barely has five tables! Okay, that may be an exaggeration, but it is much smaller and is actually one of the smallest eateries in town. Granted, it’s big sister, Pier 77 (upstairs and closed for the winter) compensates for its small size. The low ceilings and water level location in Cape Porpoise make it a much more intimate spot, and little space between tables ensures you’ll be friendly with your neighbors by the end of the night. And for its small size, the Ramp offers a surprisingly diverse menu, especially during the warmer months when patrons can choose to dine off Pier 77’s menu.

Just like it’s floor plan, the menu at Fed’s is astoundingly large. But your best bets are standard American pub fare – burgers and fried food. Their chowder is good, as are their salads, desserts, and daily $10 special, but skip the fancy stuff – Fed’s is best for basics.

The Ramp, however, has a phenomenal chef, so don’t hesitate to order the unusual here – it’s all (and always) good. For the chowdah connoisseurs out there – their’s is of the potato-y variety.

Federal Jack’s beckons sports fans because of its plethora of widescreen TVs, long hours (they’re open until 12:30 a.m. daily), and beer brewed on site, while The Ramp brings out the fan in all of us with its vintage athletic memorabilia and the soft glow of two small TVs.

So here’s the final breakdown:

Late-night service: Fed’s
Cuisine: The Ramp
Prime sports viewing: Fed’s
Atmosphere for the non-sport viewer: The Ramp
Location: Fed’s
Ocean Views: The Ramp

These two eateries are staples for the Maine Stay and all of Kennebunkport, but serve entirely different needs. So come to Kennebunkport and the Maine Stay Inn to decide for yourself!

Tags: Cuisine, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, Kennebunkport restaurants, maine bed and breakfast, maine inns
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Maine Restaurant Week 2010!

Sunday, February 28th, 2010

The much awaited Maine Restaurant Week is fast approaching and two excellent restaurants in the Kennebunks are participating this year! From March 1-10, 2010, the Kennebunk Inn’s Academe and Kennebunkport Inn’s One Dock are both serving 3 course dinners for just $30.10. These prices don’t include beverage or gratuity but pack an amazing value when considering their menu selections.

At the Kennebunk Inn, choose from their signature salad, incredible butternut squash soup, or lobster croquette to start. Follow with braised short rib, roast chicken (served with their smoked sweet potato souffle – my absolute favorite thing on their menu), or organic salmon. And if you can manage to make room for dessert, choose between peanut butter molten chocolate cake, cheesecake, and homemade reverse root beet float. Talk about value! They can certainly count on me to take advantage.

One Dock, just a short stroll from the Maine Stay Inn, boasts a similarly exquisite menu. For starters choose (if you can) among crab cakes, crispy risotto balls, or goat cheese and mesclun salad. Follow with grilled salmon, New York strip steak, or mushroom risotto and finish with your choice of apple brownie sundae, flourless chocolate torte, or carrot cake cheesecake. Talk about indulgence without the sticker shock (a mediocre three course dinner anywhere else will run you at least that much)!

And while there are only two participating locations in the Kennebunks, there are innumerable restaurants dishing out incredible values in Portland and surrounding communities, including famed Street and Company and Fore Street, both serving 3 course dinners for just $40.10. This means that early March is the perfect time to plan a short getaway to Maine! Take advantage of the Maine Stay Inn’s “Third Night Free” package and ring in the savings!

Tags: budget travel, Cuisine, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, Kennebunkport restaurants, maine cottages, restaurant, winter getaway maine, winter getaways
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Early Booking – A Traveler’s Best Friend

Saturday, February 27th, 2010

With the advent online reservations, TripAdvisor, and Expedia, it has gotten easier and easier for travelers to book last-minute vacations and weekend getaways. And while it may be getting easier, it certainly isn’t getting better. Yes, you can sometimes find “deals,” but most often this is to the detriment of the traveler. Hands down, the best values can be had by booking early, often, and over the phone. Here’s why:

The best rooms go first (how many innkeepers have their best booking room available for Valentine’s Weekend on the Saturday before?). And “best” can mean most expensive, but always means the room that packs the best value (maybe it’s the only room with its own porch in the summer, but the smallest room with a jacuzzi and fireplace in the winter; or maybe it just got renovated and the new pictures aren’t online yet). And at a time when everyone is traveling smarter, those best value rooms are a must!
When you book early and over the phone, innkeepers have the opportunity to get to know you and your needs. That’s because when you’re booking a summer reservation in March, they have the time to talk to you and figure out which room or suite is going to suit you perfectly. Not to mention that that “perfect” room is probably available. Booking early means you won’t have to compromise on the amenities that are essential to giving you the best vacation possible. Not to mention, they may feel more inclined to throw in something special for that anniversary, birthday, or honeymoon celebration.
Booking repeatedly at one place makes you special. You become a guest that we look forward to sharing our renovations with, that we think about when telling stories about favorite guests, and a guest that we check in with throughout the year. But as a repeat guest, you get the inside scoop on special packages, promotions, and steep discounts throughout the year. Don’t delete our newsletter now, you hear?

So while it may seem passe, pick up the phone for your next reservation, talk to the innkeepers, and let us make sure that your next getaway is absolutely perfect. And call early to make sure that you get the best bang for your buck and best experience imaginable in Kennebunkport. Because at the Maine Stay Inn we strive to make your getaway exceed all your expectations!

Tags: budget travel, Goose Rocks beach, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, maine bed and breakfast, maine inns, summer in Kennebunkport
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Valentine’s Dining In Kennebunkport

Friday, February 5th, 2010

Valentine’s Day is one of the most romantic days of the year, so we at the Maine Stay Inn want to make sure that your intimate getaway goes absolutely perfectly. We can arrange for her favorite flowers to be in the room, or for a special bottle of wine. We can deliver a homemade dessert or fresh fruit and cheeses for the happy couple to enjoy. But you can’t get that romantic candle lit dinner here for Valentine’s. We can, however, help you pick that perfect dining experience. For a romantic winter weekend, here are some of our favorite digs:

Cape Arundel Inn Restaurant (This seaside restaurant overlooking the famous Bush compound and vast Atlantic offers fine dining in an airy, comfortable setting)
Grissini (Authentic Italian in Lower Village with an extensive wine selection)
Joshua’s (Slow-food fine dining featuring organic ingredients in a Colonial home)
On The Marsh (Intimate fine dining in a converted farmhouse overlooking a native marsh)
White Barn Inn (Five star dining with a fixed price, multi-course menu)

And this Valentine’s Weekend (February 13 and 14), we can even help you get there! The historic inns of Kennebunkport are debuting their trial run of “Designated Destination,” a shuttle service to local eateries leaving from the participating inns. The Maine Stay is proud to announce their involvement and look forward to helping provide guests the opportunity to savor their favorite wine or cocktails before and during dinner without having to worry about navigating our winter roads. We’ll be your designated driver!

Hopefully this sheds some light on our often overwhelming dining scene, but we’re happy to talk with you to ensure you find the perfect dinner destination. Let the Maine Stay Inn be your personal concierge!

Tags: Cuisine, dining in Wells, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Dining, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport restaurants, Kennebunkport winter, maine bed and breakfast, maine inn, maine stay happenings, romantic weekend, winter getaway maine, winter getaways
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The Maine Stay Helps Habitat for Humanity

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

The Maine Stay Inn and Cottages Supports ‘Hospitality for Habitat’ with Deeply Discounted Rates for Visiting Guests

Maine Stay Inn Teams up with Maine Innkeeper Association program to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity

Kennebunkport, ME – February 2010 – Kennebunkport’s Maine Stay Inn will offer guests 50% off weekend room rates Monday through Thursday between April 26^th through May 28^th 2010 in support of ‘Hospitality for Habitat’, a Maine Innkeepers Association program, originally designed to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity projects in Maine. This year, after the devastating earth quake in Haiti, part of the funds raised will also be distributed to help support Habitat for Humanity projects in Haiti.

Visitors to the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages will receive the deeply discounted room rates in exchange for a $35 donation check written out to Habitat for Humanity.

“With today’s challenging economy we are delighted to offer guests the opportunity to experience a wonderful Maine getaway at half the regular room rate,” said Judith Hauer, owner/innkeeper of the Maine Stay. We appreciate

this opportunity to partner with our guests in support of such a worthy cause.”

The Maine Stay Inn will join participating members of The Maine Innkeepers Association all across the state to help build homes for deserving families. In 2009 Hospitality for Habitat raised over $16,000 for Habitat for Humanity, and the Association has raised over $30,000 since the program began in 2004.

To enjoy a 50% reduction in room rates between April 26^th and May 28th 2010, and be part of Hospitality for Habitat, please make reservations in advance and acknowledge your intention to participate. Your tax deductible donation for $35 should be made out to Habitat for Humanity in the form of a check and given to the innkeeper. For more information, or to make a reservation in support of Habitat for Humanity please go to www.mainestayinn.com or call 207.967.2117.

For a complete, and constantly updated list of participating properties, visit The Maine Innkeeper Association’s web site at www.maineinns.com and click on the “Hospitality for Humanity” logo. Direct Links to each property will provide information on specific room rates, availability, and restrictions.

About Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity International, based in Americus, Ga., is an ecumenical Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing. Habitat has built more than 300,000 houses around the world, providing more than 1.5 million people in more than 3,000 communities with safe, decent, affordable shelter, they helped build and had bought with the assistance of no-profit, zero-interest mortgages. More information can be found online at www.habitat.org.

About the Maine Innkeepers Association

The Maine Innkeepers Association, a leading provider of tourism information to both Maine’s lodging industry and its visitors, represents nearly 700 B&Bs, camps, cottages, hotels, inns, motels and resorts across Maine, and their suppliers. Through communication, education, promotion and government affairs, the Association helps its members achieve prosperity and deliver a quality product to the consumer. Maine Innkeepers Association is located in Freeport, ME and can also be found at www.maineinns.com.

Tags: budget travel, habitat for humanity, inn discounts, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns, maine bed and breakfast, maine stay happenings, spring in maine, updates
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Gluten-Free Breakfasts

Saturday, January 30th, 2010

The Maine Stay Inn has always offered options for gluten-free guests, but since our Gluten-Free Weekend last November, the Maine Stay has seen an increase in inquiries about what we serve to our gluten intolerant guests. So for all of those out there wondering what you might be able to eat on your getaway to this Kennebunkport bed and breakfast inn, here is a sampling of some of our gluten free offerings!

gluten-free sweet potato and pecan pancakes
stuffed, baked apples and scrambled eggs
signature Maine blueberry muffins made from a gluten-free blend of flours
crustless quiche (sometimes our signature Anne and Roger’s style)
gluten free granola (not always available, so make sure we know of your restrictions!)
gluten free chocolate chip cookies and brownies for tea time
breakfast creme brulee (or traditional for those requesting our delivered dessert)
fresh fruit, cheese, and rice crackers (for our romance packages)

We’re always coming up with fresh ideas to satisfy our ever-increasing gluten-free guests, and want them to always feel comfortable and safe during their experience at the Maine Stay Inn. Innkeepers, Judi and Walter, have been cooking gluten-free for the last ten years, because their daughter, Johanna, is gluten-free, so never fear, our staff is incredibly knowledgeable on how to keep gluten-free guests healthy and happy during their stay. Bon Appetite, gluten-free eaters!

Tags: Cuisine, gluten free bed and breakfasts, gluten free inn, gluten free vacation, gluten-free bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Inn, Kennebunkport inns
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February for Lovers in Kennebunkport

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

January 24th, 2010 welcomed the return of Kennebunkport’s Annual Wedding Show, ushering in a month dedicated to lovers in February. Intimate, romantic restaurants open for the winter to wine and dine couples on romantic getaways, and inns like the Maine Stay offer enticing packages for cozy retreats. Throughout the month (with the exception of February 12-14), the Maine Stay Inn is offering a two night, third night free special on all rooms, suites, and cottage suites, making February the perfect month to visit – especially for your wallet!

Consider one of our February for Lovers Packages, designed for your relaxation.

Romance Package: This winter cozy up with your special someone for a romantic weekend. Enjoy our luxurious accommodations and gourmet breakfast, as well as homemade dessert and a fruit and cheese plate delivered to your door OR choose fruit and cheese plate plus sparkling cider and flutes. Add $28 to your room rate (normally a $40 value).

Indulgence Package: Make this getaway one to remember! Pair our exceptional hospitality, elegant accommodations, and gourmet breakfast, with 60 minute companion massages, a gift set of Champagne body amenities to help bring the intimacy of your retreat back home, and homemade dessert delivered to your room. (Add $256 to your room rate, including massage therapist gratuity).
Create Your Own: Whether you require reservations at the finest restaurants, floral arrangements, or a private sleigh ride, we’re happy to arrange for anything to make your getaway absolutely perfect. The staff of the Maine Stay Inn is devoted to ensuring you have the best experience possible in Kennebunkport and wants to make your dreams reality.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Maine Stay for this incredible winter season and are excited to usher in a season of romance and intimacy in Kennebunkport!

Tags: Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfasts, Kennebunkport Inn, maine bed and breakfast, maine inn and spa, romantic weekend, Valentine's Day Maine, winter getaway maine, winter getaways
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