At the Maine Stay Inn, an allergy-friendly Kennebunkport bed and breakfast, I often greet guests plagued by Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance. Because I am also gluten-free, it is easy for me to guide them on area restaurants, menu options, and, of course, breakfast at the inn. But the question that stumps me most often is “Where can I get gluten free chowder?” Until recently, I could only shrug my shoulders. But it exists!
Off the beaten path in downtown Kennebunk, you will find the Kennebunk Inn, an unassuming building on Route 1. At Academe, the restaurant, you will find casual decor with comfortable ambiance. We find ourselves seated at the bar most often – with one television and bartenders chatting up regulars – in an attempt for expedited food and excellent company. If you’re looking to get the scoop from locals, the bar is the place to be! Nevertheless, on a recent visit, I asked if they had any special soup. They did – haddock chowder (I know, still not New England clam, but still good) – and, certain I would know the answer, asked if they would find out if it was gluten-free. It is! I was flabbergasted.
And, boy, was it good! It may be slightly thinner than old fashioned clam chowder, it is excellent, even by non GF standards. The potatoes are perfectly tender and not crumbling to bits, with large pieces of haddock submerged in an opaque (and perfectly safe!), creamy broth.
After campaigning for its place on their permanent menu, I was told that they offer haddock chowder 70% of the time. So before trekking into Kennebunk, call ahead to find out for certain that gluten free chowder is on the menu. Or better yet, have one of us at your Kennebunkport bed and breakfast inn check for you!
So gluten-free eaters look no further for a safe and oh-so-delectable chowder that won’t disappoint – even without the clams!
