Rick's Restaurant Reviews - Part 2

Hurricane Restaurant, Dock Square, Kennebunkport

All shopped out? Time for a break? You're in luck — right in the middle of Dock Square, Hurricane Restaurant serves innovative and delicious American cuisine with a magnificent view overlooking the tranquil Kennebunk River. It's open for lunch and dinner year round, except for a short hiatus in January. And it's just a short walk back to the Mansion.

As a young man, co-owner Brooks MacDonald discovered his passion for food while working in this very same kitchen, when it was the old Riverview Restaurant. Now he and wife Luanne have created a casual-chic spot hat is popular with visitors and locals alike.

Come on in, have a seat, order a glass from their extensive and award-winning wine list, and prepare for a culinary adventure —

For Starters —
How about a Five Onion Soup with flaky Bruyere cheese crust. Or crispy Maine Crab Cakes and Coconut Shrimp with wasabi coleslaw. Prince Edward Island Mussels are flown in fresh and seamed in white wine and garlic. And of course, there's always their house specialty, Maine Lobster Chowder.

Not Your Ordinary Lunch —
Choose Maine Crab-meat and Havarti Cheese on grilled sourdough bread, a grilled Yellow-fin Tuna Burger, or the biggest, best Maine Lobster Roll you'll find anywhere around!

Dinner With a Delicious Difference —
For seafood lovers, try the Seafood Stew, bursting with Maine lobster, shrimp, scallops and mussels. Meat-and-potato types will love the grilled Beef Tenderloin with garlic mashed potatoes and buttermilk onion rings. Vegetarians aren't left out, either. The Wild Mushroom Ravioli in a vodka tomato sauce is heavenly!

End on a Sweet Note —
So much to choose from, but here are two stars: the Chocolate Hurricane — chocolate mousse with Godiva Creme Anglais, and a Blueberry-White Chocolate Bread Pudding, made with our delicious, tiny Maine wild blueberries.

If you want to stick to the tried-and-true, of course you can always get a magnificent, half-pound Bar Burger or a crispy-fresh Caesar Salad. Drop in for lunch from 11:30AM on, or let the Captain Lord Mansion make you a reservation for dinner.

Gosh, all this talk about food reminds me that it's lunchtime. I think I'll get Bev and head on down to Hurricane. I need a lobster roll "fix"!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

What is "Paint the Port"?

Save the date – June 22, 2008! Over 55 well-known artists from Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire will gather in Kennebunkport for the fourth annual “Paint the Port” fresh paint day and art auction presented by Heartwood College of Art and the Kennebunkport Historical Society on Sunday, June 22, 2008.  The public is welcome to watch as participating artists paint at scenic locations throughout Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise.  The paintings will then be auctioned off live that evening, following a cocktail reception with delectable hors d’oeuvres, at the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport.  Proceeds will benefit both the Kennebunkport Historical Society and Heartwood College of Art.  Local artist Dennis Rafferty is shown creating one of his beautiful paintings during last year's event.

Paint the Port" has become a much anticipated fresh paint event in southern Maine and presents "locals" and visitors to our area with an opportunity to watch well-known artists at work on location and purchase quality artwork depicting local Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise scenes.  The event is reasonably priced ($15/ticket) and includes a fabulous cocktail reception at the Nonantum Resort.  All proceeds (after the artists' percentage) benefit both the Kennebunkport Historical Society and Heartwood College of Art.

Bev and I are proud of the area's well-deserved reputation as an extremely active art colony.  If you are in Kennebunkport for this event, please stop by the Captain Lord Mansion to say hello!.  Your innkeeper, Rick Litchfield

Rick's Restaurant Raves

Sensational Dining Experiences: Part 1

On The Marsh

"One of the very best restaurant experiences I've had in years!" one of our recent guests enthusiastically exclaimed. And we couldn't agree more. The food, the service, and the ambience are superb in this chic, year-round gem.

Housed in an 1800s converted farmhouse and barn on 3 1/2 acres of gorgeous plantings and a tidal salt marsh, it's located about a mile south of dock Square on Rte. 7 — just minutes from the Captain Lord Mansion.

Step inside, and you're immediately made to feel at home. Owner Denise Rubin has brought her interior design expertise to creating "a feast for the eyes as well as the palate." Tables on two floors are draped in white cloths over floor-length cloths in "raspberry sorbet" — her favorite color. The padded chairs are incredibly comfortable. And all the artwork and most of the antiques are available for purchase. But the food — ah, the food!

Enjoy 3 Fabulous Dining Options:

1 The Dining Room. Enjoy exquisite dining on two floors. You might start off with crunchy tiger shrimp and
leeks, or tasty lobster ravioli. Main courses can include such succulent delights as grilled swordfish with
fennel and orange relish, roasted breast of duck, or seared scallops in orange sauce with lobster garnish.
End this delicious repast with a smooth creme brulee or dark chocolate pate.

2 The Adventuresome. This is your chance to see what goes on "behind the scenes." Two or four people can dine right in the kitchen, and see how each dish is lovingly created. Plan to dress down for this!

3 The Owner's Table. You'll be really pampered, as you sample Executive Chef Jeff Savage's exclusive "Tasting Menu" — eight small entrees, paired with appropriate wines.

Or, you could just relax with friends and a favorite beverage at the comfortable bar.

Bev and I love sending guests to On The Marsh. We know the experience that lies ahead. But even more, we love the look on their faces and the stories they tell when they return. Let us make a reservation for you on your next visit — you'll have an evening you'll talk about for a very long time!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

What Are Some Romantic Activities In Kennebunkport For You and Your Partner?

3 Places for Quiet Picnicing Along the Water

Just imagine strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one, finding a peaceful spot, spreading a blanket, and sharing a delicious picnic together in the fresh air. If this is your idea of "romantic," let the Captain Lord Mansion help!

Let us know the day before, and we'll prepare a gourmet basket of luscious goodies, including fine products made right here in Maine. Then, whether you drive, bike or walk, you can set out on a private and special occasion for just the two of you.

Here are three places very close to the Mansion that can provide the setting for creating romantic memories you'll look back on fondly for years to come:

Silas Perkins Park
At the foot of the Village Green, just across Ocean Avenue from the Mansion, this small gem of a park borders the Arundel River. It's a great place to watch the boats going to and from the ocean which is just a short distance away. There are benches to use, or spread a blanket on the lawn.

Across from the Colony Hotel
About a mile out Ocean Avenue, a charming little mini-park sits overlooking the spot where the river meets the ocean. Great water views make this a very special spot to relax and linger over your alfresco meal!

The Franciscan Monastery
On Beach Street, a short walk from Dock Square, is the Franciscan Monastery — 60 acres of secluded, wooded land near the mouth of the Arundel River. The serenity of the Monastery provides you an exceptionally peaceful retreat from the bustle of downtown Kennebunkport.

Every once in a while (tho' not often enough!), Bev and I will leave the Mansion in very capable hands, grab a picnic lunch, and head out for some quiet time together. It's extremely therapeutic, relaxing, and yes — romantic. Try it!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

5 Ways to Enjoy a Rainy Day in Kennebunkport!

Rainy Day Fun in the Kennebunks:

Yes, it DOES occasionally rain in Southern Maine. But don't let a few showers dampen your vacation fun. There's plenty to do when the sun's too shy to shine. Here are five places that will entertain, educate, and generally help you enjoy the day, whatever Mother Nature has in mind.

1. The Seashore Trolley Museum, just a few minuted from downtown Kennebunkport, offers an exciting and unique experience as you ride beautifully restored, antique trolley cars from around the world, on tracks that take you back in time. Founded in 1939 with just one car, its collection now includes more than 250 fascinating vehicles. Most cars are completely enclosed, letting you enjoy the ride while keeping the sprinkles out.

2. The Brick Store Museum in the center of Kennebunk is a real treasure, preserving the rich heritage of this part of the coast of Southern Maine. The original brick structure was built in 1825, by William Lord (of Capt. Lord Mansion fame). The Museum began on the second floor in 1938 and has expanded several times since then. Bev and I particularly enjoy finding unique and "just perfect" gifts in the Museum Store.

3. The Kennebunkport Historical Society is headquartered in the magnificent 1853 Greek Revival Nott House, complete with original furnishings, in a lovely Victorian garden setting. It is open June 3 through October 6, providing an authentic glimpse of life in Kennebunkport in the mid-1800s.

4. The Lighthouse Depot on Rte. 1 in nearby Wells is a mecca for all lighthouse enthusiasts! Its extensive offerings include everything "lighthouse" — from books, CDs, paintings, and miniature reproductions, to the more whimsical snowglobes, suncatchers, even lighthouse boxer shorts! A fabulous place to spend a few thoroughly enjoyable shopping hours.

5. Prefer to just kick back and relax until the clouds roll by? Why not get comfy in the Captain Lord Mansion's warm and welcoming Gathering Room? Grab a cup of coffee or tea (always available) and bring a good book, or go downstairs and test your skills at the inn's challenging jigsaw puzzle. And if either Bev or I are around, we'd love to stop by for a chat!

Before you know it, the sun's out — and so are you!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

Antiquing In and Around the Kennebunks

Where Can You Find the Best Antiques at a 10% Saving?

If antiquing is your idea of a great way to spend a balmy Spring day, then our special "April Is For Antique Lovers" promotion is perfect for you! Bev and I have personally selected the best antique dealers in this area to participate, and they are offering our guests a 10% discount from their listed prices, providing you pay by cash or check (the cost of processing credit cards is so high!).

We have tried to offer you a wide selection — from group shops, collectable dealers and fine period dealers, to one of the largest antique dealerships in New England. You'll find furniture, lighting, glass, china, paintings, toys, tools, and so much more. Whether you're interested in country Colonial, fine French, Victorian, or other periods, you're sure to find plenty to interest you in these establishments.

All of these dealers are either right on Rte. 1, or just off the highway in one of the nearby towns. And all are within a 1/2 - 3/4 hour drive from the Mansion, making this a perfect way to spend a leisurely day. Don't forget to complete the experience by stopping along the way to enjoy a genuine Maine lobster roll and perhaps a glass of one of our delicious, locally-brewed Maine beers.

Over the years, as Bev and I have continually upgraded and redecorated the Mansion's rooms, we have relied on several of these dealers to supply us with many of the handsome antiques you find in your room, and throughout the inn. The photo you see here is Excelsior, just one of our beautifully-appointed rooms. Call for our special April antiquing rates, and — happy hunting!

Rick Litchfield, Your Innkeeper

What is Your Lobster IQ?

Everything you ever wanted to know about lobster! (Or almost everything!)

Today, many people consider lobster a delicacy.  In fact, you have to pay dearly for a really good lobster feast.  However, lobsters were once so plentiful that Native Americans used them as fertilizer and fish bait!  Also, in Colonial times they were considered poverty food and served to children and indentured servants.  Stories have been told that children who brought lobster sandwiches to school were considered the poor kids.

Lobsters are not fish, nor mammal, but rather they are arthropods, closely related to insects! Lobsters, like insects, belong to the invertebrate family.  These two-clawed marine creatures have one claw that  is called the pincer and the other is called the crusher.  An interesting fact about claws: lobsters, like humans, can be right or left handed, depending on whether its crusher claw is on the right or left side of its body. Most live lobsters are greenish.  Lobsters are not red until cooked. All pigment that make up a lobster shell are destroyed by the heat when cooked, except the red.   

Lobster is healthy for you.  it contains iron, zinc, calcium and iodine, as well as vitamins A, B and B6.  It has no saturated fat and is low in cholesterol and calories.  Now that you know lobsters are good for you, call the Captain Lord Mansion to make an early spring reservation and plan a lobster feast vacation!  With winter over and lobster prices coming down, Bev and I are looking forward to sampling some of this delicacy real soon!  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper

The ABCs of A Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport!

Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport offers you activities to entertain, educate and expand your horizons!

Activities include Art Galleries, Beaches, Bicycling, Canoeing, Carriage Rides, Day Trips, Fishing, Food, Golf, History, Kyaking, Lighthouses, Lobsters, Museums, Sailing, Shopping, Spas, Summer White House (Bush 41), Theater and Whale Watches.

Bev and I enjoy summer in Maine and especially Kennebunkport because there is so much to do.  There is hardly time to fit it all in!  Call the Captain Lord Mansion today to discuss your vacation plans and how we may assist you in planning the perfect vacation.  Your innkeeper, Rick Litchfield.

Three Reasons to Take A Southern Maine Coast Lighthouse Tour!

The Captain Lord Mansion of Kennebunkport, which is located on the southern coast of Maine has several itineraries to assist you with a self-guided tour of lighthouses located from Nubble Light  in York to Portland Head Light in Portland.  The first reason is that these historical buildings are situated along the coast only a short drive from our B&B.  Second, they offer you a great opportunity to tour the picturesque rocky southern coast of Maine for terrific sight-seeing and picture-taking.  Pictured here is the famous Nubble light located in York, ME.  Third, we offer a picnic lunch package to accompany your tour.  Bev and I enjoy visiting these lighthouses and their adjacent parks ourselves.  Last fall we had  delightful day exploring Fort Williams Park where Portland Head light is located.  There were many families enjoying picnicking, relaxing, and flying kites in the brisk breezes flowing off Casco Bay.  When you come to Maine, we encourage you to avail yourself of one of these tours.  Rick Litchfield, your innkeeper.

Art Guild of the Kennebunks "Salute to Summer" Art Show

Kennebunkport Art Show This Weekend!

The Art Guild of The Kennebunks represents over 75 artists.  It was founded in 1980 by a local group of artists led by Ron Goyette to foster camaraderie, mutual support and professional stimulation.  In 1981 Barbara Bush cut the ribbon at the opening of the first annual summer membership exhibit held at the Chapel Gallery on Route 35.  Each summer since then, the AGK has held exhibitions at various locations in Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.  The 2007 Art Guild of the Kennebunks summer exhibit opens tonight, Friday, August 10 at The Community House which is locate on Temple Street, across from the Kennebunkport Post Office.  The show will run Friday, 2-7pm, Saturday, 10-7pm and Sunday, Noon-4pm.  The public is invited and admission is free.

Bev and I enjoy visiting these shows to see the wonderful variety of pictures and terrific group of talented artists that reside in this area.  Also, we have our personal collection of paintings from some of the artists on display at the Captain Lord Mansion. I look forward to seeing you at the show!  Your innkeeper, Rick Litchfield