Ogunquit, Maine restaurants, bars and nightlife...

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Omelette Factory in Ogunquit Maine is Amazing!


Although I've lived in Ogunquit for over 22 years, I have never stepped foot into the Omelette Factory. It is now one of my new favorite breakfast spots.

The options are expansive, the food is great and the service is friendly, fast and simple. If you need something, they'll get it right away, if you don't, they won't bother you...just my style.

As we were leaving the chef, who is the only one in the kitchen cranking out delicious omelettes for the whole restaurant, sent us home with the days muffins. They were closing and she'd rather give them away than see them go to waste. A nice touch and definitely gave us a smile.

If you're looking for a fast, tasty and simple breakfast head to the Factory.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Fundraising Friday's at Clay Hill Farms

Clay Hill Farm has started a brand new community outreach program, teaming up with local groups in the community to help them raise money.

In the coming weeks and months, Clay Hill Farm will be hosting what they call "Fundraising Fridays". On these Fundraising Fridays groups trying to raise money will receive ten percent of the money earned at the restaurant that night. The given group will typically be booked for two consecutive Fridays.

The idea was started in January of this year. As owner Jennifer Lewis-McShera recalls, “the restaurant was always brainstorming new ideas to demonstrate the philosophy of Clay Hill Farm, which is really about the importance of giving back. Also with the current state of the economy it is even more important to give”.

Clay Hill is interested in reaching out to a wide range of organizations, with a particular interest in promoting local efforts and the environment. Some of the recent groups include the Youth Center of Hilton-Win Farm, the York Food Pantry, and several regional Land Trusts.

Diners on Friday nights are made aware of the weekly recipient, as the servers discuss the event and the organization with patrons when seated and printed materials from the featured organizations are placed wth the checks.

Article Source: http://www.greenalliance.biz

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Angelina's Restaurant in Ogunquit

Nestled in the small town of Ogunquit, Maine, is Angelina's Ristorante, a popular eatery that has struck a high note with locals and chefs alike. Two years running, top area chefs voted Angelina's the restaurant they most enjoyed eating at, and readers of the York County Coast Star named Angelina's their pick for "Best Italian" and "Most Romantic."

David Giarusso does double-duty as chef and owner, and it is his personal touch that drives the restaurant's success. "I do quality control on Mondays and Tuesdays, and host the other nights," he says. "I oversee every detail of the whole operation. The restaurant really reflects my vision and the details I care about."

Giarusso's vision was to "create fine dining at affordable prices," with an atmosphere that is "pretty and classy, but not stuffy." Guests are treated to linen-draped tables with flowers and a soft candlelit ambiance.

The menu offers thirty entrees and six nightly specials. If you go, plan to try their signature appetizer, the Cappesante Della Nonna, which is three large diver scallops, pan-seared with garlic, shallots, olive oil, basil, and tomatoes, and freshened with a touch of cream and white wine.

Eggplant Tower at Angelina's Ogunquit in Taste Magazine Along with grilled meats, Veal, Eggplant, and Chicken Parmesan are all done fresh and to order. The Rollatini di Pollo-a boneless breast of chicken stuffed with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella, and finished with roasted garlic and spinach cream sauce-is another customer favorite.

"Everyone raves about our risotto," Giarusso says. "We offer it seven different ways. It is al dente, yet creamy, and people say it's the best north of Boston." Tempting choices include seasonal vegetables; chicken and baby spinach; mixed seafood; shrimp and asparagus; chicken breast; portobello mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes; and chunks of fresh, Maine lobster.

Giarusso develops the specials himself, and he regularly sells out of the ten-ounce filet mignon. "We dry rub the steak with Italian herbs, then grill it; next, we take bow-tie pasta and sauté it with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and a little white wine. We then fan the filet mignon out on top of the pasta, and top the dish with buffalo mozzarella. The steak is finished in the oven, and the result is an unbelievable combination of flavors.

"My philosophy with food is simple," he continues. "I love to eat good food. If I wouldn't eat it, I won't fix it."

Torta Della Nonna at Angelina's in Taste Magazine Guests should save room for dessert. Tantalizing offerings include Tiramisu, an Amaretto Torte, and Grandmother's Cake. The Amaretto Torte is a yellow cake topped with Angelina's own amaretto, expertly mixed with homemade butter cream. Grandmother's Cake is an old-time Italian dessert, featuring pie crust filled with citrus custard, topped with shaved and toasted almonds.

Angelina's is located at 655 Main Street in Ogunquit. It is open seven nights a week year-round, with dinner served from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call (207) 251-1284 or visit www.angelinasogunquit.com.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Ogunquit Lobster Pound, Best Lobster in Maine

The Ogunquit Lobster Pound was established by the Hamilton and Varney families in 1931. The location was chosen for its proximity to the tidal, saltwater Ogunquit River and US Route One, the main access road to the state of Maine. They ran the Pound for the next 10 years, and then closed down for two years during World War II. In 1944 William Hancock, a captain in the Maine State Police, decided to surprise his wife Hazel with a little present --- the Ogunquit Lobster Pound Restaurant!!!Ogunquit Lobster Pound circa 1950He had always loved the location and thought it would be a wonderful business to run. Hazel was not excited! She had never run a restaurant before and had very little experience working in them. In July of 1945 in the middle of their second season, William died unexpectedly, leaving Hazel with the formidable task of running the Pound by herself. With the help of her three sisters, Mina, Fanny, and Romy, she ran a successful business for the next 22 years.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Arrows Restaurant Ogunquit, Maine

When you drive onto the grounds of Arrows, you immediately realize that the garden is an integral part of this elegant restaurant. Framed by apple orchards, abundant flower gardens and lawns, the vegetable garden covers just under an acre of land and produces virtually all of the specialty produce for the restaurant.

Started in 1992, the Arrows gardens provide a wide variety of produce for Arrows as well as for MC Perkins Cove. It has also served as a training location for Summer Winter's gardener, Ryan Fahey. Under the direction of master gardener, Rae Avery, the garden has garnered extensive national press. No visit to the restaurant is complete without a stroll through Arrows' magnificent gardens.

"From curing their own hams and fish to growing their own organic herbs and produce, chefs Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier are stalwart forerunners of the sustainable movement."
The Daily Green, February 2008

"(Arrows) helped pioneer the idea of growing your own food and paying attention to what's seasonal in a place that is unforgiving in it's climate"
Bon Appetit, September 2003

"Their one acre garden provides as much as 90% of the vegetables that they serve at their Arrows restaurant."
Time Magazine, June 2003

Monday, March 29, 2010

The Front Porch Restaurant Ogunquit Maine

It's not often that older gay women and young straight couples both find the same bar to be their favorite spot (or older straight couples and young gay men for that matter). But at the Front Porch a love for raunchy (mostly gay) humor and singing along to oldies and show tunes unites all walks of life. The $5 cover charge to see Khris Francis perform from 9pm to 10pm on weekend nights is a small price to pay to see some of the best XXX humor in New England. A warning to the weak hearted, anyone in first 5 or so rows is fair game to become part of the comedy routine. Tip well or live to regret it.

Ogunquit Tourism Information

Thursday, March 25, 2010

The Blue Water Inn Restaurants on the Ogunquit River


Review from Things to Do in Ogunquit. We here at “Best of Ogunquit” have been coming to this beautiful place by the sea for over twenty years. How is it possible we never made it to Blue Water Inn? In the height of summer, it’s easy to just keep walking down beach street to get your feet in that icy water, but this Columbus Day weekend, we were looking for a post-beach-walk place to get a cocktail that met certain very strict criteria: 1. outside seating with a gorgeous view; 2. great bar; 3. willing to accommodate our dog. We thought we’d just get drinks, but the appetizers looked so good, we just had to sample. The food was delicious. The server was attentive without being overbearing. The menu was basic, but well done. We’ll be back for a full meal next summer. They have a restaurant patio and an outside bar. We sat on a restaurant side, but the little bar was hopping with a very lively older (and what seemed like regular) crowd. They were so sweet to our puppy! We, of course, had to keep him outside, but they sat us so that he was basically with us. Did I mention the view? The salt marsh of the Ogunquit river in full fall color. I can’t imagine a better spot to spend the afternoon.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Bintliff's Restaurant Ogunquit, ME

First-time visit to Bintliff's Friday night was a wonderful dining experience! My server, Donna, was very warm, helpful and efficient, never doting but always there when you needed her. I love the way the staff works together - a great team that moves calmly about the dining room. The French Onion Soup was fabulous - real stock...yum! The Ribs were delicious, enough for 2 meals, and the accompaniments were pleasant. There are a lot of down east Maine classics on the menu, but it seems like each item is prepared with a unique touch. It seems to me that Bintliff's is a definitely a chef-driven restaurant.

My cocktail was well made, and the pinot noir suggestion from Donna went perfectly with the ribs. The dining room is rather formal, but most importantly, comfortable. Serveware and glassware spotless. Overall, one of the best value, high quality dining experiences in the area, with a team of real pros to serve you. I look forward to returning soon.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Amore Breakfast- Best Breakfast in Ogunquit, ME


Leanne Cusimano followed a dream and a vision and in 1994 started in business. As founder and creator of the former Cafe Amore, she now proudly brings you Amore Breakfast! The original location, just up the street, was on the property of Sea Chambers, on Shore Road. With a background in teaching, then retail furniture sales, and after having worked in area restaurants for 6 years, she wanted to create a place of her own where people could enjoy good food and feel at home. She has been influenced by her travels coast to coast and abroad. Leanne has always believed that “food is love”, due to her Italian upbringing, thus, “Amore”!

After 3 seasons in the original location, the Café moved to Perkins Cove, to expand & offer a full breakfast menu. It is this very menu that was created for the cafe and Leanne has perfected. Thet third move, to the former Brooks Farm, was in the late spring of 2001, and offerd more seating, more parking and more of the best breakfast found anywhere! Now in our premier location, we have two dining rooms, a large, sunny patio, and to compliment our unique menu, we are offering wines by the glass, Bloody Marys and Mimosas. You will find nothing but the freshest ingredients, and attention to detail that is associated with the Amore name! We welcome you to the family of satisfied customers in the 17th season of AMORE.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

MC Perkins Cove Ogunquit, ME

MC Perkins Cove offers spectacular ocean views with contemporary American food created by award winning chefs, Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier of Arrows Restaurant.

The upscale casual setting offers a raw bar, lounge, two bars, two beautiful dining rooms, and a private dining room all overlooking the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. MC offers lunch and dinner as well as a bar menu throughout the evening, a full bar and extensive wine list.


"THE PERFECT BURGER AND ALL ITS PARTS"

Over the last decade or so, there has hardly been a serious chef in America who hasn't taken a shot at reinventing or improving it. They have trained their skills on every element, from the precise grind of beef to the ketchup and pickles.

At MC Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine and Summer Winter in Burlington, Mass, Mr. Frasier pickles serrano chilies.


The New York Times, July, 2009

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Barnacle Billy's Ogunquit Maine

This place is perfect for a casual dinner with the family by the Sea...exactly as they wanted it to be. Of course the view can't be beat, but the owners and staff make it a fantastic experience. We've been going here for 7 years (once or twice a year) and we look forward to this place as much as we look forward to our Ogunquit experience.

It's always great to see Tim or Billy walking the floor and greeting customers, you don't see that much anymore. My kids are very young and they have already recognized Barnacle Billy's as a family tradition.

Tip....get the Rum Punch....whew!! Homemade and delicious!! My wife considers the fried scallops to be some of the best around.





LOBSTER, Boiled, Drawn Butter

Lobster weights listed are not exact but are as close as nature will allow.

1 - 1/4 lb. - 17.50 (Hard Shell)
1 - 1/2 lb. - 22.00 (Hard Shell)
1 - 3/4 lb. - 26.00 (Hard Shell)
Two - lb. - 31.00 (Hard Shell)

PRICE OF LARGER LOBSTERS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST


STEAMED CLAMS - Butter, Broth -18.95
LOBSTER ROLL, (Grilled) Pickles, Chips - 17.95
HOME MADE CLAM CHOWDER, Cup - 5.25, Bowl - 8.25
TUNA SALAD ROLL - 6.50
HAMBURGER - 3.95
CHEESEBURGER - 4.35
GRILLED HOT DOG -2.25
LOBSTER SALAD PLATE - 30.95
TUNA SALAD PLATE -11.95
GROUND BEEF PLATE - 9.95
BARBECUED CHICKEN PLATE - 15.95
LOBSTER SAUTE' - 30.95
CRAB ROLL - 8.55
CRAB PLATE - 14.95
LOBSTER STEW (Made fresh by Billy himself!), Cup -10.95, Bowl - 18.95
TOSSED SALAD - 4.95
SWEET NATIVE CORN (Fresh from Chase Farms-in August)


GARLIC BREAD - 3.50
ROLLS & BUTTER - 1.50
ICED TEA and ICED COFFEE - 2.75
PEPSI - 2.25
GINGER ALE - 2.25
ROOT BEER - 2.25
DIET-PEPSI - 2.25
SPRITE - 2.25
MOUNTAIN DEW - 2.25
TOMATO JUICE - 2.25
HOT CHOCOLATE -2.25
COFFEE -2.00
TEA - 2.00
BREWED DECAF - 2.00
MILK - 2.25
LEMONADE (Lemon & Mint) - 2.75
ORANGE - 2.25
FRAPPES - 4.50
ICE CREAM SODA - 3.75
DESSERTS FROM CASHIER

BARNACLE BILLY'S SPECIAL RUM PUNCH - 6.50

Jonathan's Restaurant Ogunquit, ME

At Jonathan’s Restaurant you will find a family friendly menu with fine dining options as well. It is their mission to provide our guests with innovative and deep-rooted cuisine while using sustainable foods whenever reasonably permitted. Their menu has items that have gone back up to thirty years…some of these items we will just never take off the menu! Jonathan's uses local products whenever possible…but you can guarantee that any Lamb Product on the menu has been farm raised at Jonathan’s Farm in South Berwick, Maine and many of the vegetables & fruit products too! Great Deserts! Try the Chocolate Mousse or their legendary creme brulee.

  • Serving Dinner Fridays & Saturdays from 5:00 p.m.
  • Serving Breakfast / Brunch on Saturdays & Sundays

  • Back in 1976, Jonathan West purchased what was then, his parent’s home and turned it into a restaurant! Over the years Jonathan has renovated, added-on dining rooms, a second floor, fish tank, etc. The business has grown from a small one dining room bar and restaurant to one of the largest restaurants in all of Maine.

    The West family has been in the hospitality industry in York County for over eighty years now. From hotels, bars, and restaurants the family still has a strong presence and continues to pass it on to the next generation.