#108: The White Barn Inn (Page 641; Listed as The Kennebunks in the 2nd Ed, pg 801)

July 10, 2011: The White Barn Inn, located within walking distance of the beach, is an unassuming hotel from the outside.

Here it is

The pool is very nice, surrounded by stone. There is a cabana in the corner and plenty of lounge chairs.

But the real treat of the White Barn Inn is their restaurant. You have two choices. You can order from this menu at $98 per person...

or this one at $140 per person. And this price does not include your beverage, tax or gratuity. The menu changes weekly and is prepared by the renowned Chef, Jonathan Cartwright.

Verdict: I am not a foodie, so this is not something I think you need to do before you die. While I truly appreciate the talent of a Chef that is able to create such dishes as "Pan Roast Lola Duck Breast on Sunchoke Puree with Roasted Red Pepper Coulis, Grilled Apricots and a Cardamom Infused Sauce," it just almost seems immoral to me for one person to spend that much money on one meal. Having said that, the staff was very friendly and if you ARE a foodie, then this is the place for you! So, while I don't personally think the White Barn Inn is something you HAVE to experience before you die, I do think that Kennebunkport is! What a delightful town! A fun little downtown area, friendly people and GORGEOUS waterfront homes (including the home of George and Barbara Bush). I loved Kennebunkport and would absolutely go back!

Note:  In the 2nd Ed, this is listed as "The Kennebunks" and this is just listed as an option of one of the places to eat while there.  This is as it should be.  Good move, Patricia!  You don't need to eat at the White Barn Inn before you die, but you really should visit Kennebunkport.  It's been 7.5 years since I've been there and I still so vividly remember the church, the Bush compound, the outdoor restaurants, the charming neighborhoods.  I absolutely loved it!