Flo's Hot Dogs

It's a low slung, ramshackle stick in the mud that has been a legendary mecca with bikers, intellectuals, surfers, families, truckers, gourmets, travel writers and virtually everyone making a road trip through New England for half a century. It is the incomparable Flo's Steamed Hot Dogs stand in Cape Neddick, Maine. Bring your cash and appetite and don't expect a free wifi connection!


Pull in alongside the stand, right off US Route 1 North

A family owned and operated business, the famous stand turns fifty this year. If you decide to visit plan on ducking through the doorway if you are over six feet tall and be prepared to wait in line no matter when you arrive. This famous roadside stand has been written about, photographed and featured in virtually every major magazine in America.

Florence Stacy, well-known for her laconic style, quick wit and sharp tongue, bought the business in 1959 and operated it for 14 years. She eventually sold the business to her son and daughter-in-law, John and Gail Stacy, who have operated it ever since. The famous "hot sauce" relish is the claim to fame here, a secret family recipe since its inception.


Gail at work serving the dogs.

As you near the counter, Gail will ask a simple: "How many?" If you want to get a snicker from the crowd and be recognized as a neophyte then order just one. The standard order is three or four. As the steamed dogs are pulled out and plated you'll be asked: "What's on them?" If you want to be recognized as a true aficionado order yours "Flo's Way", that is smeared with mayonnaise and hot sauce.


Flo's hot dogs done "Flo's way,"

Just one visit and you will be hooked for life.

Flo's Hot Dogs
Route 1
Wells, Maine (Cape Neddick)
Flo's is still proud that they have no telephone number.
Hours: 11:00am - 3:00 pm daily. Closed all day Wednesdays.

A Silver Lining

Perkins Cove - Ogunquit, Maine

As a friend of mine once said: "There is only so much laying on the beach one can do." Sure, it's relaxing. After a couple of days, though, one may go looking for something, well ... a bit more adventurous.



Why not take to the sea for a morning or afternoon aboard Silverlining Cruises out of Perkins Cove? See the lobstermen at work, and maybe a few seals or a whale to boot. Feel the spray of surf and the wind in your hair as you experience the power of a jib full on whipping you through the water. This forty two foot sloop, built entirely of wood and bronze, is not only a true classic but also designed to race. It's a small, six passenger vessel, making your jaunt more like a private party than a tourist event. So, book in advance and skim across the wide open expanse in an area where few sailing vessels will ever cross your path.




Silverlining Sea Cruises
Perkins Cove
Ogunquit, Maine
Phone: 207.646.9800

Merriland Farm in Wells, Maine

The beautiful country setting of Merriland Farm in Wells, Maine.

When we are not roaming Europe from one Castle or Palace to another we are escaping the City of Boston on these humid Summer days for weekends away, sometimes our favorite travel. We usually head for Wells, Maine, the location of our seacoast/country getaway home. The setting invites relaxation beyond anything the demands of the urban, concrete world can accomplish. Like long,chatty, country breakfasts in bucolic settings. So we rose early and headed off to Merriland Farm.



These are the rolling green pastures you just don't see often in the City, with little, old wooden houses converted into restaurants or Inns. It is far enough off the beaten path to not be overcrowded with tourists and a real country retreat. The fact that it sits next to a golf course helps.









The interior is rustic and simple, roomy, with large wooden tables and the patio offers outside dining.



The poached egg and bacon were, quite simply, perfect. The runny yolk of the egg was just as we like it and the bacon crisp but chewy and warm.



We were really looking forward to this side of sweet potato lyonnaise. It was however, served less than warm. Otherwise it would have been ideal.



This raspberry crepe was served, according to our dining companion far less than warm. Great idea poorly executed.



The pancakes were light and fluffy and some of the best I've ever had. Unfortunately, the blueberries were anything but fresh and seemed, quite honestly, dumped on top from a can. Our suggestion would be to strain them and add them to the batter or boil them down for a perfectly sweet blueberry syrup that could be ladled across the cakes with a much better result.



The baked blueberry french toast was the hit of the breakfast. Baked bread in a maple custard stuffed with a rich cream cheese and topped with blueberry compote and whipped cream. It seems to be, or should be, the cafe's signature dish.

All in all, this is a picture perfect setting and some great ideas but the preparation needs far more attention. Hopefully when you visit they will get things a bit more right.

Merriland Farm Cafe
591 Coles Hill Road
Wells, ME 04090
Tel.: 207.646.5040

Restaurant Week Boston 2009

Just a quick note on RW Boston 2009. After years of dogged research and trying to get the best table for the best meals at the best prices the whole thing has come down to two restaurants for us. While most places serve pared down meals of flank steak these two remain the most luxurious finds. What happens here is that you order off the regular menu, i.e., no prixe fixe cheap specials added just for the occasion, but you pay the special Restaurant Week price for your meal. Save yourself the effort and hassle and focus on these two for a table and you will never be disappointed:

L'Espalier
774 Boylston Street
Boston, MA 02199
(617) 262-3023

Henrietta's Table
The Charles Hotel
One Bennett Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
617) 661-5005

It's as simple as that. As usual, click on the links for more information.

Theatre in Ogunquit

This week we'll be featuring good eats and things to do in the Wells/Ogunquit, Maine area. For those who think that the social events end once one steps of those powdery white sands of the beach we'll be helping you find all sorts of fun things to do, see and eat. About ninety minutes north of Boston, the area is an ideal mix of seacoast life and downeast country living and just happens to be the location of what we call our "country home". It is more than just a house, though. It is truly an oasis from the urban hustle and bustle ... and heat!


GUYS AND DOLLS at The Ogunquit Playhouse

One of the fine traditions here is live theater in the form of The Ogunquit Playhouse. Believe me, it was quite the treat as a kid spending Summers here to get to see the stars of some of your favorite TV shows touring in Summer Stock. It was also pretty much the sole "dress up" occasion during a season spent in board shorts and sandals. As touring Summer Stock theater troupes dwindle in this age of Youtube and the Ipod this theatre sells out just about every performance completely. So don your best Summer whites and show off that fresh tan and dazzling smile for the unique experience and night of old fashioned entertainment that only live theatre can give.

Staying in Castles and Palaces

Many people, for economic reasons, are dreaming of travel this season instead of actually doing it. We say: why not dream big? Here are some of the most luxurious Castles and Palaces in Europe where you can spend the night as a knight or even a member of royalty. We have been lucky enough to visit a few of these ourselves.


Palazzo Gritti

Commissioned in 1525 as the residence of the Doge of Venice, the swank Gritti Palace has hosted a long list of VIPs since, providing luxurious lodging for numerous heads of state, international royalty, literary bigwigs, and film and rock stars, including the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Greta Garbo, and Winston Churchill. While some claim the place has seen better days (it is, after all, nearly 500 years old), others argue there is no more celebrated and history-rich hotel in Venice. Whichever side you take, there’s no disputing the Gritti’s prime location: Overlooking the Grand Canal, this palazzo provides unrivaled views of animated, aquatic Venice – vistas best enjoyed from the restaurant terrace. The classy interior is also loaded with antique-filled lounges and over 82 guest rooms and suites adorned with ornate Venetian-style furnishings.


Château de la Bourdaisière

If the fairytale castle that played host to Fox’s hit 2003 reality show, Joe Millionaire, sets your heart aflutter, you can court and dine your significant other here for as little as €120 a night. Constructed in the 15th century for the royal mistress of King François I, the castle today is a popular honeymoon destination (for officially married couples), but single ladies shouldn’t despair, as the Bourdaisière is owned and operated by two brothers, who just happen to be the real-life princes of Broglie. Located less than an hour from Paris, and surrounded by 140 acres of enchanted woodlands, Château de la Bourdaisière lets guests live like royalty, with 11 luxurious rooms (and three apartments), outdoor heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and more. Plus, the surrounding Loire Valley offers plenty of treasures of its own, from first-class vineyards to hot-air ballooning.



Château de Castel Novel

Tucked away in a serene pocket of the French countryside, the elegant Château de Castel-Novel offers its guests not only refined accommodations, but an escape into off-the-beaten path France, where an exquisite combination of history, gastronomy, and nature converge. Located in the Limousin region of the country, this 14th-century property was originally designed as a fortified hilltop castle – still evident in its round towers and keep – but remodeling in the 19th centuries brought a soft Renaissance flair to the property; witness the sweeping balconies, terraces, and rose gardens. Its residents added their own dose of character, as well. Local legend tells of a star-crossed romance between a troubadour and the lady of the house, while, more recently, the famed French writer Colette found inspiration in its rooms and even penned several novels here (guests can opt to stay in the Louis XVI apartment that served as her chambers). Today, it is a Relais and Château property, with 27 personalized rooms and lavish suites open for public lodging.



The Xara Palace

A short distance away from the beachside resorts and the cruiseship bustle is the Xara Palace typical of the sedate elegance of a Maltese noble residence. Enter the main gate of the charming historical town of Mdina, and you'll spot the palace just ahead. Easily the most luxurious hotel on Malta, everywhere you look in the public rooms exquisite period pieces contribute to a gracious atmosphere. A gorgeous 18th-century wooden door, crafted by Italian sculptor Paulo Cellini, highlights one end of the lobby. An open-air atrium with a pair of 200-year-old olive trees makes an inviting place to relax. Each guestroom is completely different; some deluxe suites have private terraces, Jacuzzis, and wonderful views. Furnishings and fabrics in soft neutral tones are imported from France. All rooms feature selected antique pieces and original artwork. CD players supply a bit of musical ambience if you wish. Marble bathrooms are fully equipped with heated towel racks and amenities.


Mad Ludwig's Dream - Neuschwanstein Castle

Perched over one of the world's prettiest gorges, Neuschwanstein Castle is everyone's fantasy dream. It's the image you've seen everywhere that makes you want to start planning your trip to Germany. Why not rent that Porsche and hit the romantic road? Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most popular destinations in Europe, is located in the German State of Bavaria close to the Germany's border with Austria, not far from the popular ski resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The closest airport is Munich, 128km to the north east. Although the Castle is not a hotel, it does boast a new cafe where you can dine as you enjoy your visit. It may seem rather familiar to anyone who has visited Cinderella's Castle in Disneyworld. It served as the model.


Adare Manor, Ireland

And now a place we can speak of from personal experience. Rising from emerald green fields in County Limerick, Ireland, Adare Manor sits on 840acres of parkland, including formal French gardens laid out by P.C. Hardwick in the 1850s. The grounds surrounding Adare Manor encompass cultivated gardens, mature trees, ancient ruins, and the meandering Maigue River. Built in the Gothic Revival style, Adare Manor has towers, turrets, woodwork, stonework, 52 chimneys, and 365 leaded glass windows. At first glance, Adare Manor resembles a French chateau, but many of the details suggest famous Irish and English homes. Bill and Hil stayed here during his Presidency and Adare often serves as official residence for visiting Presidents.


TBF and Family at Adare Manor


Dromoland Castle

We have also been lucky enough to stay at Dromoland Castle, where we actually met Bono of U2 at breakfast. Dromoland, one of Ireland's finest castle hotels, offers guests the experience of living like landed gentry, surrounded by luxury, beauty and service. Dromoland is one of the few estates tracing its history to native Gaelic Irish families of royal heritage. Today, blending old world elegance with modern day comforts, the castle serves as one of the most desired destinations in Europe. Here, the vitality of the castle lifestyle endures. Dromoland Castle's commitment to providing the highest level of service is absolute. On entering this tranquil world, the worries of life recede under the gentle care of the accommodating and friendly staff. The castle, a magnificent Renaissance structure built in the 16th century, was once the royal seat of the O'Brien clan, direct descendants of Irish King Brian Boru. Refurbished and transformed into a luxury hotel in 1962, it retains priceless reminders of the castle's historic past. Splendid woodcarvings and stone statuary, hand-carved panelling, brilliant oil paintings, romantic gardens and fine antique furnishings surround guests during their stay.


TBF at Adare Manor (sorry about the Yankees cap Boston!)

So don't let this economy get you down and keep dreaming everybody.

Monsieur Brooks

A BIG Congratulations to our friend and fellow food blogger Aidan Brooks on accepting (finally) the position of Pastry Chef at Restaurente Ferrero in Valencia, Spain. With such a passion for food we are certain that his kitchen creations will shine!

In a related story Chef Brooks will also be providing the inspiration for the sassy, finger-waving (what's left of them) dessert wizard character "Monsieur Trig" in the upcoming animated Disney/Pixar film: LA MOUSTACHE. Plaudits to you Chef Brooks on all your accomplishments!!

Dinner With Foodies at Tavolo

It may not be the most elegant location in Boston but when this foodie is in search of new talent he is willing to go anywhere. As if my big birthday this week was not enough cause for celebration, dinner with friends was one notch up. Dinner with friends AND fellow food bloggers was amazing. I don't know what was better, the food or seeing everyone whip out their cameras and notebooks to chronicle it all. Add to this the fact that I was the only male blogger in a room full of rather gorgeous, articulate, talented women and it was absolute sensory overload. In fact, it has taken me days to organize my thoughts on this.

Pam from Cave Cibum was there and, of course, Tina from Carrots 'N Cake, both regulars on the food bloggers circuit of events. Andrea from Belly Glad and Ann from Sock In A Toaster made for the best seating I've had at a dinner event in quite a while. The conversation was just as enjoyable as every modern Italian morsel on our plates.



Just outside the Ashmont Station on the T red line, Tavolo is easy to find. I was immediately ushered into a room filled with the whimsical chalkboard style art of Kiki Ikura and mezza luna lighting. I was so happy to see Chris Lyons, who keeps us on top of all the local dining news, greet me. Before I even sat down a chilled glass of white wine (Inama Soave 2007) was poured for me.



Our first course was watermelon salad with feta, lemon and herbs. This is truly one of our seasonal favorites and the addition of bits of mint and basil made for a complexity that worked well. Although the salad was served at room temperature, I find it best served very well chilled on a warm Summer's night. In any case, the combination is a simple delicacy.



Our next course was the Gnoocchi alla Gricia served with pancetta, pecorino and locally sourced fava beans. The salty flavor was an excellent choice to follow the watermelon salad. The gnocchi was perfectly turned out, neither gummy nor heavy, as is often the case.



Swordfish Involtini. A perfect slice of swordfish with a fontina, garlic and parsley roll up, garnished with tomato and olive. The photo could never do anywhere near justice to the flavor.



Next was roast duck breast with organic faro, local beans and red currant. When I was growing up I had a vegetable garden with a friend at a co-op farm next to our Summer home in Maine. The bush beans we grew would literally be steamed within minutes of picking them and these reminded me of that. I had not had duck in quite a while and it made me want more of the crispy skin and rich, flavorful meat. Again, Chef Maxwell Thomas' choice was absolutely spot on.



The blueberry "Genetti" cake was, again, made with locally-sourced berries and whipped cream. A great dessert to end a great meal.

We were also served side accompaniments of meatballs and fried zucchini, which was so perfectly light and sweet I was determined to find out where it came from. After dinner we had the opportunity to chat with owner Chris Douglass and Chef Maxwell Thomas. Of course, I just had to ask about sources, as usual, and they were both quite proud to say the produce is from The Farm at Long Island. This venture not only supports the sheltered residents but also apparently provides one of the best sources of local produce in Boston, proving once again that locally sourced food is good food. Congratulations Tavolo.

Tavolo Ristorante
1918 Dorchester Avenue
Dorchester, MA
617.822.1918

London? Stodgy?

London welcomed Australian motocross champ Robbie Maddison this week to help him celebrate his birthday by ... what else, jumping across an open Tower Bridge to the delight of thousands.



We are never quite sure if it the stunt itself or the possibility of what could go horribly wrong that draws the masses to events like this but it proves, once again, that the Brits are anything but stodgy.


Aussie motocross stuntman, and some may say crazy person, Robbie Maddison on Tower Bridge, London.

The event was (quite obviously) sponsored by Red Bull, the drink that gives one more energy than anyone in their right mind would know what to do with.

Summer Drinks

Nothing refreshes on a warm day more than an ice cold drink.

Although I like to get out of town on weekends in the Summer it is completely relaxing to have friends over on Fridays for a drink and some tastes by the pool before we head out to dinner. I really enjoy these casual nights - no packing a bag, no Hampton toll traffic, just sit back and relax. Sometimes staying at home in the city is...well, a spontaneous oasis.

My staple drinks for these Friday night affairs are quite simple: drinkers get Compari and soda, non-drinkers get raspberry lime rickeys. Surprisingly (and accidental I swear) both of these drinks actually enliven the ability of the senses to heighten the taste of food. It seems these get the gastric juices and salivary glands in sync. Don't ask me how.


We have tried several types of flavored syrups but always return to Monin syrup as we find it to be the absolute best.


The simple and oh-so-refreshing raspberry lime rickey.


The raspberry lime rickey. Perfect with grilled, marinated steak tips and salad on those warm Summer nights.


The slightly bitter taste of compari, a digestif, and soda will literally awake the gastric juices, making you even hungrier for dinner.

Here is a recent email received from a reader of the blog:

Hi Will,

Just wanted to thank you for the fantastic recommendation. The food was delicious [note: Sel de la Terre, State Street]and the overall dining experience was really enjoyable....of course the outdoor seating on a day with perfect weather definitely helped. Overall we had a great meal and even made our way up the street to Modern Pastry for dessert.

Thanks again for the recommendation!

Best,
Chris

This is why we blog!

Monthly Roundup

Master Butcher Adam Tiberio.

It was great to see a photo of Adam Tiberio on the cover page of the New York Times Dining section last week. We recently had the pleasure of dining with Mr. Tiberio and his passion for his craft is infectious. It's nice to see a true foodie recognized for his talents. As we enjoyed dinner it was clear that he is going to be famous some day and I am sure when he hits New York later this year he will be an absolute darling of the foodie media. We predict you will be seeing lots of him in the media as a true expert on all things beef. You can read the full article here.

Here is a roundup of some leftover photos of recent eats.


Nothing like fresh tomato, mozzarella and basil sandwich on focaccia bread drizzled with Frantoia olive oil. This just might be our fave summer sandwich.


Grilled chicken with Herbs de Provence served over salad: another great carb free summer dinner.


I always save bits of my grilled salmon for breakfast the next morning.


Our fave Spring meal: stir fry chicken and veg. You gotta leave out the carbs to hit the beach!

Ogunquit, Maine really boasts some beautiful houses. We snapped these on a recent early morning stroll around town.


Another beautiful home on Shore Road in Ogunquit, Maine.


The Dunelawn estate has been a landmark in Ogunquit for many years.