World > U.S. > Maine > Kennebunkport & The Southern Beaches

White Barn Inn

<p>The centerpiece of Maine's top-rated inn—its famed white barn with wide-plank floors and soaring exposed beams—is where Brit expat executive chef Jonathan Cartwright weaves a culinary tapestry of Maine-inspired American and European dishes. His seasonal prix fixe–only menu reads like sensorial poetry: asparagus crème, smoked potato foam, steamed lobster with Cognac coral butter sauce. The rustic, romance-inducing dining room, dressed in fine white linen and silver, glows after dark in candlelight (the staff has witnessed countless marriage proposals), and thanks to Cartwright's exquisite creations, the restaurant has given new definition to destination dining. </p> <p><strong>Insider Tip:</strong> The Guest Chef Series features culinary talent from other Relais & Châteaux and Relais Gourmand properties around the world; check the inn's Web site to see what top toques are joining forces with Cartwright. </p> <p><em>Note: Jackets (but not ties) are required for men in the evening.</em></p>

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From Food & Wine , SEP 2009

Chef Jonathan Cartwright cooks modern American cuisine...MORE>>

– Heidi Julavits Where to Stay and Eat in Southern Maine

From Travel + Leisure , AUG 2006

And service is impeccably formal: our waiter said things like, 'I'll give you a moment to explore the menu,' then returned to ask, 'Are you tempted to...MORE>>

– Peter Jon Lindberg Maine Course

From Food & Wine , MAY 2003

The 1860s barn is rustic and dressy (jackets required) in equal measure. Chef Jonathan Cartwright's French menus, heavy on seafood (lobster on homemade fettuccine with Cognac butter)...MORE>>

– Kate Sekules America's 50 Best Hotel Restaurants 2003

Last updated September 2009