Our Favorites

Tucked away yet close to everything, 5 Durrells puts you just minutes from the best of the southern Maine Coast.

Where to Eat & Drink:


Kennebunk & Kennbunkport

Earth at Hidden Pond
Hands down the best meal you'll have in the area. The three- or four-course menu never disappoints. It's perfect for a special occasion, but truly wonderful for any night out.

Wandby Landing
For a cozy night out, we love both the atmosphere and the food. Crackling fireplaces make it especially perfect on fall and winter evenings. Go with a group so you can share lots of dishes.

Chez Rosa
The steak frites is incredible, and having lived in Paris for five years, we like to think we know a good one. The cheese fondue, seasonal salads, and cocktails are all spot-on, too.

Boathouse
Our go-to for oysters, appetizers, and a drink. The outdoor deck is lovely, and if you time it right, you'll catch the most breathtaking cotton-candy sunsets.

Batson River
Our favorite place for happy hour. Great drinks, delicious bites, beautiful views, and plenty of outdoor seating.

Port Fish & Chop House
In our opinion, the area's best-kept secret. The sunset views are out of this world. We love sunset cocktails on the lawn or dinner with a view all around.

The Lost Fire
This Argentinian steakhouse is well worth the short drive out of town. In summer, Luca, the outdoor patio out back, is the place to be. The rest of the year, the dining room is warm, cozy, and perfect for groups.

Mabel's
Our favorite lobster roll in town. We usually order for pickup and enjoy it back at the house. They also have a great kids' menu.

The Landing Store
Just a two-minute walk from the house, and we adore it. It's a true old-fashioned deli where they'll make just about anything you want, with endless breakfast and lunch options. The muffins are a must, and they serve our second-favorite lobster roll in the Kennebunks.

Dock Square Coffee
The best coffee in the area.

Coveside Market
Our secret coffee spot when Dock Square gets busy, plus a charming little market to browse.

Bev's Café
A great stop in the "other" Kennebunk for coffee, pastries, and lunch.

Bennett's
Open only in summer, but trust us: the ultimate summer day starts with sandwiches from Bennett's and ends at Parsons Beach.

Big Daddy's
The best ice cream in town. No debate.

In Portland, Maine

Fore Street
Our absolute favorite. This James Beard Award–winning restaurant has been a Portland institution for decades. Reservations are hard to come by, but they save room for walk-ins if you arrive early. If you make it to Portland (and we highly recommend you do), this is a must.

Scales
From the same team as Fore Street, with a focus on seafood. The beautiful waterfront setting makes for a truly dreamy evening.

Twelve
Order the five-course prix fixe. It's incredible, and perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

Central Provisions
The best lunch and brunch in town. Get the cornbread. We still dream about it.

Smalls
The cutest off-the-beaten-path coffee spot.

Our Favorite Lobster Roll, Ever

Footbridge Lobster, Ogunquit
A little pickup shack in Perkins Cove, and yes, it's that good, worth every minute of the drive. While you're there, take the Marginal Way, a stunning cliffside path along the ocean, into town. It's our go-to outing with guests, and it's especially lovely outside the busy summer months.

Things to Do:


Paddle or Kayak to Town
You can take the river all the way into town! Aquaholics will drop off paddleboards or kayaks at the little bridge near the house and pick them up in town, so you can simply ride the tide out.

Cliff Jumping
We bring everyone here. It's stunning and so much fun. Park at [location] and walk about 5 to 10 minutes to reach the spot on the river.

Surfing
Aquaholics offers daily surf lessons and board rentals, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned surfer.