The Weekly Whisk - 11/15/22

Musings from a foodie…

The Benefits Of A Proper Diet – The New England Journal of Medicine recently reported on a study revealing – to no surprise from the medical types – that there are a lot of health benefits that accrue to those individuals who cut back on highly processed foods (e.g. foods with lots of sugar, salt, and additives…AND, more importantly, if you replace these foods with fruits, vegetables, seafood, whole grains, beans and nuts – life was better and longer. Specifically, those who consumed the more nutritious diets were 14% less likely to die of any cause compared to those who consumed the less nutritious diets. So, the adage – that I am reminded of every day by my constant companion – “six cups of fruits and vegetables a day” – holds true. By the way, the study included about 74,000 people who were followed for over two decades. Data doesn’t lie…

Now, Back To The Best Places For Eating – We had some visitors to Maine recently who were checking out college programs for their son in Maine up near Portland. We decided to meet them half-way in Kennebunkport at a place we’d not visited since before the pandemic – Ocean Restaurant [ * * * * * ]. It’s a delightful bistro that overlooks the Bush Compound at Cape Arundel. We ran into George H.W. and Barbara several times in the past when they stayed at the compound. Barbara was always focused on friends or family and George was always waving and saying “Hi” to all of the patrons. But, beyond the Bushes – the view is an extraordinary view of coastal Maine. In fact, arriving early is a must so that you can sit on the veranda, watch the ocean and take in the quiet peacefulness of the evolving Maine evening.

Regardless, we thought that after the long pandemic it was time to again check out how Chef Peter Rudolph is doing. The menu changes regularly and is offered as a “Tasting Menu” inclusive of three choices: “First”, “Main”; and, “Dessert”. On the night we visited, it started with a Baba Ghanoush and a side of Israeli couscous with light salsa. The Main was a dish of Scallop-Shrimp-Lobster seafood in a celery root puree and a dab of tomato sorbet. It was incredibly tasty. We then had a choice of dessert so we each went with something different. My dinner buddy had a Tropical Dream salad of various fruits with a cream dressing and I had the Milk chocolate with salted caramel – traditional but wonderful nonetheless. BTW – a little chocolate on the six cups of fruits and vegetables is allowed 😊…

Both the view and food make this one of the obligatory stops if you happen to be in Maine. Chef Peter is continuing the traditions and adapting to the new realities of dining out. I’m going to head there again for one of those special occasions and, you should too… Check it out: 208 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046 – 207-967-4015.