24 hours in Ogunquit...MC Perkins Cove review (long)

My wife and I left the kids behind for a very quick trip to Ogunquit. Only stayed there for 24 hours but it was worth it, as we were able to go to a couple of places we normally would not have the chance to try.

After seeing all the debate about MC Perkins Cove, we were anxiously awaiting our experience there. We arrived at 1:50pm and were one of the last seatings for brunch. Our wait at the bar was a bit more frustrating than it should have been, as the bartender looked a bit harried and was slow in taking our order and getting our drinks. But I must say the Bloody Marys are excellent...

Our table was located a few feet from the sweeping view of Oarweed Cove. It was absolutely majestic and breathtaking, and we lucked out to have a crystal clear day. The decor was bright, with wood beams overhead and nice, oversized tables. The water glasses are very modern-chic, and were a nice, interesting touch.

To start we split a dozen oysters, and they were fantastic. Neither the cocktail sauce nor the mignonette sauce overwhelmed the oysters, which were very fresh. $31 sounds expensive, but it comes out to about $2.60 per oyster which is not too bad.

We had to ask for bread, and were glad we did...the cornbread they serve there was the best I've ever had, and it took some self-control not to order another basket!

My wife ordered the Cheeseburger, and I had the lobster roll. The burger was cooked to perfection, and was quite flavorful and juicy. The bacon they served with it was maple-flavored and complemented the burger very nicely. One note, my wife asked for sauteed onions and was informed they only come raw, which struck me as odd.

My lobster roll was delicious...the lobster meat was plentiful and chilled, spilling over the perfectly toasted and slightly buttered bun. It was a great lobster roll, and at $16.50 was an absolute bargain when compared to the inferior $20 rolls I pay for home in Fairfield County.

The fries were great too...seasoned with sea salt, they were among the best I've ever had.

We looked around at what others were having...we wished we had room for the clam chowder. The abelskivers looked good...these are Danish dumplings...as did the French Toast. Most everyone else around us were eating burgers.

Overall, it was a good experience. Since it was the off-season, we lucked out with getting seated in a timely manner, and did not experience a crowded bar. I can picture it being a bit claustrophobic and frustrating in the summer. The service was a little uneven, but it was a Sunday brunch on a holiday weekend so perhaps they were a bit unprepared for the "mini-rush". We look forward to returning in the summer...WITH a reservation!

Five-O Shore Road review coming soon.