Let Them Eat Lobster

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. December 22, 2008

CAPE ELIZABETH, ME, December 20, 2008 - Inn by the Sea on the coast of Maine has added even more enticing lobster choices to their regionally inspired menu in support of the state's illustrious, yet struggling, lobster industry. It turns out what is good for their guests is also good for the local economy. And lobster prices are at an all time low due to the global economy.

Maine lobster accounts for 80 percent of the total US catch, but with a drop off in demand from diners who perceive lobster to be an expensive entr'ee choice, Maine lobstermen, and the local economy, are having a tough time staying afloat.

"We want guests to know there is an amazing alternative to poultry!" stated Mitchell Kaldrovich, executive chef at the inn's ocean view restaurant, Sea Glass. "Lobster is part of the quintessential Maine culinary experience and should not be reserved just for special occasions. It is a delectable staple and completely delicious at all times of the day."

Kaldrovich has added lobster benedicts to his breakfast menu, and lobster salad has joined the traditional creamy Bisque with Tarragon and Cr`eme Fraiche at lunch. The dinner menu in the ocean view Sea Glass offers Gulf of Maine Seafood and Lobster Paella with Saffron Rice and Cured Chorizo, as well as Fresh Local Grilled Lobster with Whipped Maine Potatoes and Wilted Greens with a demitasse of Lobster Bisque.

And just in time for the holidays.....? While Lobster may not be what most people consider conventional holiday fare, according to historical archives left by Plymouth colonial Edward Winston, Lobster is really in keeping with tradition. His menu notes on the harvest feast at Plymouth in 1621 included not only the expected fowl and berries but also fish, clams and yes- Maine's signature seafood- lobster!

Supporting local fisherman falls in line with the inns sustainable business model. Inn by the Sea was one of the first properties to be certified as a Green Lodging by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. And the industry Is in need of support - While chain restaurants cut back on orders, the global financial crisis also created a credit crunch for lobster processors who are no longer buying up to 50% of Maine's 400,000 pound daily haul.

"We are more than happy to include more lobster on the menu to support lobstermen, and our guests are delighted," said Sara Masterson General Manager at the inn. "Lobster is so much a part of the Maine experience- I can't imagine the state without this industry."

About Inn by the Sea:

Inn by the Sea, Maine's premier eco luxury beach destination, is located on a mile of unspoiled beach in the charming coastal town of Cape Elizabeth, just minutes from Portland's vibrant Old Port. Completely renovated in the winter of 2008 the 57 comfortably appointed rooms and suites, fireplace bar, new spa, and five acres of redesigned indigenous seaside gardens create an atmosphere of true luxury that is distinctly Maine. www.innbythesea.com