Stonewall Kitchen hosted my visit. I was not compensated for my time.
Where do I get started? I have to say, this trip to York, Maine was one of the best blogging trips I have taken to date. What made it so special was the unforgettable hospitality from the Stonewall Kitchen crew (hi Margaux!). The most gracious, kind-hearted, passionate people (Maine does that to you). I have been coming to Maine every summer since I was born and it will forever be my #1 place to de-stress. How can you not be calm with these gorgeous views??
Stonewall Kitchen asked myself and a few other fun-loving ladies (miss you guys!) to come to York for a couple of days of learning what goes on behind the scenes at Stonewall's corporate headquarters. I have been a long-time fan of Stonewall and the company continues to amaze me. Firstly, the amount of hard work and passion they pour into this company is astonishing. They're literally doing everything and I respect that. Did you know the founder used to hand write the product labels? They actually made a font out of his handwriting (which they now use, but how cool).
If you're unfamiliar with Stonewall, they have become way more than delicious jam - Wild Maine Blueberry, you rock my socks. They are whopping out new product at record speed and no plans to slow down anytime soon. From delicious crackers, pancake mix, sriracha aioli and even hand soap, they are killing it!
We spent our first evening chatting and had a wonderful dinner at Stage Neck Inn. I got the halibut with crispy potato pancake and local, seasonal veg.
Our full-packed first day included touring the headquarters in York. We met with the R&D team, styling guru team and attended a cooking class held by chef Sanford D'amato. He cooked up some awesome Mexican dishes including a bomb sweet potato soup, steak and chocolate hazelnut tart for dessert.
We had a little break after our busy morning so Brittany and myself checked out the Wiggly Bridge and proceeded onto the cliff walk for some movement and spectacular views.
Early dinner with some of the girls at York Harbor Inn was all about lobster. I got the lobster cobb and it hit the spot. We then headed to the Wiggly Bridge Distillery to learn about their brewing process and sip on fabulous, locally sourced cocktails. I rarely drink these days but The Bees Knees cocktail was one of the best cocktails I've had in a while.
Stonewall set up a fabulous fire by the beach and it was magical. I don't know how they get their homemade marshmallows to taste SO good and soft but I'll leave that to the pros. We made s'mores cups (best idea) and I filled my jar with crushed graham, toasty mallow, dark chocolate and sea salt caramel sauce. Heaven in a jar.
Our final morning in York, we grabbed coffee and breakfast at the Stonewall Cafe (seriously the cutest). You might've seen on IG already, but this lobster egg sandwich was the best breakfast sandwich I have ever put in my mouth. I was all for being extra that weekend and when in Maine, you take advantage of the best lobster there is! A stroll through the farmers market and some York beach exploring made for the perfect morning. A couple of hours later, we took in the beautiful views surrounding Nubble Lighthouse and got ourselves more lobster. Lobster rolls and french fries, enough said.
This trip and Stonewall will always have a special place in my heart. Many thanks to the BEST and kindest hostess, Margaux, for showing us what York has to offer. I hope to come back soon!