Lamie's Inn & The Old Salt Tavern: US's BEST Kept Secret? (You HAVE to See This!)
Lamie's Inn & The Old Salt Tavern: Is This REALLY the US's Best Kept Secret? (Spoiler Alert: Maybe!) - A Rambling Review for the Soul
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the beans (and maybe a little clam chowder) on Lamie's Inn & The Old Salt Tavern. They call it a "best kept secret," and honestly, after my recent trip – and after wading through EVERYTHING a review can possibly cover (dear lord, the list is exhaustive!), I can see why. It’s got that something. That elusive, slightly-off-kilter charm. But more on that later.
First, let's get the nitty-gritty outta the way. You know, the stuff travel websites are obsessed with: Accessibility and Safety.
Accessibility is a Mixed Bag, Honestly: While the site says they offer facilities for disabled guests, I didn't see a ton of detail. It’s crucial, if you need specific accessibility, to call them directly. I spotted an elevator, which is always a plus, and the website mentions facilities for disabled guests. But a full-blown assessment? Nah, gotta call them. CCTV in common areas and outside is reassuring. Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms? Check. They seem to be trying.
Safety is A+: This is where they shine. The hygiene certification is a big win in these crazy times. They're rocking anti-viral cleaning products, clearly trained staff on safety protocols, and boasting sterilizing equipment? Yes, please! They took physical distancing seriously – at least a meter, maybe more, and that’s huge in a world gone germ-crazy. They even offer room sanitization opt-out if you’re a germophobe (or are just feeling like you’d like to skip that). Honestly, the whole cashless payment service thing made me feel a little better about touching things. Hand sanitizer is everywhere, which is a lifesaver. And you can get stuff delivered to your room with room service [24-hour] and food delivery.
Cleanliness is Key: The fact they’re using professional-grade sanitizing services, with daily disinfection in common areas and rooms sanitized between stays… that's solid. They’ve removed shared stationery and are still using individually-wrapped food options (bless them).
Internet? Wi-Fi? We Need Answers!
Okay, so the "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" is a huge selling point. It's a necessity, right? I felt like I was tethered to the internet, using both the Internet – LAN and Internet – wireless and both of them are provided. They also offer Wi-Fi in public areas which is a nice option. I’m not a huge fan of being fully disconnected, so that’s great.
Accommodation: The Good, The Bad, and the Slightly-Bumpy Floors:
The Non-smoking rooms are a godsend – my lungs thank you, Lamie's! Okay, let’s list some things: Air conditioning (praise be!), Alarm clock (for those of us who still use them), Bathrobes, Coffee/tea maker (essential!), complimentary tea, desk, extra long bed (I'm tall so I appreciate this!), free bottled water, hair dryer, ironing facilities, minibar, non-smoking, satellite/cable channels, seating area, separate shower/bathtub, and Wi-Fi [free]. All good, right?
…But…
There's a certain character to the rooms. You know, not necessarily a bad character, but one that might include a slightly wonky floor tile or a reading lamp that's seen better days. But somehow, it works. This isn't a sterile, cookie-cutter hotel chain. It’s got history. And for me, that’s way more memorable than a perfectly-pristine, but ultimately forgettable, room. The soundproofing could be better – bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper, especially if booked on a high floor. Definitely use those blackout curtains! And honestly, it’s a bit of a crapshoot whether your window opens.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Old Salt's Treasure Chest
Now, this is where things get interesting, and where Lamie’s really shines. The Old Salt Tavern is more than a bar. It's an experience.
Alright, let’s dive in: A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, bar, breakfast [buffet], breakfast service, buffet in restaurant, coffee/tea in restaurant, desserts in restaurant, happy hour, international cuisine in restaurant, poolside bar, restaurants, room service [24-hour], salad in restaurant, snack bar, and vegetarian restaurant.
The breakfast [buffet] alone is worth the trip. And, yes, that is a definite MUST-DO. They have this incredible buffet and from the buffet, the coffee/tea in restaurant is great. They offer Asian cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant, which are interesting options.
The happy hour? Amazing. The poolside bar is perfect. The desserts in restaurant are chef's kiss. They also have a vegetarian restaurant. Alternative meal arrangement is a bonus. The vibe? Cozy, welcoming, and the kind of place where strangers end up chatting for hours.
Things to Do (Or, How to Relax and Unwind):
Alright, let’s see what we’ve got (and I’m not skipping a thing): Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor],
The swimming pool [outdoor] is lovely, especially with a view! Okay, they offer a fitness center, a gym/fitness, a sauna, a spa/sauna, and a steamroom, so I did NOT have a problem. I did NOT get a body scrub, body wrap, or a foot bath, but I could have. The massage option sounded good and really wanted to try it.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They’ve got you covered. Cash withdrawal, concierge, currency exchange, daily housekeeping, doorman, dry cleaning, elevator, gift/souvenir shop, ironing service, laundry service, luggage storage, safety deposit boxes, smoking area, and terrace. Plus, a car park [free of charge].
For the Kids (And the Young at Heart):
They’re family/child friendly and offer babysitting service and kids meal. Meeting/banquet facilities they have are perfect for indoor venue for special events and Seminars.
Quirks and Imperfections: The Real Secret Sauce:
Look, Lamie's Inn isn't perfect. It's not a super-slick, modern hotel. It’s got…character. Maybe a little rough around the edges. But that's part of its charm. It's authentic. It's like a favorite cozy sweater you’ve had for years. You know, the one with the slightly-worn elbows and a few stray threads, but it’s the most comfortable thing you own.
The Anecdote I'll Never Forget:
I was at the Old Salt Tavern, nursing a local craft beer (they have a great selection, by the way), and started chatting with a local. He told me he'd been coming to Lamie's since he was a kid. He said, "It's always been here. It's part of the town's soul." He wasn't wrong.
The Hard Truths:
- Don’t expect flawless perfection. Embrace the imperfections.
- Accessibility specifics? Definitely call and confirm.
- Book in advance. This "secret" is getting out!
The Verdict: Is Lamie's Inn a "Best Kept Secret"?
Absolutely. It's not perfect, but it's real. It's charming. It's an experience. It’s the kind of place you want to return to, again and again.
A Compelling Offer for the Soul: Book Your Escape – and Discover the Secret!
Tired of predictable hotels? Craving a getaway with character and charm? Then escape to Lamie's Inn & The Old Salt Tavern! Get ready to:
- Indulge in delicious cuisine from the Old Salt Tavern – especially their legendary breakfast buffet!
- Unwind in cozy
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get the real Lamies Inn & Old Salt Tavern experience. Forget those polished brochures, this is the unvarnished truth, warts and all. This itinerary? It's less "schedule," more "chaotic suggestion board." Let's do this:
Day 1: Arrival & the Case of the Phantom Lobster Bisque (and My Existential Dread)
Morning (Actually, Early Afternoon, Because Jet Lag): Arrive at Logan Airport. Okay, the good news: I made it! The bad news: the flight involved a screaming baby, a guy who kept mansplaining the cloud formations, and a near-miss with a rogue coffee cart. My soul is already weary. Uber to Lamies Inn. The drive? Picturesque, sure, charming New England… but the traffic felt personal. Like, Boston was deliberately trying to keep me from my clam chowder.
Afternoon (Post-Check-In, Post-Panic Attack at My Tiny Room): Okay, room is… cozy. Translation: small, with a view of what might be a parking lot. But the bed appears to have clean sheets, and that's a win, people. Head down to the Old Salt Tavern. I'm starving. I have a mission: conquer the Lobster Bisque. Picture this: I’m envisioning creamy, rich perfection, the kind of soup that makes you sigh and forget all your worldly worries. Instead, I get… a server who can't find her smile and a bisque that tastes suspiciously like a very distant relative of a lobster. I'm pretty sure I detected a hint of… tomato? My existential dread intensifies. Where did I go wrong? Why did I choose this soup? Did I offend a lobster god? This will haunt me forever. I retreat to my room, defeated and craving comfort food that does not involve crustacean ambiguity.
Evening (The Quest for Redemption): I’m not giving up on dinner. I'm starving. Back to Old Salt, but this time, I’m going for the fish and chips. And maybe a serious conversation with the bartender. I need a friend, preferably one who can validate that the bisque was, in fact, a culinary crime against humanity. Turns out the bartender, bless his soul, is a treasure! He listens patiently as I recount the bisque debacle, nods sympathetically, and mixes me a stiff drink. The fish and chips? Solid. A beacon of hope in a sea of slightly-off seafood.
Day 2: Portsmouth Charm (and My Ongoing Lobster Bisque Trauma)
Morning (Attempted Exploration): Portsmouth! Sounds lovely, right? Well, let’s just say my attempts at being a cultured tourist were met with… challenges. I tried to find the historic district. Got lost. Twice. Ended up staring at a particularly grumpy seagull for 20 minutes. He seemed to judge my choice of footwear. (Tired sneakers. Sue me.)
Afternoon (The Lobster Bisque Revisited… In My Mind): I'm trying to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a different restaurant in Portsmouth, but my lobster bisque experience keeps bubbling up like a bad memory. I swear, every time I see a bowl, every time I hear the word "bisque," my heart rate spikes. I'm starting to develop a complex. I may need therapy. Or, at the very least, a very strong Bloody Mary.
Evening (Embracing Messy): Back to Lamies Inn. Decide to ditch the pretenses and just embrace the chaos. Order room service (pulled pork sandwich, because I'm craving something… safe.) Watch terrible reality TV. Feel zero shame. This is the type of night that ends with a bag of chips devoured in the dark and a vague sense of… okay-ness.
Day 3: Diving Deep into New England (and Maybe, Just Maybe, Forgiving the Bisque)
Morning (Breaking Free!): I have to get out of my head. I'm driving along the coast. The ocean is majestic, the air is crisp, and for a few beautiful moments, I actually forget about the cursed soup! Find a little antique shop. Buy a ridiculously overpriced teapot (because why not?). Feel a flicker of joy.
Afternoon (A Moment of Grace): Stop at a tiny, hole-in-the-wall seafood shack. Order the clam chowder. It, miraculously, is amazing and I see a glimpse of light.
Evening (The End of the Line): Say goodbye to Lamies Inn. I leave with the experience of travel, a souvenir teapot, a newfound respect for the humble fish and chips, and a slightly traumatized relationship with lobster bisque. The trip was messy, imperfect, and utterly human. And that, my friends, is exactly the point. Until next time, New England. Don't wait up.
Lamie's Inn & The Old Salt Tavern: Is it *Really* the Best Kept Secret? (Spoiler: Probably!)
Q: Okay, spill it! What *is* Lamie's Inn and The Old Salt Tavern in the first place?
A: Alright, alright, fine! It's... *sigh*... it's a charming, historic inn and restaurant in Hampton, New Hampshire. Picturesque, right? Think creaky floorboards, roaring fireplaces, and the smell of… well, history. The Old Salt Tavern is their restaurant, and… *ahem*… it's legendary. That's the official blurb. The *unofficial* one? It's a place you'll probably fall in love with, unless you're allergic to charm. And if you *are* allergic to charm, well, maybe you should just stay home. Seriously.
Q: Is it really a secret? I feel like I've heard of it...
A: "Best kept secret" is used a lot, right? But, honestly, Lamie's REALLY feels like one. My first time, I stumbled upon it. Literally. Tripped on the cobblestones trying to take a picture! True story. I'd say its growing in popularity but not at the expense of its intimate character. You can definitely find it on Google Maps and the internet, but that doesn't diminish the fact that more people *should* know about it.
Q: What's the vibe like at the Old Salt Tavern? Is it stuffy? (I'm worried about feeling underdressed)
A: Stuffy? Absolutely not! You could probably get away with wearing pajamas (though I wouldn't recommend it). It’s cozy, it's warm, and just... *lived-in*. Think comfortable, not pretentious. Jeans and a nice sweater? Perfect. Feeling fancy? Go for it! I saw a couple there dressed to the nines, but no one batted an eye. It is a place where you can be yourself. Don't overthink it! The focus here is on the food and the experience. If you're worried about the dress code, you're missing the point of the whole thing.
Q: Okay, let's talk food. What should I order? (Please give me some pointers!)
A: Oh, the food! Where do I even begin? Okay, FIRST... the clam chowder. GET IT. Seriously. I went once and didn't order it. I regret it more than a breakup. Rich, creamy, perfect. The fresh fish is amazing, of course. And their Tavern Burger is just ridiculously good – don't argue, just order it. Look, I'm normally a salad person, but I'm telling you, ditch the diet for a night. Treat yourself! The menu does change seasonally, so check their website, but whatever the specials are, I'd be inclined to try them. Honestly, I am still haunted by those fries...
Q: The rooms? Are they as cool as the restaurant?
A: The Inn is... wonderful. Rooms are cozy and some have fireplaces! But, to be brutally honest, I have only been there for dinner. But I walked through the lobby and all of the rooms I could peek into through the doors, looked *charming*, old-fashioned, and lovely. I would definitely stay. I'd recommend booking early. It books up quickly. I'm already planning a weekend getaway there. This is not a 5-star luxury hotel. Think more 'historic charm with modern amenities'. Expect creaky floors and some quirks, but that's part of the appeal!
