About

For over four decades, The Front Porch has stood as a world-renowned entertainment hub and award-winning restaurant in the heart of picturesque downtown Ogunquit, Maine. A true cornerstone of the community, The Front Porch offers guests an experience that blends elegance, warmth, and celebration. Our inviting spaces — the refined dining room, lively bar and lounge, and the legendary sing-along piano bar — come together to create an atmosphere where exceptional cuisine and joyful entertainment meet. Each dish on our diverse menu is meticulously crafted, reflecting both creativity and a deep love for local flavor.

More than just a restaurant, The Front Porch is a place where everyone feels welcome. Proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, we've become a cherished symbol of Ogunquit's inclusive spirit and vibrant social life. Over the years, our iconic piano bar has evolved into a must-visit destination, drawing visitors from around the world who come to sing, laugh, and connect. Whether you're here for an intimate dinner, a night of music, or simply a sense of belonging, The Front Porch remains a beacon of joy, community, and unforgettable memories in one of Maine's most beloved coastal towns.

For Ogunquit locals and visitors alike, Vogel Hospitality is more than a name — it's a promise of inspired, inclusive, and memorable hospitality across multiple dining and entertainment destinations. At its heart is Scott "Scottie" Vogel, a passionate restaurateur and community builder who has redefined Ogunquit's hospitality scene through innovation, local pride, and a deep respect for the town's welcoming spirit. Under Vogel Hospitality, iconic establishments like The Front Porch Piano Bar & Restaurant, Crew OGT, and Coastal Alchemist each embody their own unique character while sharing a common commitment to warmth, creativity, and exceptional guest experiences.

Scottie's connection to Ogunquit runs deep. After spending summers in this vibrant seaside town and working in local restaurants, he envisioned a hospitality group that would celebrate community and elevate the local dining landscape. When he took ownership of The Front Porch, he honored its rich history while infusing it with renewed energy and thoughtful modern touches. Today, Vogel Hospitality stands for inclusivity, artistry, and a genuine passion for people — creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, connected, and inspired to make lasting memories along Maine's beautiful coast.

J. J. REVERE

P.0. BOX #2279 HO HUM COTTAGE OGUNQUIT, MAINE 03907

Mayday 2007

Dear Friends,

In the summer of 1979 I owned a weekend condo at "The Lookout". I would drive up from Connecticut to spend time in Ogunquit. I had always loved piano bars when I lived in Manhattan and looked forward to my time spent in Ogunquit where there was a piano bar know as "Valeries". It was a "straight" place, but the owner, "Tiggie", always made the gays feel welcome. We would gather around the piano after dinner to sing-a-long but had to be careful not to touch each other. If you put your arm on a friend's shoulder Darling Tiggie would say, "Don't touch Doll, don't touch". Having come of age in an era where society forced you to hide your sexual orientation, I longed to see a time and place where I and others could be comfortable in our own skin. My longing became reality when I opened the doors of "The Front Porch" in the spring of 1980.

Music, Laughter, Cocktails, Good Food, and above all Camaraderie were to become the "Signature" of "The Front Porch". I never catered exclusively to the gay community, but was very careful to bill it as a place where everyone is welcome. To this day, that environment remains. To my great pleasure, over the years multitude of lasting friendships between "Straights" and "Gays" were formed around the piano at "The Front Porch". It was no longer a matter of "Tolerance" it evolved into a place of "Acceptance".

When I retired in 1995, I passed the baton to Andy who had been with me since the day we opened the doors. I had always considered him to be the best bartender and manager in Ogunquit and trusted him to continue the tradition. Last year he decided to move on and passed the baton on to Wayne.

"Woody" has given the place a long overdue face-lift. He has a great eye for design, wonderful people skills, a huge reservoir of talent and energy, and is pleasing to the eye. The renovations and expansion of the dining room are "Spectacular". I like to say that, musically speaking, he has created a very new variation on a very old theme. I am confident that this all creates a fool proof formula for "SUCCESS".

I hope to see you all from time to time at "The Front Porch" as the 28th Season unfolds, and I remain a "Very Happy Old Party".

Jon "Mother" Revere