Unique, by definition, means remarkable, special, or unusual, and Vermont restaurants certainly have their share of unique dining. From views to booze, these 10 restaurants can impress even the most distinguished foodie. Let’s check some out, shall we?

  1. The Cliff House – Stowe, VT.

Njah/Google Enjoy being on top of the world at the Cliff House, which brings dining to new heights. At 3,625 feet up, the views of the mountain and valley are stunning and the only way to get there is by the gondola. Now, these employees have an epic commute! Stowe, VT 05672, USA

  1. Slayton Pasture Cabin – Stowe, VT.

Hotelbeds/Google You’ll have to work for this one! There is nothing greater than the reward of delicious homemade soups, sandwiches, and baked goods at the Slayton Pasture Cabin located at the crest of the x-c ski trails at the Trapp Family Lodge. Whether you ski, hike or snowshoe, you’ll earn your hearty lunch, which you can enjoy in a rustic cabin in front of a roaring fire in the middle of the woods. You won’t see anyone else that doesn’t appreciate the serenity of blue skies and peaceful trails. 700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, USA

  1. Simon Pearce Restaurant – Quechee, VT.

Angelo N/TripAdvisor The staff motto here is “quality without pretense” and guests enjoy spectacular views overlooking the waterfall and covered bridge. Simon Pearce is best known for its handmade glassware and pottery, which you can watch being made in their workshop at The Mill. Naturally, they also have a retail shop to enjoy before or after you dine. 1760 Quechee Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001, USA

  1. Hen of the Wood - Waterbury, VT.

Rod H/TripAdvisor Make reservations well in advance, as the restaurant is popular among locals and tourists alike and is a “must-visit” for anyone visiting Vermont. This 40-seat restaurant located in an old grist mill will impress even the most discerning foodie. The chefs turn simple ingredients into masterpieces, showcasing the vibrancy of fresh and local produce, meats, and cheeses. 92 Stowe St suite 2, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676, USA

  1. The Silver Fork - Manchester, VT.

truecompanion/TripAdvisor With only six tables and five bar stools, this tiny, unpretentious eatery is not to be missed. Specializing in international recipes, specifically Puerto Rican and German, The Silver Fork offers exceptional service, taking ample time with each guest to make sure they choose the perfect dish for them. Rumor has it it’s the best food in Manchester! Oh, and right now they have Autumn sangrias. That’s right….. Autumn Sangrias!!! The red is made with Grenache & pomegranate apple cider and the white is made with Gewürztraminer and spiced apple cider. Both are laced with spiced rum and topped with chopped apple. Yum! 48 W Rd, Manchester, VT 05254, USA

  1. NECI on Main – Montpelier, VT.

Howie G/Google The New England Culinary Institute (NECI) produced classic and modern cuisine by collaborating between students and award-winning chef-instructors. For 30 years they had been teaching students to make connections with farmers, between landscape and food, and between seasons and culinary traditions. (Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, NECI has closed its doors for good.) 118 Main St, Montpelier, VT 05602, USA

  1. The Garden of Eatin’ Café – Williston, VT.

George Pappas/Google Located in the Gardner’s Supply Company, this quick and easy café is undeniably tasty. Whether you grab your lunch to go or eat at a table in the greenhouse, this is a great place. Besides, where else can you get a bowl of soup and a watering can in one place? 472 Marshall Ave, Williston, VT 05495, USA

  1. Full Tilt – Burlington, VT.

Icobob Harlander/Google This comfort food and ale house had a few things you haven’t seen in years. Literally! 1980s arcade games and pinball machines were the main attraction! The toughest thing here was choosing what to play first: Pac Man or Asteroids. (Editor’s Note: Full Tilt, later named Tilt Classic Arcade & Ale House, is now permanently closed.) 7 Fayette Dr #15, South Burlington, VT 05403, USA

  1. Ruthcliffe – Isle La Motte, VT.

Jeff Brown/Google A beautiful bed and breakfast with sweeping views and seclusion is a delight. The restaurant on the premises serves American/Italian fare as well as a full bar service and an excellent wine list. For an adventurous commute, they offer boat dockings for restaurant guests. 1002 Quarry Rd, Isle La Motte, VT 05463, USA

  1. Beloved Hot Dog Stand – Burlington, VT.

The HotDog Lady’s Cart-Burlington Vermont/Facebook Let’s have a moment of silence for the many, many good years (and dogs!) served with a smile by “The hot dog lady on Church Street." We miss you! Burlington, VT, USA

What are your favorite unique dining spots in Vermont? We’d love to hear from you! For delicious meals with a stunning view, take a look at these waterfront restaurants in Vermont.

Njah/Google

Enjoy being on top of the world at the Cliff House, which brings dining to new heights. At 3,625 feet up, the views of the mountain and valley are stunning and the only way to get there is by the gondola. Now, these employees have an epic commute!

Stowe, VT 05672, USA

Hotelbeds/Google

You’ll have to work for this one! There is nothing greater than the reward of delicious homemade soups, sandwiches, and baked goods at the Slayton Pasture Cabin located at the crest of the x-c ski trails at the Trapp Family Lodge. Whether you ski, hike or snowshoe, you’ll earn your hearty lunch, which you can enjoy in a rustic cabin in front of a roaring fire in the middle of the woods. You won’t see anyone else that doesn’t appreciate the serenity of blue skies and peaceful trails.

700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, USA

Angelo N/TripAdvisor

The staff motto here is “quality without pretense” and guests enjoy spectacular views overlooking the waterfall and covered bridge. Simon Pearce is best known for its handmade glassware and pottery, which you can watch being made in their workshop at The Mill. Naturally, they also have a retail shop to enjoy before or after you dine.

1760 Quechee Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001, USA

Rod H/TripAdvisor

Make reservations well in advance, as the restaurant is popular among locals and tourists alike and is a “must-visit” for anyone visiting Vermont. This 40-seat restaurant located in an old grist mill will impress even the most discerning foodie. The chefs turn simple ingredients into masterpieces, showcasing the vibrancy of fresh and local produce, meats, and cheeses.

92 Stowe St suite 2, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676, USA

truecompanion/TripAdvisor

With only six tables and five bar stools, this tiny, unpretentious eatery is not to be missed. Specializing in international recipes, specifically Puerto Rican and German, The Silver Fork offers exceptional service, taking ample time with each guest to make sure they choose the perfect dish for them. Rumor has it it’s the best food in Manchester! Oh, and right now they have Autumn sangrias. That’s right….. Autumn Sangrias!!! The red is made with Grenache & pomegranate apple cider and the white is made with Gewürztraminer and spiced apple cider. Both are laced with spiced rum and topped with chopped apple. Yum!

48 W Rd, Manchester, VT 05254, USA

Howie G/Google

The New England Culinary Institute (NECI) produced classic and modern cuisine by collaborating between students and award-winning chef-instructors. For 30 years they had been teaching students to make connections with farmers, between landscape and food, and between seasons and culinary traditions. (Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, NECI has closed its doors for good.)

118 Main St, Montpelier, VT 05602, USA

George Pappas/Google

Located in the Gardner’s Supply Company, this quick and easy café is undeniably tasty. Whether you grab your lunch to go or eat at a table in the greenhouse, this is a great place. Besides, where else can you get a bowl of soup and a watering can in one place?

472 Marshall Ave, Williston, VT 05495, USA

Icobob Harlander/Google

This comfort food and ale house had a few things you haven’t seen in years. Literally! 1980s arcade games and pinball machines were the main attraction! The toughest thing here was choosing what to play first: Pac Man or Asteroids. (Editor’s Note: Full Tilt, later named Tilt Classic Arcade & Ale House, is now permanently closed.)

7 Fayette Dr #15, South Burlington, VT 05403, USA

Jeff Brown/Google

A beautiful bed and breakfast with sweeping views and seclusion is a delight. The restaurant on the premises serves American/Italian fare as well as a full bar service and an excellent wine list. For an adventurous commute, they offer boat dockings for restaurant guests.

1002 Quarry Rd, Isle La Motte, VT 05463, USA

The HotDog Lady’s Cart-Burlington Vermont/Facebook

Let’s have a moment of silence for the many, many good years (and dogs!) served with a smile by “The hot dog lady on Church Street." We miss you!

Burlington, VT, USA

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The Best Restaurants In Vermont January 22, 2023 William Suphan What are the best bucket list restaurants in Vermont? The best bucket list restaurants in Vermont include:

Hen of the Wood. This restaurant in Waterbury has food that is to die for with huge portions and attentive service. Mojo Cafe. This place has its own twist on Mexican cuisine with catfish, shrimp, and lobster tacos that are simply scrumptious. The Silver Fork. The chefs are local legends who provide a warm and friendly ambiance and inventive dishes with only 26 seats to keep it intimate and relaxed. The Farmhouse Tap & Grill. This farm-to-table restaurant in Burlington may have a line, but the food is well worth the wait.

Discover more about the best bucket list restaurants in Vermont.  What are some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont? Some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont include:

The Sandwich Shoppe. Located in Rutland, this place has a vast menu of inventive and delicious sandwiches that will keep you coming back for more. Moon Dog Cafe. This is a natural foods market and a fantastic cafe with delicious dishes like cream cheese stuffed French toast.  Three Penny Taproom. This place has been surprising customers with top-notch food to go along with a lovely beer selection. Mad Taco. Located in Montpelier, this taco restaurant makes its own tortillas and uses them to create ingenious and delectable tacos.

Find out more about hidden gem restaurants in Vermont.  What are the most famous restaurants in Vermont? The most famous restaurants in Vermont include:

Roots the Restaurant. This restaurant in Rutland has farm-to-table, comforting cuisine with many vegan and gluten-free options. Leunig’s Bistro. Located in Burlington, this place is known for having some awe-inspiring French cuisine. Eaton’s Sugar House. This is the ultimate Vermont breakfast spot with local syrup, fluffy pancakes, and thick bacon served all day. Harrison’s Restaurant and Bar. This versatile restaurant is the place to go whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a simple and delicious burger. Vergennes Laundry. Get here early because the delectable scones are sure to sell out fast. 

Learn more about the most famous restaurants in Vermont. 

The OIYS Visitor Center

The Best Restaurants In Vermont

January 22, 2023

William Suphan

What are the best bucket list restaurants in Vermont? The best bucket list restaurants in Vermont include:

Hen of the Wood. This restaurant in Waterbury has food that is to die for with huge portions and attentive service. Mojo Cafe. This place has its own twist on Mexican cuisine with catfish, shrimp, and lobster tacos that are simply scrumptious. The Silver Fork. The chefs are local legends who provide a warm and friendly ambiance and inventive dishes with only 26 seats to keep it intimate and relaxed. The Farmhouse Tap & Grill. This farm-to-table restaurant in Burlington may have a line, but the food is well worth the wait.

Discover more about the best bucket list restaurants in Vermont.  What are some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont? Some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont include:

The Sandwich Shoppe. Located in Rutland, this place has a vast menu of inventive and delicious sandwiches that will keep you coming back for more. Moon Dog Cafe. This is a natural foods market and a fantastic cafe with delicious dishes like cream cheese stuffed French toast.  Three Penny Taproom. This place has been surprising customers with top-notch food to go along with a lovely beer selection. Mad Taco. Located in Montpelier, this taco restaurant makes its own tortillas and uses them to create ingenious and delectable tacos.

Find out more about hidden gem restaurants in Vermont.  What are the most famous restaurants in Vermont? The most famous restaurants in Vermont include:

Roots the Restaurant. This restaurant in Rutland has farm-to-table, comforting cuisine with many vegan and gluten-free options. Leunig’s Bistro. Located in Burlington, this place is known for having some awe-inspiring French cuisine. Eaton’s Sugar House. This is the ultimate Vermont breakfast spot with local syrup, fluffy pancakes, and thick bacon served all day. Harrison’s Restaurant and Bar. This versatile restaurant is the place to go whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a simple and delicious burger. Vergennes Laundry. Get here early because the delectable scones are sure to sell out fast. 

Learn more about the most famous restaurants in Vermont. 

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

The best bucket list restaurants in Vermont include:

  • Hen of the Wood. This restaurant in Waterbury has food that is to die for with huge portions and attentive service.
  • Mojo Cafe. This place has its own twist on Mexican cuisine with catfish, shrimp, and lobster tacos that are simply scrumptious.
  • The Silver Fork. The chefs are local legends who provide a warm and friendly ambiance and inventive dishes with only 26 seats to keep it intimate and relaxed.
  • The Farmhouse Tap & Grill. This farm-to-table restaurant in Burlington may have a line, but the food is well worth the wait.

Discover more about the best bucket list restaurants in Vermont. 

What are some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont?

Some hidden gem restaurants in Vermont include:

  • The Sandwich Shoppe. Located in Rutland, this place has a vast menu of inventive and delicious sandwiches that will keep you coming back for more.
  • Moon Dog Cafe. This is a natural foods market and a fantastic cafe with delicious dishes like cream cheese stuffed French toast.
  • Three Penny Taproom. This place has been surprising customers with top-notch food to go along with a lovely beer selection.
  • Mad Taco. Located in Montpelier, this taco restaurant makes its own tortillas and uses them to create ingenious and delectable tacos.

Find out more about hidden gem restaurants in Vermont. 

What are the most famous restaurants in Vermont?

The most famous restaurants in Vermont include:

  • Roots the Restaurant. This restaurant in Rutland has farm-to-table, comforting cuisine with many vegan and gluten-free options.
  • Leunig’s Bistro. Located in Burlington, this place is known for having some awe-inspiring French cuisine.
  • Eaton’s Sugar House. This is the ultimate Vermont breakfast spot with local syrup, fluffy pancakes, and thick bacon served all day.
  • Harrison’s Restaurant and Bar. This versatile restaurant is the place to go whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a simple and delicious burger.
  • Vergennes Laundry. Get here early because the delectable scones are sure to sell out fast.

Learn more about the most famous restaurants in Vermont.