Best Restaurants Burlington VT, get ready to indulge in a world of flavors that will take you on a culinary journey unlike any other. From affordable eats to fine dining experiences, Burlington has got it all. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, this guide will take you to the most hidden gems and secret spots in the city’s food scene.
Explore the diversity of local flavors that shape the character of Burlington’s communities, neighborhoods, and cultural events. Discover how local chefs and restaurateurs are pushing the boundaries of traditional Vermont cuisine, creating innovative dishes that will wow your taste buds.
A Guide to Burlington’s Best Restaurants for Every Budget
Burlington, Vermont – a city that’s as charming as a maple syrup-filled waffle. And when it comes to food, this picturesque town has something to offer for every taste bud and wallet. From cozy cafes to high-end eateries, Burlington’s culinary scene is as diverse as the city’s vibrant arts culture. In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic tour of the city’s best restaurants, categorized by budget to ensure that everyone can indulge in the flavors of Burlington.
Affordable Eats
When it comes to affordable dining in Burlington, the options are endless. Here are five must-try restaurants that won’t break the bank:
- Penny Cluse Cafe: This cozy cafe is a local favorite, serving up delicious breakfast and brunch dishes at $10-$15 per entree. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a charming outdoor patio perfect for sunny days.
- La Brioche: This French bakery and cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries at $5-$10 per item. Their croissants are flaky and buttery, and their quiche is rich and satisfying.
- The Skinny Pancake: This eclectic eatery serves up creative pancakes and sandwiches at $8-$12 per entree. Their outdoor seating area is a fun spot to people-watch and take in the city views.
- Monkey House Cafe: This quirky cafe offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options at $10-$15 per entree. Their atmosphere is eclectic and fun, with a retro vibe that’s hard to resist.
- Leunig’s Bistro: This cozy bistro serves up classic American fare at $15-$25 per entree. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a fireplace that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Mid-Range Marvels
When you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience without breaking the bank, consider these mid-range restaurants in Burlington:
- Juniper: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently. Expect to pay $20-$35 per entree. Their atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a trendy bar area that’s perfect for cocktails.
- Olives and Antipasto: This Italian restaurant serves up creative pasta dishes and pizzas at $15-$25 per entree. Their atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a fun selection of wines to pair with your meal.
- The Farmhouse Tap and Grill: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a variety of American fare, including burgers and sandwiches at $15-$25 per entree. Their atmosphere is rustic and charming, with a fireplace that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
- El Cortijo Taqueria: This Mexican restaurant serves up creative tacos and burritos at $10-$15 per entree. Their atmosphere is lively and fun, with a fun selection of margaritas to pair with your meal.
- Michael’s on the Hill: This American bistro serves up classic dishes at $20-$35 per entree. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a fireplace that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Fine Dining
For a truly special night out, consider these fine dining restaurants in Burlington:
- The White Horse Inn: This upscale restaurant serves up creative American fare at $35-$50 per entree. Their atmosphere is elegant and refined, with a beautiful patio area that’s perfect for summer dining.
- Bluebird Tea Cuisine: This tea salon serves up creative tea-based dishes at $25-$40 per entree. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a fun selection of teas to pair with your meal.
- Shunk Rock Restaurant: This restaurant serves up creative American fare at $30-$45 per entree. Their atmosphere is rustic and charming, with a fun selection of cocktails to pair with your meal.
- The Farmhouse at Sterling Ridge: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu at $30-$45 per entree. Their atmosphere is elegant and refined, with a beautiful patio area that’s perfect for summer dining.
- Hen of the Wood: This upscale restaurant serves up creative American fare at $35-$50 per entree. Their atmosphere is elegant and refined, with a beautiful patio area that’s perfect for summer dining.
Special Occasions on a Budget
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just because, Burlington has plenty of options for special occasions on a budget. Consider these affordable restaurants for a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends:
- Penny Cluse Cafe: This cozy cafe is a great spot for a romantic breakfast or brunch, with a charming outdoor patio and delicious dishes at $10-$15 per entree.
- La Brioche: This French bakery and cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries at $5-$10 per item. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or snack.
- The Skinny Pancake: This eclectic eatery serves up creative pancakes and sandwiches at $8-$12 per entree. Their outdoor seating area is a fun spot to people-watch and take in the city views.
- Monkey House Cafe: This quirky cafe offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options at $10-$15 per entree. Their atmosphere is eclectic and fun, with a retro vibe that’s hard to resist.
- Leunig’s Bistro: This cozy bistro serves up classic American fare at $15-$25 per entree. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a fireplace that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Hidden Gems and Secret Spots in Burlington’s Food Scene: Best Restaurants Burlington Vt
Burlington’s food scene is a treasure trove of hidden gems and secret spots, waiting to be discovered by adventurous foodies. From cozy cafes to bustling markets, these under-the-radar eateries, cafes, and markets are favorite haunts of locals, who know and appreciate the unique flavors and charm each spot has to offer. In this section, we’ll highlight 10 of these secret spots, complete with insider tips, brief histories, and directions to help you find them.
Alice’s Tavern
Tucked away on Main Street, Alice’s Tavern is a cozy Irish pub that serves up mouth-watering comfort food with a smile. Try their famous Shepherd’s Pie or Chicken Pot Pie, and don’t forget to ask for a side of their creamy mashed potatoes. Insider tip: be sure to check out their daily specials, which often feature locally sourced ingredients.
We’re more than just a tavern, we’re a home away from home for our customers.
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Located in the heart of downtown Burlington, The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the freshest ingredients of the season. Savor their seasonal small plates, and try their rotating selection of craft beers. Insider tip: don’t miss their daily happy hour, which features $1 off all beers and $5 off all small plates.
The Kitchen Table Bistro
This charming bistro in the South End of Burlington is a neighborhood favorite, serving up classic American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their famous burgers, or indulge in their decadent chocolate cake. Insider tip: be sure to ask for a seat by the window, where you can watch the chefs at work.
The Skinny Pancake
This quirky breakfast spot on Church Street is a Burlington institution, serving up fluffy pancakes and creative omelets in a cozy atmosphere. Insider tip: try their famous maple crepe, made with fresh Vermont maple syrup.
The Vermont Farmers’ Market, Best restaurants burlington vt
Every Saturday from May to October, the Vermont Farmers’ Market sets up shop in the heart of downtown Burlington, featuring local farmers and artisans selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. Insider tip: be sure to bring your reusable bags and come hungry, as you can sample some of the best local flavors of the season.
The Burlington City Market
Located in the heart of the Old North End, the Burlington City Market is a bustling marketplace that features local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods. Insider tip: try their delicious homemade soups and stews, made with love by local cooks.
The Red Snapper Bistro
This cozy bistro in the South End of Burlington is a seafood lover’s paradise, featuring fresh catches from the Gulf of Maine. Try their famous fish tacos or indulge in their decadent seafood tower. Insider tip: be sure to ask for a seat by the window, where you can watch the chefs prepare your meal.
The Pizzeria Verità
Located in the trendy South End of Burlington, Pizzeria Verità is a modern pizzeria that serves up wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas with creative toppings. Insider tip: try their famous “Vermont” pizza, topped with local ingredients like applewood-smoked bacon and fresh arugula.
The Three Tomatoes
This charming Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Burlington is a family favorite, serving up classic Italian dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Try their famous pasta dishes or indulge in their decadent tiramisu. Insider tip: be sure to ask for a seat by the window, where you can watch the chefs at work.
La Brioche
This French bakery and cafe on Church Street is a Burlington institution, serving up freshly baked croissants and pastries every morning. Insider tip: try their famous pain au chocolat, made with rich, dark chocolate and flaky pastry.
The Sarducci’s
Located in the heart of downtown Burlington, Sarducci’s is a beloved Italian restaurant that’s been serving up classic dishes for over 40 years. Try their famous pasta dishes or indulge in their decadent cannoli. Insider tip: be sure to ask for a seat by the window, where you can watch the chefs prepare your meal.
Burlington’s Farmers Market
The Burlington Farmers Market is a seasonal culinary adventure that brings the flavors of the Champlain Valley to the heart of the city. Every Saturday from May to October, the market comes alive with the vibrant colors and lively aromas of the region’s freshest produce, artisanal goods, and local cuisine.
Peak Season Offerings
During the peak summer months, the market is filled with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, carefully selected from local farms to ensure maximum flavor and nutritional value. Vendors like Shelburne Orchards and Hinesburg Cider don’t simply sell their produce; they share their passion for sustainable agriculture and the importance of preserving heirloom varieties. These small-scale farmers have honed their craft over generations, perfecting the art of cultivating crops that thrive in the Champlain Valley’s unique climate.
- Apples – From sweet, juicy varieties to tangy tartlets, the Shelburne Orchards’ apple selection is renowned for its exceptional flavor and crunch.
- Ciders – Hinesburg Cider, a family-owned operation, crafts its cider using traditional methods and only the highest quality apples.
- Heirloom Tomatoes – The vibrant colors and rich flavors of heirloom tomatoes showcase the incredible diversity of the Champlain Valley’s growing season.
Off-Peak Season Offerings
While the summer months are certainly the market’s most vibrant, the off-peak season still offers a delightful array of local produce and artisanal goods. Vendors like Champlain Farms and the Burlington Bread Company transform seasonal ingredients into mouth-watering creations that showcase the versatility of local cuisine.
| Vendor | Off-Peak Season Favorites |
|---|---|
| Champlain Farms | Crafty soups made with fresh, roasted root vegetables and artisanal meats. |
| Burlington Bread Company | Heirloom-inspired sourdough breads and crispy flatbreads made from ancient grain flours. |
Supporting Local Farmers and Artisans
The Burlington Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy groceries or unique souvenirs – it’s a vibrant hub of community engagement and food culture. By supporting local farmers and artisans, you are contributing to the preservation of heirloom varieties, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and fostering a strong local economy. You’re also directly connecting with the people who grow, raise, and craft the food you eat.
“We’re proud to be part of this community, and we believe that our work makes a real difference in the lives of our customers. By choosing locally grown and made products, consumers like you are investing in the long-term health of the Champlain Valley.” – Rachel Shelburne, Shelburne Orchards
Community Engagement
In addition to the incredible food offerings, the market actively fosters a sense of community through various events and activities throughout the season. These events bring together farmers, chefs, food enthusiasts, and local residents to share knowledge, showcase talents, and celebrate the bounty of the region.
“The market is a place where food and community come together in a unique and inspiring way.” – Chris Fennell, Burlington Farmers Market Manager
Dining with a View
When it comes to eating out in Burlington, the scenery is always on the menu. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque spot to watch the sunset over Lake Champlain or a cozy nook with a view of the city, Burlington’s restaurants have got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best scenic restaurants in town, where the views are as delicious as the food.
From waterfront eateries with stunning views of the lake to rooftop restaurants with panoramic views of the city, we’ll show you the top 5 restaurants with breathtaking views of Burlington. Each of these restaurants offers a unique atmosphere and ambiance that’s sure to make your dining experience unforgettable.
Waterfront Eateries with a View
Waterfront views are a staple of Burlington’s dining scene, and for good reason. There’s something special about watching the boats sail by while enjoying a meal or a drink. Here are 5 waterfront restaurants in Burlington that offer stunning views of Lake Champlain:
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The Boathouse
Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, The Boathouse offers stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a drink on a warm summer day. Their menu features seafood, burgers, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
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The Dock
The Dock is a Burlington institution, and for good reason. This waterfront restaurant has been serving up delicious seafood and American classics for over 20 years. Their outdoor patio offers stunning views of the lake and the city skyline. Be sure to try their famous fish and chips!
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The Lake Champlain Inn
This historic inn has been a Burlington landmark for over 100 years. Their restaurant offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. Their menu features a range of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
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Hen of the Wood
Hen of the Wood is a Burlington favorite, and for good reason. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a range of seasonal small plates and entrees, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their outdoor patio offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
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The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is a Burlington staple, and for good reason. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a range of seasonal small plates and entrees, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their outdoor patio offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Rooftop Restaurants with a View
For a panoramic view of the city, head to one of Burlington’s rooftop restaurants. Here are 5 spots that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains:
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The Rooftop at The Willard Street Inn
Located in the heart of Burlington’s downtown, The Rooftop at The Willard Street Inn offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Their menu features a range of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
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The Summit
The Summit is a Burlington favorite, and for good reason. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Their menu features a range of small plates and entrees, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
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The Sky Restaurant
The Sky Restaurant is a Burlington institution, and for good reason. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Their menu features a range of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
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The View Restaurant
The View Restaurant is located in the heart of Burlington’s downtown, and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Their menu features a range of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
End of Discussion
In conclusion, the best restaurants in Burlington VT offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. From seasonal menus to hidden gems, this guide has it all. So, grab your fork and knife, and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you wanting more.
Key Questions Answered
Q: What is the best way to find the best restaurants in Burlington VT?
A: Check online reviews, ask locals for recommendations, or try a food tour to discover the best eats in the city.
Q: Can I find vegan or gluten-free options in Burlington’s restaurants?
A: Yes, many restaurants in Burlington offer vegan and gluten-free options, so be sure to ask your server for recommendations.
Q: What are the best times to visit the Burlington Farmers Market?
A: Peak season is during the summer months, but some farmers also sell their products during the off-season, so check ahead of time for market hours.
Q: Do I need reservations for the top restaurants in Burlington VT?
A: It’s a good idea to make reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak season or for special occasions.
Q: Can I find breweries and wineries in Burlington VT?
A: Yes, Burlington has a thriving craft beer and wine scene, with several breweries and wineries offering tours and tastings.
