2024 Summer Dining Guide
Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, Addison County offers a culinary journey like no other, where farm-fresh ingredients and creative chefs come together to create unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for a leisurely brunch, a vibrant venue for dinner with friends, or a serene setting to savor a glass of wine, our guide highlights the best restaurants that capture the essence of summer in Vermont.
A&W Restaurant
1557 US-7, Middlebury, VT 05753
The last carhop in Vermont – a destination restaurant steeped in nostalgia! Kid- and pet-friendly! From the famous root beer to the tray on the window not much has changed in 60 years. Double bacon cheeseburgers, the best all-beef hot dogs, fried chicken, clam and shrimp dinners with fries or A&W famous onion rings with a side of slaw go great with the authentic root beer float or a 4 scoop milkshake. Vegetarian options are available as well as a four-legged friend menu. Open 7 days a week into October!
American Flatbread
137 Maple St., Middlebury, VT 05753
American Flatbread’s menu features all-natural pizza baked in a wood-fired oven, fresh salads, and house-made desserts. Check out Chef Jennifer’s creative specials or choose one of your menu favorites — all include seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible, showcasing the bounty of local farms. The spacious bar offers craft cocktails, select wines, and innovative signature cocktails. Sit inside and watch how the machine runs behind the open kitchen and bar, or relax outside on their beautiful timber frame pavilion. Located in Historic Marble Works, Middlebury. Call 802-388-3300 or visit www.americanflatbread.com to learn more.
Black Sheep Bistro
253 Main St., Vergennes, VT 05491
The talented chef and staff welcome you to the Black Sheep Bistro in Vergennes, for a warm and cozy dining experience inside or on the patio. Their menu has been prepared with fresh, local ingredients and inspired by traditional French flavors. French fries and mashed potatoes for the table! Call 802-877-9991 for reservations or order online at blacksheepbistrovt.com.
Café Provence
11 Center St., Brandon, VT 05733
The perfect spot for a relaxing Sunday brunch or a casual lunch or dinner. Elegant enough for an exquisite meal with someone special, easygoing enough for open-hearth pizza or a thick, juicy burger after a day of exploring. Bienvenue to a piece of France in small town Vermont! 802-247-9997.
Costello’s Market
99 Maple St., Middlebury, VT 05753
For gourmet lunches and dinners to go, Costello’s Market can’t be beat! Amazing sandwiches, salads, and the freshest seafood dishes. Costello’s is a top-notch fish market, receiving daily deliveries. Plus they offer a great selection of authentic Italian specialty items: San Marzano tomatoes, Illy coffee, pasta, meats, cheeses, olive oils, and fabulous domestic and imported wines to accompany any meal. Open Tuesday through Saturday at 10 a.m., Costello’s is “Where the Best Meals Begin!” Marble Works, Middlebury, 802-388-3385, costellosmarket.com.
Fire & Ice Restaurant
26 Seymour St., Middlebury, VT 05753
A classic and longtime favorite Middlebury dining experience! From a stunning museum-like atmosphere in the dining rooms to a casual scene with six TVs in the pub; romantic nooks for your anniversary to elegant dining rooms for larger parties. Hand-cut steaks, prime rib, and the freshest seafood along with much more. Vegetarian & gluten-free entrees available. See the entire menu online. Pub fare with burgers, wraps & lighter fare. Kid’s menu & children’s theater (to entertain while you enjoy dinner!). Dinner Wednesday-Sunday, lunch Saturday and Sunday only. One block off Route 7, and only a short walk from the village green. 802-388-7166. 800-367-7166. Please visit online at fireandicerestaurant.com.
Haymaker Buns
7 Bakery Ln., Middlebury, VT 05753
On the banks of the Otter Creek on the quiet and tucked away Bakery Lane, you’ll discover a hidden gem at Haymaker Buns. Enjoy freshly made buns and pastries invented by chef Caroline Corrente, who believes there’s a wide world of buns to discover, ranging from the classic sweet to unique savory and specialty varieties. The lunchtime menu includes salads, soups, sandwiches and even special kid offerings, along with wine and beer. Dine in or take out, Monday-Friday 7:30am-2pm, Saturday 8am-2pm. Menu and more at haymakerbuns.com.
Jessica’s at Swift House Inn
25 Stewart Ln., Middlebury, VT 05753
Jessica’s at Swift House Inn offers fine dining with an award-winning wine list and a seasonally changing menu in a historic setting. Vermont native Chef Rob Fenn showcases local products like vegetables from Elmer Farm here in Middlebury, blue cheese from Boucher Family Farm from Highgate, Misty Knoll chicken from New Haven, and more. Whether you’re having a romantic dinner or a celebration feast, sommelier Sam Lipin will make sure you choose the right wines. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar or outdoor dining. Summer hours: Wed., Thurs. & Sun. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Fri. & Sat. 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
Photo Credit: Caleb Kenna
Morgan’s Tavern
14 Court Square, Middlebury, VT 05753
Morgan’s Tavern at the Middlebury Inn offers a distinctive dining experience with the freshest ingredients, all locally sourced through the Vermont Fresh Network Partnership. From your warm welcome upon arrival to the thoughtful preparation of every dish, the goal is your complete satisfaction. Whether visiting for business or pleasure, each meal is crafted with you in mind. Discover why Morgan’s Tavern is Central Vermont’s best-kept secret, each time you dine with them.
Nino’s Pizza
21 MacIntyre Ln., Middlebury, VT 05753
Unique delicious hand tossed NY and Sicilian style pizza by the slice and whole pies to go. Watch the pizza being made while you pick out your slices. Serving weekday lunch specials and soups made in small batches from scratch, plus beautiful salads, for one or a crowd. Open Mon.-Sat., 11-8. 802-388-7755. Located next to Middlebury Discount Beverage.
Park Squeeze
161 Main St., Vergennes, VT 05491
Located on Main Street in historic downtown Vergennes, the Park Squeeze crew serves casual and delicious food and drinks Tuesday through Saturday, 4pm – 8pm. Bring the family or meet up with friends on one of two inside levels or on the porch where you can watch the activity on the bustling Main Street. Check them out on Facebook for new menu offerings and weekly specials! You can order online at parksqueeze.com and walk-ins are welcome… they’ll squeeze you in! 802-877-9962.
Stone Mill
3 Mill St., Middlebury, VT 05753
On the main level of the Stone Mill, enjoy the new Dedalus Wine Bar, serving Thursday-Saturday 4-8 pm. Special tastings on Thursdays 4-6. In the lowest level of the historic building along the banks of the Otter Creek, enjoy exceptionally inspired and creative Latin cuisine at The Mad Taco’s Middlebury location. Patrons can enjoy farm-fresh ingredients, the best craft beers available from Vermont and the New England region, and a staff that is eager to please. With outdoor seating and a family-friendly environment, The Mad Taco is one of Middlebury’s favorite destinations! Open 7 Days a Week | 12PM – 8PM
Tourterelle
3629 Ethan Allen Hwy., New Haven, VT 05472
At Tourterelle, the fusion of classic French dishes made with local Vermont products delivers distinctive flavors to the Champlain Valley. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and beer at the bar or a romantic dinner for two featuring traditional French dishes with modern twists, Tourterelle has what you’re looking for. Tourterelle also caters and is a beautiful wedding venue for a ceremony and reception. Tourterelle, located in New Haven, is open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday 5:30-9pm. Call them at 802-453-6309 or visit www.Tourterellevermont.com today!