5 Best Restaurants in Northern Vermont, Vermont

Hen of the Wood

$$$ Fodor's choice

Ask Vermont's great chefs where they go for a tremendous meal, and Hen of the Wood inevitably tops the list, thanks to its sophisticated, almost artful, dishes that showcase an abundance of local produce, meat, and cheese. The utterly romantic candlelit setting is riveting: a converted 1835 gristmill beside a waterfall.

Eclectic Dinner $$$ Fodor's Choice
92 Stowe St., Waterbury, Vermont, 05676, USA
802-244–7300
www.henofthewood.com
Known For
  • special occasions and dates
  • outstanding cooking
  • wine and cocktail list
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch, Reservations essential

Three Penny Taproom

$ Fodor's choice

This celebrated taproom remains one of the state's best, thanks in large part to its ability to acquire beers few others in the region can. The vibe feels straight out of an artsy neighborhood in Brussels, but with the earthiness of Vermont.

Kismet

$$$
One of Montpelier's more upscale restaurants, Kismet embraces the farm-to-table philosophy and gives it a shiny gloss and an international flavor. Tranquilly humming in the evening, particularly after State House employees get off work, Kismet buzzes most during its popular weekend brunches.
Brunch Dinner Eclectic $$$
207 Barre St., Montpelier, Vermont, 05602, USA
802-223--8646
www.kismetkitchens.com
Known For
  • multiple eggs Benedict versions
  • wine and cocktail list
  • expensive for Vermont
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No dinner Sun. No lunch

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Starry Night Café

$$$

The proprietors of this popular, chic restaurant serve seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine among handcrafted tableware and furniture. A rotating display of works by local artists graces the walls, and the fireside porch, with its views of gardens and trees, is open at least three seasons of the year.

Eclectic Dinner $$$
5371 U.S. 7, Ferrisburgh, Vermont, 05456, USA
802-877–6316
www.starrynightcafe.com
Known For
  • handblown glasses
  • historic buildings, including a covered bridge
  • date night
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No lunch, Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential

Zen Barn

$$
What's more Vermont than the name "Zen Barn," especially when it includes its own yoga studio in a former hayloft? Add to that an expansive, rustic-chic interior with local art and a stage for live music, an outdoor patio looking out to green fields and mountains, and a menu of eclectic, farm-to-table fare, and the local experience is complete.