Burlington, Vermont, is a city that prides itself on its outstanding food scene. Regardless of the season, this city offers a diversity of gastronomic experiences that are deeply rooted in the local food movement. With a plethora of farm-to-table dining options, international cuisines, and artisanal beverages, Burlington is undoubtedly a food lover’s paradise.
Local Farm-to-Table Dining
Vermont’s fertile lands yield a plethora of fresh ingredients that make their way into the kitchens of Burlington’s top restaurants. This farm-to-table ethos is not just a trend in Burlington, but a way of life.
Farmers and Foragers Food Truck
The Farmers and Foragers Food Truck is a prime example of Burlington’s commitment to sourcing locally. Operating from May to October, this food truck sets up shop at the Burlington Harbor Marina, offering a rotating menu of seasonal delicacies. Expect to savor dishes like Maine lobster smothered in brown butter on brioche rolls and Lake Champlain perch tacos. The truck also operates at the University of Vermont campus outside of the summer months, serving breakfast and lunch.
Hen of the Wood
Another local favorite is Hen of the Wood, located in the trendy Hotel Vermont. The restaurant’s daily menu is driven by its relationships with local farmers and producers. A seat at the chef’s counter allows guests to witness the creation of dishes like rib-eye steaks served with locally sourced mushrooms, buttered potatoes, and Jasper Hill Farm’s renowned Bayley Hazen Blue cheese.
International Cuisine with a Vermont Twist
Burlington’s food scene also offers a taste of the world, with international cuisines prepared using local Vermont ingredients.
Istanbul Kebab House
Istanbul Kebab House is an acclaimed Turkish restaurant which started in the basement of an apartment complex and has now relocated to a bustling spot on Church Street. The restaurant imports ingredients from Turkey for its kebab-centric menu, offering an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine.
Bistro de Margot
For a taste of France, Bistro de Margot is a must-visit. Named after the chef’s grandmother, this restaurant is an ode to French cooking. The weekly three course prix fixe menu is a culinary journey, starting with pork rillettes on toast, followed by seared arctic char, and finished with mousse au chocolat with citrus meringue.
Pizza Paradisiac
Pizza lovers are in for a treat in Burlington. With a range of pizzerias offering different styles of pizza, there’s something for every pizza aficionado.
American Flatbread Burlington Hearth
American Flatbread Burlington Hearth is known for its thin, wood-fired crusts, topped with organic tomato sauce, locally made cheeses, and house-made maple-fennel pork sausage. The pizza dough is made fresh daily using organic wheat.
Pizzeria Verità
Pizzeria Verità specializes in thin, bubbly-crusted wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. The pizza toppings change with the season, ensuring the freshest ingredients are used at all times. Don’t forget to save room for the cannoli and tiramisu!
Classic American Fare
Burlington also offers classic American fare, with a Vermont twist.
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is a casual, family-friendly spot known for its burgers and long craft beer list. The menu also includes hearty seasonal dishes. In winter, a bowl of Vermont cheddar ale soup hits the spot, while in summer, a salad made with local farm produce is a refreshing choice.
Bluebird Barbecue
Burlington may be far from the country’s most famous barbecue regions, but Bluebird Barbecue does a fine job of representing this culinary tradition. The restaurant infuses traditional barbecue with Vermont flavor, including a nod to the state’s French Canadian neighbors with its barbecue poutine.
Drinks and Desserts
Burlington’s food scene is not just about the main course. The city offers an array of artisanal beverages and sweet treats to complement your meal.
Juniper
Located within Hotel Vermont, Juniper is a chic bar and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition to a locally focused wine list, the drinks menu is comprised almost entirely of Vermont-made ciders, beers, and spirits.
Honey Road
Honey Road is a popular mezze-focused restaurant where Eastern Mediterranean flavors meet Vermont produce. They have a vegetable-heavy menu and some heartier options like lamb and red pepper kofta or grilled octopus.
In conclusion, Burlington, VT offers a wide range of dining options that cater to every palate. From farm-to-table dining experiences to international cuisines and artisanal beverages, this city truly is a food lover’s paradise.
