Vermont is a small New England state of extraordinary natural beauty, famous for fiery fall foliage, world-class ski resorts, covered wooden bridges, and a thriving farm-to-table food culture. Burlington, its largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and buzzes with craft breweries and independent shops. From the rolling Green Mountains to maple-syrup farms and award-winning cheese dairies, Vermont rewards travelers who seek authenticity over spectacle.
Vermont's restaurant scene is anchored by an exceptional farm-to-table tradition — the state's agricultural density means restaurants can and do source locally year-round. Burlington has become a legitimate food city, with Hen of the Wood consistently ranked among the top restaurants in New England. Stowe and Woodstock serve an upscale resort clientele with fine dining options. Vermont's food identity is shaped by maple syrup, artisan cheese (Cabot, Grafton, Jasper Hill), local beef and lamb, wild game, and freshwater fish.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Food tours & tastings in Vermont
Eat your way through Vermont with a guide.
Browse food experiences in VermontWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Burlington Farmer's Market
Hours: Saturday 9 AM–2 PM (May–October)
Montpelier Farmer's Market
Hours: Saturday 9 AM–1 PM (May–October)
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Hours: Daily 8 AM–6 PM
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Vermont restaurants fill up fast during foliage season — book dinner reservations a week in advance for fine dining in Woodstock and Stowe during October
Many Vermont farm stands and sugar houses are cash only; carry $20–40 USD when exploring rural areas
The 9% Vermont meals tax is added to all restaurant bills; 15–20% tip is standard and expected
Several Burlington restaurants close Monday–Tuesday; plan weeknight dining around these closures
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $10–20 per meal (USD) — farm stands, pizza, pub food, cider mills | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |