Best Vermont Foods and Drinks of 2024 | Top Picks and Trends
It can be challenging to remember a year’s worth of meals, especially with the plethora of options available. From the garden-fresh asparagus to the indulgent diner meals and shared libations with friends, each culinary experience leaves a mark on our memory. As food writers, Melissa Pasanen and I have had the privilege of exploring the vibrant food scene in Vermont throughout 2024.
As we reflect on the past year, we can’t help but marvel at the abundance of new eateries that have graced our local food landscape. From farmers market finds to food truck delights and the excitement of new restaurant openings, the culinary scene in Vermont has been nothing short of exhilarating.
Seven Days style, we have compiled our top seven favorite food and drink establishments of 2024, showcasing the diverse and innovative offerings that have left a lasting impression on us. Each selection represents a unique culinary experience that has contributed to the richness of Vermont’s food culture.
Happy as a Clam at Frankie’s
One of the standout establishments that captured our hearts and taste buds is Frankie’s in Burlington. With a menu brimming with delectable delights, Frankie’s has become a go-to spot for both Melissa and me. From the pork croquettes to the electric scallop crudo and the heavenly littleneck clams, Frankie’s seafood-centric dishes have set a new standard in the local dining scene. The innovative combinations and impeccable execution at Frankie’s have garnered well-deserved national recognition, paving the way for future accolades in the culinary world.
Doughnut Double-Down at Twisted Halo Café
In the realm of sweet treats, Twisted Halo Café has emerged as a shining star, offering an array of delectable doughnuts that are a true delight for the senses. As I indulged in Emma Slater’s signature churro-style doughnut, I couldn’t help but appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each creation. The expansion of Twisted Halo Café to new locations has further solidified its place as a must-visit destination for pastry enthusiasts across Vermont.
A Beautiful Beverage at Specs
For those seeking a sophisticated and nuanced drinking experience, Specs in Winooski delivers on all fronts. With a focus on low-alcohol cocktails and a diverse selection of fortified wines, Specs is a haven for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Sam Nelis’s expertly crafted Adonis cocktail is a testament to the bar’s commitment to quality and innovation, setting the stage for a memorable imbibing experience. As Specs prepares to launch a full cocktail bar in the coming year, the anticipation for new libations is palpable.
No Passing Fancy at Fancy’s
Fancy’s in Burlington has carved out a niche for itself with its inventive and flavorful dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cuisine. Chef-owner Paul Trombly’s culinary prowess shines through in every dish, from the earthy carrot mochi to the vibrant smashed cucumber salad. The ever-evolving menu at Fancy’s reflects Trombly’s dedication to using fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The return of the beloved carrot mochi to the menu was met with joy and enthusiasm, a testament to the enduring appeal of Trombly’s creations.
Do the Jerk at Thingz From Yaad
The vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine take center stage at Thingz From Yaad, where Shaneall Ferron’s coconut-crusted jerk corn dazzles the taste buds with its tropical flair. As Thingz From Yaad prepares to open a brick-and-mortar location in South Burlington, the anticipation for Ferron’s traditional dishes and innovative creations continues to grow. The fusion of bold spices and fresh ingredients at Thingz From Yaad promises a culinary experience that is as exciting as it is delicious.
My Bologna Has a First Name at Gallus Handcrafted Pasta
Gallus Handcrafted Pasta in Waterbury beckons diners with its tantalizing array of pasta dishes, including the unassuming yet unforgettable gnocco fritto. Chef Eric Warnstedt’s take on this classic dish elevates it to new heights, with the pillowy fried dough diamonds topped with luscious mortadella and a drizzle of honey. The nostalgic charm of the gnocco fritto harkens back to simpler times, reminding diners of the power of comfort food done right.
It’s All Gravy at Deep City
Deep City in Burlington has become a culinary destination for those seeking comfort and familiarity in their dining experience. Chef Charles Reeves’s iconic buttermilk biscuits slathered in herb-flecked cream gravy have captured the hearts of patrons, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite. The warm and welcoming atmosphere at Deep City, coupled with the soul-satisfying dishes on offer, makes it a must-visit spot for those craving a taste of home.
Thirsty Like the Wolf at Wolf Tree
Wolf Tree in White River Junction has established itself as a beacon of creativity and sophistication in the local drinking scene, offering a diverse selection of expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting. The Victory Lap cocktail at Wolf Tree is a testament to the bar’s commitment to quality and innovation, showcasing a perfect balance of flavors and textures that leave a lasting impression on the palate. For those seeking a refined drinking experience, Wolf Tree is a destination not to be missed.
Butter My Butt and Call Me a Biscuit at Queen City Café
Queen City Café in Burlington has redefined the humble biscuit with its flaky, wood-fired creations that are a true labor of love. Chef-owner Sean Richards’s dedication to using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques has resulted in biscuits that are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a hearty meal, the biscuits at Queen City Café are a testament to the power of simple, well-executed comfort food.
Pawpaw Patrol at Sugarsnap Farm
Sugarsnap Farm’s pawpaws have become a hidden gem in Vermont’s culinary landscape, offering a tropical burst of flavor that surprises and delights the palate. Abbey Duke’s dedication to cultivating these unique fruits in the face of environmental challenges is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Vermont’s farming community. The pawpaws serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing change and innovation in the pursuit of culinary excellence.
Tonic Key at Rogue Rabbit
Rogue Rabbit in Burlington has become a go-to spot for those seeking a unique and refreshing drinking experience, with its signature espresso tonic standing out as a crowd favorite. The perfect marriage of bitter espresso and effervescent tonic water creates a harmonious and invigorating beverage that is sure to please even the most discerning palates. For a caffeine kick with a twist, Rogue Rabbit’s espresso tonic is a must-try.
Soup Season at Leo & Co.
Leo & Co. in Essex has elevated the classic matzo ball soup to new heights, offering a gluten-free version that is as delicious as it is comforting. The rich broth and tender matzo balls served at Leo & Co. are a testament to the culinary expertise of the kitchen team, providing diners with a taste of tradition and innovation in every spoonful. For those seeking a soul-warming dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals, Leo & Co.’s matzo ball soup is a standout choice.
Flour and Flowers at The Bake Shop at Red Wagon Plants
The Bake Shop at Red Wagon Plants in Hinesburg has become a beacon of culinary creativity, offering a diverse array of sweet and savory treats that cater to every palate. From the rustic chive-and-cheddar focaccia to the indulgent coconut buns, the offerings at The Bake Shop are a feast for the senses. The innovative partnership between bakers Amy Vogler and Carey Nershi and Julie Rubaud of Red Wagon Plants has resulted in a culinary experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious, making it a must-visit destination for pastry enthusiasts across Vermont.
Noodling Around at Scrag & Roe
Scrag & Roe in Waitsfield has undergone a culinary transformation, transitioning to an all-Asian menu that showcases Chef Nathan Davis’s passion for the flavors of the East. The dan dan noodles at Scrag & Roe are a standout dish, featuring a complex and electrifying blend of spices and textures that leave diners craving more. As Scrag & Roe continues to delight patrons with its innovative and flavorful offerings, it solidifies its place as a culinary gem in the heart of Waitsfield.
From seafood delights to sweet treats, innovative cocktails to comforting classics, the best Vermont foods and drinks of 2024 showcase the diversity and creativity of the local culinary scene. Each establishment highlighted in this list represents a unique and unforgettable dining experience that has left a lasting impression on food enthusiasts across Vermont. As we look forward to the culinary delights that await us in the coming year, these top picks and trends serve as a reminder of the culinary excellence that defines Vermont’s food culture.
By J.B. and M.P. for Seven Days Features.
