7 Nights Guide to Vermont Restaurants and Bars

Glass half full: Reviewed by VivaVermont on May 14, 2010; I went to Pauline's for the first time on a Wednesday evening and was seated immediately at a cozy booth near the bar. Our waitress was friendly and helpful and I was impressed with the menu and specials. I ordered a glass of Pinot Grigio which came 1/4 full which was disappointing. My caesar salad tasted fresh but I would suggest using less salty anchovies and more dressing. My scallops were a bit small compared to the mountain of Jerusalem artichokes on the side but the beets were a nice touch. I decided to have a post-dinner martini but it took ten minutes for someone to notice us and by then my craving had passed. Oh well, a last minute martini never hurt anyone.; read more about this restaurant

A savory marathon!: Reviewed by VivaVermont on April 16, 2010; Two friends and I arrived at The Spot at 7 pm on Thursday and stayed until 9:15! It was a combination of great conversation, slow service and Switchbacks, but a marathon dining experience indeed! The music selection, played out of a cheap boombox by the sounds of it, was a mix of dancehall and spiritual ragas, and was at times too loud especially when kids were yelling over it. My party had the cozy corner booth and dug the surf-inspired decor and cacti; we felt like we were at a beachside cafe. Our server was perhaps overly chatty but very sweet. The grilled shrimp appetizer was a joke at 7.95 for 4 tiny, tiny shrimp, and the chipotle sauce was perhaps the best part. However, my mahi mahi was delicious and reminded me of West African or Caribbean cuisine with its plentiful stewed tomato, onion and raisin sauce. My friends praised the fish tacos, although a bit pricey for 2, and the Hawaiian pizza and surf-and-turf gumbo. Although the meal was a bit drawn out, the cold and crisp Switchbacks helped and we didn't seem to mind.; read more about this restaurant

I've found a new favorite spot!: Reviewed by VivaVermont on March 29, 2010; Swung by 156 Bistro for the first time on Friday night to watch the UVM hockey game. I felt at home the moment I walked in. Really liked the open space and dimly lit tables and cozy corner booths and couches. They were slammed with dinner orders so the bar service was a bit slow but the bartender was very apologetic. Secured a front and center spot at the bar to watch the game and enjoyed mild buffalo wings and a few microbrews. This is a reliable addition to Burlingon's bar and restaurant scene and I'm glad I went!; read more about this restaurant

I'll take what I can get.: Reviewed by VivaVermont on March 23, 2010; This was my second time at Three Penny. I came for a snack and a beer before the Green Mountain Film Festival but was disappointed to hear the chef wasn't "on" that night. The bartender said she hadn't worked for a few days so wasn't sure what cheeses or meats were available to serve. I said, "Well, tell me what you've got and I'll take it." Her response was a big sigh as she disappeared into the kitchen to check. I'm a paying customer, right? A person I assume to be the owner or manager was listening in and piped up with a detailed description of the cheeses "on tap" and applauded my decision to get the Cabot Clothbound cheddar. I settled into a spot at the end of the bar with my Saison Dupont (delicious and crisp but almost regrettable at $7) and a book, and enjoyed a healthy dish of olives and a plate of bread and cheese. The fare was tasty but the service, and attitude, were not. Thanks to the manager for saving my stomach, but please bring back your chef 7 nights a week! Or, a bartender that knows what's up.; read more about this restaurant

Leisurely dinner hit the spot: Reviewed by VivaVermont on March 18, 2010; Came in on St. Patty's day for some pizza and beer and left happy. Good thing we weren't in a hurry as the service was spotty, but the bartender was very pleasant and recommended a tasty pie with ricotta, chevre and artichokes to us. I've also found my new favorite beer in the McNeill's IPA. This is a cozy, family-oriented spot with a nice bar and plenty to choose from. I'll be back soon.; read more about this restaurant

Double birthday, double perfection!: Reviewed by VivaVermont on February 26, 2010; My boyfriend and I shared a double birthday at The Kitchen Table Bistro last night and left in awe as usual! This is our favorite restaurent in Vermont and we never cease to be amazed by it's consistency, creativity and warmth. I feel the comforts of home but the professionalism and perfection of a high end eatery. The caesar salad and homemade ricotta gnocci are divine! The KTB is a must.; read more about this restaurant

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