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photo: Matthew Thorsen

Solstice at Stowe Mountain Lodge
Plenty of restaurants are pretty. But the earth-toned dining room at Solstice has a grandeur that's at once rooted right here — the room's furnishings and pottery were created by Vermont artisans — and totally out of this world. There is nothing else like it in the state.
The kitchen team crafts elegantly simple and seasonal fare that perfectly complements the décor. À la carte ordering is available, but the five-course $75 tasting menu is a special treat. On a given night, it could include a bite of crisped Duclos & Thompson pork belly with a drizzle of spiced honey, a dish of lamb and gnocchi with local ricotta and braised leeks — or both. Since they purchase food from nearly 40 area farmers and producers, the chefs have oodles of meats, greens and other products to choose from.
The fruit tarts and house-made ice creams are divine — and few can resist a dessert called the Chocolate Triple Bypass. For those who can, the cheese plate is exceptional, a wide assortment of nutty, creamy or stinky wedges. Wash 'em down with a glass of sweet and tangy, amber-colored Eden Ice Cider, one of Vermont's premier dessert wines.
Can't swing dining-room prices? Just steps away, at the Hourglass Bar, patrons can snuggle up near the fireplace and snack on Moroccan-spiced chicken wings with blue cheese dressing and house-pickled veggies, or a flatbread — recently touted in Food & Wine magazine — and a pint of beer or a snazzy cocktail.
Another budget option? Get your fix pre-mountain instead of post. At breakfast, Solstice offers build-your-own omelettes for $12, while an egg, cheddar and bacon sandwich is $9.
No matter when you go, the ambience, service and fare conspire to make everyone feel like a VIP.
— SUZANNE PODHAIZER
Solstice at Stowe Mountain Lodge
7412 Mountain Road, Stowe, 802-253-3560
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