A day or weekend trip is bound to include food at some point, and the deluge of golden arches and green mermaids off the highway simply don’t meet our cravings all the time. And part of traveling or a relaxing weekend means enjoying good food. But, of course, the food always tastes better when someone else cooks it for you, too!
Whether you’re a local or visiting from near or far, we’ve rounded out the best Manchester VT restaurants to explore on your next trip. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride to this town’s bustling food scene, tucked in the beautiful green mountains.
The Silver Fork
48 W Road, Manchester, VT 05254
P: 802-768-8444 Website
This intimate, dinner-only restaurant is located inside an old Skinner Library in Manchester Village. The Silver Fork is run by sommelier and mixologist Melody French and her award-winning chef husband, Mark French.
Together, the self-proclaimed food and wine lovers have mastered the “Menu in Movement,” an International menu that changes according to the chef’s inspiration and seasonal offerings.
The Silver Fork was crowned best of the best for date night in the 2021 Travelers’ Choice awards.
Mulligan’s Pub & Restaurant
3912 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
P: 802-362-3663 Website
Due to its tasty American fare, Mulligan’s made this list of the best restaurants in Manchester, Vermont. Set in a converted 19th-century Victorian building in the charming Manchester Village, Mulligan’s is a hop, skip, and a jump from the Equinox Golf Resort and Spa.
While at the pub, Feast on servings of substantial proportions. From traditional New England Clam Chowder to the “Really great burger,” topped with your choice of American, Swiss, Cheddar, Gruyère, or Bleu cheese, you’re sure to find something tasty.
And don’t skip dessert because their brownie à la mode is famous!
Ye Olde Tavern
5183 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-362-0611 Website
This colonial-era tavern was built in 1790 and is on the Vermont Register of Historic Places – a bonus for the hungry history buffs!
Recognized by the state of Vermont as a “Green Business,” Ye Olde Tavern delivers regional faves like Lobster Bisque and Yankee Pot Roast alongside continental choices like Prime Rib and Chicken Pot Pie. Ingredient deletions can be accommodated to fit dietary restrictions, and there’s an extensive wine list to pair with any selection.
Ponce Bistro
4659 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-768-8095 Website
Casual American dining in a historic converted home can give one the feeling of having lunch or dinner at a friend’s house. Ponce Bistro delivers those friendly vibes with their eclectic fusion cuisine of West Coast meets East Coast with a Caribbean and French flair.
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find everything from Crepes to Huevos Puerto Rico to Crab Bruschetta. Ponce is also BYOB sans the corking fee!
The Reluctant Panther Restaurant
39 W Road, Manchester, VT 05254
P: 802-362-2568 Website
Located inside a small luxury hotel, The Reluctant Panther Restaurant features contemporary American cooking in a relaxed, upscale environment. They won the coveted Gold Barn Award from the Vermont Fresh Network (VFN) with their emphasis on locally sourced products. The Wine Spectator-awarded wine list and their extensive cocktail list complement the decadent menu.
Cozy up to the bar or dine alfresco (patio open seasonally) at The Reluctant Panther. Begin with the Lobster and Brie Fondue and end with the Seared Day Boat Scallops. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available at this fine dining establishment.
The Crooked Ram
4026 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
P: 802-417-5049 Website
Named as Esquire’s 2021 Best Bars in America, The Crooked Ram focuses on locally-sourced ingredients with regional and international additions that fit their sustainable efforts.
Serving craft beer and natural wine (produced without herbicides or pesticides) alongside a retail bottle shop, The Crooked Ram also offers cheese and charcuterie boards. With a raw bar, small plates, and pizza, you’d be hard-pressed to find something you’re not craving.
Gringo Jack’s
5103 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05255
P: 802-362-0836 Website
Gringo Jack’s is Southern Vermont’s answer to Southwestern and south of the border cuisine. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, this Main street staple has something for everyone.
Gringo Jack’s features Mexican-style decor, the perfect setting for their fantastic Baja Tacos. Don’t forget the margaritas! Whether frozen or on the rocks, they pair nicely with the delicious tortilla chips and salsa.
Hosting a small gathering? Order from Gringo Jack’s family-style takeout menu.
The Marsh Tavern
3567 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254
P: 802-362-4700 Website
Located inside the Equinox Resort, this hotel restaurant serves hearty classic New England fare in a casual pub atmosphere. Built in 1769, this tavern has seen some history, including several U.S. Presidents.
Enjoy a Caesar salad with chicken, salmon, or grilled shrimp before indulging in their tiramisu. Their wine, beer, and cocktail list won’t disappoint.
The Copper Grouse
3835 Main Street, Manchester Village, VT 05254
P: 802-362-0176 Website
Suppose a trendy tavern & eatery with an elegant interior serving sophisticated pub fare, wine, and cocktails are more up your alley. In that case, The Copper Grouse inside the Kimpton Taconic Hotel should be on your list of must-try Manchester VT restaurants.
Raven’s Den Steakhouse and Taproom
1844 Depot Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-768-8779 Website
With an all-you-can-eat salad bar, including dinner entrees, this steakhouse offers so much more than just steak. Seafood fare and classic New England style bites like Fish and Chips and Clam Chowder satiate diners’ palates.
Run by award-winning “Chef Ed,” this Manchester Village French American restaurant offers “wines on tap,” keeping the region’s oenophiles pleased. Oh, and arriving on a snowmobile? No problem. Riders can park their “sled” right on the restaurant’s snow-covered lawn.
Early Bird Specials are available Thursday – Monday from 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Orders must be made before 5:30. Dine-in ONLY.
Zoey’s Double Hex Restaurant
1568 Depot Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-362-4600 Website
A list of Manchester VT restaurants wouldn’t be complete without the casual, comfortable dining experience at this American eatery. Zoey’s Double Hex Restaurant serves lunch and dinner, boasting plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (during warmer weather, of course).
Fresh fish, pasta, and country staples like meatloaf and ribs graze the extensive menu, with many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With over a dozen varieties to choose from, their award-winning burgers are not to be missed.
Zoey’s Deli & Bakery
539 Depot Street, Manchester, VT 05255
P: 802-362-0005 Website
Opened and operated under the concept, “Make everything you sell,” Zoey’s Deli & Bakery has been doing just that since 1991. From their freshly baked bread to the potato chips that are a must-try, it’s no surprise that this delicious sandwich shop has a strong following of repeat customers.
Up for breakfast? They do that, too! From 8:30 a.m. until noon, enjoy an array of egg sandwiches on kaiser rolls, or satisfy that early morning sweet tooth with one of their many baked goodies.
The Little Rooster Café
4764 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-362-3496 Website
This cash-only European-style café serves breakfast and lunch, priding itself, like many Manchester VT restaurants on this list, in using fresh, local products.
They serve breakfast all day for those who love their eggs and hash browns in the afternoon. Savory soups and salads abound, and if you’re feeling rather indecisive, check out the “Specials” board for inspiration.
Depot Street Burgers
468 Depot Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255
P: 802-362-7500 Website
An upscale burger joint that doesn’t only serve a plethora of burgers, but hot dogs, salads, and chicken tenders, as well, is what you’ll find at Depot Street Burgers.
Their Friday night fish fry features a gluten-free fried haddock with tartar sauce, coleslaw, and French fries. Complement any casual meal with one of the many beers on tap or wine.
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