11 Must-Try Restaurants in Montpelier, VT
Montpelier(the capital of Vermont) is a political hub and a haven for food lovers. Restaurants in Montpelier showcase a wide range of food traditions.
From American, Thai, and Indian to Vietnamese dishes, the choices are diverse. The beautiful hills and landscapes surround the city with its deep history and varied food scene.
Restaurants here seamlessly blend traditional with modern dishes. Some establishments champion the farm-to-table philosophy, while others take diners on a global culinary journey.
Whether you’re craving an American burger, Italian pizza, a spicy Thai curry, aromatic Indian biryani, or a comforting bowl of Vietnamese pho, Montpelier offers them all. Dive in and enjoy the rich flavors this city has to offer.
Restaurants in Montpelier
Sarducci’s
At Sarducci’s, you step into a delightful Italian dining experience. It’s perched by the Winooski River in Vermont, making it a local gem and a must-visit for Central Vermont travelers.
You’ll savor authentic Italian flavors crafted from the freshest ingredients. The restaurant’s riverside setting adds charm, attracting locals and travelers.
Besides the classic Italian fare, they offer a full-service bar, an extensive wine selection, and menus accommodating gluten-free and dietary restrictions, all in a warm, family-friendly ambiance.
Whether you arrive with a large group or seek an intimate dining experience, their award-winning service meets your every need.
Sarducci’s menu boasts five-star quality Italian cuisine at wallet-friendly prices. Plus, you can even take their delectable dishes home. Sarducci’s is where Italian taste meets a memorable experience.
Wayside Restaurant
The Wayside is a historic American diner in Montpelier. It has served Yankee cuisine for over a century since it opened in 1918.
This family-owned eatery is famous for its homemade baked goods, ice cream, and locally grown farm-fresh vegetables.
Enjoy a country-style breakfast, business lunch, or a well-rounded family dinner here. They also serve classic cocktails, beer, and wine.
In 2011, the state of Vermont recognized its eco-friendly efforts with the Green Restaurant Award.
You’re in luck if you’re looking for takeout or daily specials. On Mondays, they have Burger Bonanza. On Tuesdays, it’s Chicken Pie. Wednesdays, Meatloaf. Thursdays, Roast Pork. Fridays, Maple Ham Steak. Saturdays, Pot Roast. Sundays, Turkey Dinner.
This diner has appeared in media outlets like CBS Sunday Morning and Vermont Public Radio. For a taste of Vermont’s culinary heritage, Wayside is a must-visit.
J Morgan’s Steakhouse
Located at 100 State Street in Montpelier, J Morgan’s Steakhouse stands out as a top dining spot. People describe its vibe as ‘city steakhouse,’ ‘eclectic,’ and even ‘eye candy.’
This restaurant belongs to the Capitol Plaza Hotel. For years, it’s been a go-to for award-winning seafood and steaks.
On the menu? Aged beef cut in-house, unique pasta, fresh seafood, and prime rib, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Some crowd favorites? Their garlic bread, crispy pub chicken or shrimp, and different steak choices.
This spot boasts many awards. In 2018, it earned the Restaurateur of the Year title. It’s also known for the best steakhouse in Vermont, seafood, and Sunday brunch.
We love the top-notch service, inventive dishes, and flawlessly cooked meals. The restaurant provides takeout and welcomes reservations.
Three Penny Taproom
Located at 108 Main Street, Three Penny Taproom is a popular gastropub and restaurant. It boasts an extensive selection of local and regional craft beers, earning itself the reputation of a “craft-beer Mecca.”
Alongside its impressive beer list, it serves creative and upscale pub food, including European-style tapas fare.
The food impresses, with the best chicken sandwiches in town! Their fresh tomato soup is fantastic, and the grilled cheese bread is top-notch.
Three Penny Taproom offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, featuring a nice bar and a separate dining room with big window views of the main street.
The outdoor seating in summer is cool. Friends might honk at you. Take an Instagram photo while you eat their chicken sandwich.
Buddy’s Famous
Buddy’s Famous serves up delicious treats that you’ll love. They craft their burgers from 100% pure ground beef, ensuring a great dining experience.
You’ll also enjoy their hand-cut fries made from Idaho potatoes, fried to perfection in pure 100% canola oil. And remember their hand-spun milkshakes created from premium hard ice cream.
The atmosphere at Buddy’s is charming, with plenty of seating and captivating painted murals inside. Even on a Friday at lunchtime, it’s relatively quiet, though there’s a steady flow of patrons.
For dessert, try their milkshakes – the vanilla ice cream with a hint of chocolate syrup is a refreshing, not-too-sweet choice.
Buddy’s prides itself on fresh-cut fries, burgers, attention to detail, generous portions, and speedy service.
Don’t miss the chocolate peanut butter flavor if you’re craving a milkshake. Overall, Buddy’s is one of the best restaurants in Montpelier and is perfect for a satisfying lunch.
The Skinny Pancake Montpelier
The Skinny Pancake is a local chain famous for its breakfast, paninis, crepes, and live music. It’s at 89 Main Street Montpelier and is open seven days a week.
They serve crepes, burgers, wine, beer, coffee, and cocktails, and they get their ingredients from local farms, promoting sustainability.
Their all-day breakfast menu has favorites like the Breakfast Monster, which has egg, spinach, cheddar cheese, roasted squash, caramelized onion, and basil-sunflower seed pesto in a crepe.
The atmosphere is relaxed with a cozy, woodsy feel, but it can get crowded during peak times. We love this place for its comfortable vibe and lovely outdoor patio.
Namaste Indian Nepali Kitchen
Indian Nepali Kitchen, established on May 5th, 2020, brings the vibrant flavors of Nepal and India right to your plate. The founders, natives of Nepal, are on a mission to share their rich culinary heritage with you.
Having spent years in Montpelier sampling Indian and Nepali fare, they noticed the absence of that authentic, mouthwatering taste.
The menu is a delightful journey through appetizers, soups, Indian bread, rice dishes, and vegetarian and non-vegetarian entrees, culminating in delectable desserts.
But that’s not all; Catering By Namaste Indian Nepali Kitchen offers diverse options for your special events.
Whether it’s an intimate gathering, a corporate team dinner, or a wedding, they provide tailored culinary experiences to suit each occasion. So, if you’re seeking authentic Indian and Nepali flavors, look no further than Indian Nepali Kitchen.
The North Branch Cafe
The North Branch, a family-run establishment since opening in 2013, offers a unique blend of wine, tea, and brunch.
As you walk in, it feels like you’re entering a building housing various businesses, with the cafe to the right. The design is delightfully old-school, featuring plush and rigid seating areas, including a bar.
Regarding food, the cafe specializes in local Vermont fare, offering an array of options from homemade sushi to Fresh Spring Rolls, Soups, Masala Rollups, Flatbread Sandwiches, Hummus, and many more.
The North Branch is a haven for tea and wine lovers, boasting 95 hot tea selections and up to iced tea options.
Their State of Art Wine dispenser features wines from around the world, with 1, 2, or 5 oz glass options. There’s even a separate room dedicated to wine lovers.
Plus, just across the street, you can enjoy live music by the church wall while savoring The North Branch’s riverfront patio. It’s a true Vermont gem worth a revisit.
Wilaiwan’s Kitchen
Wilaiwan’s Kitchen, a Thai food destination established in 2009, initially began as a humble food cart before the Montpelier courthouse.
The primary aim was to bring the vibrant flavors of Bangkok’s streets to the local community.
The dedicated team, consisting of the proprietors who handle all the prep and cooking themselves, along with their helpful cashier and dishwasher, continues to serve authentic Thai cuisine.
Their concise menu simplifies decision-making, showing their dedication to quality.
Every dish exudes authenticity, from the spicy and flavorful Khao Soy to the mild Gwit Diow Hang.
Whether you opt for takeout or dine at one of the few outdoor tables, the staff’s genuine hospitality shines through, making your visit all the more delightful.
Wilaiwan’s Kitchen epitomizes the charm of places with limited, consistently exceptional menus, ensuring generous portions that satisfy without overwhelming.
Although closed on weekends, occasional events like the Saturday art sale add to the allure of this establishment. A visit here is worth every mile traveled as you savor the true essence of Thai cuisine.
Woodbelly Pizza
Are you looking for the best pizza in Montpelier? So, find Woodbelly at 79 Barre Street.
Their dough comes from freshly milled flour in nearby Elmore, Vermont, and they’ve been crafting wood-fired pizza since 2008.
The cuisine and pizza take inspiration from Italian and Mediterranean styles but also have global influences.
There are many vegetarian options. Each option comes with dipping sauces. The garlicky marinara stands out.
In addition to their pizzas, Woodbelly also provides full-service catering. This includes a licensed bar service and help coordinating rental orders, making event planning easier.
The catering menus have many options. You can choose from wood-fired pork, beef, chicken, salads, and dessert options.
The Woodbelly’s team of talented chefs and staff stands ready to make the next event unique, delicious, and memorable in Montpelier.
Pho Capital
Pho Capital is one of the notable restaurants in Montpelier, situated at 107 State Street. This Vietnamese restaurant has a warm, inviting atmosphere accentuated by exposed brick walls. Its small and clean dining area is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quiet meal.
Their menu boasts Thai small plates, pho, classic dishes, and vegetarian options. Don’t miss their spring rolls, papaya salad, and well-crafted rice dishes.
The menu also includes a broad hot Vietnamese tea list, available in various flavors with the choice of oat milk.
Customers consistently praise the authentic Vietnamese cuisine and friendly staff. In addition to dine-in services, takeout is also available. Conveniently, there’s private parking in front, making it ideal for pick-up orders.
FAQs
What types of restaurants can I find in Montpelier?
Montpelier boasts diverse restaurants, from local cafes to international cuisines such as Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Montpelier?
Yes, Montpelier has several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants that offer a variety of delicious plant-based dishes.
Is a reservation required at a Montpelier restaurant?
While walk-ins are welcome in many establishments, making a reservation is always a good idea, especially during peak dining hours or at popular restaurants.
Do restaurants in Montpelier offer takeout or delivery services?
Many restaurants in Montpelier offer takeout and delivery services, especially in light of the recent emphasis on contactless dining options.
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
