Diners' Choice: Best Ambiance restaurants in Vermont

OpenTable

Updated July 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants with the best ambiance in Vermont? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Sawmill Bar & Table

4.8

4.8 (170)

$31 to $50

American

Dover

About the restaurant

Sawmill Bar & Table, Southern Vermont’s culinary gem, uses the local agricultural bounty to create world-class farm-to-table fare. Executive Chef Christopher Lauinger brings his wealth of culinary offerings to provide a menu driven by the seasons for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy your evening in our modern rustic Great Room by the fire, in one of our 2 beautiful dining rooms, at our 18th century historic bar, on our beautiful Bluestone Terrace. We are equipped to accommodate events of all sizes, from intimate dinner parties to full-scale weddings. Sawmill Bar & Table welcomes you to the Inn at Farm Road Estate and looks forward to offering a fine dining experience in a casually elegant atmosphere.

Top review

John

Dined 3 days ago

We love it here. We come every 4th of July. Food is always amazing and FRESH. Great spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal

Jessica's at Swift House

4.9

4.9 (934)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Middlebury

About the restaurant

Jessica's at Swift House Inn is located in Middlebury, Vermont, just two blocks from downtown Middlebury. Set in an 1814 stately home, surrounded by beautiful lawns and gardens, Jessica's elegant atmosphere is the perfect place for a dinner for two, or a celebratory dinner for four to forty. Come experience Chef Rob Fenn's seasonal, Vermont-inspired menu.

Jessica's is the recipient of the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence for our wine list, one of only a handful of restaurants in Vermont and fewer than 1400 restaurants world-wide so honored.

Outdoor seating is weather dependent.

Please note when making a reservation that parties of 2 are allotted 90 minutes to dine; parties of 4, 2 hours and parties of 6 or more, 2.5 hours. Also, please note that we plan on seating your party in the dining room at the time of your reservation. If you'd like to relax with a pre-dinner beverage in the bar or parlor, we invite you to arrive well before your reservation time.

Top review

abdula

Dined 2 days ago

This was our 2nd time eating here. It was just as good. Again, we had "duck two ways" and the "cast iron chicken". We again had the fried green tomatoes. We tried something new this time around also. We had the tuna crudo and pork belly. My goodness, the food is delicious. ZERO complaints. Our waitress was Myra, same as before. Great service. Lovely ambiance. Best spot in Middlebury. We didn't get to try breakfast and brunch menu but I'm sure it won't disappoint. I highly recommend going here.

The Hermitage Inn

4.8

4.8 (157)

$31 to $50

American

Dover

About the restaurant

The Hermitage Inn’s award-winning cuisine celebrates the best regional products that New England has to offer, served with our unique brand of mountain elegance.

Our menus, created by Executive Chef Michael Chandler, borrow from haute cuisine and local artisanal foods creating a unique gastronomic experience that is both rustic and refined.

Our wine program delights beginners and connoisseurs alike with thousands of bottles to choose from our Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence wine list. Led by our expert team, guests can explore regions, varietals, producers and vintages from local to all over the world in an elegant yet unpretentious setting.

Top review

Juliet

Dined on May 24, 2025

We started at the bar and Max made us some amazing cocktails then moved to our table where the food was delicious and our server was very attentive. We will be back!

JJ Hapgood General Store & Eatery

4.9

4.9 (26)

$31 to $50

American

Peru

About the restaurant

JJ Hapgood (aka HAPGOODS): 305 Main Street, Peru (802. 824-4800). HAPGOODS has been a neighborhood stalwart since 1827. Serving up Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Fun, Wednesday through Sunday. Join us for a stellar meal or stop in and peruse our curated selection of artisan giftables, vinyl records, craft food and drinks - or - bring home a little magic with one-of-a-kind finds.

Top review

TimothyVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Fun restaurant, great food, nice staff, eat in or outside ...

Starry Night Cafe

4.8

4.8 (1237)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Ferrisburgh

About the restaurant

Starry Night Cafe invites you to a culinary adventure in the heart of Vermont. Our menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients transformed into delectable dishes inspired by global flavors. Savor the delicate notes of pan-seared scallops paired with vibrant mango salsa, or indulge in the rich, earthy flavors of slow-braised lamb shank that melts in your mouth. Each bite reflects our commitment to quality and creativity. As the sun sets, the atmosphere becomes a tranquil haven. The soft murmur of conversation and the gentle crackle of the fireplace create intimacy and warmth. Whether you're enjoying a romantic evening, gathering with friends, or seeking a moment of culinary indulgence, Starry Night Cafe promises an unforgettable experience. Join us under the Vermont sky, where every dish is a masterpiece and every moment is a cherished memory.

Top review

Ned

Dined 3 days ago

A smidge expensive, but worth every penny. Perfect.

Simon Pearce Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (6538)

$50 and over

American

Quechee

About the restaurant

Reservations are recommended.

The dining room at the Mill is a wonderful way to experience Simon Pearce. Using fresh local ingredients, thoughtfully prepared creative American cuisine is served with the backdrop of the Ottauquechee River waterfall and covered bridge.

Simon Pearce Retail Store - Shop before you dine! Our restaurant is located at our flagship retail store where you can explore all of our Simon Pearce glass and pottery in person. All of our products are handmade with love.

Top review

Luiz

Dined 2 days ago

Restaurant is great, with an amazing view and the food is very good. The staff is very friendly. Totally recommend.

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Popular dish

Vermont Cheddar Soup

Popular dish

Provençal Seafood Stew

Popular dish

Shepherds Pie

The Grafton Inn

4.6

4.6 (300)

$30 and under

American

Grafton

About the restaurant

The Grafton Inn is a proud supporter of Vermont’s pioneering farm-to-table philosophy. Our historic inn and two restaurants in southern Vermont offer on-site dining year-round and feature locally-sourced ingredients prepared by food-loving professionals to create timeless, hearty dishes that will please any palate.

The Phelps Barn, originally a carriage house for guests' horses, provides a unique and rustic VT dining experience. Even the hayloft has been repurposed and renovated, providing an elevated seating area as well as our 8-tap bar. It is a fast pace restaurant with live music usually scheduled on the weekends.

If you are looking for a quieter space to have dinner or celebrate a special occasion, we would recommend our 1801 Tavern located inside the Main Inn. This historic space provides a cozy and elevated dining atmosphere. Within the 1801 Tavern you’ll find our recently renovated Pine Room Bar with a working fireplace.

Top review

MicheleVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Had a very enjoyable time with friends and family!

Long Trail Brewing Company

4.8

4.8 (520)

$30 and under

Brewery

Bridgewater

About the restaurant

Our brewery is located in Bridgewater Corners at the junction of Rte. 4 and 100a. We’re 2.5 hours north of Boston, about 1.5 hours south of Burlington, VT, and just 15 minutes from Killington Resort.

Top review

Samantha

Dined 3 days ago

The live entertainment was great and everyone was very patient and sweet with all the kids. Great experience!

Dorset Inn

4.7

4.7 (976)

$30 and under

American

Dorset

About the restaurant

## Experience the Charm of Vermont at the Dorset Inn Restaurant Nestled in the heart of Dorset, Vermont, the Dorset Inn Restaurant invites you to savor the essence of New England dining. Step into the warm embrace of the historic red dining room or the cozy tavern, and let the friendly hospitality wash over you. Indulge in uncomplicated, bistro-style cuisine that celebrates the freshest seasonal ingredients, sourced from local farms and producers. Each dish is a testament to classic culinary techniques and traditions, infused with regional influences that capture the essence of Vermont. The menu dances with the seasons, offering a vibrant tapestry of flavors that reflect the bounty of the land. From succulent prime rib to delectable seafood, every bite is a testament to the chef's passion and commitment to excellence. As you dine, let the ambiance transport you to a simpler time. The crackling fireplace casts a warm glow, while the soft chatter of fellow diners creates a sense of community. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening out, the Dorset Inn Restaurant promises an unforgettable experience. So come, gather around our table and let us share the warmth and flavors of Vermont with you.

Top review

David

Dined 2 days ago

This is a classic dining experience. The service and food is top-notch.

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Popular dish

Dorset Inn Beef Burger

Plate

4.8

4.8 (72)

$30 and under

American

Stowe

About the restaurant

We are open for dinner Wednesday through Sundays at 5:30 pm. We do not take parties larger than 6 and require a credit card to hold reservations for parties of 6. Please call by 1:00 pm the day of your reservation to avoid our cancellation fee. *** Please note we do not have high chairs.

For private events please contact Aaron at amartin0014@gmail.com. Thank you!

Top review

SorayaVIP

Dined on Jun 21, 2025

Loved the food and the flavors, great service and atmosphere. Will return and recommend.

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