Woodstock’s dining scene might look as quaint and unchanged as its covered bridges, but let us tell you, some things have happened since 2024. The power of a perfect maple-glazed doughnut continues to grow, to the point that even the most stoic Vermonters queue for them. And then there’s the new stuff: farm-to-table feasts, artisanal cheese boards, and cozy taverns where you can sip local cider by the fire. Turns out we all miss… well, actually, we’re pretty happy right here.
Foley Brothers Beer Garden
$ | (802) 281-6769 | WEBSITE
Always say yes to the 12-ounce burger, the homemade pretzel, the chicken sandwich, the best fries in the Upper Valley, and the Irish stout on tap for dessert.
Public House Pub Quechee
$$ | (802) 295-8500 | WEBSITE
The loaded tater tots or the buffalo chic burger, you can’t go wrong. If the salmon is on, don’t think twice, but consider ordering twice. Finish with a plate of whipped potatoes to take away.
Barnard Inn Restaurant
$$$$ | (802) 234-9961 | WEBSITE
The tender fillet mignon cooked to a perfect medium-rare, a side of expertly roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors, and a generous slice of homemade pie for dessert.
TRAIL BREAK taps + tacos
$$ | (802) 281-3208 | WEBSITE
Start with the grilled watermelon, then move on to the tacos. The jackfruit tacos are some of the most perfect vegetarian options in town (and the authentic salsas are breathtaking). Want a showstopper? Look no further than the shrimp quesadilla.
The White Cottage Snack Bar
$ | (802) 457-3455 | WEBSITE
The strategy is: crunch, crunch, lick. Get the chili dog with crispy onion rings and creamy coleslaw, dunk it in the tangy sauce, lick something sweet from Gifford’s, relax.
Angkor Wat Restaurant
$$ | (802) 457-9029 | WEBSITE
Crispy chicken and noodles with a cold local lager is a wise choice, and any curry or something from the kitchen with spicy green curry is a sure thing. End with lemongrass pork and aromatic Cambodian beef noodle soup.
WhistlePig Tasting Room
$$ | (802) 771-4058 | WEBSITE
Staying for another flight because we couldn’t bear the thought of leaving after the first one. When we joined a staff discussion about whiskey aging techniques, we knew it was time to pry ourselves away, but it was a struggle.
Snack Bar at the Gorge
$ | (802) 295-6226 | WEBSITE
Share everything, starting with the crispy fried clams, followed by the classic cheeseburger, vegetarian burger, chocolate milkshake, and vanilla soft serve. And another round of those golden fries for good measure. The family-run spot keeps things simple and satisfying, with picnic tables under the sun and a friendly vibe that welcomes both kids and dogs. At about $12-$18 per plate, you get generous portions of fresh seafood and classic American fare without any fuss.
It’s the kind of place where you can relax after exploring the gorge, savoring each bite as the seasonal breeze rolls in. Just remember they close up in mid-October, so get your fill while the sun’s still high.
Abracadabra Coffee Co.
$ | (802) 332-0045 | WEBSITE
It’s a coffee shop, so all of the focus is on the brew. But pay special attention to the maple syrup latte and the cider donut. Both are delightful.
Amato’s Xpress
$ | (802) 457-8173 | WEBSITE
You might want to note this down: Italian sub, classic chips, bottled water, a selection of wine, and maybe some snacks for the road, of course.
Au Comptoir
$$ | (802) 299-5435 | WEBSITE
The ginger margarita and the old fashioned are a must. If there’s a firepit available, request it, then ask for a blanket. Use it. Just pray the fall weather holds.