Diners' Choice: Best Ambiance restaurants in Northern Vermont

OpenTable

Updated November 05, 2026

Looking for restaurants with the best ambiance in Northern 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!

The Inn at Burklyn

4.8

4.8 (258)

$50 and over

American

Lyndonville

About the restaurant

The Inn at Burklyn Presents 'The Winter Cut' Bistro, our creative a la carte menu features seasonal ingredients and warm, rich textures along with seasonal cocktails, local craft beers, select beers on tap and an extensive wine list. The Winter Cut will be available Thursday through Saturday evenings from 5:15 PM beginning November 27th, 2026.

Top review

Deidre

Dined on Oct 24, 2026

Every single detail from our first minute on the property to checkout was superb. The food is divine and the wait staff are friendly and gracious. The views are amazing. Our room was pure perfection. We cannot wait to return.

Jessica's at Swift House

4.9

4.9 (1074)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Middlebury

About the restaurant

Jessica’s is a refined contemporary American restaurant located inside Swift House Inn, just two blocks from downtown Middlebury. Led by Executive Chef Robert Fenn, Jessica's seasonal, ingredient-driven cooking is paired with an award-winning wine list in intimate dining rooms with fireplaces, an enclosed porch, and a garden-facing covered deck. Outdoor seating is weather dependent.

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.

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

David A

Dined 2 days ago

Definite upscale dining with great ambia nce and cordial staff.

The Belfry

4.9

4.9 (56)

$30 and under

American

Montgomery

About the restaurant

Voted #6 in USA TODAY Top 10 Apres-Ski Bars
The Belfry is an 1800 School House with the original blackboard still being used to show the daily specials. Located in Montgomery Center, Vermont, just minutes from Jay Peak Resort. The Belfry Bunch welcomes all, with a friendly atmosphere, an exceptional staff, delicious food, cold beer and a warm smile or two. If you don't see a time that suits you, give us a call. We may have something not listed. Outside seating on the deck available when weather permits. Please call the restaurant directly for outside dinner reservations for nights we have live music. Live music July and August on Tuesday and Sunday nights. See our Facebook page our our website for daily updates. belfryvt.com The kitchen stays open until 9PM on Tuesday night music nights.

Top review

Catherine

Dined 1 day ago

Very enjoyable meal. Noisy but fun. Food was excellent!

Highland Lodge

4.7

4.7 (178)

$30 and under

American

Greensboro

About the restaurant

Come for the views, stay for the food and cocktails!

Perched above beautiful Caspian Lake, Highland Lodge offers a warm, welcoming dining experience, whether you're enjoying sunset views from our Queen Anne Porch or cozying up by the fireplace and bar.

Our Vermont Fresh Network Gold Barn-certified kitchen celebrates the best of Vermont, with seasonal menus featuring locally grown produce, meats, and dairy from neighboring farms. Pair your meal with one of our signature cocktails, a Hill Farmstead draft, or another local favorite.

Winter Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 4–9 PM

Summer Hours: Thursday–Sunday, plus our beloved Margarita Mondays!

Something special this winter: Keep an eye out for select Sunday collaborations with Cookee's Supper Club, featuring unique dining experiences at the Lodge. Advance tickets and reservations required.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Lodge!

Top review

Elizabeth

Dined on Oct 9, 2026

The service - the food and the drinks were incredible!! We celebrated our anniversary there prior to going to see Bob Marley on Friday night. We will go back!!

Café Monette

4.9

4.9 (39)

$31 to $50

Bistro

Saint Albans

About the restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Downtown St. Albans, Vermont, Café Monette offers a warm and inviting French-inspired dining experience. Led by acclaimed Chef Adam Monette, a Food Network "Holiday Baking Championship" winner, alongside his talented former culinary students, the kitchen crafts exquisite, scratch-made dishes. The menu thoughtfully evolves with the seasons, showcasing the freshest ingredients sourced directly from Vermont farms and producers. This commitment to local partnerships ensures unparalleled freshness and supports the vibrant community. Guests can expect a first-class experience in a bright, airy setting that beautifully blends local charm with Parisian elegance, making it a cherished destination for both locals and visitors seeking memorable cuisine.

Top review

Mary

Dined 3 days ago

Food was amazing, everything was cooked to perfection. Can’t wait to go back!

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Experience

The Cafe Monette Chef's Table Experience

Starry Night Cafe

4.6

4.6 (1334)

$31 to $50

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

Meara

Dined 7 days ago

VERY high quality food at this lovely, cozy-feeling cafe out in the country. Everything was beautifully flavorful, fresh, perfectly seasoned. Our group split the roasted oysters appetizer, and the house-made pastrami appetizer, both of which were amazing. My companions both ordered pasta dishes. I tried to order the special pasta (squash bucatini) but it was sold out. The shrimp and grits I pivoted to were amazing, though, so no regrets! One thing I was a little surprised by was the number of menu items that were sold out by the time we ordered. We had a 6:00 p.m. reservation, so I wouldn't have expected so many things to sell out so early in the evening. That said, the restaurant was packed, with parties who had gotten there even earlier than us, so I gather the dinner hour skews a bit early in rural Vermont. Ambiance and service were lovely. Prices were in line with what I'd expect at a higher end, farm-to-table venue. I would definitely dine here again!

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Popular dish

Steak Tartare

Experience

New Years Eve at Starry Night

Plate

4.3

4.3 (182)

$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

Ben

Dined on Oct 22, 2026

Overall a very good dinner. Food was delicious. We were the first customers to try a new fall squash dish and it did not disappoint. A truly delicious meal!! Would definitely recommend Plate as a go to Stowe restaurant.

Leunig's Bistro

4.2

4.2 (1864)

$31 to $50

Contemporary French / American

Burlington

About the restaurant

Leunigs Bistro has been a Burlington institution since it opened in 1980. Located on the corner of Church and College Streets on the Marketplace, it invites all passers by to visit Burlington's own little Parisian Cafe. The decor and ambiance will make you think you're in Paris, and the food will make you think you've died and gone to heaven. A member of the Vermont Fresh Network, Leunigs chefs prepare the best of local ingredients with a worldly accent. Lunch served Monday-Friday, Dinner every night, and Brunch on Saturday & Sunday. Great wines by the glass or bottle, full liquor service. Best people watching in town. Reservations accepted, but not necessary. Every meal served with the panache of Paris and the value of Vermont, right in the center of town.

Top review

Casey

Dined 5 days ago

We always have a wonderful time at Leunig’s! The food was fantastic all around. I had the salmon frites, and the salmon was absolutely delicious. My husband really enjoyed the beef bourguignon, and my dad loved the swordfish. One of the things we especially love about coming here is the kids' menu. It's so nice that our kiddo can enjoy salmon and green beans, followed by the ever-popular worms and dirt for dessert! Our waiter was friendly, attentive, and made sure we felt well cared for throughout the evening. Thank you for another wonderful evening. We always look forward to coming back!

Two Brothers Tavern + Notte

4.4

4.4 (375)

$30 and under

American

Montpelier

About the restaurant

WELCOME TO TWO BROTHERS TAVERN
Two Brothers is located on Main Street in Middlebury, VT - within easy walking distance of Middlebury College and most accommodations. Enjoy upscale Vermont-inspired comfort fare at our conversation-filled bar, in our charismatic tavern or seasonal outdoor cafe. We're famous for our Burgers and Phillies, as well as for our wide selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options (including a dedicated GF frier). Built by beer lovers for beer lovers, our 32 draughts - the largest selection in the region - feature a rotating selection of local craft brews, macrobrews, hard ciders and kombucha. Named the Vermont Restaurateurs of the Year by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, we're a family-owned, family-friendly, inclusive community hub in an iconic Vermont village.

Top review

Meara

Dined 7 days ago

We've eaten here a couple of times and found the food and drink quality very good! The menu is fairly diverse, with comfort/pub food, but also some very good vegetarian options, which I appreciate. I had a delicious roasted veggie sandwich and my husband had a very hearty grain bowl. Our son said his grilled cheese was really good, as was the side of butternut squash soup. Service was friendly and efficient. Another standout: they offer some really good mocktails! I had one that included beet juice and ginger beer, and it was delicious (and pretty!)

Ardelia's

4.0

4 (127)

$50 and over

American

Vergennes

About the restaurant

Basin Harbor Resort in Vergennes, Vermont has everything you need to relax with friends and family. This includes the restaurant which offers stunning views of Lake Champlain. Since it opened in 1886, food has been an integral part of what attracts people to Basin Harbor Club and Resort. Ardelia's is our home for fine dining. It's open for dinners on select nights, as well as serving breakfast daily. Please note the space is rented for weddings and may have blackout dates. Open seasonally.

Top review

geoffreyGold

Dined on Sep 9, 2026

This was by far the best meal we’ve had in the area this summer! Meal was to perfection. Lovely presentation and exceeded our expectations - make a trip to the Harbor soon and eat at Ardelia’s!

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