Welcome to Vermont – A Foodie’s Paradise
Looking for the ultimate Vermont food guide? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’re embarking on an epicurean journey through the Green Mountain State, Vermont. Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the United States, Vermont is a land of abundant natural beauty, rich culture, and even richer culinary treasures. Here’s your personal guide to exploring this foodie’s paradise, one mouth-watering bite at a time.
Introduction to Vermont Cuisine
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s set the stage. Vermont’s culinary scene is centered around fresh, locally-grown, and seasonal ingredients. Farm-to-table isn’t just a trend here, it’s a way of life. From artisanal cheese to maple syrup to craft beer, Vermont is renowned for its high-quality produce. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s dig in!
Vermont’s Famous Cheeses
If you’re a cheese lover, Vermont is your heaven. The state is home to some of the best artisanal cheeses in the country, thanks to its thriving dairy industry. Start your Vermont cheese trail at the Shelburne Farms, a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark on the shores of Lake Champlain. Here, you’ll witness the process of cheese-making from milk to the finished product. Don’t forget to try their award-winning cheddar!
The Sweet Side of Vermont: Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is as synonymous with Vermont as the lush Green Mountains themselves. In fact, Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the United States. Pay a visit to a local sugarhouse like Sugarbush Farm where you can see sap being boiled into maple syrup. Trust me, nothing compares to the taste of fresh, warm syrup straight from the sugarhouse. It’s also a perfect souvenir to bring home to your loved ones.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Vermont’s thriving farm-to-table scene is something you simply can’t miss. Restaurants across the state serve meals featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. One such gem is Hen of the Wood in Burlington and Waterbury, which serves dishes showcasing Vermont’s seasonal produce. Also worth a visit is The Farmhouse Tap & Grill in Burlington, known for its craft beers and locally-sourced fare.
Vermont Craft Beer
If you appreciate a good brew, you’re in luck! Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state. Take a tour at the famous Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro, consistently rated one of the best in the world. Or drop by The Alchemist in Stowe, the home of Heady Topper, one of the most coveted beers among enthusiasts.
Farmers’ Markets
For a taste of everything Vermont has to offer, swing by one of the many farmers’ markets. The Burlington Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in the state, offering a wide range of local produce, artisanal cheeses, hand-crafted goods, and baked treats. It’s the perfect spot to sample a bit of everything and meet local farmers and artisans.
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
No foodie trip to Vermont would be complete without a visit to the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury. Here, you can take a 30-minute tour to see how their famous ice cream is made, and of course, sample some too!
Vermont Apple Cider
How could we forget about Vermont’s apple cider? It’s a local favorite, especially in the crisp fall season. Orchards such as Champlain Orchards and Cold Hollow Cider Mill offer fresh cider and delightful cider donuts. Take a tour, taste different cider varieties, and even get a chance to see cider-making processes from start to finish. Believe me, the sweet, tart taste of Vermont apple cider is something you won’t forget.
Seafood in Vermont
Being a landlocked state, you might be surprised to hear that Vermont has a vibrant seafood scene, especially when it comes to freshwater fish. With Lake Champlain bordering the state, dishes featuring trout, bass, and perch are a common sight. Don’t miss out on trying some locally-caught fish at a lakeside restaurant, like the Blue Paddle Bistro in South Hero.
Local Specialty: Vermont Fiddleheads
For a truly unique Vermont culinary experience, seek out the elusive fiddlehead. This fern, harvested in the spring, is a local delicacy and is often sautéed with butter and garlic or used in soups. Be sure to ask the locals for their favorite fiddlehead spots – they’re a seasonal treat and can be hard to find!
Vermont’s Pies
When it comes to desserts, nothing beats a slice of Vermont’s homemade pies. Bakeries and markets are brimming with pies that feature locally sourced fruits like apples, cherries, and berries. For a slice of some of the best, try the Red Hen Baking Company in Middlesex or the Woodstock Farmers Market in Woodstock.
Chocolates in Vermont
Did you think we’d forget about the chocolates? Vermont is famous for its artisan chocolates and truffles. Be sure to stop by places like Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington or the Laughing Moon Chocolates in Stowe for some exquisite chocolate tastings.
And Lastly…
As you wrap up your culinary journey through Vermont, don’t forget to take home some edible souvenirs. Whether it’s a bottle of pure Vermont maple syrup, a block of sharp Vermont cheddar, a box of handcrafted chocolates, or a growler from a favorite local brewery, these treats will let you savor the tastes of Vermont even after your visit.
And remember, Vermont’s culinary scene is as much about the places as it is about the food. The beauty of the green mountains, the charm of the small towns, the warmth of the local farmers, artisans, and chefs – all of these ingredients come together to create a dining experience that’s uniquely Vermont. So savor each moment, each bite, and each memory.