Doc Ponds

The restaurant is under new management and just reopened this week. The food was great and so was…read morethe service. The view is beautiful. I had the pork shank and it was tender, juicy and delicious. My husband had the short ribs and said it was superb!

We had dinner here last night as our first night out in Stowe. Didn't know what to expect as we're…read morehere during the winter holidays and we made reservations a bit last minute where we could, basically where there was availability. The ambiance is rustic and charming, old time feel and the wood in the fireplace was crackling and giving off an amazing atmosphere and smell! We were seated by a friendly young lady who said it was her first night back from college on winter break, so she didn't know the extra specials they had, but that was A-OK! The waiter finally came and bless his heart, while nice, was a little nervous, uncertain and uncomfortable. We asked if they had sherry or Port--each time, he had to go back and check. We finally got some Porto (after he came back to the table with 2 options / bottles in hand--all things considered, the Port was great). We finally ordered the Truffled Hummus (nothing truffled about it, it looked and tasted like store-bought hummus). We actually knew the taste was not going to be great at all by the bread that first came out - old bread, just heated. And incredibly yeasty dough. Not good. The Seafood Fra Diablo was a joke - it had frozen small shrimp in it and the TINIEST scallops I have ever seen. See the pictures. My husband and I both had the salmon--the entire dish was incredibly oily. Overall for the quality and taste, the place was overpriced too. We skipped the desert and called it a night. 2 Stars because I think the fireplace was amazing and the Port and the clam chowder was really good. (I forgot to mention it earlier, but my friend did think it was delicious.) Will unfortunately not be returning, still--good Port and soup, and all. Edit: my friend who ordered the Fra Diablo dish has been sick since she had this meal. Terrible experience.

Fireplace

Asian flavored quinoa salad with coconut and pineapple

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In comparison to the fork

Idletyme

4.0(863 reviews)

1.3 mi

We loved the food and prompt service we had here! My husband got the short rib special and I got…read morethe roasted half chicken and they were delicious! Actually the best food we've had to far in Stowe! Our server Olivia was fast and friendly.

Best brewery we visited on our trip. And that's saying something as we hit almost half a dozen…read more We were in Stowe for the day to see friends and do a few things. We wanted to hit some of their top breweries. A friend who had been last year said his favorite was Idletyme so we hit their first. We wandered through the inside areas in to the back area. That's the spot. Underneath the canopy of trees there sits a long wooden bar. The vibe that day was ideal with the sunlight cutting through the leaves. I got their pilsner and it was the best beer of the trip. An excellent subtle tasty golden beverage. We moved on shortly after to the next spot but I had to agree that Idletyme was the spot. I plan to make it back to Stowe again soon, and Idletyme will be one of my first stops.

Sad, cheap decor to enjoy your equally sad, but expensive meal.

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Ordered ciders to go with lunch.

The Bench

4.2(877 reviews)

0.2 mi

My wife and I loved our visit to this fun and friendly gastropub in Stowe. It was crowded for a…read moreWednesday night, but the staff was friendly and efficient. We waited about 15 minutes for a table. Not bad at all!! Our server was energetic and accommodating. She cheerfully answered all our questions and honored our request to get a margherita pizza as an appetizer. The aforementioned pizza arrived in no time. It was good. Not the best ever, but still quite solid. The star of the culinary show was the salmon entree. Both my wife and I got it and we both loved it. It was a big piece of wood fired salmon and came with a nice assortment of roasted veggies. I'm talking real veggies--zucchini, broccoli, fingerling potatoes, the works. Neither one of us are big drinkers, but there are LOTS of microbrews on tap if you're into that kind of thing. The dining room was lively without being too noisy. Both of us enjoyed hanging out there. It would be a great place to have a beer and watch baseball on TV. Will definitely return the next time I'm in town.

They get you in and out very quickly. Friendly staff as well…read more The pepperoni pizza was incredibly greasy with a layer of it on top of the pizza. It was difficult to eat like that. The duck fries just tasted like rosemary. Very strong rosemary. The 1/2 duck was good and it's a huge portion. The veggies it comes with are great. Nicely seasoned and cooked by the fire.

Mussels = Amazing!

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Mussels - SO GOOD!!

Shakedown Street BBQ & Grill

3.9(42 reviews)

0.8 mi

Great location in proximity to Stowe Resort. Love the outdoor seating and live music. Second time…read moredoing Hellsbrook Trail, second time coming to Shakedown post hike.

Starting with the good, the ribs were good. I was worried when my knife had trouble separating ribs…read moreat first, but they turned out to be tender and slid off the bone. Good flavors from the rub, but was a heavy saucing obscured the flavors. That's about where the good stuff ends. None of the sides I ordered were very good. The potato salad was the best of them, but needed some salt and maybe a little bit of acid. The cornbread had good jalapeño flavor, but was dried out. The mac & cheese was surprisingly bland. The ambience here is casual, converted warehouse feel (in fact they have a cidery on property). They host bands during the week so could be a fun place to hang out. It's Vermont, so I don't expect much in the way of good barbecue. This place will do in a pinch, but don't expect competitive Q.

Dirty Fries https://www.shakedownstowe.com/eat

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Truckin' Chicken Sandwich https://www.shakedownstowe.com/eat

Plate

4.0(259 reviews)

Wow! We were quite impressed with Plate. The food, the service - we can't wait for our next annual…read moretrip to VT to eat here again. We started with cocktails and zucchini fritters. The zucchini fritters tasted so close to my grandmother's that right there and then, they had my heart (and my stomach). We had to wait a while for our main courses and the restaurant started to clear out. We were getting worried about time as we wanted dessert too but didn't want to be those people keeping staff there. The waitress came over and apologized about the wait and said they'd be taking care of our entrees! That's the way you do it. Before we could even complain or say anything they recognized the issue and made it right on the spot. The entrees were well worth the wait as was the dessert. Very impressed!

Loved the banana pudding! Also loved the chicken dish…read more Steak tartar just ok. Mussels were good.

Interior

Boursin soufflé

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Shishito peppers

Harrison's Restaurant & Bar

4.4(457 reviews)

Best food we ate in Stowe, VT so far, by a long shot. Absolutely fantastic food here. The…read moreatmosphere was warm and cozy. The wine selection was quite good. Every bit of food was prepared just right. We did eat a pineapple salad that was so fresh and crisp and not overly dressed, which was on the Specials menu. I also ate the Halibut for my main course, which was also on the Specials menu. This was nicely done as well. My wife ate the pork tenderloin, from the regular menu, and it was delicious. The coup de grâce was the dessert. The ice cream of the day, which was an maple gingersnap flavor was outstanding, and carrot cake was hands down the best I have had in my life! The service was good, fast and efficient. If you are looking for a very good, but not inexpensive meal, we would absolutely recommend Harrison's.

We walked in around 5pm and were a me to get seat at bar. Dinner was delicious. We had pork…read moretenderloin and chicken Picatta. Both good. The bartender seriously worked harder than anyone I've seen. She did a fabulous job and kept things moving consistently.

Dining Room

Mussels

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Burrata Caprese

The Alchemist

4.5(347 reviews)

1.5 mi

The Alchemist is one of my favorite spots to visit when we're in Vermont. I remember the days of…read moregoing on Heady Topper hunts, so I'm glad it's much easier to get their beer now. I also love the little Pittsburgh connection and seeing the Terrible Towel welcome mat. It always makes me smile. You can order beers on tap and pick up cases to take home, which makes it easy to stock up on some favorites. The outdoor space has really been enhanced over the last few years and is a delightful place to bring friends and family. Someday I'll plan well enough ahead to finally take the brewery tour, but until then, I'm happy enjoying the beer and the atmosphere.

Beautiful views of the Stowe countryside while having a great beer. What's there not to love?…read more The Alchemist specializes in dank hop character, but they also have a wide range of beers you can choose from. All come in cans except Heady Topper, which you can grab on draft from a refrigerated beer engine. I have to say, having it on draft is a magical experience. Their aluminum cups are quite cute and you can take them home. Food is from a truck. Jamaican food that can be quite overwhelming with salt and spice if you're not careful. The potatoes were especially good. They hold events on their website including Boogie Bingo which we attended on Thursday night. Great host with a very dry sense of humor. We come up to Vermont every year, and this will definitely become a regular spot for us. Cheers!

Heady Topper off the tap!

Highly recommend this wine

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Butler's Pantry

4.7(1k reviews)

Family-owned & operated

Full bar

Biscuits and gravy are the a must try. Biscuit French toast as well. Our go to spot every time we…read morevisit Stowe!

Best meal we had in Stowe, Vermont!! Homemade biscuits and sausage gravy were amazing!read more

Pasta and Chefs Catch Salmon

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Biscuit French toast and biscuits and gravy

Whip Bar & Grill

4.0(437 reviews)

The restaurant was absolutely phenomenal. Reservation is recommended however we had time and didn't…read moremind waiting to see if a table would open up and it did. Our waitress was a delight and let us know a bit more about Vermont considering we were travelers on vacation. We sat outside and despite how chilly it was they had a beautiful semi enclosed patio with heating that made it feel like we were still inside the restaurant. We got the Gorgonzola crusted filet mignon as well as the chicken Caesar salad and it was truly a 10/10 meal! The flavors were bold and delicious and the filet mignon just about melted on your tongue. If I'm ever back in Vermont I will definitely stop by again to try the rest of the menu!

Love love love!!! Please make sure you order the soups! They serve it with homemade honey wheat…read morebread and delicious maple butter- the perfect treat in Vermont!! The soups rotate daily (I had broccoli cheddar) and the corn chowder is a staple on the menu. Both soups were fantastic and they serve very large portions! They are definitely filling. The chicken pot pie and the French dip were also great options. The kitchen staff were perfectly organized and had the food coming out very quickly. I liked how you could see the chefs cooking! Very neat place!

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Lower Bar

5.0(7 reviews)

Visiting from California, we had a great time watching the Superbowl while enjoying some of the…read morebest drinks we had in Vermont. The negroni was among the best I've ever had. The crowd was friendly and the staff was super accommodating. Highly recommend.

This is a great little bar on the Main Street in Stowe - super friendly, attentive staff and great…read moreselection of draft beers. They have a small but decent food menu, and it's a great place to watch a game, relax after a day of exploring or people watch from the patio.

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Bar interior

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37 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Richard H.

Elite 19

147

7 years ago

Doc Pond's is an excellent gastropub that rewards both adventurous and timid menu grazers. Sure, there's a burger, but there are also seasonal treats like wood-roasted tamari broccoli (couldn't stop eating it), and crispy curried chick peas (savory and crunchy), and a heart-stopping garlic mushroom appetizer (gone in seconds flat). The greens in my wife's salad were stunning - the kind you'd expect at Robouchon, not a pub. The setting is rustic hipster, with turntables spinning classics near the hostess station and fireplaces to keep you toasty on snowy nights. The tables are bare wood, and the silverware is in a mason jar at the table. The goofy, eponymous mascot lurks ubiquitously, like Kilroy, showing up on menues and venues. I'm told that during peak season, the wait can be hideous, and with a pile of raves like this one, that is probably true. But I'd say it is worth the wait. In any event, the vibe is super casual, so you won't feel bad rolling up in muddy boots and jeans, but the food is absolutely top notch. My kids prevailed and we ordered desserts, which were downed lustily without regard to the sugar buzz that would ensure an 11pm bedtime. I believe they had the brownie sundae, and basically licked the plate clean. It all clicked for me when, on the way out of town, a barista explained that Doc's is owned by the same team that runs the two famed Hen of the Wood fine dining locations in Burlington and Waterbury. God bless the farm to table movement, and its influence on places like Vermont, where a couple of dedicated chefs can access awesome local produce to knock a meal out of the park for what is, by any standard, a bargain. read more

Belinda R.

Elite 26

172

298

2203

2 years ago

I had the pleasure of dining at a local eatery that offered a delightful meal featuring chicken with chimichurri sauce, creamy mac and cheese, and a classic Caesar salad. We had other items as well but these were my favorite. As the squash was seasoned to lightly and still crunchy. The star of the meal was undoubtedly the chicken, perfectly grilled to achieve a juicy interior with a slightly crispy exterior. The chimichurri sauce, vibrant and herbaceous, added a refreshing kick that elevated the dish. The garlic and parsley notes were well-balanced, with just the right amount of acidity to cut through the richness of the chicken. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a truly memorable centerpiece. The mac and cheese, which did not disappoint. The pasta was cooked al dente, enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that was both comforting and indulgent. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, it offered a satisfying textural contrast. The Caesar salad provided a refreshing counterpoint. The romaine lettuce was crisp and fresh, tossed generously with a classic Caesar dressing that had the perfect balance of creaminess and tang. The addition of shaved Parmesan and crunchy croutons, a boiled egg added both flavor and texture, making it a delightful starter.I would highly recommend the chicken for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorsome and hearty dining experience. read more

Cole G.

127

11 years ago

I was staying up the road for a ski trip with my father, and we decided to go try this place out. I ordered the Falafel sandwich, he went for a burger, and we got a side of fries to split. I was definitely pleased with what I got; however, the portions left a bit to be desired, but the restaurant operates under a small plate system, so the restaurant itself can't be blamed for this. All that aside however, the place's vibe is what brings this up to a four from a three; the décor was great, and from what I could tell all of the music was played on vinyl, which I thought was a great touch to drive home the sort of modern hipster feel that the place had. While this isn't a meal I'll be raving about when I get back home, Doc Pond's is definitely somewhere I'd recommend for a hungry skier or snowboarder fresh off the lift. read more

Jonathan M.

2 years ago

This charming restaurant in downtown Stowe, Vermont, offers both cozy indoor seating and a beautiful outdoor area, making it the perfect spot for any dining preference. The food was solid--well-prepared and flavorful--but what really stands out is the incredible atmosphere. Whether you're inside or enjoying the fresh mountain air outside, the vibe is welcoming and relaxed. It can get a little busy, but that's part of the appeal of this popular spot in the heart of Stowe. A great choice for a laid-back meal in a picturesque setting! read more

Marc W.

10 years ago

We came here because it is probably the most affordable place in Stowe and we were just there for the day. The burger and fries were excellent, as was the Mac and cheese, and the value for money is exceptional, especially for the area. The decor is fresh, contemporary, and inviting, without losing any of the charm you'd expect from a little Vermont tavern. And the atmosphere is fun but not obnoxious; good for both families and a night out with friends. read more

Tim F.

11 years ago

The Blue Balls are the best! They have a killer beer selection and some amazing food. On my last visit the place was packed and our food was delivered within minutes of ordering. Doc Ponds is surely the new go to in Stowe! read more

Derek G.

2 years ago

My favorite meal in Stowe! The half smoked chicken is a world class dish. The bar hill Negronis are the best in town. The staff and bartenders are grace under pressure and always treat us like family. read more

Sharon A.

8 years ago

We had Mac & cheese, crispy chicken sandwich, burgers, and wings - all the food was although it was a rather small menu. Good beer selection as well. Very crowded and loud. Nice wait staff. read more

Kristine C.

7 years ago

Everything is delicious and well planned. The waitstaff is exceptionally nice and the beer menu extensive. Our favorite Stowe destination.

TheUrbanCrash ..

220

3 years ago

One of our favorite meals and overall experiences at a restaurant, just delightful! On our list to come back whenever we are in town.

Ken T.

4 years ago

Great spot with friends! Simple but excellent food and great beer and bar menu. Plenty of food at a great value. We will be back!

Thuy C.

8 years ago

Nice atmosphere and staffs. Food was amazing. The 1/2 chicken was was a bit on the dried side. The pumpkin seed soup was delicious.

Bob G.

3 years ago

Everything about this places is great. I would recommend this to anybody staying in or passing through the Waterbury/Stowe area.

Douglas M.

10 years ago

It was very good! In the parking lot as we were leaving we both said, when can we come back here! Very good. Very!

Tim B.

4 months ago

Wow!! Great Food. Great Service. Great Vibes. 10/10 Can get busy- but worth it and the waitlist makes things easy read more

Si Ying L.

6 years ago

Everything is burned, the chicken and even the bread... and also the chicken wings as well... very disappointed

Renee R.

9 years ago

Came in for restaurant week. Good food, good atmosphere, good drinks, friendly staff. Couldn't get any better

Courtney P.

324

4 years ago

Nicole was an awesome server! The burgers were delicious and the atmosphere was awesome. Highly recommend.

Tom B.

9 years ago

Definitely a "must eat" place. Delicious starters and sandwiches for lunch. You will not be disappointed. read more

Michael P.

8 years ago

Wow wow wow! There are not enough superlatives to describe the food. One of my all time favorites.

Doc Ponds - bars - Updated October 2026

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Good tasting food and friendly staff. Ample parking and nice ambiance. Would have rated them 5…read morestars but was disappointed with the pricing. The sandwiches and burgers already seemed a little steep and if you wanted to substitute fries instead of chips it was an additional $6.00 per substitution.

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We had a wonderful dinner experience at Grant's. Shared a…read morepair of crab cakes (appetizer), half roast chicken (main), apple basque cheesecake (remarkable dessert), and a very nice on-special bottle of wine, all served with great cheer from our waitress Kelly. Grant's exceeded expectations!

We had such a lovely time!! Parking was easy and the interior was cozy! We sat by a large window…read moreand it was so lovely seeing the sky changing colors as the sun went down! We tried a bunch of different things but I only took these two photos...the burger was delicious, fries crispy. We even ordered the mashed potato and it was one of the smoothest mashed potatoes we've ever had. If you wanna go potato loco, try the poutine dipped into mashed potatoes haha The chicken was GORGEOUS and you had half of a chicken!! Trout was good, not dry! Our favorite app was the Brussels sprouts. It was crispy, sweet, savory, and delicious! Our waitress was very lovely and checked in on us several times without being overbearing! One hiccup was that when I walked in and said my party's name the front of the house was very confused and I had to have someone come fetch me/ vouch for me...otherwise it was great!

Rimrock's Mountain Tavern

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Basically, this is a bar that serves food…read more I had the chicken strips with fries. On the negative side, both strips and fries were both frozen prepackaged. On the positive side, they were cooked properly. The meat tasted fresh and was hot and juicy with a crisp crust. The fries were crisp and well-seasoned. My spouse had a quesadilla that was fresh, hot, and tasty. For beverages, I had iced tea that tasted freshly made. My spouse had a smoked lager that he tells me was the best beer he'd had in Vermont. It was dark, smoky, and slightly sweet. The place seemed a bit understaffed, but the guy who seated us and took our orders was pleasant and helpful. The wait for food wasn't bad at all. As for ambiance, the place is a rustic bar in a strip center. There's a pool room and video arcade attached. There's outdoor seating available.

Cozy tavern in the heart of Stowe that is great for groups or just to catch up with a friend…read more There's an arcade section at one end of the bar and a ton of seating throughout the restaurant. I really enjoyed the historic ski pictures and decorations on the wall. Stowe Cider on tap was great and $8, while the Rimrock burger was decently priced as well. When it comes to tavern food you really can't ask for much and I enjoyed my meal! Sometimes you really just want a great burger with greasy fries. Also, the owner was super nice and our service frequently checked in on us. Great staff and establishment and I will definitely be back in the future! I do have to add that my Rimrock burger has some toppings taken off so it is not everything that is included!

Plate

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Loved the banana pudding! Also loved the chicken dish…read more Steak tartar just ok. Mussels were good.

Farmhouse Tap & Grill

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I just enjoyed the best Caesar salad ever! My last best Caesar was in Moab, Utah. I traveled from…read moreAlabama and I wish we could return again soon. My husband ordered the Angus Burger and said it was "Spectacular". Our server Claire was kind and courteous and very positive. We liked the atmosphere of the restaurant and the whole vibe. Thank you so much for caring for us.

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