Cozy Winter Dining in Stowe
January 31, 2019 by GO STOWE
The colder temperatures make us long for cozy atmospheres, delicious warm food and good company. With Valentine’s Day only a few days away, now is the perfect time to try a new Stowe dining experience or make reservations at your favorite spot. No matter your choice, these restaurants will deliver local Vermont foods served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Below are a few of our favorite Stowe restaurants for a romantic, fireside meal.
The Bistro at Ten Acres
Open daily, Wednesday – Sunday, 5 – 10 p.m.
Located inside an old 1820s farmhouse, The Bistro at Ten Acres is split into three separate, stylish spaces. Each space features its own view and are all connected to the Fireside Lounge where guests can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails, or an after-dinner drink. This intimate space with its delectable menu, centered around roast meats and flavorful seafood entrees, makes for the ideal date night.
Menu Favorites: Perfect for a romantic dinner, start your meal with a plate of East Coast Oysters, or share the Vermont Cheese Plate. For your entrée, the Duck Confit with Lavender Honey Glaze and The Bad Hombre, an 180z Rib-Eye are must try’s! Insider tip: Unwind in the Fireside Lounge with a specialty cocktail, craft brew or a delicious wine from their expansive list.
Cork Wine Bar & Market
Open daily for dinner, Wednesday – Monday, 5 – 9 p.m.
Cork Wine Bar & Market features a 35-seat wine bar, restaurant and retail store. With a unique natural wine selection and creative plates that focus on fresh and local ingredients; Cork is a great spot to start your date night, or to gather with friends. For a cozy night out, enjoy a drink by the fire at Cork.
Menu favorites: Share a Charcuterie Board with Wild Boar and local bread or one of their small plates, like the Maplebrook Burrata. Looking for something heavier? Try the Pappardelle, a house made pasta with red wine peppercorn sauce. Insider tip: Cork Wine Bar & Market is hosting a French Winter Hibernation Dinner on February 7, 2019. This decadent dinner will feature a French fare line up, inspired by the bistro scene of Montreal.
Doc Ponds
Open daily, Tuesday – Thursday, 4 p.m. – midnight and Friday – Monday, 11:30 a.m. – midnight
For anyone looking for a low-key, comfortable night out – Doc Ponds offers traditional bar seating and tables, as well as cozy fireside couches. Relax by the fire with a signature cocktail, after a day of outdoor adventure with your partner.
Menu favorites: For dinner, try the Smoked ½ VT Chicken or the Farro Risotto with winter squash. A must try is the Baked Mac & Cheese side – especially delicious in the winter months. Top it all off with a Chocolate Mudslide Milkshake and add Kahlua for some extra winter warmth. Insider tip: For craft brew enthusiasts, Doc Ponds features 24 rotating taps with some of Vermont’s best brews.
Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar
Open daily, Sunday – Thursday, 4:30 – 9:30 p.m. and Friday – Saturday, 4:30 – 10 p.m.
Located on Main Street in Stowe’s historic village, Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar is well known among locals and visitors alike. It’s dining room is made comfortable by soft lighting, exposed wood and a fireplace. Harrison’s serves comfort food with a creative twist in an intimate setting.
Menu favorites: For an entrée worthy of a special occasion, try the Venison Flank Steak, a marinated and grilled steak served with a red wine vinaigrette. For dessert, we suggest the Frozen Mocha Cheesecake with Oreo cookie crust, whipped cream and chocolate syrup – share with your significant other, or order one each! Insider tip: Harrison’s is currently booked for Valentine’s Day but is the perfect spot for any special occasion. Make your reservations early.
Trattoria La Festa
Open daily, Tuesday – Saturday
Family-owned for more than 30 years, Trattoria La Festa’s dark wood, candle lights and red oil tablecloths set the scene for a romantic dinner. Be prepared to enjoy an authentic Italian meal in Stowe. Trattoria La Festa features “Cucina Casalinga” cuisine, or homemade cooking from the Roma/Lazio regions in Italy, where the family is from.
Menu favorites: Split the Carpaccio Di Manzo, thinly sliced beef tenderloin to start. For a unique dish, try the Melanzana Parmigiana or Tower which features eggplant topped with tomato sauce – option to stack it like a tower and fill it with mozzarella, fresh tomato and pesto. Finish your meal with a decadent piece of Tiramisu Di Roma. Insider tip: In addition to their authentic Italian food, Trattoria La Festa is also known for its extensive wine list. Pair your meal with a bottle – a great addition to a romantic dinner.
The Whip Bar & Grill
Open daily, Thursday – Monday, 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Located inside the historic Green Mountain Inn, The Whip Bar & Grill features an extensive menu made with local ingredients and homemade breads. Its delicious menu paired with a cozy, fireside interior provides a fine dining experience in a casual setting. A meal in this historic setting won’t disappoint.
Menu favorites: For Valentine’s Day, The Whip is offering a special menu which includes PEI Mapleque Oysters, Herb Roasted Tenderloin and Chilean Sea Bass and White Chocolate Mousse. View full menu here. Insider tip: Perfect for any special occasion, The Whip offers a dessert that is a great option for sharing – the Sac de Bon Bon, a chocolate filled “bag” filled with chocolate mousse is their signature dessert.
Stowe is home to some of Vermont’s best restaurants, with many options for date night, special occasions or for those just looking for a great meal in a cozy environment. Make your reservations!