A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in Vermont

Regardless of whether you're a foodie or just like to eat, Vermont has plenty of delicious dining options just waiting to be experienced. From classic diner food to pizza and farm-to-table meals, there's truly something for every palate in the Green Mountain State.

Not sure where to start your annual restaurant tour? Here's a list of the best restaurants in Vermont to try out this year—one for each month, so you have time to savor and enjoy. Come and explore some of the state's tastiest options.

1. January: Blue Benn Diner - Bennington

When it's cold outside, head to Blue Benn Diner in Bennington for some hearty comfort food classics that'll warm you up. This nostalgic diner has been around since 1957, so it's quite a treat to dine in such a historic establishment. While the exterior has a few more upgrades than the older photo above, it still looks like the original. Hours are Tuesday to Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Thursday and Friday until 8 p.m.

2. February: The Marina - Brattleboro

If dinner with a view is something you look forward to, there's perhaps no better place to be than The Marina, one of the most incredible waterfront restaurants in Vermont. Along with taking in breathtaking views of the water, savor every bite of your freshly made meal. It's open Monday to Sunday, from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

3. March: The Silver Fork - Manchester

Guests come from near and far to dine on the exquisite European-inspired food, handcrafted cocktails, and decadent desserts served at The Silver Fork. Its setting inside the former Mark Skinner Library makes this one of the most unique restaurants in Vermont. The upscale eatery is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 5 p.m. to close.

4. April: SoLo Farm & Table - Londonderry

You'll dine on fresh seasonal ingredients at SoLo Farm & Table in Londonberry. With its setting inside a farmhouse, this farm-to-table restaurant offers globally-inspired dishes using local ingredients. There's no other restaurant quite like this in the state: you can literally see the garden where the tomatoes and other produce are grown! It's open Thursday to Saturday, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

5. May: Roots the Restaurant - Rutland

Dining at Roots the Restaurant means minimally processed and local ingredients, along with organic produce and meat from humane sources. From the indulgent Vermont Beef Burger to Lobster Bisque, find out why this is among the favorite restaurants in Vermont. It's open Tuesday to Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

6. June: The Foundry at Summit Pond - Killington

While the views from The Foundry at Summit Pond restaurant are spectacular all year round, order a nice fish dish like the Faroe Island Salmon or the Farmers' Basket Risotto when you dine at this upscale spot. The steak frites are scrumptious, too! Pair your meal with a signature cocktail for an evening to remember. The Foundry is open daily from 4 p.m. til close.

7. July: Garden of Eatin' Cafe - Williston

With its greenhouse setting, summer may be the perfect time to dine at Garden of Eatin' Cafe. Its simple menu of wraps, sandwiches, soups, and salads makes ordering a breeze. As you dine, enjoy the plants and water features around the tables, and then you can shop for plants and gardening tools. Hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

8. August: August First - Burlington

Nothing says summer like outdoor seating, and nothing says August like a bakery with "August" in its name. August First makes fresh European-style bread, award-winning maple biscuits, and a variety of pastries. Come here for breakfast or lunch for coffee, sandwiches, salads, or avocado toast, and enjoy it all while sitting outside under the sun. It's open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

9. September: Salute - Stowe

Indulge in out-of-this-world pizza and Italian cuisine when you dine at Salute. This chef-owned restaurant's wood-fired pizza alone will turn you into a repeat customer. Their pasta, cocktails, and extensive wine list are also sublime. Salute is open Thursday to Sunday, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

10. October: Chicken Charlie's Rotisserie and Grill - Burlington

At Chicken Charlie's Rotisserie, Grill & BBQ, you'll find everything from ribs, chicken, and burgers on the menu at this well-known spot in Burlington. Chicken Charlie's is not open on Sunday or Monday, so plan your visit between Tuesday and Saturday. It'll be worth the trip to get their juicy wings, pulled pork, and scrumptious sides.

11. November: The Drake Bar and Kitchen - St. Albans

When you dine at The Drake, you'll feel right at home between the intimate space and friendly staff. Feel free to pair your meal, whether it's tacos, a steak, or another delicious option, with one of the cocktails on the menu. This may be one of the best local restaurants in Vermont. Hours are Tuesday to Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.

12. December: Jesse's Little Kitchen - Island Pond

Jesse's Little Kitchen is a takeout-only spot that's a go-to for comfort food classics like pasta, pizza, and hearty sandwiches. It's a quaint, casual, and oh-so-Vermont restaurant. They even make stunning custom cakes, pies, and other desserts for all your event and hosting needs. Jesse's is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Which of these Vermont restaurants are you adding to your bucket list? If you're already dreaming about your upcoming road trips or visits to these iconic spots, check out Only In Your State's itinerary planner for personalized lodging, dining, and nearby sightseeing suggestions.