Hen Of The Wood Menu

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  • Carl Z.

    One of the best in the Stowe/ Waterbury area. The menu is always a bit eclectic, new and exciting. Service is exceptional. We've even made specific chef requests when making our reservation. They are always accommodating. Love this place.

    (5)
  • Shannon B.

    Hen of the Wood, is, without a doubt, one of those places you go out of your way to go and visit. I hadn't been in two years and have dreamt of the time when I could come again. We ordered the beets (delightful, little gems as always), radicchio and frisee salad with bleu cheese (amazing) and I had the sweet corn dumplings with chanterelle mushrooms. Not only is the food out of this world, every moment of the dining experience is such a pleasant treat. Our server was amazing. My Manhattan was amazing. My IPA was amazing. I hope I don't have to wait two years until I get the pleasure of dining here again.

    (5)
  • Adam P.

    One of the best, if not the best dinner I've ever had. Looked this place up on Yelp before a recent ski trip and had very high expectations considering the buzz it had generated. Although I was quite worried I'd leave disappointed (as I too often do from restaurants), I was stunned that it lived up to the reviews 110%. The place is beautiful inside and out, and the service outstanding. For appetizers, we had a squash soup and duck sausage/cornmeal polenta, both which were fantastic. The sausage, crumbly and salty, was my favorite of the two. Also tried a cheese plate with a sheep's milk bleu cheese, which came with fig bread and was killer. Dinner was skate over a light broth with mussels, which was lightly breaded and perfectly seared. The other entree was a smoked hanger steak which I will never forget. The most perfect medium rare I've ever seen, topped with an incredibly fresh chimichurri type mixture. Divine. Dessert was a coffee semifreddo over a chocolate ganache and cookie-ish thing. Again, just stunned by how good it was. Portions are reasonable for the type of place, and I can't wait to have an excuse to head back to Vermont and dine at Hen of the Wood again.

    (5)
  • KM G.

    My family has been skiing Stowe for years, and it wasn't until this past winter that we finally checked out Hen of the Wood. I was actually blown away by my experience; I had not expected a restaurant of this caliber in rural Vermont. Wine was phenomenal, dinner was delicious, and, oh my lord, the cheese. Nothing makes me happier than ending a meal with a well-curated cheese plate, and this topped it all. Service was very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The decor and atmosphere is also a highlight; make sure to go outside and check out the watermill.

    (5)
  • Hungryman F.

    The best. Before you die, eat here. When you see the menu, you'll regret that you had lunch. When you try to choose just one bottle of wine, you'll wish you'd taken a taxi. When you taste your food, you'll be swallowing very, very slowly and cutting your plate smaller and smaller to extend the experience. When you pay, it will not be a small amount of cash, but you will feel that you got a bargain. When you leave, you'll be planning your return trip. Go. Reserve a week or two out and go.

    (5)
  • Don L.

    It was a bit of a trek out of Burlington to come here but more than worth the drive. Ambiance and service was nice. They have a new menu printed every day showcasing fresh ingredients and recipes at this restaurant. The ingredients used are all locally gathered. The cheese appetizer was wonderful. The entree of braised beef short rib over goats milk dumplings was unbelievable! The by the bottle wine list looked great. If I had one minor complaint, the wine by the glass list was pretty limited. Over all this was one of the finest meals I've ever had. Highly recommended!

    (5)
  • Liz P.

    Pure excellence. We dined here this evening, very much anticipating the visit after reading so many glowing reviews. Hen of the Wood exceeded those expectations with ease. This is a place that prides themselves on using (as much as possible) locally sourced ingredients, as demonstrated by a menu that is printed daily, offering different dishes depending on what is in season and what is available. Upon arriving, you will hear the sound of rushing water from behind the restaurant - a reminder of the building's original purpose as a mill. The water can be seen from a viewing deck, and also from inside the restaurant. Inside, the rustic interior is warm and inviting, with dark woods, deep red walls, and a stone-layered wall with votive candles placed on various outcroppings. The intimate lighting and seating lends a classy touch. We began our meal with the "Pawlet" cheese plate and the Duck Sausage & Local Cornmeal Polenta. While the cheese was excellent, there were only two small pieces - this was the only slight disappointment of the meal. The duck sausage was very savory, mixed with a creamy corn polenta and topped with a duck egg prepared sunny-side up. My husband opted for the Smoked Hangar Steak, which appears to be a standard on the menu. Prepared medium-rare, the meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender with a nice, smokey flavor. I ordered one of the night's specials (not on the menu), which was Rabbit with Potato Gnocchi and Cauliflower. This seemed to be a popular menu item, as I overheard several other tables around us ordering it as well. The rabbit was amazingly tender, a little on the salty side but still very good. The pan-seared gnocchi had a crisp exterior with a mashed potato-esque interior. Just fabulous. We ended our meal with the Pear Tart Tatin and coffee. The pears were sweet, with a thin, buttery tart crust on the bottom and caramelized sugar on top. Service was impeccable from start to finish. Our server was very pleasant and attentive, ensuring the meal was well-paced and relaxed. Be sure to make reservations. We called about two weeks in advance and they only had three reservations available. The restaurant was full when we left, with two couples enjoying cheese and wine in the waiting area, obviously waiting for a table.

    (5)
  • Erika C.

    We went to Hen of the Wood on the last night of our three night visit in Stowe. Though we had great experiences at other restaurants in the area, Hen of the Wood was the best. In fact, it may be one of the best restaurants in New England. We called to make a reservation on a Saturday night, but did not realize how difficult it is to get a table at this place. We lucked out because a party had canceled and we got their table. So, call way ahead and make reservations. First off, the restaurant itself is beautiful and resides in an old mill building built in the early 1800's. Walking downstairs you are embraced by an extremely warm and cozy dining room with perfect lighting. Rustic and elegant, but not overly fancy, much like the menu. The host also happened to be the co-owner and the sommelier. He was incredibly nice and really put a personal touch to the restaurant. The food is incredible. They focus on farm to table and a forever changing menu. Apps- Hen of the wood. Wild mushrooms and bacon on grilled toast topped with a poached egg- heaven Entrees- We got the hanger steak with kale graten with local blue cheese crumbles which was cooked perfect. We also ordered the gloucester day-boat cod, which was so fresh you'd never know you were miles from the ocean. Sides- Pumpkin polenta- was so smooth and luxurious Dessert- Sort of blew my mind- Maple french macaroon in the bottom of a wine glass topped with maple mousse and candied nuts then topped with house made butter pecan ice cream. There was a pinch of salt in the dish as well and when the flavors combined it tasted like salted caramel, but laced with a background of vermont maple syrup. The service was impeccable and the dining atmosphere could not have been more perfect for the overall experience. This restaurant is worth a trip, even if you have to drive a few hours to get there.

    (5)
  • Morgan L.

    I agree with another reviewer - I consider Hen of the Wood to be the absolute BEST restaurant in the state (and having grown up here, I've been to a few!). Since discovering this hidden gem last year, we've been twice and are planning another visit in a couple of weeks to celebrate my birthday. Be prepared to drop some serious money but it is really worth it. The last time we went, we visited with friends of ours from Montreal. They were wowed by the atmosphere and quality of the food. They still rave about it! We dined like kings (and queens!) on the Hen of the Wood (appetizer), homemade sausage with polenta (wow!), lobster ravioli, and later shared four desserts. We left fat and deliriously happy. Highly recommend this fine dining restaurant for all of life's special occasions!

    (5)
  • Mary C.

    Maybe my expectations were just too high for Hen of the Wood. Overall, I had an OK experience, which at this price point, is not cool! I eat vegetarian, so maybe they're not well-versed in the ways of non-meat eaters? The highlight: the cheese with rhubarb jam and delicious little brown sugar-maple chips. The rest: flavors were nothing special! Everything tasted OK, but not especially tasty. I had a roasted vegetable entree that was so, so, so lackluster. ALSO - please draw white lines so people park efficiently in your lot! It's just common sense and good service to your customers.

    (3)
  • Censor T.

    One of the best restaurant experiences (if not the best) I have ever had. The staff was extremely friendly, even the chefs wished me well on my way out, as well as over-the-top knowledgeable about every ingredient in the dishes. The food was incredible. We had appetizers, cheese plates (the cheese was absolutely wonderful), drinks (Hill Farmstead and The Alchemist's Heady Topper on tap) as well as entrees. I had the Hanger Steak, which blew my expectations away - almost suspiciously delicious (in a good way). Highly recommended. Parking lot had ample spaces and we ate at 7:00 on a Saturday (made reservations a month in advance though, just in case). Easily 5 stars. A hidden gem.

    (5)
  • Andrea F.

    Delicious local food and booze. Excellent ambiance! I think the desserts are not on par...

    (4)
  • David L.

    Take a short or long drive.....and be impressed! Well where do we start? Having heard a number of good personal reports we thought we'd celebrate our 7th anniversary of arriving in the US to become innkeepers with a dinner of note. We like good creative food cooked with passion in a not too poncy atmosphere, and as we walked in the chef said 'Hello....' This was a good beginning! The server who was jolly pretty and knew her onions, only added to the feeling that these folks cared about food. We had starters of oysters deep fired in a light no greasy batter and calamari so tender they melted in your mouth. Followed this by the daily specials of rabbit and skate.....again 10/10. For puds we shared the ice cream...and it delivered freshness and taste. A few various glasses of wine through the meal and suddenly we were $160.00 lighter....but we were happy and contented! As we left the kitchen staff said 'goodbye...' now how many restaurants in Vermont can you actually see the kitchen let alone get acknowledged by the kitchen staff? Took the dog for an amble before we hit the road home and both of us thought...we'll come again! It really is a great eating place, the sort you expect to find in a city but it is in a backwater in Vermont....long may the place continue to thrive!

    (5)
  • Angie C.

    Last night I visited Hen of the Wood for probably the fourth or fifth time. It was, as always, unbelievable. I went with two friends who are also in the restaurant/hospitality industry, so our standards are high. I could describe each dish in porny detail, but let me just say I literally teared up when I tasted the duck sausage over polenta with fried egg, needed a quiet moment when I tasted the smoked hanger steak, and seriously discussed ordering a second round of banana cream pudding. I can't imagine a better vibe, space or taste, Hen of the Wood is truly a gem and I feel so lucky to have it so nearby.

    (5)
  • Jason K.

    Extraordinary! This is better than any restaurant I have been to in Boston. The food and setting are spectacular.

    (5)
  • Lillian L.

    Not that impressed! Hyped up as one of the best restaurants in Vermont with its James Beard nomination, I was ecstatic to visit Hen of the Wood. I came with a group of 6 in mid September and ordered the entire food menu (all the appetizers, entrees, bites, sides, and desserts)! To start, the bites (cucumbers, dilly beans) tasted like typical pickled vegetables. Sure, they were fresh and local, but the seasoning failed to bring out the freshness of the vegetables. They were not spectacularly pickled either... texture of the cucumbers and beans were fairly typical and not especially crisp or refreshing. Out of all 7 starters that day, the beef tartare was what redeemed the restaurant for me. Often times, beef tartare is bland seasoning on bland beef... but not here, the tartare had the perfect balance of savoriness and meatiness and the rich farm egg yolk coated the beef gloriously. Besides the tartare though, the bluefish toast was seasoned too strongly with buttermilk/mayo that it tasted almost like pre-prepped fish. The heirloom tomato salad, which (I'm guessing) was lightly dressed in order to show off the taste of the tomato, just weren't that good. Tomatoes weren't as sweet as imagined and did not stand out. The mushroom and sweet corn soup, while smooth and creamy, just didn't pack that "fresh" corn taste in it. Tasted like those Asian corn chowders (those with ham inside) you can get easily off the street... definitely not a $11 corn soup. Lobster and octopus were seasoned well, but it was nothing spectacular. Both had the typical texture you would expect from a $$-$$$ restaurant and was not particularly chewy or tender. Entrees-wise, we got all 4 -- sheep's milk dumplings, hake, hanger steak, and rabbit leg & loin. I was really looking forward to the sheep's milk dumpling. Instead of the melt-in-your-mouth texture that I was hoping for, this entree was more like a standard gnocchi with not much of a sheep's cheese taste at all. I loved the puree on the bottom of the dumpling bowl, but there wasn't much else to offer. The hake though, was great! Fish was perfectly cooked and the leeks highlighted the flavors super well. Steak was also fantastic. The combination of sweet pepper and scallion almost made it taste truffle-like...very tender, chewy, with lots of flavor packed in. Definitely loved the steak.. it stood out and was not like a typical steak you'd get elsewhere. Rabbit leg and loin was quite well cooked as well. Very good texture, but the flavor tasted fairly typical, nothing unusual. In terms of dessert, the roasted crabapple crostini was by far the best. The buttery crostini crumbled beautifully in your mouth with the tart crab apple. It was a fantastic combination. The house-made blueberry and strawberry sorbets were delicious as well, very fresh and light. However, the peach short cake didn't taste much of peach... you could hardly taste the maple in the maple ice cream... the chocolate pot de creme was a great combination of vanilla cream and dark chocolate, but again there was nothing spectacular about it. The wine though, is amazing. Their wine list is fantastic and is organized conveniently by defining characteristics ("round reds"). The glasses/bottles/carafes are rather pricy but well worth it -- they are not the typical wine you get at a nice place (at least not in Vermont) ... definitely seems like a well curated list that went great with the meal. Plus, some of the wines are served in carafes, allowing you to try multiple wines. Overall, I would say that while there are some outstanding dishes (beef tartare, steak), most of the other food are just generically good. If you want a decent meal, this is a good place. The setting is unique, you can sit by a small waterfall and enjoy a great mini-landscape. However, the menu is not terribly creative and lacks the "freshness" that I was looking for out of a farm-to-table type restaurant. Given the price point of the restaurant and the hyped-up expectations for this place, I'm giving Hen of the Wood 3 stars in hopes of finding more surprises and freshness in future menus.

    (3)
  • Katie D.

    Went to Hen of the Woods during Vermont restaurant week. $35 for 3 course meal (cheese, appetizer and entree). This is clearly a new venture for Vermont and this restaurant hasn't learned what the other big city places are doing (aka offering pre-cooked cheap stuff for restaurant week...). Lucky for me... Location: I love the Stowe area in general, but it is settled in an old mill with great views of the river right next of it. Even has an outdoor porch area. Environment: Quiet, warm. Great for a date or a small party. My date and I got the high chair seat overlooking the river which was fantastic. Food: We both had salads for appetizer, done very well. I had the duck with a dark Asian sauce for my entree. Duck was cooked perfectly, the sauce was a little on the salty side. But I usually don't like salty food in general. My date thought it tasted super good. I tried his salmon. Cooked to perfection, nothing to pick there. I picked a soft cheese but it ended up being very "barn-yardy". Completely my own fault for not asking before ordering. We ordered profiteroles for dessert in addition, which was a great ending to a good meal. Service: Top notch, the waiters seem to know a lot about their food, albeit sometimes opinionated. Very attentive. Overall: Great dining experience at $35 a pop is a great deal. But restaurant week only comes once a year. No need to wait that long, the food is still worth the regular price.

    (5)
  • Betsy G.

    After many years of thinking about it, my husband and I finally had our dinner at Hen of the Wood, picturesquely housed in an old grist mill in Waterbury, VT. The atmosphere and service are top drawer, the food (overall) superb, and the wine and beer list extensive. The festive atmosphere of diners realizing that this is a special experience adds to the fun, and everyone seemed genuinely happy to be there. I did have a few issues with some of our dishes, notably a too-chewy hangar steak my husband ordered, but my monkfish was delectable, the lamb ribs appetizer too sauced but still delicious, and a complimentary polenta appetizer one of our favorites. The sauces from this kitchen are, in my opinion, the real stars, and the creative (but limited) menu of local ingredients is a special treat. The chocolate and peanut butter dessert we shared was also very good. Considering how hard it is to deliver consistently innovative and delicious meals, HOTW is deservedly renowned in the region.

    (4)
  • Ryan G.

    After reading the food critic from the Montreal Gazette RAVE about this place, my better half and I made the trek down for out anniversary. The food was amazing! I had the hanger steak, and my better half had gnocchi stuffed with goats cheese and lamb. It was so awesome!!!!! They also serve heady topper on draught, so I was a happy camper.

    (5)
  • Anne K.

    All the wonderful things about Hen probably have been said. Picturesque, unique, cozy, DELICIOUS!

    (5)
  • Nicole B.

    I went to Hen of the Wood for the second time on a Tuesday night. It seems like each time I have been, I am initially disappointed when I look at the menu at the apparent lack of options because their menu is so small. Upon second look this time, I eventually found something that I wanted to order. I decided to start with their only salad choice - a radicchio and frisee salad with buttermilk, apples, and hazelnuts. When it arrived, it was somewhat bitter and the dressing lacked any real flavor - a disappointing salad overall. For the entree I chose the hangar steak with nicola potatoes and creme. The entree was perfectly cooked and delicious - significantly better than the appetizer and the reason for a 4-star rating. Bread is available to start upon request and comes out warm and is delicious. There were no desserts that warranted ordering which is very disappointing since desserts are typically why I go to restaurants. I will probably go back to Hen of the Wood at some point, but I haven't had much luck with their menu and I hope that changes in the future.

    (4)
  • Dan F.

    We have been here twice. Both times my wife felt ill the next day. The first time really ill and the most recent time mildly ill. In our last visit, we had sprout salads, the pork w/ cranberry, the braised rib, and a side of fingerling potatoes. The salads were good. Pete's green sprouts with Jericho settler's carrots. Those are items we buy in local stores. If you ever want to spice up a salad get those sprouts. That was the good part. Unfortunately, the potatoes were incredibly salty. I couldn't eat them. The rib which was more of a pot roast dish was also salty. I know I'm salt sensitive, but my wife would salt a pretzel and even she said the potatoes and rib were salty. Beyond the salt, the flavors were good. She ended up eating the potatoes which perhaps was the cause of her not feeling very well the next day. This restaurant has been on the end of a lot of praise which raises expectations. However as a general statement, I think this restaurant is overrated. Interestingly there was someone else down thread who also experience a very salty meal.

    (2)
  • Alison M.

    Yum! The atmosphere was wonderful and the food was great! We started off with the fresh baked bread, the peppers, and the beets. The peppers were not too memorable but the others were great. We order a sprout and a radicchio salad and they were both delicious. For entrees I ordered the ricotta crepes which were good but not the best dish at the table. The other couple we were with ordered the steak special and hangar steak. The special was so-so but the hangar steak was wonderful. It was a chimichurri sauce that paired well. My boyfriend ordered the braised rabbit which was fabulous! Hands down the best dish at our table. We ended with a cheese plate that paired well with a nice bottle of wine. Can't wait to go back!

    (4)
  • Derek A.

    When you first move to this area and you ask about restaurants, you are basically guaranteed to be told that you have to go to Hen of the Wood. They will rave and rave about it and how good it is and what an incredible experience it is. It is a rare occasion that the reality lives up to the hype, but this is one of them. First of all, the ambiance is fantastic - this is a small restaurant (which means it is very difficult to get reservations, and you NEED reservations) that is very intimate and has a ton of character. If you're lucky enough to score a seat by the window that overlooks the river, you're in for a really unique experience, but it really doesn't matter where you sit - we sat right by the entrance of the restaurant and we enjoyed the surroundings and the view of the kitchen. Food is just fabulous - locally sourced and perfectly prepared. I would tell you what we had, but it is kind of a moot point, since the menu changes regularly. If you happen to be there when the lobster and hen of the wood mushroom appetizer is on the menu, get it! You will understand why the mushroom was worthy of naming a restaurant after it. The service is highly attentive but by no means stuffy - our waiter joked with us and while he took great care of us, he also didn't fuss or rush us, which made for a pleasantly long, luxurious meal.

    (5)
  • Monstra M.

    LIsten........ Please go to Hen of the Woods. Please get the pork anything. even if you dont eat pork, go. I took my bfriend to Stowe for his bday and i regret nothing because of this restaurant. They also gave me the good advice to go to Pistou in Burlington and that also blew us away. Go Vermont:)

    (5)
  • Erik J.

    There is a lot of hype surrounding Hen of the Wood located in the small town of Waterbury near Stowe, VT. The atmosphere is authentic and intimate, some of the food is exciting and tasty. However, here are a few reasons why I put into question five star reviews: Our experience started with a bottle of wine - smashed at our feet because of poor hand-eye coordination, I suppose. Seriously, one second she is holding the full bottle, next it is at our feet, on our pants, in our shoes... It was cleaned up, but that's about it. We didn't complain but no manager came over to double-check or offer anything. Five-star restaurant? We each chose several courses, a few of which were very good. However, two of the appetizers and the gnocchi were doused in way too much oil. It was unbearable and even though we weren't full, no one could finish the gnocchi. And I'm not shy when it comes to buttery greasy! Overall, the wait and kitchen staff, and manager seemed to all be very very young. Being young is certainly OK! But coming off as a young and inexperienced team is not Five-star in my book. If the price and hype was less, I may have given four stars, because some dishes did taste really well.

    (3)
  • Bethania P.

    We just got back from a fantastic meal at the Hen of the Wood. The meal was amazing- very rich and flavorful. The menu varies everyday depending on the ingredients available on the local farms. The atmosphere was very pleasant. We sat outside surrounded by the beautiful waterfall. It was a bit more fancy and formal inside. Can't wait to go back!

    (5)
  • Jessica C.

    This is, in my opinion, the absolute best restaurant in Vermont. There is not one other restaurant I have visited that even comes close. The setting is an old grist mill, and you dine among old river rocks lit by small tea lights. It's intimate and romantic. The chef prepares local, in season food to absolute perfection, consistently. I have been 4 times now, and every time I go I am more and more impressed by the service and the incredible local food. My last meal there a few weeks ago was no exception. We chose two cheeses (all the cheeses are all local to vermont). The taste of each well explained on the menu or by the server - making it easy to venture out of or stay in your cheese comfort zone. The cheese selections were served with crostini and candied fennel. The candied fennel was to die for - perfect complement to the cheese. I had the lobster tail entree (I got the last one!) and it was the best lobster I have ever had, in a rich butter sauce with a local parsnip mash. So simple and understated, meant to bring out the freshness and superb taste of the ingredients. The service was, of course, perfect. In past visits I have tried the calamari. They were glad to give me tips on how to cook my own (non-breaded, just pan seared with herbs). I could recommend dishes to you, but as the chef only cooks with the best, local and in-season ingredients he can get, the menu fluctuates often. Just know that what you order, will be delicious. And the server will be more than happy to recommend the best wine for the occasion and the food. Thank you Hen of the Wood. I will be back again and again.

    (5)
  • Ramzy K.

    Hen of the Woods is one of the best culinary experiences available, certainly in the area of Waterbury and nearby Stowe, if not in the whole of New England. Some may complain that the portions are too small, and therefore that the meals are overpriced. Others may point out the lack of a bartender. Overall, however, these small, perceived, and often inaccurate drawbacks of the Hen of the Wood are trivial and are largely overshadowed by the rest of its fine-dining experience, which touts unique and flavorful dishes and a knowledgeable staff. The dishes are first and foremost creative, from the duck sausage, egg, and polenta starter to the goat's milk dumplings. Both the natural flavors of the food, as well as the added flavorings of the chef are lively and prominent. Moreover, in such dishes as the farm rabbit or duck breast, the juicy tenderness of the meat belies the unfortunate restaurant norm of a dry or soggy entree. And, much like a four-star French restaurant, the Hen always carries a hearty selection of cheeses (most of them local) to finish a meal. The Hen also benefits from its well-informed staff, all of whom seem to have a wealth of knowledge about food and wine at their fingertips. Any one of them is capable of recommending a great dish for any mood, or a good wine to pair with a meal. They also are quick to refill water glasses, and well-versed in server etiquette. After a dinner at the Hen of the Woods, your wallet will feel just as satisfied as your palette and stomach. For the quality of the meal, the prices seem moderate--about $40-50 per person for an app and a main--especially in comparison to many other restaurants (both in the area and in the business at large).

    (5)
  • Guilio Ñ.

    One of the best and most memorable meals I have ever had! Glad to have brought my mother here for fine Vermont dining.

    (5)
  • Robert B.

    Hen of the Woods is a restaurant that specializes in local foods prepared with great care. The location is quintessentially New England - an old grist mill just off of Interstate 89. The food is made with excellent mostly local ingredients, and the chef is a wizard with almost everything. The wine list is good, but not amazing, but the cheese selection is very nice and you will find some interesting ones if you get the sampler. Appetizers are delicious and well-portioned - not too big or small. The main courses are similar, and those with sauces were excellent. Be sure to save room for dessert, as their desserts are well worth the calories. I would recommend anyone planning to dine at Hen of the Woods make reservations and show up early, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when parking can be a problem. In season, this is easily the best restaurant in range of the ski slopes at Stowe, so it is very, very busy.

    (5)
  • Ja L.

    We've been here twice, and each time the food was fantastic. Personally, I love the open kitchen where you can watch the chefs go about their business. The decor is warm and inviting, informal enough for families and romantic enough for couples. The sensation of being near a waterfall due to the water mill out back is indescribable - a "wow" moment the first time we were there. The host is also the sommelier, and his recommendations were, both times, very good and accurate for the food we ordered. I wish I could remember the exact wine he recommended during our first visit - but I do remember that I had the chicken, and the crispy skin from the chicken brought out the woodsy/oaky notes in the red wine. It was an amazing taste experience. Hen of the Wood is quite expensive but definitely worth it. They have a number of events throughout the year that we'd like to be able to get to - mostly wine and food pairing dinners featuring locally sourced ingredients. Love this place!

    (5)
  • Ruchi M.

    Superlative. We started with the fried oysters, which were incredible - light and almost dry in their lack of greasiness. Also got the hen of the wood toast - and I was thinking how can mushrooms and an egg on toast be out of the ordinary - but this was one of the highlights of the meal - perfectly seasoned mushrooms with a beautifully cooked egg on top of buttery crunchy toast. I normally hate runny (perfectly cooked) yolks - what I've realized now is that I hate eggs that aren't farm fresh. These were incredible. We also got the duck sausage and polenta, which came with another farm fresh egg. For main courses we had the rabbit with red cabbage (it is hard to come up with synonyms for amazing and perfectly seasoned, so I'm no longer trying) and the lamb sausage with ricotta that - I swear - dissolved in your mouth. We finished with a maple walnut pie, which is the older, sophisticated sibling to that old stalwart, the pecan pie. . I loved the feeling of the place - modern, warm, and alive. Incredible meal - best of our trip - can't wait to go back.

    (5)
  • Karen S.

    Hen of the Wood is one of the reasons we were excited about our mini vacation to Vermont last fall. It did not disappoint. Seriously, this is in my Top Five Ever list. Start with a few cheeses. You're in Vermont, after all. If you don't know what to try, ask your waiter for suggestions. The menu changes daily, so it doesn't make sense to gush about our fantastic meals because they won't be there by the time you go. But rest assured, they were wonderful. The staff is equally gracious. The location is cozy and quaint, with a grist mill waterfall out back. If it's warm, check out the patio. We loved the history of the place and how it feels like you've discovered a secret relic. This is a destination restaurant. Make a reservation, plan to linger and wear elastic pants.

    (5)
  • Karyn V.

    This was one of our favorite restaurants when we took a trip to Burlington, Vermont. The restaurant is in the downstairs of an old gristmill about 20-minutes from Stowe. What makes the decor of the restaurant unique is the exposed river rock, wood beams, candles, and a set of windows overlooking a stream that gives it a cozy feel during the winter months. The food is fantastic and almost all ingredients are sourced locally from Vermont. Because of this, the menu changes daily so it doesn't make much sense to talk about how wonderful our entrees were. The food is what you would expect however from a upscale restaurant in Boston or NYC. If you do want to dine at Hen of the Wood, make your reservation early. We made our reservation 2-weeks in advance and got the only available opening on a Saturday night at 5pm. If we are in the area again, we will definitely be back.

    (4)
  • Jeff F.

    Oh my. To say I had high expectations coming in was an understatement, and they were exceeded in almost every way. Ambiance was pleasant; fairly intimate, but casual. It wasn't quiet inside, nor was it overly loud - an animated conversation wouldn't be out of place. Service was very good - not amazing. The waitress was knowledgeable where we had questions, and provided prompt service. The meal progressed at a relaxed pace (2 hours for 3 courses), and at no point did we feel rushed. The food was the star of the evening. The weakest link was the bean salad with poached egg and bacon - everything on their own was great, but all together, I think the egg/bacon/vinaigrette/bean combination is a bit much. The dish was still good, though. The duck egg served over polenta and duck sausage was perfect. Just order it. Thinking of getting something else? Think again. I ordered pork - it included two pieces of loin, a piece of pork belly, with sweet corn and a mustard jus - the loin was delicious - the belly was, however, astonishing. The jus and corn were a perfect pairing. And the black carrots were neat, too. My dining partner got a braised short rib (served off of the rib) dish that was a special for the evening, and it too, was fantastic. It was a very good piece of meat, cooked and seasoned perfectly. Dessert was actually great, too. The pana cotta and plum galette were both great. Some comments here indicated that the desserts weren't up to the level of the entrees - that may be the case here, but they were still absolutely delicious. Oh yeah. Even the bread was magnificent. Overall, it was one of, if not the best dinner I've ever had. If you're in the area and can afford the splurge, just do it.

    (5)
  • Jason F.

    Best hangar steak ever.

    (5)
  • Sara B.

    My boyfriend and I came back to Stowe over the last weekend, and made reservations for Hen of the Wood on 6/6. Again, this is easily the best meal I've ever had- except for maybe when I was here back in August of 2012. The sausage and polenta with the sunny side up duck egg is THE BEST dish I have ever had- ever. I honestly cannot imagine something tasting better than that. I had the braised rabbit for an entree, and the frozen yogurt sundae for a dessert. My goodness, the quality and care put into these dishes is just not comparable to anything else. The waitstaff is incredibly friendly, the host was very pleasant and helpful, and the chef waves off his guests and says thanks when they walk out. Their attention to detail, flavor pairings, atmosphere and general vibe is just so over the top amazing I can't really describe it- just go and find out for yourself. You will absolutely not be disappointed.

    (5)
  • Carine M.

    Finally got to go back to Hen of the Wood a few nights ago. It was fabulous! We had the Polenta and Duck Sausage with a Duck Egg, Squash and Leek soup with Brown Butter Croutons, a slaw of Kholrabi Apples and Celeriac, the Mussels, Calamari with Breadcrumbs, Lemon, Parsley and Red Pepper, and Fried Oysters with a Tarragon Aioli and Lemon Zest. Everything was fabulous!!! The oysters and calamari were standouts for me. The only thing that could've been improved upon was the way the apps were brought out. There were 4 of us and they brought out all 6 apps at the same time. I would have preferred things to be coursed out, and although I didn't ask for it, I would've expected our server to do that. She was really great otherwise and made me 2 fabulous martinis. My entree goes in the top 20 (at least). It was Maine lobster out of the shell over a parsnip puree, with hen of the woods mushrooms, and mirepoix. Oh and about a stick of butter! Incredibly delicious. It was a special, and I secured on of the last two. Yay! This restaurant really is an amazing place, definitely visit if you can.

    (5)
  • Tony L.

    If i were the mayor of Waterbury, VT I would have to give the Chef from this restaurant the key to the city! These people use quality ingredients, they have a beautiful atmosphere, and every bite of food was just melt in your mouth goodness. This is by far the best spot in the Waterbury/Stowe area!

    (5)
  • Patrick H.

    Wed Aug 21: Have been here many times. The food is always special. And this was a special occasion. Not all tables are created equal. So I had requested a certain one (the Pit) when I made my reservations. Because it is comfortable for 6 or more. (we had 7) My choice was also noted the day before when they called to confirm. When we arrived I could see that the table was already taken (first seating of the day). I pointed this out to the person handling seating and I said "I guess a mistake was made". She said " Yup, I guess so but your food will taste the same." That was all. Mistakes are made and even if it was so they could sit more people in that area ($$$) or it was "somebody" they had seated at my table (which appeared more likely than a mistake), an apology should have been offered. And I would expect that when the Maitre' D showed up they would come over and offer an apology at least. And maybe even a free taste or something. But no, none of that. Food and table service was great, but maybe if we were somebody we would have gotten the table we reserved or a "sorry". Bottom line: would be 4 or 5 stars without the "Tude"

    (3)
  • Gigi M.

    Go go go you won't regret. Every time we come over from Florida this is a must. The food is perfect and I cook so I know food. The ingredients are locally produced and that is trendy in Vermont right know but the boys in the kitchen know how to rock it. The atmosphere is super and I enficise super romantic it feel like you are dinning inside a cave. It's specially nice in the middle of the freezing winters of Vermont. The only bad thing I have to say is the last time I was there their dessert menu was disappointing. They had lots of ice creams, sorbets different flavors but I don't know about you but when I dine out I want things I can't get in the supermarket like creme brûlée or hot moisty brownie with the ICE CREAM or zambiglione made next to my table I don't care how much it costs wow me that is why I'm here in your house eating and not in mine cooking myself. Still just go go go. Good luck guys in the new location in Burlington come in with a bang!

    (4)
  • Stephen H.

    ...I love this place. I'm not going to write much because there is no way to describe it well. When my appetizer came out, the freshest sliced cucumbers, I ever saw, with sea salt and creme freche, I knew I was going to love this place. Then I had steamed clams with crumbled sausage in it I was in awe. Simple, fresh, local food...cooked to perfection. Cudos

    (5)
  • David M.

    BEST Salmon ever!!!! I'm going to keep this real simple, JUST GO!!!! This place was so good, the food, the service, the decor and ambiance, all were something I will never forget.

    (5)
  • M J.

    love it can't wait to go back again. over and over. loved that it was closer to home than i had expected. loved the atmosphere. WOOOOOOW doesn't even cover it. loved the food. every bite - local, simple, just divine. loved the wine. loved the server. loved the host. loved the chefs saying goodnight and thanks as we exited. love that chef eric sent me the recipe for the candied fennel jam that accompanied my cheese. didn't love that i had to call sooooo far ahead to get a table over memorial day wknd, but good for them.

    (5)
  • Debbie W.

    One of the best meals ever, well worth traveling to the Waterbury area just to have dinner at Hen of the Wood. If you love the idea of local food, sustainable food ... If you love the idea of a menu selected each day based on what are the finest ingredients available... If you love the idea of eating in a beautifully scenic and unique atmosphere.... If you love the idea of selecting from a large menu of hand selected local cheeses... If you love great food, great service, and walking out of restaurant on a food high.... you will LOVE Hen of the Woods. Incredibly fresh salmon, grass fed steak, homemade ricotta dumplings, hand foraged mushrooms, delicious brightly colored vegetables-- i cant say enough! Their award winning chef does a wonderful job of combining simplicity (offering ingredient focused dishes) with great chefsmanship (also offering more creative options where appropriate). Their cheese menu is outstanding and so varied we had a hard time selecting. Its worth it to visit this restaurant just for the cheeses! (note-- some people order their cheese as a first course but I recommend saving it for the end of the meal.) Menus change daily so an open mind is an absolute requirement. I rarely pay a lot of attention to service, unless there was something wrong with it, but Hen of the Woods provided exceptional unhurried service. Our waitress was knowledgable and helpful about everything on the menu, and I followed her recommendations all evening with outstanding results. The beauty and simplicity of the atmosphere matches the food perfectly. The tables are comfortable and large and the view is -- well, perfect! Amazing food surrounded by the beauty of Northern Vermont's green mountains-- consider a trip to Hen of the Woods to be a special occasion worth celebrating. After a memorable evening, we walked out of Hen of the Woods happy, somewhat food drunk...we lit some great cigars, and watched the stars thinking...life is good.

    (5)
  • Kim R.

    Nice menu had the nocchi and apple salad....bottom line is the menu looks better than the food tasted. Sadly was disappointed starting off with the cheesy cheese plater they bring out. Not worth the money. This highly awarded Chef needs to get it together.

    (2)
  • Cai L.

    Everything it was cracked up to be! I've been lucky enough to make it to most of the nicer restaurants in central VT and both Chittenden and Addison Counties -- I'd say this is my new favorite. Lovely setting and ambiance (complemented by pottery made upstairs), very knowledgeable and patient staff, perfect-size wine selection, and orgasmic food -- reasonable prices, too!

    (5)
  • Lady F.

    Good Ambiance. Good Service. Good Food (Although I think the portion sizes have gotten smaller since the first time I dined there.) The lower floor has a nice table that can accommodate larger parties for a special event.

    (4)
  • M B.

    Fantastic. Hands down a must go. Food is divine, and stone and candles with warm wood -very comforting. Great service.

    (5)
  • Marie C.

    After reading Mark Bittman's article about local Vermont cuisine, I was dying to check this place out. My friend and I drove up from Boston, met another friend in Montpelier and headed over to dinner this past Saturday. I should start by saying that this dinner was not only worth the price, but also worth the ~6 hours I spent in a car this weekend. Yeah. We started off with a cheese plate--they have an extensive menu of local cheeses. We went with the blue cheese, a triple cream, and something from Jasper Hills Farm (who'll be opening their cheese cave to the public soon). They were all excellent and absolutely delicious paired with bread and a pear sauce. According to the website, the menu changes on a daily basis, so you might have different offerings, but our table ended up getting the halibut, the steak and the sheep's milk gnocchi. I didn't try the halibut, but my friend said it was perfectly cooked. I had a taste of the steak, which was quite delightful. The gnocchi was, in my mind, the hit of the evening. They were delicious little pillows of flavor. I thought that the flava bean topping was going to be a little odd, but it was absolutely delicious. If they're serving this when you're there, I would strongly recommend it. The dessert was the weak link here, and it was still pretty damn good. We had the chocolate cake, served with malted chocolate ice cream. I thought the ice cream was delicious, but wished the cake had been served warm. We all agreed that it would have been nice if they served espresso drinks, a cappuccino would have topped the meal off nicely. To be perfectly honest, I was surprised by the price. Granted, I had a vegetarian entree, but the whole meal ran me about $35. I've spent more on a mediocre night at a crummy bar in Boston. We didn't have a problem getting reservations, but we did make them about two weeks in advance. Moral of the story: Plan ahead, if you're anywhere in New England, this place is worth the trip. Get the gnocchi.

    (5)
  • Sean K.

    Its been a while since I did a 5 star review but this is NOT out of pity or feeling as though I'm due a 5 star to yelp. This place hit ALL the marks save for, admittedly, the dessert. That said, with all the negative comments, why would I order it? I was in a state of bliss I tell you and I had to try everything. But stick with the cheese as a way to finish. Yes, the portions are somewhat small but, considering the prices, I think its entirely reasonable. We started with the pork belly, the rabbit toast and the mixed greens split between my wife and I. She then had the ricotta gnocchi and I had the pork loin. That might have been the best pork loin I've ever eaten and I've been to the little owl. We had a bottle of the Willamette Pinot with dinner (had pre-dinner beers at the Alchemist - also highly recommended) and then two cheeses for dessert along with the coffee cake/blueberry crumble thing. It wasn't awful but just not in the realm of the rest of the meal. All this, plus 20% tip and it came to just under $200. I'm not going to say this was cheap but for the quality of the food and service (plus we had 3 appetizers + 2 mains + 2 cheeses and a dessert and a bottle of wine) it was perhaps better than reasonable. We hiked the appalachian trail the next day to fight off the calories and it was worth it I tell you.

    (5)
  • Stephanie B.

    This had to be the best meal of my entire life. The restaurant tells you on a blackboard upon entry the farms they got their food from. Everything is from somewhere and Hen of the Wood has nothing to hide when it comes to their food source. This is just one of the many reasons to give this place a try. We went on a Tuesday night, the menu was small but the specials intrigued me. I ordered a delicacy in my book, rabbit, because in NJ things like rabbit aren't easy to find. The meat was cooked impeccable. The flavors were out of this world. I can't say enough about how great this tasted, I almost licked the plate. My boyfriend ordered a salad that was a special of the night, local sprouts with apples and walnuts, it was probably the best salad of my life. The desserts were to die for. I had a fig bread pudding with whiskey whipped cream while my boyfriend opted for the three homemade ice creams of the day. All in all, best money I have spent on food in a very long time. You know food is real and fresh when you walk out of a meal with plates licked clean and you don't feel overly full or sick to your stomach. The quality is unbeatable in anything I have eaten thus far. This is the difference when you have a chef-owned restaurant, the quality far exceeds anything else, and their success shows! It's hard to get a reservation on a weekend and the space in the dining room is limited as is the selection on the menu to ensure high quality. The place was amazing and I am happy to have experienced cuisine that good.

    (5)
  • Bacon F.

    Best food I have had in Vermont. Every dish was executed perfectly. Service was attentive but not overly so. Price is reasonable for the high quality ingredients. Atmosphere is awesome.

    (5)
  • Heather H.

    Just a few streets away from the busy Ben and Jerry's ice cream factory, you would never know this restaurant existed, situated near a quiet residential neighborhood. With its many accolades and James Beard nominations, I was thrilled at the chance to eat at this "locavore/farm to table" regional food mecca (their menu changes daily). The dimmly lit and cavernous interior made it seem intimate and relaxing. You get a view of either their open kitchen (a very small line) or the waterfall that housed an old grist mill. You must get the sweet corn fritters drizzled with local honey, amazing. Their cheese course menu is abundant with all raw's milk cheeses from around the state and one of the best I've seen. Their food is not complicated, just prepared and seasoned well. Their pork loin (whey fed pigs) was perfectly cooked with a mustard seed sauce, braised red cabbage, and butternut puree. My dish of steelhead was the least favorite but everything else was spot on. I love their vision of seasonality, sustainability and supporting local business. I invite everyone to dine here, well worth the visit!

    (4)
  • Elizabeth B.

    How lucky were we to score a reservation at this restaurant when A) we didn't know anything about it B) didn't know it was difficult to get a reservation without at least a 2 week advance. & C) It's the best restaurant in Vermont (we we're told & I believe them). We were only in Vermont for two nights and the first night we dined at our hotel because we got in so late. The second night we wanted something really specific to the region and didn't get much help from out concierge as far as a special dining experience. What's a hungry girl to do? Well, believe it or not I turned to my iphone app Good Food, which highlights all the restaurants in your immediate area good or bad and Hen of the Wood came up first with a handful excellent reviews. My husband called immediately to get a reservation and low and behold they had a cancellation and we got in. YES! First of all the atmosphere is dark, cozy and romantic in a old grist mill. It's hard to see but their is a lot of the old interior structure inside and it really adds to the whole dining experience. They have a great cheese menu that I think is mostly local cheeses but we didn't have any because we already had some before we left our hotel. I wish we would have waited to have it here because I'm sure the variety is exceptional. My husband had the halibut which was cooked perfectly and absolutely delicious. I had what I can only describe as little pillows of heaven. It wasn't Gnocchi but a sheep's milk pasta like dish that was also cooked perfectly, with and ever so slight browning on each side. It was amazing. I'm so happy that we had an opportunity to dine at this excellent eatery. Basically, all the stars were aligned and we got lucky. If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and get a table immediately!

    (5)
  • Armando Z.

    Outstanding service. Remarkable food. Stunning location . Award winning presentation. Get in a car and head north!!

    (5)
  • L. D.

    This restaurant is exceptional in every way. I couldn't decide whether to situate myself to look out over the gorgeous scenery and creek outside or inwards towards the center of the restaurant with its aged stone walls, heavy beams and exhibition kitchen......so I switched halfway through dinner! Service was impeccable and everything we had was mouthwatering. Heirloom Tomato salad with crispy prosciutto, and the mushroom toast with bacon and a fried egg were simply amazing appetizers. And, the smoked hanger steak was so flavorful and tender I didn't need a knife. The halibut over a fava bean broth was incredible as well. This is a 4-star restaurant with 3-star prices. I can't wait to cross the country again for another meal here! I understand they are opening a second location in Burlington, VT. How about SF next?!

    (5)
  • Jonathan D.

    Great food and staff. The small appetizers they served us were great--fresh tomatoes, beef tartare on a potato chip, beets in a light blue cheese sauce. The starter salad was good and not too heavily dressed. A nice mix of fruit and greens. The hanger steak with blue cheese and spinach was very good but the blueberry cake dessert was the best. Really more like a sugar donut on top of fresh blueberry sauce with whole berries and a citrus glaze. Would definitely go back

    (4)
  • Peter W.

    Perhaps the best meal and restaurant I've ever been to!!! The atmosphere was beautiful, quiet (but warm - not lonely), the service was great, the setting was amazing, and the food was... SPECTACULAR!!!! The cheese plate is wonderful, the salads are delicious, and the entrees (I got to try the salmon and the lobster with mushrooms) was UNREAL. Honestly, all I can say is WOW. The menu changes daily, but I would bet thousands of dollars that there's basically nothing they make that isn't fantastic. GO HERE NOW!!

    (5)
  • Blair H.

    There's good food, then there's "punch me in the face I can't feel feelings anymore" good. This is the latter.

    (5)
  • Drew P.

    Astounding... really incredible experience. The atmosphere, service and food were excellent. I appreciated their use and support of local foods and farms. Every course was delicious and their menu was diverse and as exciting as it gets. Honestly one of the best dinners I've ever had.

    (5)
  • Kelly S.

    Went back recently with a large party and I am pleased to say that the service issues that plagued my first visit were entirely erased. We all found the food quite excellent and more consistent as well. Only the desserts were still a little disappointing. They were too familiar compared to the more refined courses during the rest of the dinner. I still wish they offered espresso coffee and not only drip coffee. A charming and busy restaurant so get a reservation (the place was nearly sold-out on a Tuesday evening off-season.) They really deserve 4 stars maybe even 4 1/2 stars.

    (4)
  • Vikas B.

    2 words, A. Mazing. Ordered the Calamari, and the hen of the woods and lobster apps. For dinner we had the duck and chicken special. Everything was better than the next. Amazing food, great staff, and nice place. One of my top 3 restaurants ever.

    (5)
  • Krissy F.

    Food to die for and worth every penny (especially if you get a good bottle of wine). I love this place, my husband and I eat here every other month or so, and recommend it to everyone. Can't wait for them to re-open after the renovations! Hope they go back to smaller apps and entrees, helps the full six-course-meal experience.

    (5)
  • R W.

    Our dinner for 4 was a lovely experience. The restaurant is charming, with live music and a rustic but refined decor. The food was fantastic and the portions were large. I had a pork loin that was one of the best I have ever tasted -- juicy and thick. If there was a weak point, it might be the desserts we tried, but my party came away with a very happy, very satisfied smile on its collective face.

    (5)
  • Liz A.

    From start to finish -- incredible flavors, beautiful presentation, attentive (but not overly so) service, perfect ambience. Five of us went for dinner, drawn by the promise not just of good cuisine, but also by a commitment to local, organic food. Menu is revised daily and of course seasonally, and based on availability of ingredients. I loved my Laplatte River Farm Short Rib Gnocci, served with braising jus and a little bit of wild arugula. I had started with Pete's Spring Greens -- a perfect salad of spring greens, farro, cucumbers, local feta, and walnuts, dressed with a champagne vinegarette. I had a taste of a friend's Willow Hill Farm "Summer Tomme" (yes, they have a separate cheese menu), and we also enjoyed a couple of bottles of a Languedoc rose (or, as my Nancy likes to call it, completely affectionately, "French kool-aid"). For dessert, I noshed on the cocoa profiteroles served with butterscotch ice cream and chocolate sauce. Our server knew, I thought, how much attention to give us and how much space to give us. I don't know much about wine, but the wine list seems to have a lot of range and variety. True, it would be nice to have espresso after dinner, or a cocktail beforehand, but I like that this place is choosing its focus/paying attention to the most important stuff. And they DO offer a nice (small, but totally serviceable) selection of dessert wines, scotch, bourbon, port, and liquers. Bottom line: although home is a little over two hours away, I'll definitely be back.

    (5)
  • SJ O.

    We had been hearing so much about Hen of the Wood over the past couple of years but always hesitated to go there with 2 young kids (4&6) in tow. Usually we visit Stowe during the winter and after a day out on the mtns, we always felt that it might be a bit much for them and we weren't sure how child friendly they would be. We we pleased to discover that they are very friendly and accommodating of children. They brought over crayons and a coloring book and offered to work with us on adaptations to the menu or to make them Mac n cheese, grilled cheese or pasta (none of which are on the menu). My kids are generally adventurous eaters so we stuck with what was being offered. We tried a couple of cheeses (Cabot Cheddar and a goat cheese) which were delicious and served with an apple-rhubarb butter, candied fennel, hazelnuts and toast. We also ordered the calamari, fried oysters (light and not at all greasy), skirt steak, scallops and gnocchi. Everything was great, the only plate we were lukewarm about were the scallops. The sauce was a bit on the salty side but the scallops were soft and cooked well. The desserts were fabulous too! Butterscotch pudding - I could have eaten an entire pint of it. Delectable. Watermelon and mint sorbet, also delicious and refreshing. The service was impeccable and everyone from Melissa who took our reservation over the phone and greeted us at the entrance to the wait staff was friendly and welcoming. We enjoyed peeking in on the open kitchen and checking out the lovely waterfall outside. If the weather is nice, try to request a table outside. Next time we will try that. Overall, a fantastic dining experience. We will be back with both kids in tow!

    (5)
  • Debbie F.

    Best meal ever. My entire family agrees. Worth the trip across the country for this. We are from San Francisco and have had lots of great food. This place is as good or better than any of the best of the Bay Area. Fantastic service. Beautiful ambience. We love supporting local, sustainable farms. And the food is out of this world.

    (5)
  • Kathleen M.

    Definitely a true localvore staple. Everything on the menu has been thought out to showcase the fresh seasonal fare that our little green mountain state is known for. A cheese plate here is not just your regular cheese and cracker plate; each garnish serves its sensory purpose. The local meat and fish is at the heart of the entrees here. They always have a vegetarian option as well which makes dining with picky eaters (guilty as charged!) a pleasant experience. Rabbit seems to be a popular item on the menu and although I'm not that adventurous, the small bite I had made me forget that this was once an adorable creature hopping in the woods. I prefer this location to the one in Burlington because it is more intimate and has a better atmosphere. On a nice day you can sit outside and eat in front of the waterfall. The service is really what puts this restaurant ahead of the others. They are knowledgeable, attentive and really go the extra mile to make your special occasion truly memorable!

    (5)
  • Jennifer N.

    Ate an amazing meal here with my family about two weeks ago. We came in for a five pm seating and brought the kiddos. Ordered most of the menu and found everything to be delightful. That said the most memorable thing we ordered was a vegetarian dish - spring vegetable crepes. Delicious, not to heavy, and bursting with flavor from the fresh peas. Service was top notch. Very friendly staff that gave even my small children the royal treatment. If possible would have given 4.5 stars. Only thing holding Hen of the Wood back from a five star review was dessert. A little weak, both in flavor given the quality of the appetizers and mains coming out of the kitchen.

    (4)
  • Anita B.

    We really didn't know what to expect when we went to this restaurant, but we were blown away by the experience. The restaurant is in an unlikely location in a funky old building that has been beautifully restored. We loved all the small tapas dishes, which gave us an opportunity to try many things. Every small plate was a hit. My husband's peanut butter/chocolate dessert was not as good as the main dishes, but this was a fabulous experience. We will be back for sure.

    (5)
  • Brett K.

    Our favorite restaurant on earth. We travel up every season to stay at the Old Stagecoach and eat at Hen of the Wood. Their food is fresh, local, and imaginative. The menu is ever-evolving. The service is intelligent and attentive. The setting is one of a kind, in colder months you're in a warm, candle-lit stone-lined basement of an old grist mill. When warm try to sit outside by a gorgeous natural waterfall. We usually order a bunch of small plates. Don't skip dessert!

    (5)
  • Jason A.

    Very excellent food, simple but brilliant. I'd give it a 4 of 5 on good. It's not 5 because its not overly complicated or anything new. Just very well executed American with a French inspiration. The fresh and local ingredients help elevate the food, unlike most restaurants are able to provide. The rabbit was stunning, the steak was uniquely brined, and the beet dish was an amazing pairing with the grapefruit. The entrees were overly salted, and the rabbit could have used some more sauce, but these are minor issues. Service was exceedingly knowledgeable but service was slow. Upon arriving we were told we needed to wait because other parties had arrived late. Not my issue, don't make me wait. It took 10 minutes to get a beer and 20 to get our first ordered food dish. A nice place for fresh, simple and excellent good, but don't expect promptness.

    (4)
  • Allison N.

    This restaurant is in a league of its own. What an amazing experience all-around. The inviting ambiance with twinkling candles, stone walls, and views of the river out back make for an alluring backdrop for this top-notch culinary experience. The staff was friendly, attentive and incredibly knowledgeable about the wines, beers, cocktails, cheeses and main plates. Evan was our server and he was an excellent guide for our first Hen of the Wood experience. The local cheese selection was so phenomenal we had a cheese plate at the beginning and end of the meal. Every dish we ordered was fantastic, from start to finish. As someone who enjoys tasting various things from a menu, the small plates were perfect because it is tough to decide on just one! This place is sure to be one of your best meals in Vermont.

    (5)
  • Kelly R.

    For our anniversary we wanted to go somewhere very nice. We had heard rave reviews about Hen of the Wood, and a James Beard nominee was a huge draw. They included a card with our meal wishing us a happy anniversary, which was a nice touch. Our server was mostly attentive, and we would rate the service as average. My husband got the pork loin, which was incredible. It was well seasoned, tender, and exactly what we would expect. I got the monkfish checks with a side of kale. The monkfish itself was cooked extremely well. It was flaky and delicious. The pickling vegetables on the side were obviously quick pickled, and the vinegar ended up on the bottom of my plate making the fish soggy. This made for a less than pleasurable end of the dish. The kale was tasteless. It was supposed to have goat cheese and anchovies, but it tasted like I was eating raw kale from my garden. I expect more from this restaurant. It seems as if I may have just tried the wrong dishes, but I won't be returning. At this price point I expect everything to be outstanding. I also expected more from the menu, as it seemed uninspired. There wasn't anything that seemed new or exciting. For the ups and downs that Claire's in Hardwick had, I do miss that type of restaurant. There was always something I was excited to try. I didn't feel that here. As a side note, the tables are very close together, and we felt like we were participating in the conversations around us. The crowd was mostly under 30 or over 60. Overall, I'm glad we tried it, and I'm also glad I don't have to go back.

    (4)
  • Melba L.

    This is five stars for service. Called this restaurant from Seattle to set up surprise dinner gift certificate for my sister-in-law and the restaurant was incredibly accommodating. Amazing!

    (5)
  • Stephanie Wales C.

    Be prepared to have your mind BLOWN. 5 stars---cheese, small plates, Large plates, sides, dessert. WOW WOW WOW!!! Incredible service! Brilliant, thought out food. Very reasonable prices for food this fresh and thoughtful. Gorgeous seating outside right in the river. Believe the reviews-this place lives up to the hype.

    (5)
  • Carolyn G.

    We live near by, so have the luxury of going here easily, but mostly for special occasions, as it is pricey. For our anniversary dinner, we were treated like royalty and had all small plates with a bottle of lovely white suggested by the waiter. Absolutely delightful experience and fantastically delicious!

    (5)
  • Ron G.

    I have eaten around North America and a few European cities in the last 2 years (Amsterdam, Paris, Montreal, Napa valley, Chicago, Toronto, Charleston, Savannah, Los Angeles.) this makes our top 5. Fantastic restaurant. Ambiance great. Waterfall outside great. Wine pairing great. Presentation great. Cheeses great. Hanger steak great. Honey cake with raspberry sorbet great. Going to sleep now. Wow. Will go back..for sure...oh yeah. Inventive. Professional. Fresh. Food and art in balance.

    (5)
  • J J.

    We tried to walk-in without reservations while visiting the area several years ago and decided to forego the 3-hour wait. However, we have since moved to the area and finally got around to making reservations (I recommend a week in advance if during the height of tourist season). This was a special occasion, so we sprung all different courses, where normally we tend to just stick to one shared plate and our entrees. The menu is very seasonal, and others have told me they rarely find the exact same items when they return - just maybe some variations on a particular protein. Overall, we loved the food (I would give 4.5 stars if this allowed) and the service was impeccable. The atmosphere was lovely - it felt like a special place, without feeling stuffy. You can get away with jeans and a nice T-shirt if you have to, but would probably feel a bit more comfortable with wearing a nicer top. We chose to start with a cheese course. This was a fine size for two of us - a nice sized wedge of local blue cheese (I found the menu description very accurate), along with 4 small flatbread crackers, some caramelized hazelnuts and a roasted peach sauce. These sides come with all the different cheeses and make for a fun option to mix and taste how the cheese flavors change with each component. I strongly recommend going for a cheese course (appetizer or dessert). Next we had our entrees with two additional sides. We had decided to basically share everything, but once we tasted the items we each settled into picking our favorites. So he had a rolled chicken breast dish with a side of pole (green) beans. The beans were perfectly cooked and very flavorful, with a ginger sauce. I am not a huge fan of ginger, but my boyfriend loved the combination. His chicken had lemon and tarragon flavors, which I found too strong for my taste, but he loved them. It also came on a bed of wheat berries, which were perfectly cooked and a great balance to the lemon. I ended up with the fried green tomatoes with a spicy remoulade - and I mean spicy! They were a bit undercooked and hard to slice, but I have never had fried green tomatoes, so am not sure if this is the norm. I also had the hanger steak with an herb sauce. The sauce was very fresh, but I did not catch what was in it other than parsley and some garlic. The steak was a PERFECT medium rare from top to bottom. I don't believe I have ever seen a more evenly cooked thick piece of beef in person. It was a perfect portion size (guessing 6 ounces). It came with a roasted or grilled broccoli - not sure which, but WOW that is a new way I have to try cooking broccoli. It really brought out the verdant flavor of the broccoli without it having any rawness. The only low point for us was the dessert. Partly because the rest of the meal was so good, the desserts just fell short of yumminess. My boyfriend had a chocolate tart and said it tasted a bit too chalky and needed a little more sweet - but the creme fraiche on top was perfect. I had a lemon and blueberry posset, which I have always known as a chilled custard. I was surprised when what I got was something more like a mousse that had not set, or even a melted whipped ice cream. The lemon flavor was nice - not too sweet. And the blueberry sauce on top was very nice. But it also had little balls of cinnamon shortbread cookies that seemed kind out of of place. Also, while quite lovely, it had some edible flowers on top. I tried to avoid them, but managed to accidentally eat one, which gave a bit of a bitter slap to my mouth. So, while we loved everything else, I think I would have been happier to have skipped dessert and just stuck with a coffee.

    (4)
  • Simon C.

    One of the best dining experiences I've had, in every way. The service was great, everything we ordered was fantastic, and the setting / ambiance truly added to the experience, while reflecting the character of the food. For what you receive, the price is extremely reasonable. Definitely worth a trip. In specific, I want to mention the 'sides' on the menu-- these are usually overlooked by restaurants, but the 'side' dishes we ordered (potatoes, brussel sprouts) were executed with every bit as much care and ingenuity as the other dishes on the menu. Oh, and last-- I've noticed that yelp reviews in urban areas tend to be harsher than those for rurally-localed restaurants. By the harsher 'urban' standard, Hen of the Wood is just as good-- our dinner was as the enjoyable as the best dinners I've had in urban locales.

    (5)
  • Paul E.

    Modern fine dining without having to dress up. What a treat! Fantastic modern food with a nice Vermont twist. This is food done right. Setting is pretty cool with views of the river. Plenty of seats where you can watch the kitchen work. Friendly genuine staff. Loved the ham poached in olive oil, very unique preparation. The pork tenderloin was one of the best pieces of pork I have ever had, so porky. Wine was a great value too. Don't forget to order some cheese, they have ever a great selection of Vermont cheeses.

    (5)
  • Rich M.

    I've ate at the Waterbury location twice and had the opportunity to hit up the Burlington location twice in one weekend for my girlfriend's birthday weekend this past month. Each time I eat here, the expectations get higher but the food gets better. I've made it a mission to eat as many things off the menu to get a better appreciation to what they excel in, or to find out what the menu's "sweet spots" might be. Our tables of two generally have enough food for four lol, but it gets eaten! While everything is solid to exceptional, I think their real strengths lie in their meats and veggies. Chicken is not normally something I eat at a nice restaurant with the logic being..."I can cook this at home." At Hen, I can honestly say I've had the best chicken of my life. On the most recent trip I had the tonno di maiale (delicious), halibut crudo (just average) and the rabbit entree. The rabbit was stellar and accompanied by a mind-blowing pan sauce. It's generally this combo i.e. meat, root veggies and some pan sauce that make for a truly exceptional meal. Some might call this uneventful or "vanilla" in today's culinary world, but executed properly, it's the best food I can imagine eating in New England.

    (5)
  • Dee F.

    This is a really wonderful restaurant. I have never been disappointed. Every time I go, I feel this little momentary disappointment to remember its emphasis on small plates and its limited number of full mains, but then we order and I am plunged again into delight of the flavors and the creativity. The thing I love most about all the food that HotW is the distinctness of the tastes. Every nuance of each ingredient seems to shine through and make a delectable whole. And the service was so attentive...like a well-oiled machine last night. As others have mentioned the sausage, polenta and duck egg are not to be missed (it was pork sausage last night). We also enjoyed the cod and the swiss chard ravioli, as well as the perfect cauliflower and brussels sprouts sides. Can't wait to go back.

    (5)
  • Freddy V.

    Hen of The Wood is a top notch restaurant experience. We drove 6 hours from NYC and this was the first real restaurant we decided to try while arriving. The place did not disappoint. Make sure you make reservations in advance because they are full to the max every night. Restaurant Break Out: Ambiance - 5 *****S (Small, Intimate, Cozy) Food - 5*****S (Everything is Organic and from local Farms) Service - 5*****S (Waiters are very knowledgeable of the menu both wine and food) Presentation - 5****S Over All Experience - 5****S What food we ate: - 2 orders of Oysters (YUM) - Hangar Steak - Winter Squash Fritters - Assortment of Cheese and Bottle of Wine (After Dinner) Enjoy the Food Yelpers!

    (5)
  • Sasha A.

    Maybe because Ive heard so much about it my expectations were just too high. Was the food good? yes. It was good. Was it great? No... it was... good. The appetizers - the homemade buns with radish butter was salty and sweet and really excellent. The grilled zucchini - super lame. A zucchini cut in half and put on the grill - covered with a little sauce. The polenta frites were out of this world delicious. I had the only veggie option on the menu - the gnocchi. They themselves were golden and crisp on the outside and tender on the inside - but the rest of the dish was just good. My fellow diners raved about the halibut but the rabbit looked dry and tasteless. The desserts (peanut butter mousse or something similar) - was good. Again - it was a nice meal, beautiful setting and great service but the food was just...... good. Not going to make the drive back to this one or the location in burlington.

    (3)
  • Nancy S.

    I had great expectations, especially after trying the Hen in Burlington: it's a NO.

    (1)
  • Patty S.

    Hen of the wood was recommended by a local foodie. The restaurant lies in a basement of an old mill (I originally wrote "a cute house" but someone got annoyed by it). We went at night and it was snowing so it was hard to see the "mill" in its entirety. It was a stunning atmosphere nonetheless. It was quaint yet hip. Lets talk about the food. First we tried a couple of the local cheeses which included a softer "timberdoodle" and a harder "fuzzy wheel". They were served with their homemade crackers, apple butter, hazelnuts and candied fennel. They were both delicious and fresh in their own right and the accompaniments worked with both. For appetizers we had the beef tartare (highly recommend), the pork terrine (which created the perfect bite and with its grain mustard and jam was our favorite), and the duck sausage polenta which was different than we thought it would be and included crumbles of duck sausage and polenta in a "mashed" consistency. We shared the brown butter crepes which did not disappoint. For dessert of note was the toffee in the little sweets plate. I wish I could have ordered that alone. If you are in stowe, this place is a must.

    (4)
  • Sean S.

    Where to start. This is a fantastic restaurant. From the homemade charcuterie to the cheese plate, nothing disappoints. A special occasion setting for every weekend dining. I have had two different chicken entrees here and both rival Gordon Hamersley's roast chicken. We have also had some terrific wines.

    (5)
  • PB F.

    Amazing. This is quite possibly the best restaurant in Vermont. It is a gem. The food here is delicious and well put together with an amazing quality. The ambiance is lovely and rustic-modern with amazing attention to detail. It is a very nice feeling when you enter and sit down. It is very cozy. It is nice to dress up here, but you don't have to, to fit in. People here dress in dresses to jeans and crocs. If you want to wear a dress, I do not recommend high heels or difficult footwear, though, because the parking lot is gravel and an uneven surface. And at night, it is not well lit so you could lose your footing easily. Back to the food - it is phenomenal. I've eaten at many places that TRY hard to present their food tastefully and try hard to put flavors together to make something 'special.' Not all places can achieve this - but Hen of the Wood does and exceeds it. Even their bread rolls - the first thing on their menu - are amazing - warm, rich in taste, with the right amount of salt to bring out the flavor. Mmm! The beef tartar is good; the one with the egg on the toast is good; the steak is amazing; the fish; the beets... Everything. Their menu changes frequently, so even more reason to come back and try the new creations. And dessert - don't forget to order this! It is also wonderfully crafted and yummy! If you are in the area, you must eat here!

    (5)
  • Phil S.

    Simply put, one of the best meals I've had. It's upscale, creative farm-to-table cuisine in an ancient mill-style building overlooking a gushing waterfall. Small, dimly lit and rustic. Service was worth the price alone. Our server provided us with a wealth of information about the local sourcing, cooking technique, and ingredients that went into each plate. Highlights were the bluefish toast and the goat's milk dumplings with short rib, although we thoroughly enjoyed every morsel on every plate. If we ever come close to Waterbury again, and I'm talking within 75 miles, we'll be heading back here.

    (5)
  • Leigh O.

    Hen of the Wood is hands down my favourite restaurant anywhere in the world. My family has a home in Stowe and every time we visit I try to get a reservation. Last night, yet again, we had a fantastic meal. We ordered the calamari, steak tartare (so good) and hanger steak. Everything was cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious. The atmosphere is rustic, charming and cozy - perfect for a date or intimate group dinner. If you're going to Stowe or Waterbury or anywhere near by, be sure to book a table here as it's a dinner you will savour long after your last bite.

    (5)
  • Olga T.

    One of the best restaurants in the Stowe/Waterbury area. The service is a stellar 5 stars and the food is delicious and creative. I loved everything about this restaurant, no wonder the chef was a semi finalist in the James Beard Foundation awards. I was very very impressed and would surely come back if I was ever in the area. Make sure you make a reservation in order to guarantee yourself a seat.

    (4)
  • M R.

    Amazing in all directions. Wonderful location, unbelievable food, great service and great rustic decor. You will not be disappointed but your wallet might say ouch. Considering I dine in NYC weekly this restaruant was head and shoulders above many. Oh, don't forget to try the cheese course.

    (5)
  • Mick B.

    Amazing restaurant, featuring the best that the farm-to-table, sustainable approach to farming and eating has to offer. For the appetizer, we had lamb bone marrow, and then an exquisite French toast with wild mushrooms, egg and bacon. For the entrees, we had a superb hangar steak with beets, and wonderful braised rabbit with pasta, peas and mushrooms. Dessert was the highlight. Butterscotch heaven which so unbelievable we ordered a second serving. The location, next to a stream with a waterfall, with outdoor seating, has a lovely ambience, while the staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the food and wine and their origins. Casual, laid back and not too pricey. One of the best restaurants we've even been to.

    (5)
  • Kel S.

    Well, let's discuss ambiance. Gorgeous decor - tucked away in an old homestead basement. We had a reservation but had to wait a while due to a large party... which was not a problem as we were comped 3 cocktails including an apple jack, an elderberry fizz and an orleans, all 3 were wonderful. Not only this, but they also brought us all 3 starters on the menu: beet caprese, pickled carrots & cauliflower, pollenta on the house. For my entree, I had pan-seared scallops which were large yet tender and came over a rich lobster potato stew. Finally, for desert we had a trio of sorbets: red wine/pear, lemon/lime, lemon/maple which were both pallet cleansing & stomach calming after all the wonderful cuisine.

    (5)
  • Kate D.

    I can't believe that there are people who were unimpressed with this place. 1) The ambiance is great. It's nicely decorated and has a formal yet mellow vibe. Clothing attire for the guests was varied from nice jeans/sweaters/button down shirts all the way to suits/dresses. Oddly enough, everyone looked like the fit right in--neither over or under dressed. I loved that you could see into the kitchen from the dining room. There were only two chefs cooking, but they seemed like they were loving what they were doing. 2) Service was exceptional. Our waitress was great, recommended a new wine and beer that neither my husband nor myself had ever tried. Both were excellent. She knew the menu well, gave great explanations and answered all of our questions. 3.) The food. Oh, where to begin. The butternut squash soup was out of this world. My husband had the hanger steak for dinner and I had chicken (forget exactly what it was called--but was stuffed and served over a buttered parsnip puree with cabbage). We kept switching plates because they were absolutely delicious. I literally could have eaten a bowl of the parsnip puree. For dessert, we had the opera cake (excellent) and a plate of little truffles. mini cakes, etc. It was very good as well. All together, we had two appetizers, a beer, a glass of wine, two entrees, two desserts and a coffee and our bill came to $120. I thought that was very reasonable for the quality of the food and the excellent service. We look forward to going back on our next trip up to VT.

    (5)
  • Mark N.

    Definitely not as impressed as others. My comments mainly have to do with the food. The setting and the service were both impeccable. This is one of those farm-to-table-when-convenient spots. The menu included red fish from the Gulf and octopus. I found the preparations unimpressive. For a starter, I had crisped lamb ribs. The sauce on which they sat was quite sweet. I selected slow cooked rabbit with ricotta gnocchi as a large plate. It was reasonably flavorful, but that dish brings me to my main complaint with Hen of the Woods: everything was so rich and fatty that half way through the main course, I simply couldn't eat any more. The gnocchi and rabbit were swimming in what I took to be butter. The lamb ribs had been fried before gracing a rich fatty sauce. It seems like one of the standouts of this restaurant is the cheese program, which features many local cheeses. The preceding dishes were so rich that I couldn't even think of following them with cheese. Honestly, this restaurant is not all that. There are half a dozen restaurants in Philly that easily top it, providing food with much more local integrity. Sorry, Vermont. I think you're still waiting on your farm-to-table restaurant that does justice to the vibrancy of your farmers markets.

    (3)
  • Stephanie S.

    Delicious dinner - the best we've had in the Stowe area. I feel underqualified to write a review because I'm not actually a food blogger and I won't have the words to describe it. Put it this way, I like good food and I hate being suckered in by the inflated Yelp 5 stars. As others have said, the atmosphere and service is wonderful. But, more importantly, the food is great. The flavors are FRESH and inventive. We ate here a year ago and we didn't recognize the menu - it seemed completely new. That's a plus! We left satisfied but not stuffed. A wonderfully pleasant experience.

    (5)
  • Matthew F.

    Creme de la creme - quite simply the best in VT dining. Cozy atmosphere, friendly service and creative menu that focuses on local Green Mountain and Champlain Valley sources. A must stop whether you are skiing at Stowe or just driving through - only a minute off I-89.

    (5)
  • Charlie B.

    Hen of the Wood really is as good as it gets. *Everything* was beyond good - delicious, subtle, pretty, unusual. The standout was the beef short ribs with gnocchi. Meltingly rich and beefy, yet lightly sauced, with the best gnocchi I've ever had. Really the definitive gnocchi. Crispy haddock was also great, as was the pork loin. We loved the "bites" (little appetizers) and shared many. Great vegetable things. (The Crispy Prosciutto should really be called Marinated Vegetables with Crispy Prosciutto tho - there's not that much ham in it!). The kale and turnip sides were also yummy. Service was very pleasant and attentive. We loved it.

    (5)
  • Hope C.

    You must go to Hen of the Wood. If you are a fan of farm to table, restored antique buildings and chef-owned restaurants, it's not an option. You must go. Not only is the food exceptional, but the ambiance and ferocious commitment to local ingredients will elevate a simple meal here to a remarkable EXPERIENCE. The most delectable food I've ever had has been home-cooked and from street stalls and food carts in India and southeast Asia. Nothing quite compares to this. But a meal, a real sit-down meal in a nice restaurant...that's different. You remember a few meals in your lifetime. Part of this memory is built upon memories of the food, but most of it hinges on the company, the service, the atmosphere, the sounds, the smells, the pace of the meal. During our time at Hen of the Wood, I was suspended in a happy haze of meals past: reminded of falling in love at Au Pied de Cochon in Montreal, my sore euphoria at Fid Resto in Halifax after a week of hiking Cape Breton, my deep belly laughter at Ten Tables in Boston; transported back to the thrill of new friendships I experienced over the most tender roast chicken in Riga, Latvia; reminded of my tired relief while slurping ridiculously good bone marrow at The Black Hoof in Toronto, my pure bliss while sinking into soft smoked pastrami at Good Luck in Rochester NY, the feelings of quiet familiarity over meltaway steak at Eden in Dublin; the excitement of the unknown while biting into layers of kangaroo lasagna at an isolated cafe in outback Australia. Hen of the Wood reminded me of some of the most happy moments I've known in life thus far and this, I have to say, is what a great meal is all about. We started with local cheeses - Jasper Hill Hazen Blue (raw cow - sharp, soft, pungent, salty) and the Boston Post Dairy (raw goat, hard, mild), which were accompanied by sweet drizzly honeycomb and curiously gritty fig bread. A very interesting combination. It was over and I still wanted more. Then we had my favorite dish of the evening: garlicky wild mushrooms and spinach sauteed in butter and piled atop dense olive oil-infused toast, topped with a glorious poached egg. Cut into the egg and let the yellow runny yolk coat the salty mushroom and crisp toast in all its goodness. Marvelous. We also had a duck rillette special: heavily salted duck simmered slowly in duck fat and allowed to cool and gel into a pate that was spread over more of the delicious olive oil infused bread. Oh, my arteries were hardening. The main course was the smoked hangar steak, medium rare, covered in a rich balsamic reduction with flecks of sharp soft blue cheese. A truly delicious and savory marriage. The service was friendly and unobtrusive. Our waitress had a true passion for the place that she conveyed without being pushy or effusive. The atmosphere was casual upscale, intimate and relaxed. It's in a restored mill next to the waterfall. Think stone walls, candles, rustic chandeliers, wooden tables. You can order wines by the glass, carafe or bottle. We were too full for dessert, unfortunately. Go to Hen of the Wood with an open mind, a sense of adventure, reverence for the past and an appreciation for being in the moment. I think the experience will not disappoint! Of note: I did call to make reservations, approximately 5 weeks in advance. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

    (5)
  • Kristen H.

    My husband I went here for dinner for our anniversary. It's definitely a bit pricey but it is definitely worth it! The ambiance is great. It has a very rustic but classy feel and is set right next to a brook. They use mostly local, fresh ingredients so their menu changes daily. Our waiter was excellent and most importantly the food was delicious. We ordered fresh baked bread and cheese to start. For our meal I ordered braised rabbit with goat cheese dumplings and my husband ordered the flank steak with asparagus and mushrooms. We also ordered a side of fingerling potatoes and a side of parsnips. Everything was perfectly cooked and while the portions were small, they were tasty and satisfying. Definitely would recommend this place and would definitely go back again.

    (5)
  • David C.

    First time here. It didn't start well because there were no parking spaces and no valet and no white lines on the ground to tell people where to park so there was extra space between cars but not enough space to park. We parked 1/8 of a mile under a bridge and walked up... Here's what we ate and drank: 1 Tarentaise - $7 1 Sweet Peas - $7 1 Beets - $7 1 Redfish - $25 1 Roasted Vegetables - $19 1 Folk Machine (Wine) - $52 1 Opera Cake - $8 Tax: $11.77 Total: $136.77 The Tarentaise was a cheese with hazelnuts and 2 types of jam. That along with the beets, wine and cake were the parts worth recommending. The peas and both of our entrees were only OK. In general the portions were small. The presentation and atmosphere was nice but neither made up for the small portions or the unimpressive flavors. The waiter was attentive but not warm. At the price, I expected more. Perhaps the food is more impressive if you are a meat eater since people have written nice reviews about some of the meat dishes. However, they don't seem to cater to vegetarians - they simply try to accommodate them with a few dishes. Other restaurants like Prohibition Pig in Waterbury and The Farm House Tap & Grill in Burlington offer better food, better prices and therefore a better value. Hen of the Wood has a nicer atmosphere than either of them but it's not worth paying their prices just for that.

    (3)
  • KittyCat G.

    Perfectly situated off of Highway 100 right as you exit off of 89 on the drive up from Boston, and they take reservations. We got off of the wait list, so definitely add your name if they don't have availability when you call. It's an excellent foodie place, but casual - like most of Vermont.

    (5)
  • Bailey Z.

    My second visit to Hen of the Wood was much better than my first salty experience. Since reopening last fall, the restaurant looks the same. The menu has the new addition of bites, which are small appetizers for $7 each. We started our dinner with the braised cod cheeks. It was served with preserved tomatoes and chili flakes - the fish cheeks was exceptional and flaked easily. For starters, I had the crispy oysters served with horseradish aioli, fried lemon, and parsley. It was perfectly fried and even my girlfriend who is not a fan of shellfish liked it enough to eat one. Her roasted parsnip and winter squash soup was great as well. This time, the addition of pancetta to the soup didn't overwhelm the dish with saltiness. For entrees, I tried the smoked hanger steak with crushed Nicola potatoes and rucola with crème fraîche. The steak was tender and cooked to a perfect medium rare. The day-boat Gloucester skate wing that my girlfriend had was served with winter squash, pears, hazelnuts, and brown butter. It was cooked and sauced well. The dessert was a cornmeal cake served with a scoop of almond covered crème fraîche ice cream. This along with the braised cod cheeks were the top dishes of the night. Both were served in a miniature cast iron pot so good things must come in small packages. This was the type of food I first expected from the Hen of the Wood. Fresh, local flavor that highlights the farm-to-table aspect of Vermont fine dining. Congratulations to Chef Eric Warnstedt for garnering another James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef: Northeast 2012.

    (4)
  • Evan S.

    I have eaten at some the "finest" restaurants in the world and this place is easily within the top 5. If it was closer to NYC, I would come back every week (and then go to the gym more). The only caveat is it is new American and true farm to table, so if that's not your shtick you may not appreciate it as much. Service - attentive and not overbearing, it's prompt when you want it but everyone is very friendly. Ambiance - beautiful location with waterfall in the back, and open kitchen inside. No bar makes for a quieter meal but acoustics keep a low level of sound so it is not too quiet. Food - farm to table at its best. Vermont is such a haven for great farms and great produce, and the chef here is able to elevate each ingredient into something special. I have been here 3 times and always have been impressed with all of the dishes. Not too heavy but strong simple flavors. Drinks - incredible beer list (waterbury is a center for that) great wine list as well. They have great recommendations if you are unsure what you want. Value - falls into you get what you pay for, amazing on all accounts and not overpriced, but be prepared to spend $60-$100 per person if ordering a full meal and a drink or two.

    (5)
  • Naomi E.

    Delicious food, wonderful ambiance and a raging waterfall to boot. Our meal began with a lovely glass of red from Italy and the beet bites. Flavorful, cheesy and a bit aggressive. For appetizers a lobster on a parsnip mash followed by the special -- short ribs on peas which was tasty but not amazing and a bit heavy for a summer evening. The bf got the scallops and after I tried them after never liking scallops I'm a convert. Settled on a base of bean salad, it made for the perfect summer entree. Lastly, we dipped into a strawberry sorbet crumble- yum! In addition, there were flash flood warnings the whole day and the waterfall was the highest since hurricane Irene. Everyone was super excited. The biggest complaint was their inability to honor our reservation in the window box seat. This is the best seat in the house, and would've been even more exciting bc of the raging river and they did not kick out the people who were SLOWLy drinking their bottle of wine. Disappointed!

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :5:00 pm - 9:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : Yes
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : No
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Dinner
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : No
    Good for Kids : No
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Intimate
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : Full Bar
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Dogs Allowed : No
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : No

Hen Of The Wood

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