we’re winning
(with you)
From all of us at The Automaster:
Thank you for your continued support. Come in to one of our showrooms today and allow us to demonstrate our commitment to auto excellence.
3328 Shelburne Road 985-8411 theautomaster.com
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Insta
4 D2v-Perrywinkles073014.indd 1
6/18/14 11:41 AM
D2V14-SkiRack.indd 1
7/22/14 9:34 AM
W
Cover illustration by Jeff Drew
FOOD
18
DRINK
26
ARTS+ ENTERTAINMENT
34
SHOPPING
42
SERVICES
46
Outdoor+ RECREATION
50
MEDIA
The Seven Daysies Awards are produced by:
PO Box, 1164, Burlington, VT 05401 • 802-864-5684 © 2014 Da Capo Publishing, Inc.
LOCALS PICK THE BEST OF VERMONT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/DAYSIES
hoa, Vermont — way to pick your favorite spots to eat, shop and recreate! More than 10,000 voters weighed in on the state’s 2014 “best-of” awards, with a whopping 650,000-plus individual votes in 177 categories. That’s a lot of love, all brought to you by Seven Days, the state’s alternative newsweekly. In this, our 12th year of hosting what we call “the Daysies,” we doubled the pleasure: In the first round, Vermonters nominated their favorites in categories from Thai food to tattoo artist, creemee to car dealer. Second, we tallied up the votes, selected up to five finalists in each category and offered those up for voting again. Turns out, we all like multiple choice. Not only that, but finalists like campaigning! Most of them got into the spirit, encouraging their fans to vote with signs in their store windows, posts on Facebook and (often hilarious) tweets. A note about the “Outside Chittenden County” section. In Vermont, the largest population is inside Chittenden County, so it’s tough for anyone outside to top the Burlington area (unless the category involves mountains). But in some instances — say, shoe store or pizza — the passionate swell of votes from outside Chittenden County justified separating the category. So that’s what that means. One more thing: Our “bonus” category this year contained 16 questions. We’ve sprinkled eight of the winners throughout this magazine. What’s the best place in Vermont to get naked? Look for it, people. Congrats to all the Daysies winners, perennials and newbies, and thanks to Seven Days readers — you’re the best. SEVEN DAYS STAFF
6
5
Of all the Daysie award categories, none has grown more than food. Few of us with a smartphone can eat a meal anymore without taking a snapshot, and we’re ordering more adventurously all the time. Ours is unquestionably a foodie culture, and the Green Mountains boast some of the nation’s best farms and dining to match. Seven Days likes to celebrate the food scene’s growing diversity. That’s why we added 16 new categories this year and eliminated others. Best Asian, a perpetual source of confusion for voters, is now separated by specific country. Despite the local ascendance of Vietnamese cuisine in recent years, we were slow to add it to categories including Chinese, Thai and sushi. It now gets its rightful place, with winner Pho Hong earning its first Daysie. The Daysies are a great way to reinforce locals’ favorites, but this year we also aimed to guide and enlighten visitors to our fair state. To that end, we chose some basic, popular dishes and asked our readers to name a favorite version. Since breakfast is the most important meal of the day, we added prizes for the best eggs Benedict in and outside Chittenden County and the best breakfast sandwich. For those who prefer a sweet start, we inaugurated a cider doughnut category — and Cold Hollow Cider Mill got the prize. Other individual food items getting their first shot at Daysies stardom include steak, fries, wings, sandwiches, frozen yogurt and bread. Think of this guide as a gustatory shopping list, filled with must-try tips.
BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED IN THE LAST YEAR)
Hen of the Wood
The beloved Waterbury restaurant duplicated its rustic feel, legendary wine list and creative locavore cuisine at Burlington’s Hotel Vermont. The bar is open for cocktails and craft brews until 1 a.m. (55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534, henofthewood.com)
Other finalists: • Pascolo Ristorante: 83 Church St., Burlington, 497-1613, pascolovt.com • Pingala Café & Eatery: 1 Mill St., Burlington, 540-0110, pingalacafe.com • Revolution Kitchen: 9 Center St., Burlington, 448-3657, revolutionkitchen.com • The Vermont Tap House: 70 Marshall Ave., Williston, 879-7060, vermonttaphouse.com OLIVER PARINI
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Plate
Big salads fill the menu at this restaurant specializing in light, fresh California cuisine. Just make sure to leave room for a Mason jar of banana pudding. (91 Main St., Stowe, 253-2691, platestowe.com)
Other finalists: • Phoenix Table and Bar: 1652 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-2838, phoenixtableandbar.com • The Lobby: 7 Bakery Ln., Middlebury, 989-7463, lobbyrestaurantvt.com
BEST RESTAURANT IF YOU’RE PAYING
Tiny Thai
You can get dinner for two — and leave with leftovers — for less than $40 at this familyrun Thai restaurant. And it’s BYOB, so there’s never a bar bill. It does a bustling take-out business, too. (24 Main St., Winooski, 655-4888, tinythairestaurant.net)
Other finalists:
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Inside Chittenden County
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Hen of the Wood
6
It’s hard to believe that the Burlington outpost of Hen of the Wood qualifies as a new restaurant. Since opening last October, it has quickly become an essential part of the Queen City scene. Not surprisingly, both restaurants — owned by chef Eric Warnstedt and wine specialist William McNeil — swept several Daysies categories this year (including Warnstedt for best chef). But while the original Waterbury Hen is all about its pastoral, waterside location, Burlington’s Hen is at the center of activity. Adjacent to Hotel Vermont, the new Hen of the Wood attracts its share of destination diners, as well as locals who hang out at the bar for a spicy Ancho & Apples cocktail, a plate of oysters or piles of thinly sliced Southern ham. Warnstedt and co.’s most notable new toy is the wood fire that cooks lamb ribs, rabbit legs and everything in between — as long as it’s local. Practically the only dishes not licked by fire here are the desserts. Try to save room for a maple-inflected opera cake or an intense crabapple sorbet. 55 Cherry St., Burlington • 540-0534 • henofthewood.com
• American Flatbread — Burlington Hearth: 115 St. Paul St., Burlington, 861-2999, americanflatbread.com • Pho Hong: 325 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 865-8031 • Pizzeria Verità : 156 St. Paul St., Burlington, 489-5644, pizzeriaverita.com • The Farmhouse Tap & Grill: 160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
The Mad Taco
This lucha-themed eatery specializes in Mexican dishes made with local, farm-fresh ingredients — from pork belly tacos to smoked lamb shoulder. (2 Village Sq., Waitsfield, 496-3832 • 72 Main St., Montpelier, 225-6038, themadtaco.com)
Other finalists: • Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • Piecasso Pizzeria and Lounge: 1899 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4411, piecasso.com • Sarducci’s: 3 Main St., Montpelier, 223-0229, sarduccis.com • The Reservoir Restaurant & Tap Room: 1 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-7827, waterburyreservoir.com
food
thanks for the
love!
Nominated For: Best Draught Beer List ICC Best Place to Drink Alone ICC
We are grateful for your support for so many years!
Best Bar Overall
Your store for special occasion dresses and the best in casual wear since 1992.
_
Ecco Clothes | 81 Church Street | Burlington, VT eccoclothesboutique.com | 802.860.2220 D4t14-Mule.indd 1
7/16/14 2:59 PM
• SLICES • CRAFT BEERS LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
• GLUTEN-FREE MENU • HOMEMADE DESSERTS • HEALTHY KIDS MENU • CREATIVE ENTRÉES • ONLINE ORDERING • DELIVERY • GAME ROOM • TRIVIA
1899 MOUNTAIN ROAD
STOWE VT 05672 • 802.253.4411
PIECASSO.COM
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE VOTES VERMONT!
7
FILE: JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
BEST RESTAURANT IF THEY’RE PAYING
Hen of the Wood
Good chefs cost money. And locavore products don’t come cheap. But a delicious dinner at Burlington’s hottest new restaurant is worth the price, especially when someone else is picking up the check. (55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534, henofthewood.com)
Other finalists: • A Single Pebble: 133 Bank St., Burlington, 865-5200, asinglepebble.com • Guild Tavern: 1633 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-1207, guildtavern.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Trattoria Delia: 152 St. Paul St., Burlington, 864-5253, trattoriadelia.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Chef Aaron Martin with owners Jamie Persky and Mark Rosman at Plate in Stowe
Michael’s on the Hill
This romantic, farm-to-table fine-dining restaurant has alpine roots. Swiss-trained chef-owner Michael Kloeti runs the kitchen. The menu changes regularly, but homemade gnocchi and chocolate fondue are perennials. (4182 Route 100, Waterbury Center, 244-7476, michaelsonthehill.com)
Other finalists: • Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • Kismet: 52 State St., Montpelier, 223-8646, kismetkitchens.com
BEST BREAKFAST / BRUNCH
Penny Cluse Café
The long lines are a testament to the eternal popularity of this breakfast-and-lunch spot. Try the Zydeco breakfast — two eggs any style, black beans, corn muffins and andouille sausage. (169 Cherry St., Burlington, 651-8834, pennycluse. com)
Other finalists:
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
• Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Magnolia Bistro: 1 Lawson Ln., Suite 10, Burlington, 846-7446, magnoliabistro.com • Mirabelles: 198 Main St., Burlington, 658-3074, mirabellescafe.com • Sneakers Bistro: 28 Main St., Winooski, 655-9081, sneakersbisto.com
8
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Kismet
Find cuisine with a conscience at Kismet, where carefully sourced local and sustainable food is prepared creatively — even at brunch. Try the eggs Benedict. You won’t regret it. (52 State St., Montpelier, 223-8646, kismetkitchens.com)
Other finalists: • McCarthy’s Restaurant: 454 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-8626, mccarthysrestaurantstowe. com • The Bagel: 394 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-9943
BEST LUNCH
Misery Loves Company
The open kitchen dishes out seriously imaginative food, from Chinese-style pork buns to house-cured meat and fish. In 2013, the fare earned these chef-owners a James Beard Foundation Award nomination. (46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com)
BEST PLACE TO GET LATE-NIGHT FOOD
Kountry Kart Deli
In the mood for a Philly cheesesteak at breakfast or bedtime? This famous Queen City deli serves its full menu from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. all year round. (155 Main St., Burlington, 864-4408, kountrykartdeli.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Penny Cluse Café: 169 Cherry St., Burlington, 651-8834, pennycluse.com • Red Onion: 140 Church St., Burlington, 865-2563 • Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: 211 College St., Burlington, 862-7616, stonesoupvt.com
• Ali Baba’s Kabob Shop: 163 Main St., Burlington, 862-5752 • El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina: 189 Bank St., Burlington, 497-1668, cortijovt.com • Mr. Mike’s: 206 Main St., Burlington, 864-0072 • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
BEST OUTDOOR DINING
Prohibition Pig
This destination restaurant may only serve lunch Friday through Sunday, but it’s making a big impact in Waterbury. A soup and sandwich combo was never so indulgent. (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com)
Other finalists: • 3 Squares Café: 221 Main St., Vergennes, 877-2772, threesquarescafe.com • The Mad Taco: 2 Village Sq., Waitsfield, 496-3832 • 72 Main St., Montpelier, 225-6038, themadtaco.com • Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: 1899 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4411, piecasso.com • Wilaiwan’s Kitchen: 34 State St., Montpelier, 505-8111
The Skinny Pancake
An eclectic mix of local meats and veggies are wrapped in crêpes at this café that’s beloved in Burlington and Montpelier. Locavore salads, soups, fondue and espresso drinks taste even better on the patio. (60 Lake St., Burlington, 5400188, skinnypancake.com)
Other finalists: • Breakwater Café: 1 King St., Burlington, 658-6276, breakwatervt.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Splash at the Boathouse: 0 College St., Burlington, 658-2244, splashattheboathouse. com • Sweetwaters: 120 Church St., Burlington, 864-9800, sweetwatersvt.com
BEST NEW RESTAURANT Outside Chittenden County
Plate
The name Plate is short and sweet, but it doesn’t tell the whole story of this petite spot that opened in Stowe last March. A better moniker might be Care. At Plate, owners Jamie Persky and Mark Rosman and chef Aaron Martin pay attention to every aspect of the dining experience. Sitting at a dark wood booth under a gaggle of light bulbs left artfully naked, diners get their first taste of the kitchen’s exacting work with a complimentary bread basket. The home-baked treats are served with cinnamon butter. Plate’s savory fare leans toward the light, California-style meals that its owners eat at home. But that doesn’t stop them from serving up more indulgent cuisine, including a pork belly and eggs appetizer. Diners who hold back and order a salad have all the more room for Persky’s indulgent banana pudding, a breakout star. 91 Main St., Stowe • 253-2691 • platestowe.com
food
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST IN VERMONT!
Nominated for: Best Best Best Best Best Best
Burger OCC French Fries OCC Draught Beer List OCC Place to Drink Alone Bar Overall Bartender-Scott Kerner
108 Main Street, Montpelier vt 802.223.taps
W W W . P O S I T I V E P I E . C O M
threepennytaproom.com ·
DQ14-ThreePenny.indd 1
7/17/14 10:37 AM
NATED F MI
DS
AR
SEVE N
W
•N
R•
O
O
7
DA
Y SIE S A
3squarescafe.com ■ 802-877-2772
Thanks for the votes for Best Lunch everyone! 221 Main Street, Vergennes, VT 05491
(in our humble opinion)
We love The Daysies!
Thank you to all our Paddle friends! Summer Hours: Tuesday thru Sunday • 5pm–close
802.372.4814 bluepaddlebistro.com
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
But don’t forget we’ve got the best breakfast, brunch and eggs benedict too!
9 DQP14-BluePaddleBistro.indd 1
7/17/14 3:07 PM
D4T14-3squares.indd 1
7/17/14 11:54 AM
JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
BEST CHEF
BEST PLACE TO EAT ALONE
Eric Warnstedt, Hen of the Wood
City Market
This six-time nominee for the James Beard Foundation award for best chef in the Northeast earns his plaudits with farm-fresh fare enhanced with flair — and fire. (55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534 • 92 Stowe St., Waterbury, 244-7300, henofthewood.com)
Other finalists: • Aaron Josinsky and Nate Wade of Misery Loves Co.: 46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com • Donnell Collins of Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Phoebe Bright of Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • Phil Clayton of Guild Tavern: 1633 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-1207
BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE
Hen of the Wood
The exceptional cocktails, carefully selected wines and memorable cuisine would be nothing without an able navigator. The servers here never fail to rise to the occasion. (55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534 • 92 Stowe St., Waterbury, 244-7300, henofthewood.com)
Other finalists: • Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • The Farmhouse Tap & Grill: 160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com • Trattoria Delia: 152 St. Paul St., Burlington, 864-5253, trattoriadelia.com
BEST PLACE TO GRAB A QUICK MEAL
City Market
A wide range of options makes this market the perfect stop for a quick meal. Featuring healthy, inexpensive food, the in-store eatery sells grab-and-go meals, sushi, baked goods, sandwiches and salads. Or assemble your own from selections at the hot, cold and salad bars. (82 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-3659, citymarket.coop)
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Other finalists:
10
• Boloco: 92 Church St., Burlington, 658-9771, boloco.com • Bueno Y Sano: 213 College St., Burlington, 864-9900, buenoysano.com • New World Tortilla: 696 Pine St., Burlington, 865-1058, newworldtortilla.com • Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: 211 College St., Burlington, 862-7616, stonesoupvt.com
Although the glass walls suggest “fish bowl,” anything goes in the busy café at City Market. Customers feast on sandwiches, salads and sushi in the separate eating area at the front of the store. In summer, there are outdoor tables, too. (82 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-3659, citymarket.coop)
Other finalists: • El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina: 189 Bank St., Burlington, 497-1668, cortijovt.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • New Moon Café: 150 Cherry St., Burlington, 383-1505, newmoonvt.com • Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: 211 College St., Burlington, 862-7616, stonesoupvt.com
BEST THAI
Tiny Thai
The dishes here — including papaya salad, tom kha, ginger chicken and krapow stir-fry — take their cues from both Thai food carts and family tables. Ask for the authentic Thai menu. (24 Main St., Winooski, 655-4888, tinythairestaurant.net)
Other finalists: • Pho Hong: 325 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 865-8031, Facebook • Royal Orchid: 38 Elm St., Montpelier, 223-0436, royalorchidthaivt.com • Sukho Thai: 21 Essex Way #210, Essex, 878-2788, sukhothaiessex.com • Thai House: 333 Swanton Rd., Highgate Common Shopping Center, St. Albans, 524-0999, thaihousevt.com
Marti Austin
BEST CIDER DOUGHNUTS
Cold Hollow Cider MilL
Between the Ben & Jerry’s factory and slew of destination restaurants, Waterbury is a hub of food tourism. But tourists aren’t the only ones who make sure to stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Sure, Vermonters can grab a jug of the mill’s well-balanced cider at nearly any local supermarket. But they have to go to the source (or resort to mail order) for another apple-scented treat: cider doughnuts. The light, spiced treats may taste handcrafted, but they’re actually made by a robot. Luckily, the machine works fast: The store sells about 800 of the pastries daily during foliage season. And the product doesn’t suffer from being produced in bulk: The now-defunct Gourmet magazine placed Cold Hollow’s doughnuts among the nation’s four best. Clearly, Vermonters agree. 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd., Waterbury Center • 244-8771 • coldhollow.com
BEST CHINESE
A Single Pebble
There’s no sign of General Tso in this authentic Asian eatery. Founding chef Steve Bogart developed his menu after years cooking in China, where he learned from the masters. The tasting menu — for $16 — is the best lunch deal in town. (133 Bank St., Burlington, 865-5200, asinglepebble.com)
Other finalists: • Asian Bistro: 25 Winooski Falls Way, Winooski, 655-9800 • 121 Connor Way, Williston, 878-8878, asianbistrovt.net • China Express: 295 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 865-2155 • 30 North St., Burlington, 865-4888, chinaexpressdelivery.com • Peking Duck House: 79 W. Canal St., Winooski, 655-7475, pekingduckhousevt.com • Silver Palace: 1216 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 864-0125, silverpalaceofvt.com
BEST MEXICAN
El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina
This taqueria from the team behind the Farmhouse Tap & Grill serves locally inspired tacos, burritos and entrées, along with “wicked fly” margaritas. Order your takeout online. (189 Bank St., Burlington, 497-1668, cortijovt.com)
Other finalists: • El Gato Cantina: 169 Church St., Burlington, 540-3095, elgatocantina.com • Madera’s Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina: 180 Battery St., Burlington, 657-3377, maderasvermont.com • Mexicali Grill & Cantina: 28 Walnut St., Suite 180, Maple Tree Place, Williston, 879-9492, mexicalivt.net • The Mad Taco: 2 Village Sq., Waitsfield, 496-3832 • 72 Main St., Montpelier, 225-6038, themadtaco.com
BEST VIETNAMESE
Pho Hong
The pho’s the thing at this family-owned eatery. Don’t feel like soup? Try the ”Happy Pancakes” — crêpes stuffed with shrimp, pork and onions. (325 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 865-8031, Facebook)
Other finalists: • 99 Asian Market Eatery: 242 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 865-0226, Facebook • Dharshan Namaste Asian Deli: 212 Main St., Winooski, 654-8000 • M Saigon: 370 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 865-8383, Facebook • Pho Dang: 215 Main St., Winooski, 655-0707, Facebook
BEST ITALIAN
Trattoria Delia
A romantic, firelit grotto setting and awardwinning wine list distinguish this Italian restaurant. Try specialties such as antipastone, gnocchi with wild boar, or osso buco. (152 St. Paul St., Burlington, 864-5253, trattoriadelia.com)
Other finalists: • Bove’s Restaurant: 68 Pearl St., Burlington, 864-6651, boves.com • Junior’s Italian: 85 S. Park Dr., Colchester, 655-0000, juniorsvt.com • L’Amante Ristorante: 126 College St., Burlington, 863-5200, lamante.com • Papa Frank’s: 13 W. Center St., Winooski, 655-2423, papa-franks.com • Sarducci’s Restaurant and Bar: 3 Main St., Montpelier, 223-0229, sarduccis.com
food
DAYSIES DEALS! 1 large, 1-topping pizza, 12 wings and a 2 liter Coke product
$19.99
THANKS FOR THE VOTES!
Fresh, Affordable, Authentic Thai Food!
2 large, 1-topping pizzas & 2-liter Coke product
$24.99
Take Out • BYOB • For a full menu visit: tinythairestaurant.net
Plus tax. Pick-up or delivery only. Expires 12/31/14. Limit: 1 offer per customer per day.
24 Main Street, Downtown Winooski, 655-4888 M-F 11:30am-2:30pm / 4:30-9:30pm / Sa-Su 11:30am-9:30pm
973 Roosevelt Highway • Colchester • 655-5550 www.threebrotherspizzavt.com
DQ13-tinythai.indd 1
7/29/13 4:02 PM
Thank you...
for making us an outdoor dining favorite! We’ve been creating favorite meals and memories on Church Street for over 33 years. Come see for yourself what all the buzz is about!
Drop in and let Matt make you a cocktail!
802.864.9800
sweetwatersvt.com
120 CHURCH STREET, BURLINGTON
C H U R C H & C O L L E G E • B U R L I N G TO N • 8 6 3 - 3 7 5 9 • W W W. L E U N I G S B I ST R O . C O M D4T14-sweetwaters(reelhosp).indd 1
7/17/14 3:29 PM
D4T14-leunigs.indd 1
7/17/14 3:48 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
for voting us into the finals of 13 categories! We are humbled by the privilege of serving you— with the panache of Paris and the value of Vermont, right in the center of town.
11
BEST BAGEL
BEST BREAKFAST SANDWICH
Inside Chittenden County
Kountry Kart Deli
Myer’s Bagel Bakery
In many big cities, skinny, Montréal-style bagels are a soughtafter delicacy. In Vermont, we just call them Myer’s Bagels. If the logo of an anthropomorphic bagel looks familiar, that’s because Myer’s shares it with Montréal’s famed St-Viateur Bagel, where baker Lloyd Squires once plied his trade. He’s been in Burlington for nearly 30 years now, boiling his dough in honey and baking it in a wood-fired oven. Last year, new owners Colin Bloch and Adam Jones expanded the menu, adding sweets and other products to the popular baked-goods line. Squires himself perfected a gluten-free bagel option. But whether customers go traditional or wheat-free, they always come back for Montréal-spice-flavored love.
MATTHEW THORSEN
377 Pine St., Burlington • 863-5013
BEST VEGETARIAN FARE
A Single Pebble
This authentic Chinese restaurant cooks up a mean mock eel. Lunch every day except Sunday, when they serve dim sum. Dinner nightly. (133 Bank St., Burlington, 865-5200, asinglepebble. com)
Other finalists: • Kismet: 52 State St., Montpelier, 223-8646, kismetkitchens.com • Pingala Café & Eatery: 1 Mill St., Burlington, 540-0110, pingalacafe.com • Revolution Kitchen: 9 Center St., Burlington, 448-3657, revolutionkitchen.com • Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: 211 College St., Burlington, 862-7616, stonesoupvt.com
BEST COMFORT FOOD
Farmhouse Tap & Grill
This award-winning gastropub offers local burgers, homemade charcuterie, farm-to-table comfort food and sought-after beers from near and far. (160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com) Lloyd Squires
Other finalists: • Bluebird Barbecue: 317 Riverside Ave., Burlington, 448-3070, bluebirdbbq.com • Misery Loves Co.: 46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com • Our House Bistro: 36 Main St., Winooski, 497-1884, ourhousebistro.com • Penny Cluse Café: 169 Cherry St., Burlington, 651-8834, pennycluse.com • Prohibition Pig: 23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com
BEST EGGS BENEDICT
Sneakers Bistro
Locals have frequented this retro café for more than 30 years. The weekend brunch, with its ever-popular bennie, is legendary, and the daily specials are always eclectic. (28 Main St., Winooski, 655-9081, sneakersbisto.com)
Other finalists: • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Magnolia Bistro: 1 Lawson Ln., Suite 10, Burlington, 846-7446, magnoliabistro.com • Pearl Street Diner: 85 Pearl St., Burlington, 862-3220, pearlstdiner.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Blue Paddle Bistro
12
This restaurant has built a devoted following with a menu that includes fresh twists such as crab cakes with mango chutney tartar sauce, and spectacular old favorites including eggs Benedict. (316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com)
Other finalists: • Kismet: 52 State St., Montpelier, 223-8646, kismetkitchens.com • The Gables Inn: 1457 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-7730, gablesinn.com
Whether you choose a Shiner, a Morning Riser or one of the 17 variations thereof, chowing down on these greasy treats is a Burlingtonian rite of passage. (155 Main St., Burlington, 864-4408, kountrykartdeli.com)
Other finalists: • City Market: 82 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-3659, citymarket.coop • Guild Fine Meats: 111 St. Paul St., Burlington, 497-1645, guildfinemeats.com • Henry Street Deli: 11 Henry St., Burlington, 864-1754, Facebook • The Bagel Place: 1166 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-2058, thebagelplacevt.com • The Chubby Muffin: 88 Oak St., Burlington, 540-0050, thechubbymuffin.com
BEST BAGEL
Myer’s Bagel Bakery
A wood-fired oven bakes Montréal-style bagels at this small South End café. Try them stacked with house-smoked brisket or turkey. (377 Pine St., Burlington, 863-5013, Facebook)
Other finalists: • Bruegger’s Bagels: 93 Church St., Burlington, 860-1995 • 2989 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3183, brueggers.com • Burlington Bagel Bakery: 992 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 864-0236, burlingtonbagel bakery.com • Feldman’s Bagels: 660 Pine St., Burlington, 540-0474, feldmansbagels.com • The Bagel Market: 30 Susie Wilson Rd., Essex Junction, 872-2616, thebagelmarket.com • The Bagel Place: 1166 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-2058, thebagelplacevt.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
The Bagel
Twenty different bagels are made from scratch each day at this café. Get yours spread with bacon-horseradish cream cheese, or made into a sandwich. (394 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-9943, Facebook)
Other finalists: • Bagito’s Bagel & Burrito Café: 28 Main St., Montpelier, 229-9212, bagitos.com • KC’s Bagel Café: 17-19 Stowe St., Waterbury, 244-1740, kcbagelcafewaterburyvt.com • Middlebury Bagel & Delicatessen: 11 Washington St., Middlebury, 388-0859, Facebook
BEST CIDER DOUGHNUTS
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
This cider mill is a must-stop for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy free samples of cider, fudge and other specialty foods. The bakery features apple pies, turnovers and award-winning cider donuts. (3600 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury Center, 327-7537, coldhollow.com)
Other finalists: • Champlain Orchards: 3597 Route 74 W, Shoreham, 897-2777, champlainorchards.com • Chittenden Cider Mill: 1580 Dorset St., South Burlington, 862-4602, Facebook • Hackett’s Orchard: 86 South St., South Hero, 372-4848, hackettsorchard.com • Sam Mazza’s Farm Market: 277 Lavigne Rd., Colchester, 655-3440, sammazzafarms.com • Shelburne Orchard: 216 Orchard Rd., Shelburne, 985-2753, shelburneorchards.com
food
Vermont’s Little Italy
Long Island • Vermont est. 1982
Taste the Love!
Montpelier ~ Waitsfield
nominated for: ~Best Restaurant if you’re paying OCC
Burlington
(Downtown) 176 Main Street Pizzeria / Take Out Delivery: 862-1234
~Best Lunch OCC ~Best Mexican
COMING SOON!
Cat Scratch, Knight Card & C.C. Cash Accepted
themadtaco.com DQ14-MadTaco.indd 1
Burlington
Shelburne Road
Colchester
(Exit 16) 85 South Park Drive Pizzeria / Take Out Delivery: 655-5555 Casual Fine Dining Reservations: 655-0000 The Bakery: 655-5282
www.juniorsvt.com
T3294_R&D Ad_SevenDaisies_Final.pdf
7/17/14 10:47 AM
DQP14-juniors.indd 1
1
7/16/14
2:08 PM
7/21/14 4:11 PM
Have you got good taste? The Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. Sensory Test Center is looking for flavor enthusiasts to sample a variety of food and beverage products from Green Mountain Coffee® and other brands. Join us for ongoing sessions at our facility in Waterbury Center. For every 30-45 minute session you attend, we'll give you an Amazon.com gift card — just for giving us your opinion! How sweet is that? LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
• Authentic Italian Cuisine from our Wood Burning Oven • Local Organic Produce • Riverside Dining
Want to learn more? Contact us at sensory.testcenter@gmcr.com or 802.882.2703.
Gluten Free Menu Celebrating 20 years
Winners
2009-14
sarduccis.com
3 Main Street, Montpelier 223.0229 Open 7 Days
13 D4T14-sarduccis.indd 1
7/22/14 3:04 PM
D4T14-Keurig.indd 1
7/22/14 9:31 AM
BEST WINGS
Wings Over Burlington
When a food business names itself after a particular item on the menu, said item had better be exceptional. In the case of Wings Over Burlington, the 35-location chain offers wings good enough to knock out the competition — even in local-loving Vermont. The South Burlington location’s attractive hours — open until 1 a.m. during the week and 3 a.m. on weekends — no doubt helped put its votes over the top. The late-night delivery is perfect for a boozy night. And college kids (or grown folk) partying ’til dawn with a crowd can pick up as many as 120 bone-in wings or more than six pounds of boneless ones. With 23 different sauces available, it might not be a bad idea to try the big box. Mustard-inflected golden barbecue sauce is a foil to a salty dry rub of garlic-Parmesan, which in turn makes a good contrast to spicy teriyaki. Like it really hot? Try the fiery Afterburner Buffalo sauce. OLIVER PARINI
BEST PIZZA (RESTAURANT)
American Flatbread — Burlington Hearth
Flatbread topped with gourmet local and organic ingredients cooks before your eyes in an open, wood-fired oven. Pair it with Zero Gravity beers from the in-house brewery. (115 St. Paul St., Burlington, 861-2999, americanflatbread.com)
Other finalists:
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
• Folino’s Pizzeria: 6305 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 881-8822, folinopizza.com • Junior’s Italian: 176 Main St., Burlington, 862-1234 • 85 S. Park Dr., Colchester, 655-0000, juniorsvt.com • Pizzeria Verità : 156 St. Paul St., Burlington, 489-5644, pizzeriaverita.com
14
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Positive Pie
All three locations of this pizzeria serve creative, hand-tossed pies, along with locavore entrées, sandwiches and Vermont beers. (87 S. Main St., Hardwick, 472-7126 • 22 State St., Montpelier, 229-0453 • 65-69 Main St., Plainfield, 454-0133, positivepie.com)
Other finalists: • The Blue Stone: 15 Stowe St., Waterbury, 882-8185, bluestonevt.com • Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: 1899 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4411, piecasso.com
150 Dorset St., South Burlington • 863-9464 • wingsoverburlington.com
BEST PIZZA (DELIVERY)
BEST BURGER
BEST STEAK
Leonardo’s Pizza
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Guild Tavern
This pizza delivery service isn’t just about margherita pizzas — the Roasted Maine Potato and Goat Cheese-Honey pies are also available on white, whole-wheat or gluten-free crusts. (83 Pearl St., Burlington, 862-7700, leonardosonline.com)
Other finalists: • Junior’s Italian: 176 Main St., Burlington, 862-1234 • 85 S. Park Dr., Colchester, 655-0000, juniorsvt.com • Panacea Pizza (formerly Bite Me Pizza): 457 St. Paul St., Burlington, 540-0707, Facebook • Ramunto’s Brick Oven Pizza: 18 Taft Corners Shopping Center, Williston, 879-1000 • 102 Strongs Ave., Rutland, 747-9980 • 1216 Railroad St., St. Johnsbury, 751-8500, ramuntos.com • Three Brother’s Pizza & Grill: 973 Roosevelt Hwy, Colchester, 655-5550, threebrothers pizzavt.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Positive Pie
The Montpelier branch of this pizzeria delivers its hand-tossed pies to clearly appreciative central Vermonters. Go ahead, order the “Old School Supreme.” (22 State St., Montpelier, 2290453, positivepie.com/montpelier/home.php)
Other finalists: • Jimmz Pizza: 70 McNeil Rd., Waterbury Center, 244-7911, jimmzpizza.com • Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: 1899 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4411, piecasso.com
This award-winning gastropub offers six different local burgers, with patties made from ingredients such as house-dry-aged beef, jerk-seasoned black beans and juicy local pork. (160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com)
Other finalists: • Bluebird Tavern: 86 St. Paul St., Burlington, 540-1786, bluebirdtavern.com • Five Guys Burgers & Fries: 580 Shelburne Rd, South Burlington, 862-7575, fiveguys.com • Rí Rá Irish Pub: 123 Church St., Burlington, 860-9401, rira.com/burlington/ • The Shopping Bag: 166 North St., Burlington, 658-4790, Facebook
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Prohibition Pig
It’s not just one burger bringing in the fans here. The Pig has seven regular options, including the house version topped with pimiento cheese, a fried green tomato and housemade bacon. (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig. com)
Other finalists: • The Burger Barn: 4968 Route 15, Cambridge, 730-3441 • Three Penny Taproom: 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom. com • Worthy Burger: 56 Rainbow St., South Royalton, 763-2575, worthyvermont.com
Guild’s wood-fired grill cooks Vermont-raised dry-aged steak and other local meats. Don’t miss the exquisite craft cocktails. (1633 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-1207, guildtavern.com)
Other finalists: • EB Strong’s Prime Steakhouse: 10 Church St., Burlington, 497-1214, ebstrongs.com • Hen of the Wood: 55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534, henofthewood.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Windjammer Restaurant: 1076 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-6585, windjammerrestaurant.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Fire and Ice Restaurant
This popular steakhouse has stood the test of time, with historic décor and a massive salad bar. Kids can relax in a separate room that offers movies and books. Lunch Friday through Sunday. (26 Seymour St., Middlebury, 388-7166, fireandicerestaurant.com)
Other finalists: • Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • J. Morgan’s Steakhouse: 100 State St., Montpelier, 223-5222, capitolplaza.com/ jMorgans.php
FOOD
CELEBRATE JULY 30 CELEBRATE JULY 30 THANK FOR THANKYOU YOU FOR See who won in Seven Days NOMINATING US! NOMINATING THANK YOU FORUS! VOTING FOR US! Nominated for Best Sushi in VT
Open Daily 11:30 a.m. ‘til Close • Dine-in or Takeout
1128 MOUNTAIN ROAD • STOWE , VT 05672 • SUSHISTOWE.COM Hibachi Reservations Accepted • Family Friendly
802-253-4135 802-253-4135
D6H14-AugustFirst.indd 1
7/21/14 10:04 AM
D6h14-sushiyoshi.indd 1
7/22/14 3:18 PM
Small is Beautiful!
Visit obread.com to find our bread near you!
Come visit Pam, Peter, Steve, Ashley, Amy, Kris and John for some service with a smile! Natural & Organic Groceries • Bulk Foods Gifts • Supplements • Beer & Wine
Thanks for the votes! 802.244.5353 2934 Waterbury-Stowe Road (Rte. 100) Waterbury Center SunflowerNaturalFoodsVT.com Photo By Maria roBledo 7/18/14 10:29 AM
VISIT US THIS SUMMER! VERMONT & SPECIALTY FOODS Maple Syrup, Honey,Cheese, Salsa, Salad Dressings & More
THANKS FOR THE VOTES!
HOME GROWN FRUITS & VEGGIES PICNIC PAVILION & PETTING ZOO IN STORE BAKERY
la verità è nell impasto
VT Cider Donuts, Fruit Pies, Cookies, Breads, Pastries and More Farm Market • Bakery • Greenhouses
INSPIRED SALADS | TRUE NEAPOLITAN PIZZA | CLASSIC COCKTAILS
802-655-3440
277 Lavigne Rd., Colchester • M-Th 7am-7pm • F-Sa 7am- 8pm • Su 7-6 sammazzafarms.com • See our monthly sale coupon! • MC/Visa/Disc D6h-sammazza14.indd 1
6/27/14 4:49 PM
156 Saint Paul Street, Burlington | 802.489.5644 | pizzeriaverita.com | facebook.com/PizzeriaVerita
LOCALS PICK THE BEST OF VERMONT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/DAYSIES
D6h-obread073014.indd 1
15 D6H14-Verita.indd 1
7/21/14 4:05 PM
BEST CREEMEE
Burlington Bay Market & Café
This waterfront market offers gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches and liquor. The seasonal creemee stand offers delicious vanilla and chocolate, but you’ve got to try the maple. Views of Lake Champlain are year-round and free. (125 Battery St., Burlington, 864-0110, burlingtonbaycafe.com)
BEST FRENCH FRIES
Al’s French Frys
Named one of “America’s Classics” by the James Beard Foundation, even the hand-cut fries here are a throwback to the ‘50s. They also sell corn dogs, cheeseburgers and, in season, creemees. (1251 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-9203, alsfrenchfrys.com)
Other finalists: • Al’s French Frys: 1251 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-9203, alsfrenchfrys.com • Bluebird Coffee Stop: Corner of College and Church, Burlington, 660-3429, coffeestopvt. com • Rocky’s NY Pizza & Ice Cream: 39 Park St., Essex Junction, 878-4441, Facebook • The Village Scoop: 419 Main St., Colchester, 999-6962, Facebook
Other finalists: • Beansie’s Bus: Battery Park, Burlington • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Misery Loves Co.: 46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • The Farmhouse Tap & Grill: 160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Vermont Cookie Love Shack
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Swing by for a freshly baked cookie, such as the decadent mocha-chocolate-chip Addicted to Love. Creemees in summer. (6915 Route 7, North Ferrisburg, 425-8181, vermontcookielove.com)
Prohibition Pig
Two words: duck fat. When he left Stowe’s Rusty Nail Bar & Grille for this Waterbury spot, chef Michael Werneke brought his seriously indulgent fries. We think they’re just ducky. (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com)
Other finalists: • Bragg Farm Sugarhouse & Gift Shop: 1005 Route 14N, East Montpelier, 223-5757, braggfarm.com • Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks: 1168 County Rd., Montpelier, 242-2740, morsefarm.com • The Dairy Creme: 320 State St., Montpelier, 223-5802, dairycreme.com
• Blue Paddle Bistro: 316 Route 2, South Hero, 372-4814, bluepaddlebistro.com • Three Penny Taproom: 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom. com
BEST WINGS
Wings Over Burlington
There are pictures of airplanes on the wall and sports on the TVs. The wings — made with fresh chicken — come in 24 flavors, from “Wimpy” to “Afterburner” to the best-selling “Honey BBQ.” There are salads, wraps, ribs and sandwiches, too. (150 Dorset St., South Burlington, 863-9464, wingsoverburlington.com)
Other finalists: • Buffalo Wild Wings: 555 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 489-5083, buffalowildwings.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Ruben James: 159 Main St., Burlington, 864-0744, rjsburlington.com • The Reservoir Restaurant & Tap Room: 1 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-7827, waterburyreservoir.com
BEST SANDWICHES
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Martone’s Market & Café
16
This deli-market is popular for its “Vermonter” sandwich — maple turkey, ham, cheddar and honey mustard on homemade bread. Coffee and housebaked goods are on offer for breakfast. (16 Main St., Essex Junction, 878-8163, martonesmarket.com)
Other finalists: • Four Corners of the Earth: 310 Pine St., Burlington, 657-3869, Facebook • Misery Loves Co.: 46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com • Red Onion Café: 140 1/2 Church St., Burlington, 865-2563, Facebook • Stacks Sandwiches: 2 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 540-0070, stackssandwiches.com
MATTHEW THORSEN
Other finalists:
BEST FROZEN YOGURT
SoYo Frozen Yogurt BEST SANDWICHES
The small-batch frozen yogurt here is made from farm-fresh, local ingredients. There are more than 25 toppings, including local berries in season, and more than 35 flavors, which change weekly. (696 Pine St., Burlington, 540-0851, soyobtv.com)
Since 1992, Essex Junction residents have spoken of the sandwiches at Martone’s Market & Café in reverent tones, oohing and ahhing over the fresh, locally baked bread and the varied sides and spreads. But most of their adoration is directed at the sheer size of the things. Meat is piled high at Martone’s, almost to the stature of the famous sandwiches at Katz’s Delicatessen in New York. Conservative eaters may find themselves bringing home half, or even threequarters, of the Boar’s Head slices and getting another meal out of it. Others dig right in. Either way, it’s worth ordering a whole sandwich, which costs just $1.50 more than a half portion and can feed a family. At Martone’s, the truth is between two slices of bread, whether you choose warm, homemade meatloaf; the Vermonter with maple ham and turkey, honey mustard and cheddar; or plain old liverwurst.
Other finalists:
Martone’s Market & Café
16 Main St., Essex Junction • 878-8163 • martonesmarket.com
• Maggie O’s: 38 S. Main St., St. Albans, 527-1200, Facebook • Orange Leaf: 192 College St., Burlington, 448-3772, orangeleafyogurt.com • Yogurt City: 121 Connor Way #110, Williston, 876-7207, Facebook
BEST HOUSEMADE ICE CREAM
Lake Champlain Chocolates
With two Burlington locations, this chocolatier has something for everyone. Order a mug of luscious hot chocolate, take a factory tour or grab homemade ice cream to go. (750 Pine St., Burlington, 864-1807, lakechamplainchocolates. com)
Other finalists:
BEST SUSHI
Asiana House
At this fusion-style Japanese spot, the vegetarian maki and sushi bar are especially popular, as are the Korean and Thai dishes. (191 Pearl St., Burlington, 651-0818 • 43 State St., Montpelier, 225-6180, asianahouse.com)
Other finalists: • Asiana Noodle Shop: 88 Church St., Burlington, 862-8828, asiananoodleshop.com • Koto Japanese Steakhouse: 792 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 660-8976, kotoburlington.com • San Sai Japanese Restaurant: 112 Lake St., Burlington, 862-2777, sansaivt.com • Sushi Yoshi: 1128 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4135, sushistowe.com • 1807 Killington Rd, Killington, 422-4241
• Hen of the Wood: 55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534, henofthewood.com • Scout & Company: 237 North Ave., Burlington, 329-0858, Facebook
Island Homemade Ice Cream
Based in Grand isle, this Wonka-ish business creates basic flavors such as French vanilla and Chocolate supreme, and quirkier ones including maple-habanero ice cream and mojito sorbet. (205 us Route 2, Grand isle, 372-6266, islandhomemadeicecream.com)
Other finalists: • Chill Gelato: 32 state st., Montpelier, 223-2445, Facebook • I.C. Scoops: 112 Main st., stowe, 253-0995, stoweicecream.com • Lulu Ice Cream: 11 Main st., Bristol, 777-3933, luluvt.com
The prolific cheese maker has gained respect in recent years for its clothbound cheddar. Others prefer flavored cheeses including Buffalo wing and bacon versions. Factory tours are ever popular. (2878 Main st., Cabot, 1-800-837-4261, cabotcheese.coop)
Montpelier’s source for healthy choices offers a wide selection of locally sourced grab-andgo foods, from soups and salads to grilled sandwiches. eat outside, or enjoy the river view from the café. (623 stone Cutters Way, Montpelier, 223-8000, hungermountain.coop)
Best FOOd tRuCk
Beansie’s Bus
Other finalists: • Grafton Village Cheese: 400 Linden st., Brattleboro, 472-3866, graftonvillagecheese. com • Jasper Hill Farm: 884 Garven hill Rd., Greensboro, 533-2566, jasperhillfarm.com • Shelburne Farms Cheddar: 1611 harbor Rd., shelburne, 985-8686, shelburnefarms.org • Vermont Creamery: 40 Pitman Rd., Websterville, 479-9371, vermontcreamery.com
Best natuRaL-FOOds MaRket
This retrofitted school bus pulled up to Burlington in 1944 — well before the current food-truck trend. at Battery Park, the elder statesman carries the basics: hot dogs, hamburgers, fries and creemees. (Battery Park, Burlington)
Other finalists:
• Amir’s Kebab:, Burlington, 578-9535, twitter. com/amirskebab • Boo-Kie’s: Church st. Marketplace, Burlington, 355-5130 • South End Sliders: 138 Church st., Burlington, 735-7731, Facebook • The Skinny Pancake: 60 Lake st., Burlington, 540-0188 • 89 Main St., Montpelier, 262-2253, skinnypancake.com
Best FaRMeRs-MaRket VendOR
Samosa Man
Owned by Congolese immigrant Fuad ndibalema, this biz is a fixture at summer markets and festivals. samosas filled with steak and cheese, broccoli, or apples are delicious, and portable, meals. (276 e. allen st, Winooski, 861-3663)
Other finalists: • Barrio Bakery: 203 n. Winooski ave., Burlington, 863-8278, barriobakeryvt.com • Full Moon Farm: 2083 Gilman Rd., hinesburg, 482-2199, fullmoonfarminc.com • Half-Pint Farm: 214 intervale Rd., Burlington, 316-6073, halfpintfarm.com • Jericho Settlers Farm: 22 Barber Farm Rd., Jericho Center, 899-4000, jerichosettlers farm.com • Rookie’s Root Beer: 24 sunset dr., Burlington, 861-6777
Best BRead BakeRy
• Dolce VT: 642 Bean Rd., Colchester, 324-6220, dolcevt.com • The Hindquarter: 655-7370, Facebook • Lazy Farmer: Winooski, LazyFarmerVt.com • The Burger Barn: 4968 Route 15, Cambridge, 730-3441, Facebook
Best FOOd CaRt
This co-op caters to wallets of every thickness with local, organic and conventional foods. Check out the bulk section! (82 s. Winooski ave, Burlington, 863-3659, citymarket.coop) • Healthy Living Market & Café: 222 dorset st., south Burlington, 863-2569, healthylivingmarket.com • Natural Provisions Deli & Café: 329 harvest Ln. suite 100, Williston, 876-1400,
Hunger Mountain Co-op
• Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op: 9 Washington st., Middlebury, 388-7276, middleburycoop.com • Sunflower Natural Foods: 2934 Waterbury-stowe Rd., Waterbury Center, 244-5353, sunflowernaturalfoodsvt.com
Cabot Creamery
Other finalists:
Outside Chittenden COunty
Other finalists:
Best Cheese
City Market
naturalprovisions.com • Sweet Clover Market: 21 essex Way., essex Junction, 872-8288, sweetclovermarket.com • Trader Joe’s: 200 dorset st., south Burlington, 658-4500, traderjoes.com
Red Hen Bakery
Watch bakers at work while snacking on croissant and danish or shopping for local cheese and wine. sandwiches and soups are made in-house. Live music most saturdays. (961 Route 2, Middlesex, 223-5200, redhenbaking.com)
Other finalists:
Hong’s Chinese Dumplings
Perennial winner hong yu attracts pedestrians with the smell of frying chicken-and-cheddar dumplings. her food is so popular, it will soon be available in stores, too. (Church st., Burlington, 864-9097, hongsdumplings.com)
• August First Bakery & Café: 149 s. Champlain st., Burlington, 540-0060, augustfirstvt.com • Great Harvest Bread Company: 382 Pine st., Burlington, 660-2733, greatharvestburlington. com • Klinger’s Bread Company: 10 Farrell st., south Burlington, 860-6322, klingersbread.com • O Bread Bakery: 352 Farm Barn Ln., shelburne, 985-8771, obread.com
Best sWeets BakeRy
Mirabelles
homemade pastries, cookies, cakes and pies, as well as daily breakfast and lunch specials, distinguish this bakery-café. The croissants are truly French-style, the flourless chocolate cake is perfectly sinful. (198 Main st., Burlington, 6583074, mirabellescafe.com)
Other finalists: • August First Bakery & Café: 149 s. Champlain, Burlington, 540-0060, augustfirstvt.com • Barrio Bakery: 203 n. Winooski ave., Burlington, 863-8278, barriobakeryvt.com • Chef’s Corner Café & Bakery: 208 Flynn ave., Burlington, 660-7111 • 2121 Essex Rd., Williston, 878-5524, chefscornervermont.com • Misery Loves Co. Bakeshop: 25 Winooski Falls Way, Winooski, 497-1337, miserylovescovt.com • My Little Cupcake: 217 College st., Burlington, 660-9330 • 4 Carmichael St. Suite 101, Essex Junction, 872-7676, mylittlecupcakevt.com
Best FOOd eVent
Burlington Farmers Market
Got kale? This market almost always does, even in winter. in warmer months, area vendors take over City hall Park every saturday morning with tables of veggies, meat and prepared foods. (City hall Park, Burlington, burlingtonfarmersmarket.org)
Other finalists: • ArtsRiot Truck Stop: 400 Pine st., Burlington, 540-0406, artsriot.com/truck-stop • Burlington Wine & Food Festival: Water Front Park, Burlington, burlingtonwineandfoodfestival.com • Stowe Wine & Food Classic: 700 trapp hill Road., stowe, (888)683-2427, stowewine.com • Vermont Cheesemakers Festival: Coach Barn at shelburne Farms, shelburne, (866) 261-8595, vtcheesefest.com • Vermont Restaurant Week: 255 s. Champlain st., Burlington, 864-5684, vermontrestaurantweek.com
Other finalists: • A-Maize-ing Kettle Korn:, Burlington, 734-0048, amaizeingkettlekorn.com
47 MAPLE ST BURLINGTON, VT 05401 802 861-3155 M-F : 7 - 7 , M-F S-S::78--75, S-S : 8 - 5 7/21/14 10:13 AM
Providing personalized real estate service throughout the Champlain Valley.
Katrina Roberts Broker
(802) 989-2833 vermontgreentree.com katrina@vermontgreentree.com D6H-greentree.indd 1
7/22/14 10:33 AM
LOCALS piCk the beSt Of VermOnt sevendaysvt.com/daysies
Thanks to everyone who voted for me this year!
6DH14-Maglianero.indd 1
food
Outside Chittenden COunty
17
MATTHEW THORSEN
Drink SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
In recent years, Vermont has earned a reputation as a bona fi fide beer mecca. In the most recent tally, our humble state was home to more than 40 breweries (and counting). And, even as brewers and drinkers start to wonder whether this growth is sustainable, thirsty Vermonters keep lining up, Oliver Twist-style, for more. The 2014 Vermont Brewers Festival sold out in a mere 11 minutes, besting last year’s 30-hour fire sale. In Chittenden County, beer nerds flock to Burlington’s Farmhouse Tap & Grill for dozens of brews from around the region and world. Outside Chittenden County, Waterbury’s Prohibition Pig won a Daysie for its similarly stellar list. Those seeking a tipsier tipple can also sip local liquids: Vermont’s wine industry is growing like a vine and starting to gain recognition for producing fine ferments. Local gins and whiskeys have become topshelf standards. To keep up with the glut, we’ve added more than a dozen new drink categories to the Daysies: prizes for cocktails, beer and wine lists, brewpubs, and all manner of different bars are all new to our list of superlative sippers. We’ve also added two new categories for cideries — hard and alcoholfree — to recognize Vermont’s diversifying apple industry. While the “people’s press” at Citizen Cider now has a Burlington tasting room, the year also spawned new companies such as Shacksbury Cider in Shoreham. And let’s not forget the other folks who go with the flow: the bouncers, dutifully checking IDs and booting the perilously drunk; the friendly bartenders who know what you’re drinking before you do; and the saintly baristas who pour your morning fix, complete with that charming latte art that makes your Monday.
18
BEST CRAFT BREWERY
BEST WINERY
Switchback Brewing Company
Shelburne Vineyard
This summer, Switchback owner Bill Cherry opened a brand-new tasting room in Burlington’s South End. “Now,” he told Seven Days, “you can sit down and order a pint and relax and get a feel for the brewery.” Try the unfiltered Extra Pale Ale. (160 Flynn Ave., Burlington, 651-4114, switchbackvt.com)
Other finalists: • Fiddlehead Brewery Company: 6305 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 399-2994, fiddleheadbrewing.com • Hill Farmstead Brewery: 403 Hill Rd., Greensboro Bend, 533-7450, hillfarmstead.com • Lost Nation Brewing: 254 Wilkins St., Morristown, 851-8041, lostnationbrewing.com • The Alchemist: (Closed to public) 35 Crossroad, Waterbury Center, 244-7744, alchemistbeer.com
Winemaker Ken Albert is pioneering new techniques with his northern varietal grapes, both in the vineyard and the cellar. Sample a few, such as the new, crisp Cayuga White, in the airy tasting room. (6308 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-8222, shelburnevineyard. com)
Other finalists: • Boyden Valley Winery: 64 VT Route 104, Cambridge, 644-8151, boydenvalley.com • Fresh Tracks Farm Vineyard and Winery: 4373 VT Route 12, Montpelier, 223-1151, freshtracksfarm.com • Lincoln Peak Vineyard: 142 River Rd., New Haven, 388-7368, lincolnpeakvineyard.com • Snow Farm Vineyard: 190 W Shore Rd., South Hero, 372-9463, snowfarm.com
Jason Cooley
BEST DIVE BAR
The Other Place
Many a night begins and ends at the Other Place, just off the top of Burlington’s Church Street on North Winooski Avenue. Whether patrons are nursing a broken heart, celebrating a milestone or just enjoying day’s end, the bar welcomes any and all with open arms, takes them in and holds them close. It’s a place of simple pleasures. The short draught list mixes local brews and cheap pilsners; the popcorn is salty and the tacos are available late. On warm summer nights, an open garage-door wall blurs the line between saloon and sidewalk, encouraging merrymaking on both sides. The OP opened in 1980, but people have been boozing in the building for generations: It was the site of a bar called Sullivan’s and another named for Millard Fillmore, our nation’s 13th president. Now home to a mixed crowd of Heady Topper-drinking hipsters, Old North End denizens and a fair number of college students, the OP is the kind of neighborhood bar that’s your bar from the moment you walk in. 4 North Winooski Ave., Burlington • 863-5803
DRINK
D4t14-lostnationbrewing.indd 1
7/16/14 2:55 PM
DQ-citizencider073014.indd 1
7/11/14 11:17 AM
Thank you Burlington and thank you Seven Days!
Muddy Waters
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
organic | sustainable | delicious
Brewing strong for 20 years.
184 Main street Burlington, Vt (802) 658-0466 DQ13_MuddyWaters.indd 1
7/18/13 3:07 PM
688 pine street, suite a, burlington, vermont 05401 802• 861• 2279 | ecobeanandjuice.com 802•497•2075 4t-ecobeanandjuice070214.indd 1
19 6/30/14 2:33 PM
BEST CIDERY (NONALCOHOLIC) This Waterbury institution is a must-stop on Route 100. It earned a Daysie for best cider doughnut, too! Stop to sample fudge, dine at the new Apple Core Luncheonette and watch the action on the 1920s-era press. (3600 Waterbury Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center, 327-7537, coldhollow.com)
Other finalists: • Champlain Orchards: 3597 VT Route 74, Shoreham, 897-2777, champlainorchards.com • Chapin Orchard: 150 Chapin Rd., Essex Junction, 879-6210, chapinorchard.com • Chittenden Cider Mill: 1580 Dorset St., South Burlington, 862-4602 • Hackett’s Orchard: 86 South St., South Hero, 372-4848, hackettsorchard.com • Shelburne Orchards: 216 Orchard Rd., Shelburne, 985-2753, shelburneorchards.com
BEST HARD CIDERY
Citizen Cider
Stop by Citizen Cider’s newly christened tasting room in Burlington for its signature Unified Press or bROSé, fermented with blueberries. Stay for the tasty bar snacks or go home with a growler. (316 Pine Street, Suite 114, Burlington, 448-3278, citizencider.com)
Other finalists: • Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits: 64 VT Route 104, Cambridge, 644-8151, boydenvalley.com • Champlain Orchards: 3597 VT Route 74, Shoreham, 897-2777, champlainorchards.com • Stowe Cider: 1815 Pucker St., Stowe, 730-7447, stowecider.com • Woodchuck Hard Cider: 153 Pond Lane, Middlebury, 388-0700, woodchuck.com
BEST SPIRITS DISTILLER
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
WhistlePig Straight Rye Whiskey
20
WhistlePig launched its first rye whiskey in 2010 to a 96 out of 100 rating from Wine Enthusiast and other accolades. It even had a cameo on “Breaking Bad.” Expectations are high for the Shoreham distillery, and for master distiller Dave Pickerell. We’ll drink to that. (1030 Palmer Rd., Shoreham, 897-7700, whistlepigwhiskey.com)
Other finalists: • Caledonia Spirits: 46 Log Yard Dr., Hardwick, 472-8000, caledoniaspirits.com • Green Mountain Distillers: 192 Thomas Ln., Stowe, 253-0064, greendistillers.com • Smugglers’ Notch Distillery: 276 Main St., Jeffersonville, 309-3077, smugglersnotch distillery.com • Vermont Spirits Distilling Company: 5573 Woodstock Rd., Quechee, (866)998-6352, vermontspirits.com
OLIVER PARINI
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
BEST WINERY
Shelburne Vineyard
Wine is still a young industry in Vermont, and Shelburne Vineyard’s Ken Albert has been at it since the early days. His operation began as a passion project in his backyard in 1998 and has since grown to 17 acres of grapes in Shelburne, Charlotte and Vergennes. Like many Vermont wineries, Shelburne Vineyard had lukewarm results with European grapes and has since shifted focus to new hybrid varietals developed specifically for cold-weather climes. Not only can these grapes withstand sustained cold down to 40 below zero, they’re also producing award-winning wines. Stop in to the vineyard’s airy Shelburne Road tasting room to sample a deep, purple-red 2012 Marquette Reserve — a full-bodied, round, mouthy wine with ripe cherry and earthy hints of tobacco and spice. For something lighter, go for a bright Louise Swenson, among other pours. On weekend evenings, pair your wine with live music from local talent in the loft or on the patio. 6308 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne • 985-8222 • shelburnevineyard.com
BEST DRAUGHT BEER LIST
BEST BREWPUB
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Vermont Pub & Brewery
This award-winning gastropub isn’t known just for its locavore burgers and creative comfort food. The Tap Room, Parlor and seasonal outdoor Beer Garden offer a host of rare and coveted brews from Vermont and beyond. (160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com)
Other finalists: • American Flatbread — Burlington Hearth: 115 St. Paul St., Burlington, 861-2999, americanflatbread.com • The Mule Bar: 38 Main St., Winooski, 399-2020, mulebarvt.com • Vermont Pub & Brewery: 144 College St., Burlington, 865-0500, vermontbrewery.com • Vermont Tap House: 70 Marshall Ave., Williston, 879-7060, vermonttaphouse.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Prohibition Pig
One of the largest craft-beer selections in New England is on the menu at this popular Waterbury gastropub. What better way to wash down the self-described “finest barbecue north of the Carolinas” or duck-fat fries? (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com)
Other finalists: • Three Penny Taproom: 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom. com • The Reservoir: 1 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-7827, waterburyreservoir.com
At this ever-popular brewpub in downtown Burlington, country meat loaf or a juicy Black Angus burger will always pair well with one of 10 ales or lagers brewed on-site. (144 College St., Burlington, 865-0500, vermontbrewery.com)
Other finalist: • Zero Gravity Craft Brewery at American Flatbread — Burlington Hearth: 115 St. Paul St., Burlington, 861-2999, zerogravitybeer.com
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Prohibition Pig
Owner Chad Rich told Seven Days in 2013 he didn’t aim for “Pro Pig” to be a brewpub, but that didn’t stop voters from declaring it one. Adding to its already huge craft-beer selection, the Waterbury hotspot brews small batches of extra pale ale — and sells out quickly. (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com)
Other finalists: • Bobcat Café & Brewery: 5 Main St., Bristol, 453-3311, bobcatcafe.com • Crop Bistro & Brewery: 1859 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4765, cropvt.com • Lost Nation Brewing: 254 Wilkins St., Morrisville, 851-8041, lostnationbrewing.com
BEST WINE LIST
Hen of the Wood
Popular private-label pinot noir and MállerThurgau are just the beginning at this popular Burlington restaurant. Co-owner and wine expert William McNeil’s list boasts 100 bottles and 18 varieties by the glass. (55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534 • 92 Stowe St., Waterbury, 244-7300, henofthewood.com)
Other finalists: • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • oak45: 45 Main St., Winooski, 448-3740, oak45.com • Trattoria Delia: 152 St. Paul St., Burlington, 864-5253, trattoriadelia.com • Vin Bar & Shop: 126 College St., Burlington, 497-2165, vinbarvt.com
CALEDONIA SPIRITS & WINER
.
Our distillery will be open from 10 am - 6 pm
.
DRINK
OPEN HOUSE—SATURDAY, Nov. 26
Come see where Barr Hill gin & vodka, Caledonia Win and Dunc’s Mill Rum are mad
We also sell raw honey and traditional plant medicine.
clothing jewelry shoes
46 Buffalo Mtn Commons Rd (through Lamoille Valley Ford), Hardwick, Vermont 802.472
Thank You, Vermont! www.caledoniaspirits.com
46 Log Yard Drive (through Lamoille Valley Ford), Hardwick, VT (on the way to Hill Farmstead Brewery)
802.472.8000 • www.caledoniaspirits.com
Vince, Joie, Theory, Alice & Trixie, Haute Hippie, Longchamp, Splendid, Ella Moss, Alex & Ani, Language, AG, Citizens of Humanity, Joe’s, Hudson, Annabel Ingall, Velvet, Lilla P, Anna Beck, Milly, Eileen Fisher, Kate Spade, Seven for all Mankind and more!
1800 Mountain Rd. / Stowe, VT 05672 / (802) 253- 2661 D2v14-greenenvy.indd 1
7/17/14 3:34 PM
7/21/14 5:02 PM
D6H14-VPB.indd 1
7/17/14 2:13 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
port p u s e h t f o ll a r Thank you fo xoxo
D6h-caledoniaspiritsnwine072314.indd 1
21
BEST WINE SHOP
BEST SPORTS BAR
Cheese Traders and Wine Sellers
Rí Rá Irish Pub
A bit of the Old Country in Burlington, this lively pub serves a full menu and plenty of beers. Live music on weekends, Pub Quiz on Tuesdays, high-def TVs for sports-watching anytime. Hello, soccer fans! (123 Church St., Burlington, 860-9401, rira.com)
A multiple Daysie winner, this discount emporium of more than 1,500 quality wines, dozens of cheeses and miscellaneous “seconds” of gourmet foods is a South Burlington institution. Check out the gift baskets. (1186 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 863-0143, cheesetraders.com)
Other finalists: • Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar: 555 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 489-5083, buffalowildwings.com • Church Street Tavern: 103 Church St., Burlington, 658-1309, churchstmarketplace. com • Ruben James: 159 Main St., Burlington, 864-0744, rjsburlington.com • Vermont Sports Grill: 1705 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 860-2009, vermontsportsgrill.com
Other finalists: • Cork Wine Bar & Market: 1 Stowe St., Waterbury, 882-8227, corkvt.com • Dedalus Wine Shop: 180 Battery St., Burlington, 865-2368, dedaluswine.com • Village Wine and Coffee: 5288 Shelburne Rd. #1, Shelburne, 985-8922, villagewineandcoffee.com • Vin Bar & Shop: 126 College St., Burlington, 497-2165, vinbarvt.com
BEST PLACE TO DRINK ALONE
BEST PICK-UP BAR
Radio Bean
Red Square
Other finalists: • Drink: 135 St. Paul St., Burlington, 860-9463, vtdrink.com • Manhattan Pizza & Pub: 167 Main St., Burlington, 658-6776, manhattanpizzaand pubvt.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Rí Rá Irish Pub: 123 Church St., Burlington, 860-9401, rira.com • Three Needs Brewery & Taproom: 185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889, Facebook
BEST DIVE BAR
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
The Other Place
22
The front wall of this friendly neighborhood institution opens up in the summer — it’s a garage door. Activities include people-watching, or ignoring them and watching a game on the tube. Snacks served until late. (4 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-5803, Facebook)
Other finalists: • Charlie-O’s World Famous: 70 Main St., Montpelier, 223-6820 • Esox: 194 Main St., Burlington, 862-7314, Facebook • JP’s Pub: 139 Main St., Burlington, 658-6389, Facebook • Olde Northender: 23 North St., Burlington, 864-9888, Facebook
This popular hangout is coffee shop by day, hipster hot spot at night. Live music — including open mic, Honky Tonk, Irish and soul nights, as well as touring indie bands — packs the place, making it easier to be alone in the crowd. (8 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 660-9346, radiobean.com)
MATTHEW THORSEN
This hip downtown bar hosts DJs and live music in two different spaces, as well as outside in the alley during warmer months. Cozy and convivial, it’s a great place to see, be seen and meet people. (136 Church St., Burlington, 859-8909, redsquarevt.com)
Other finalists:
BEST HARD CIDERY
Citizen Cider
Since Citizen Cider opened in 2011, its production has grown exponentially, from 5,000 gallons in its inaugural year to 28,000 its second year. As of this printing, the cidery has already produced 100,000 gallons in 2014. When it comes to “Cider of the People,” success has unloosed a wellspring of innovation and creativity at the 3-year-old cidery. What began as a single, off-dry Unified Press has morphed into a line of six different standard ciders, including a hopped cider and a bourbon-barrel cider aged at Smugglers’ Notch Distillery. A cellar-series program pilots new presses and recipes. At Citizen Cider’s expansive Pine Street tasting room, which opened in spring 2014, patrons sip from nine ciders on draught, and enjoy hearty bar snacks such as $3 pocket pies and a $7 chicken biscuit. On Tuesdays, Austin natives in the kitchen bring real-deal tacos to Burlington; on Thursdays, $5 gets you a McKenzie hot dog and tallboy can of cider. 316 Pine St., Burlington • 448-3278 • citizencider.com
• The Mule Bar: 38 Main St., Winooski, 399-2020, mulebarvt.com • The Other Place (OP): 4 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-5803, Facebook • Three Needs Brewery & Taproom: 185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889, Facebook • Three Penny Taproom: 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom.com
BEST BAR (OVERALL)
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Prized beers from Vermont and beyond are on offer at the upstairs and downstairs bars and in the seasonal Beer Garden. These plus a decent selection of wines and cocktails and awardwinning, locavore fare keep patrons coming back for more. (160 Bank St., Burlington, 859-0888, farmhousetg.com)
Other finalists: • Manhattan Pizza & Pub: 167 Main St., Burlington, 658-6776, manhattanpizza andpubvt.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • The Mule Bar: 38 Main St., Winooski, 399-2020, mulebarvt.com • Three Needs Brewery & Taproom: 185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889, Facebook • Three Penny Taproom: 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom.com
DRINK
Come see why we are Making Vermont Famous for wine Vermont Ice Hard Cider
Winner 3 Years in-a-row!
WINE TASTINGS
“Best Vermont Winery”
TOURS AT 11:30 & 1:00 DAILY Open 10am-5pm Daily - May - December Friday, Saturday, Sunday - January - April
Big Barn Red
64 Vermont Route 104, Cambridge, VT (intersection of Route 15 & 104) (802) 644-8151 • www.boydenvalley.com D4t14-boydenvalleywinery.indd 1
7/11/14 11:51 AM
D4T14-dobra.indd 1
7/17/14 1:35 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
23 D4t14-gobeillecatering.indd 1
7/21/14 10:27 AM
4T-stellamae062514.indd 1
6/24/14 11:25 AM
BEST BOUNCERS
Higher Ground
This premier nightclub in South Burlington hosts a continuous stream of bands and their fans in the larger Ballroom and smaller Showcase Lounge. Good to know there are superlative bouncers to monitor the comings and goings. (1214 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 652-0777, highergroundmusic.com)
Other finalists: • Manhattan Pizza & Pub: 167 Main St., Burlington, 658-6776, manhattanpizzaand pubvt.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Red Square: 136 Church St., Burlington, 859-8909, redsquarevt.com • Three Needs Brewery & Taproom: 185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889, Facebook Kate Wise
BEST BARTENDER
Kate Wise, Prohibition Pig
BEST BARTENDER, BEST DRAUGHT BEER LIST, BEST BREWPUB
Prohibition Pig
She may still be in her twenties, but this restaurant lifer has a devoted following that migrated with her from Stowe’s Rusty Nail to the exceptionally well-stocked bar at Prohibition Pig. Her cocktails may be sophisticated, but Wise is happily down to earth. (23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 244-4120, prohibitionpig.com) • Buck Frisch (Church Street Tavern): 103 Church St., Burlington, 658-1309, churchstmarketplace.com • Chris Maloney (Hen of the Wood, Burlington): 55 Cherry St., Burlington, 540-0534, henofthewood.com • Ross Meilleur (Red Square): 136 Church St., Burlington, 859-8909, redsquarevt.com • Scott Kerner (Three Penny Taproom, Montpelier): 108 Main St., Montpelier, 223-8277, threepennytaproom.com
BEST BLOODY MARY
Sneakers Bistro & Café
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
The weekend brunch — with its signature Bloody — is legendary, and the daily specials are always eclectic. Get there early to beat the crowds. (28 Main St., Winooski, 655-9081, sneakersbistro.com)
24
Other finalists: • American Flatbread — Burlington Hearth: 115 St. Paul St., Burlington, 861-2999, americanflatbread.com • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Magnolia Bistro: 1 Lawson Ln., Burlington, 846-7446, magnoliabistro.com • Penny Cluse Café: 169 Cherry St., Burlington, 651-8834, pennycluse.com
JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
Other finalists:
Waterbury’s Prohibition Pig is renowned for its meats: tender, smoky barbecue melding the best of Southern tradition and Vermont ingredients. But it’s also respected for its draught list, which brings beers aplenty — two dozen on any given night — with suds from super-exclusive, world-class breweries such as Burlington’s Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, Greensboro’s Hill Farmstead Brewery and Waterbury’s the Alchemist. In 2013, owner Chad Rich and brewer Nate Johnson decided to take a crack at making their own beer. Their flagship brew, Prohibition Pig Pale Ale, started selling faster than they could make it. Now they’re making everything from low-ABV session ales to a powerful double IPA, a red ale with kombucha, and several others. And there’s a lot more on the way. With construction underway that will expand the building, Pro Pig’s brew operation will grow significantly, making way for new beers and more of them. 23 South Main St., Waterbury • 244-4120 • prohibitionpig.com
BEST COCKTAILS
BEST SMOOTHIES/JUICES
BEST TEAHOUSE
The Daily Planet
Muddy Waters
Dobrá Tea
The Planet has been a hip “discovery” for newbies since it opened in 1982. There’s a formal dining room and cozy greenhouse, but regulars like to sit in the bar and watch those award-winning cocktails being made. (15 Center St., Burlington, 862-9647, dailyplanet15.com)
Other finalists: • Drink: 135 St. Paul St., Burlington, 860-9463, vtdrink.com • Guild Tavern: 1633 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 497-1207, guildtavern.com • Juniper Bar & Restaurant: 41 Cherry Street, Burlington, 651-5027, hotelvt.com/ dining-drinking • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • Pizzeria Verità : 156 St. Paul St., Burlington, 489-5644, pizzeriaverita.com
For 20 years this funky coffeehouse has served up a range of organic coffee drinks and teas, and it was an early adopter of creative, healthy smoothies. Great place to meet friends or hang with your laptop. Good tunes on the sound system, too. (184 Main St., Burlington, 658-0466, Facebook)
Other finalists: • Eco Bean and Juice: 688 Pine St., Burlington, 497-2075, ecobeanandjuice.com • Healthy Living Market & Café: 222 Dorset St., South Burlington, 863-2569, healthylivingmarket.com • New Moon Café: 150 Cherry St., Burlington, 383-1505, newmoonvt.com • The Juice Bar: 49 Church St., Burlington, 777-7199, Facebook
More than 90 varieties of direct-sourced, international loose-leaf tea are served according to tradition in this bohemian tearoom. Need a snack? Try the locally made pastries or eclectic light fare. (80 Church St., Burlington, 951-2424, dobrateavt.com)
Other finalists: • North Branch Café: 41 State St., Montpelier, 552-8105, thenorth-branch.com • Stone Leaf Teahouse: 111 Maple St., Middlebury, 458-0460, stoneleaftea.com • Tulsi Tea Room: 34 Elm St., Montpelier, 223-1431, tulsitearoom.com • Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Tea: 42 Church St., Burlington, 865-6227, ugvermont.com
DRINK
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
BEST COFFEE SHOP
Uncommon Grounds Coffee and Tea
The in-house roasting, speedy service and seasonal outdoor seating make this a fave on the Church Street Marketplace. So do the organic and exotic teas, chai lattes made from scratch, and various baked goods. Look for local art on the walls. (42 Church St., Burlington, 8656227, ugvermont.com)
Other finalists: • Maglianero: 47 Maple St., Burlington, 861-3155, Facebook • Muddy Waters: 184 Main St., Burlington, 658-0466, Facebook • Speeder & Earl’s Coffee Roastery: 412 Pine St., Burlington, 658-6016 • 104 Church St., Burlington, 860-6630, speederandearls.com • Starbucks Coffee: 2072 Burlington Town Ctr., Burlington, 651-9844 • 580 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 651-0829 • 1150 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 651-6873, starbucks.com
Capitol Grounds Café
In addition to coffee drinks and tea, this roastercafé serves healthy soups, sandwiches and pastries. Local art hangs on the walls. Take home beans in a bag — such as the high-test Italian roast, used in Bob’s Senate Blend. (27 State St., Montpelier, 223-7800, capitolgrounds.com)
Other finalists: • Birchgrove Baking: 279 Elm St., Montpelier, 223-0200, birchgrovebaking.com • Black Cap Coffee Roasters: 144 Main St., Stowe, 253-2123, Facebook
BEST COFFEE ROASTER
6H14-pennycluse.indd 1
7/21/14 11:45 AM
D6H14-luckynextdoor.indd 1
7/21/14 11:49 AM
Keurig Green Mountain
Formerly called Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, this publicly traded company is one of Vermont’s largest, founded in 1981. The biz has focused on the popular single-cup, or “K-Cup,” brewing system. Tourists flock to the café and visitor center, built in an old train station in Waterbury. (1 Rotarian Pl., Waterbury, 879-2326, greenmountaincoffee.com)
Other finalists:
BEST BARISTA
Baristas at Uncommon Grounds and Tea
The Church Street Marketplace venue also won a Daysie for best coffee shop, and the friendly, speedy baristas are likely why. With in-house roasting and seasonal outdoor seating, Uncommon is a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. (42 Church St., Burlington, 865-6227, ugvermont.com)
Other finalists: • Baristas at Bluebird Coffee Stop: 116 Church St., Burlington, 660-3429, coffeestopvt.com • Corey Goldsmith (Maglianero): 47 Maple St., Burlington, 861-3155, Facebook • Kim Blum (Starbucks, Shelburne Road): 580 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 651-0829, starbucks.com • Logan Bouchard (Misery Loves Co. Bakeshop): 46 Main St., Winooski, 497-3989, miserylovescovt.com • Paulla Flash (Speeder & Earl’s Church Street): 104 Church St., Burlington, 860-6630, speederandearls.com
Thanks for the Votes Let us cater your next office luncheon or party.
Friday Summer BBQ 11-2pm
Visit facebook for the menu! Vermont Family Owned & Operated 329 Harvest Lane, Williston, VT 05495 802-876-1400 Between Williston Rd. (Rte. 2) & Marshall Ave. across from UPS
10% Senior Discount (60+)
30% s to Up itamin e off vee stor s)
available every day
(s etail d for
www.NaturalProvisions.com
D6h-naturalprovisions-073014.indd 1
VITAMIN DISCOUNT PROGRAM • DAILY 10% SENIOR 60+ DISCOUNT
Last day of classes each semester.
• BULK FOODS • VT CHEESES • GLUTEN-FREE FOODS • BAKERY ON PREMISES • DELI • VEGAN •
LOCALS PICK THE BEST OF VERMONT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/DAYSIES
University of Vermont’s Naked Bike Ride
BONUS
FRESH PRODUCE • VT MEATS • NATURAL BABY FOODS • FRESH PRODUCE
BEST PLACE TO GET NAKED (BESIDES AT HOME!)
• Capitol Grounds Café: 27 State St., Montpelier, 223-7800, capitolgrounds.com • Speeder & Earl’s Coffee Roastery: 412 Pine St., Burlington, 658-6016 • 104 Church St., Burlington, 860-6630, speederandearls.com • Uncommon Grounds Coffee and Tea: 42 Church St., Burlington, 865-6227, ugvermont.com • Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Co.: 80 Commercial Dr., Waterbury, 244-8338, vtartisan.com • Vermont Coffee Company: 1197 Exchange St., Suite 103, Middlebury, 398-2776, vermontcoffeecompany.com
25 7/2/14 3:55 PM
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014 26
Well, the people have spoken. And it seems they’re saying the same thing they’ve been saying for years: The people love them some Grace Potter. Vermont’s highestprofile rock diva and her band, the Nocturnals, won pretty much every Daysies award they qualified for in 2014, and even one they kinda didn’t — we’re calling Grace a singersongwriter now? All righty, then. This year’s list of Daysies A&E awardees is a tad heftier than in previous years because we added a slew of new categories. In music alone we expanded to 13 categories, breaking out by genre and roles such as sound engineers and record labels. Voters responded by giving props to a wide variety of artists and others who shine in the local music, theater, film, visual art and comedy scenes. If you see a name here that you don’t recognize, do yourself a favor and check it out. Trust us, it’ll be worth your time. After all, Grace couldn’t win everything.
COURTESY OF BRIAN JENKINS
+ Entertainment
Arts
Rev. Chad Hammaker, Noah Crowther, Justin Crowther and Kelly Ravin
BEST AMERICANA ARTIST / GROUP
Waylon Speed
For years Burlington’s Waylon Speed have not-so-quietly made a name for themselves in Vermont. We call their highoctane blend of country and metal “speedwestern.” But recently, that Slayer-meets-Waylon Jennings sound has begun to attract ears beyond our borders. The band’s 2014 album, Kin, is easily among the finest local releases of the year and has helped national audiences discover what Vermonters have known all along: Waylon Speed rock. Underground outlaw dirt rock, as they put it. waylonspeed.com
BEST LARGE LIVE MUSIC VENUE
Higher Ground
A premier nightclub in the Northeast, Higher Ground has two performance rooms: the Ballroom, which presents touring national acts; and the Showcase Lounge for smaller groups and local bands. (1214 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 652-0777, highergroundmusic.com)
Other finalists: • Burlington Waterfront Park: Lake St., Burlington, enjoyburlington.com/ parks/waterfrontpark.cfm • The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts: 153 Main St. Burlington, 652-4500, flynncenter.org • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Shelburne Museum: 6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3346, shelburnemuseum.org
BEST SMALL LOCAL MUSIC HOT SPOT
Higher Ground
Sure, the major touring bands in the Higher Ground Ballroom are great. But as most locals will tell you, many special nights at HG happen in the cozy Showcase Lounge, where you’ll catch bands on the cusp of breaking out and, of course, great locals, too. (1214 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 652-0777, highergroundmusic.com)
Other finalists: • The Monkey House: 30 Main St. Winooski, 655-4563, monkeyhousevt.com • Nectar’s/Metronome: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Radio Bean: 8 North Winooski Ave., Burlington, 660-9346, radiobean.com • Signal Kitchen: 71 Main St., Burlington, 399-2337, signalkitchen.com
BEST PLACE TO PLAY POOL
Three Needs Brewery & Taproom
A beautifully appointed bar provides favorite craft brews and a chill atmosphere, offering pool tables and music to a loyal local crowd. (185 Pearl St., Burlington, 658-0889, Facebook)
Other finalists: • Charlie O’s World Famous: 70 Main St. Montpelier, 223-6820 • Manhattan Pizza & Pub: 167 Main St. Burlington, 658-6776, manhattanpizzaand pubvt.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Van Phan Billiards & Bar: 55 San Remo Dr., South Burlington, 651-0111, vpbilliards.com
Fabulous Children’s Clothing and Skiwear
A+E
THANKS TO
EVERYONE FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
www.yellow-turtle.com
1799 Mountain Rd. Stowe, VT 05672 (802) 253-4434 D4t14-yellowturtle.indd 1
168 battery street 7/17/14 3:41 PM
burlington
651.0880
D4t-eyesoftheworld.indd 1
7/21/14 1:00 PM
All the lines you love…
— Over 75 National Lines —
Corner of Main & Battery, Burlington 802.861.7500 • www.mirrormirrorvt.com Mon-Wed 10-6pm, Thu-Sat 10-7pm, Sun 12-5pm
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
Bobbi Brown Trish McEvoy Laura Mercier SkinCeuticals Fresh NARS Kiehl’s Since 1851
27 D2h-mirrormirror.indd 1
7/21/14 12:39 PM
A+E BEST PLACE TO DANCE
BEST INSTRUMENTALIST
Club Metronome
Dave Grippo
Since the 1990s, this has been the place to shake your thang, especially at the enduring ‘80s night, Saturday’s Retronome. Touring and local live acts perform during the week. (188 Main St., Burlington, 865-4563, clubmetronome.com)
The alto saxophonist and his Grippo Funk Band got their start in 1999, performing every Monday night at Red Square ... for seven years. Also a music teacher shaping the next generation of players, Grippo is simply da man. (grippofunkband.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Halflounge Speakeasy: 136 1/2 Church St., Burlington, 864-0072, Facebook • Higher Ground: 1214 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 652-0777, highergroundmusic.com • Nectar’s: 188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com • Red Square: 136 Church St., Burlington, 859-8909, redsquarevt.com
• • • • •
BEST SINGER / SONGWRITER
Grace Potter
BEST TRIVIA NIGHT
Nectar’s
That Grace owns some seriously sublime vocal pipes is hardly news in Vermont. But often overlooked are her talents as a songwriter. Perhaps palling around with the likes of the Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach, who cowrote a few songs on GPN’s 2012 record The Lion the Beast the Beat, is rubbing off? (gracepotter.com)
Known nationally as the bar where Phish was born, Nectar’s has long been a local fave hangout, both for the live music and the fries and gravy. It’s also got the coolest — and only — revolving neon sign in town. (188 Main St., Burlington, 658-4771, liveatnectars.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Gregory Douglass: gregorydouglass.com • Eric George: reverbnation.com/ ericgeorgemusic • Josh Panda: joshpanda.com • Maryse Smith: marysesmith.com • Kat Wright: katwrightsoulband.com
COURTESY OF SEABA
• Juniper Bar & Restaurant: 41 Cherry St., Burlington, 651-0080, hotelvt.com/ dining-drinking • On Tap Bar & Grill: 4 Park St., Essex Junction, 878-3309, ontapvt.com • Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: 1899 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4411, piecasso.com • Rí Rá Irish Pub: 123 Church St., Burlington, 860-9401, rira.com/burlington
BEST COMMUNITY EVENT/FESTIVAL
The South End Art Hop
BEST KARAOKE
JP’s Pub
More than 30,000 art lovers and partiers flock to the annual South End Art Hop, which runs along and near Burlington’s Pine Street and includes dozens of open studios, gallery events, food vendors, music indoors and out, and other miscellaneous fun. On Saturday night, Strut, the fashion show featuring local designers, regularly sells out. It’s the only ticketed component of Vermont’s largest art event, put on by the South End Arts and Business Association and staffed by hordes of T-shirted volunteers.
This friendly Burlington institution offers karaoke four nights a week. Can’t sing? There are also pool and foosball tables and, of course, TV. (139 Main St. Burlington, 658-6389, Facebook)
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Other finalists:
28
• Charlie O’s World Famous: 70 Main St., Montpelier, 223-6820 • Manhattan Pizza & Pub: 167 Main St., Burlington, 658-6776, manhattanpizzaand pubvt.com • The Backstage Pub: 60 Pearl St., Essex Junction, 878-5494, Facebook • The St. John’s Club: 9 Central Ave., Burlington, 864-9778, Facebook • Zen Lounge: 165 Church St., Burlington, 399-2645, Facebook
BEST DRAG PERFORMER / GROUP
BEST VOCALIST
BEST STANDUP COMIC
The House of LeMay
Grace Potter
Josie Leavitt
This very funny lady is almost single-handedly responsible for launching a standup-comedy scene in Vermont. She performs with the Comedy Divas, and has nurtured nascent comics through regular classes at FlynnArts. (josieleavittcomedy.com)
Other finalists: • • • •
Joel Chaves: @joeleoleol Nathan Hartswick: nathanstandup.com Carmen Lagala: vermontcomedydivas.com Chad Peterson: @ChadPeteComedy
Paul Asbell: paulasbell.com Jay Ekis: myspace.com/jayekis Peter Krag Bob Wagner: soundcloud.com/bobwagner Seth Yacovone: Facebook
404 Pine St., Burlington • 859-9222 • seaba.com
Visitors might be surprised to learn that Vermont has drag performers, but in fact the House of LeMay is an institution. More than three guys in dresses, “Amber,” “Margaurite” and “Lucy Belle” bring pizzazz to parties and walk really well in heels. (houseoflemayblog.com/HOLblog)
Other finalists: • • • •
Kings Local 802: Facebook The Ladies of Tucked Major Face: Facebook Marjorie Mayhem: Facebook
Given that USA Today recently called Grace Potter, “the best female rock singer in the country,” it’s little surprise Seven Days readers once again voted her the best vocalist in the state. She’s just that good. (gracepotter.com)
Other finalists: • • • •
Gregory Douglass: gregorydouglass.com Myra Flynn: myraflynn.com Josh Panda: joshpanda.com Kat Wright: katwrightsoulband.com
BEST FACIAL HAIR
nate furlong Woodstock
BONUS
A+E
everyone.
Anjou
& the Little Pear 53 Main St. Burlington | 802.540.0008 | anjouVT.com D4t-danform073014.indd 1
D4T14-smalldog.indd 1
DQ13-anjou.indd 1
7/26/13 3:04 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
29
7/11/14 11:03 AM
29 7/18/14 10:41 AM
D4t-LyricTheater072313.indd 1
7/22/14 10:35 AM
BEST RECORDING STUDIO / ENGINEER
BEST FUNK / R&B ARTIST / GROUP
Walter Westinghouse
Kat Wright & the Indomitable Soul Band
Walter Westinghouse is an audio engineer for Higher Ground, Signal Kitchen and for the band NEKTones. He’s engineered albums for local and national bands alike, including Rough Francis and Marco Benevento.
Other finalists: • Ryan Cohen, Robot Dog Studio: 25 Omega Dr., Williston, 355-7926, robotdogstudio. bandcamp.com • Dave DeCristo, Signal Kitchen: 71 Main St., Burlington, 399-2337, signalkitchen.com • Andre Maquera, West Street Digital: 1444 West St., Fairfield, 524-1150, weststreetdigital. com • Colin McCaffrey: P.O. Box 58, East Montpelier, 454-1313, colinmccaffrey.com • Rob O’Dea & Chris Collette, The Tank: 274 North Winooski Ave., Burlington, 448-2655, tankstudio.org
COURTESY OF JOSIE LEAVITT
A+E
The Burlington band is aptly named, and front woman Kat Wright leads it with a sultry croon. Beginning as the house band for Radio Bean, Wright and co. have grown to be one of the Queen City’s most dynamic and popular groups. (katwrightsoulband.com)
Other finalists: • • • •
Dave Grippo Band: grippofunkband.com Funkwagon: funkwagon.com Gang of Thieves: thegangofthieves.com Grundlefunk: grundlefunkmusic.com
BEST JAZZ / BLUES ARTIST /GROUP
Kat Wright & the Indomitable Soul Band
Yes, they’re technically a soul band. But the lineup boasts some of the area’s finest jazz players, including keyboardist Shane Hardiman and horn players Luke LaPlant, Jake Whitesell and Dave Purcell. Oh, and Kat ain’t so bad herself. (katwrightsoulband.com)
Other finalists: • • • •
Paul Asbell: paulasbell.com Dwight & Nicole: dwightandnicole.com Jenni Johnson: jennijohnson.net Vorzca: myspace.com/vorcza
BEST ROCK ARTIST / GROUP
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
BONUS BEST-DRESSED MAN
Andrew Cliff Burlington
BEST AMERICANA ARTIST / GROUP
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Waylon Speed
30
If we had to predict the next Vermont band to make national waves, our money would be on Waylon Speed. These local road warriors continue to draw larger and larger crowds far and wide. Sure, they like to spike their twang with a little metal now and then. But, hey, it’s worked pretty well for Hank3, right? (waylonspeed.com)
Other finalists: • Burlington Bread Boys: soundcloud.com/ burlington-bread-boys • Brett Hughes: reverbnation.com/bretthughes • Rev. Ben Donovan and the Congregation: Facebook • Tallgrass Getdown: Facebook
The Waitsfield-born rock diva, backed by the Nocturnals, is Vermont’s second-most-famous musical export after Phish. But Potter and co. haven’t forgotten their homies. The band launched the Burlington music festival Grand Point North, held in September. (gracepotter.com)
BEST STANDUP COMIC
BEST ELECTRONIC MUSIC DJ /GROUP
Craig Mitchell
Multiple Daysies winner Craig Mitchell is a Burlington house favorite in the DJ booth, making his own music or playing a wild mix of others’. Now also DJing at Planet 96.7, Mitchell brings the party to the podcast, dance floor and radio dial. (soundcloud.com/djcraigmitchell)
Other finalists: • Rough Francis: rock-n-rollvictim.blogspot.com • Josh Panda and the Hot Damned: joshpanda.com • Vaporizer: vaporizermetal.com • Waylon Speed: waylonspeed.com
BEST HIP-HOP ARTIST / GROUP
The Lynguistic Civilians
Hip-hop in Vermont? There’s no longer any doubt, in large part thanks to Walshie Steeze, LC, Mike Fulton and Mr. Burns. This quartet brings integrity and ingenuity to the party, along with “gargantuan beats.” (thelynguisticcivilians.com)
Other finalists: • • • •
A2VT: a2vt.com The Aztext: theaztext.com Bless the Child: blessthechild802.com VT Union: Facebook
DJ A-Dog
DJ A-Dog
Special posthumous honors go to beloved Burlington DJ A-Dog, aka Andy Williams, who succumbed to cancer in late 2013. (soundcloud. com/djadog)
Other finalists: • DJ Disco Phantom: djdiscophantom. wordpress.com • DJ Llu: djllu.com • DJ Rekkon: Facebook
Josie Leavitt
Josie Leavitt is the matriarch of Vermont’s burgeoning standup comedy scene. In fact, were it not for her efforts, the state might not have a standup scene at all. The New York City transplant and Flying Pig Bookstore co-owner is not only one of the funniest people around; she’s a great teacher, too. Her comedy classes through FlynnArts in Burlington have churned out more talented local comics than we can count. A few of them now rank as members of Vermont’s longestrunning standup crew, the Vermont Comedy Divas, which Leavitt founded. josieleavittcomedy.com
Newport
St Albans
Lyndon Williston
Middlebury
Randolph
A+E
+ + =
Real world education Convenient locations
White River Junction
88% hire rate
Vermont’s best value
Bennington Brattleboro
Earn your degree. Start your future. 800 442 8821 | admissions@vtc.edu | vtc.edu
7days_daysies_4.75x5.56.pdf 1 7/16/2014 11:48:36 AM
D4T14-LeZot.indd 1
7/22/14 9:46 AM
We love you, too! Come in and play!!
D4T14-VTC.indd 1
7/22/14 9:38 AM
DAYTIME
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Woodbury Mountain Toys
ANYTIME
Central Vermont’s Largest Locally-Owned Toy Store Open Seven Days a Week • 24 State Street Montpelier
802-223-4272
woodburymountaintoys.com
ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center @ECHOvt
BURLINGTON, VERMONT D4T14-ECHO.indd 1
ECHOVERMONT.ORG
877.324.6386
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
NIGHTTIME
C
31 7/17/14 3:44 PM
BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL
Burlington Discover Jazz Festival
Every June, BDJF fills venues from the Flynn Center to Waterfront Park with music. Headliners such as Tony Bennett and Eddie Palmieri bring world-class flair to the fest, while locals display their own chops all over town. (156 College St., Suite 202, Burlington, 863-7992, discoverjazz.com)
Other finalists: • The Frendly Gathering: 431 Glebe Mountain Rd., Windham, frendlygathering.com • Grand Point North Festival: 1 Lake St., Burlington, grandpointnorth.com • Lake Champlain Maritime Festival: P.O. Box 9368, South Burlington, 482-3313, lcmfestival.com • Waking Windows: Winooski, wakingwindows.com
BEST LOCAL THEATER COMPANY
Lyric Theatre Company Now pushing 40, Lyric is one of the largest community theater groups in the region. With local casts and hundreds of volunteers, the nonprofit produces musicals such as Les Misérables, Peter Pan and Grease. (55 Leroy Road, Williston 658-1484, lyrictheatrevt.org)
COURTESY OF SHELBURNE MUSEUM
A+E
BEST MALE ACTOR
Rusty DeWees
It’s hard to beat “The Logger” for name recognition — or popularity. From town halls to prisons, Vermont native Rusty DeWees performs his one-man show about, well, a rural Vermont native. He also acts for TV and film, and has penned a couple of memoirs. (thelogger.com)
Other finalists:
BEST ART GALLERY
• • • •
Shelburne Museum
Bob Bolyard Mark Cranmer Seth Jarvis Paul Schnabel
How did a seasonal museum best known for its collection of folky artifacts such as quilts and carriages take a win for “Best Art Gallery”? Credit goes to the museum’s new Pizzagalli Center for Art and Education, which houses two capacious, state-of-the-art galleries, as well as educational and event spaces. The striking contemporary building, constructed with indigenous wood and stone, is the museum’s first and only year-round facility. Its inaugural exhibits were large-scale sculptures made of 12-inch nails by Maine artist John Bisbee and a stunning selection of new and old works crafted of glass. For the summer 2014 season, the Pizzagalli offers a reinstallation of the museum’s impressionist paintings, aptly titled “In a New Light.”
BEST PERFORMING-ARTS VENUE
5555 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne • 985-3346 • shelburnemuseum.org
• ArtsRiot: 400 Pine St., Burlington, 540-0406, artsriot.com • Higher Ground: 1214 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 652-0777, highergroundmusic.com • Off Center for the Dramatic Arts: 294 North Winooski Ave. #116c, Burlington, 540-0773, offcentervt.com • Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center: 7320 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 760-4638, sprucepeakarts.org • Trapp Family Lodge: 700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe, 253-8511, trappfamily.com
Other finalists:
BEST FEMALE ACTOR
• Lost Nation Theater: 39 Main St., Montpelier, 229-0492, lostnationtheater.org • Stowe Theatre Guild: 67 Main St., Stowe, 253-3961, stowetheatre.com • Vermont Stage Company: 110 Main St., Burlington, 862-1497, vtstage.org
Lois Trombley
Other finalists:
Cofounder of and choreographer for Spielpalast Cabaret, dancer and singer Trombley puts the moves to the music for Burlington’s longrunning, sexy throwback to Weimar-era Berlin.
• • • •
Chris Caswell Tracey Girdich: greencandletheatre.com Serena Magnan O’Connell Natalie Miller: natalievoice.com
The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
The Flynn Center is a restored art-deco former movie house with a 1,400-seat theater, as well as the smaller FlynnSpace, a dance studio and an art gallery. It also offers nationally recognized arts education and brings thousands of schoolchildren to shows each year. (153 Main St., Burlington, 652-4500, flynncenter.org)
Other finalists:
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Thanks for voting for us as one of the best housewares stores in the state!
Stowe Kitchen Bath & Linens
Thanks for the Votes!
1813 Mountain Road • Stowe • 800.244.6813 stowekitchen.net
106 MAIN STREET | BURLINGTON MENSROOMVT.COM | 864.2088
32 D6h14-mensroom.indd 1
Featuring specialty collections from: Pine Cone Hill Bedding • Le Creuset Cookware • Vineyard Vines Clothing and an Extraordinary Collection of Eclectic Goods!
7/11/14 12:21 PM
MASSAGE THERAPY
Best Movie tHeater
Katharine Montstream
Majestic 10
a perennial Daysies winner, Katharine Montstream paints floral and scenic watercolors — many reproduced in fine prints and greeting cards — and oil paintings. Her downtown Burlington gallery is across the street from City Hall Park. (kmmstudio.com)
Other finalists: • Beth Robinson’s Strange Dolls: strangedolls.net • dug Nap: dugnap.com • Ross Sheehan: outerlandsgallery.com/5-2/ ross-sheehan • Matthew Thorsen: matthewthorsen.com
Best art gallery
Shelburne Museum
Founded in 1947, the shelburne Museum has more than 150,000 items in its permanent collection and is famous for its 19th-century objects, as well as impressionist paintings. With the opening of the Pizzagalli Center for art and education, the museum now has yearround gallery space, too. (6000 shelburne rd., shelburne, 985-3346, shelburnemuseum.org)
Other finalists: • ArtsRiot: 400 Pine st., Burlington, 540-0406, artsriot.com • BCA Center: 135 Church st., Burlington, 865-7166, burlingtoncityarts.org • Frog Hollow Vermont State Craft Center: 85 Church st., Burlington, 863-6458, froghollow.org • The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery: 266 Pine st., suite 105, Burlington, 578-2512, spacegalleryvt.com
INTUITIVE • DEEP • THERAPEUTIC
A+E
Best visual artist
this Williston movie house with a massive sound system is a fun place to view your favorite blockbusters — and stadium seating assures that everyone has a good view. Merrill Jarvis iii, who also owns the roxy downtown, calls this one his mainstream theater. (190 Boxwood st., Williston, 878-2010, majestic10.com)
“He is truly a master of the art of touch”
Other finalists: • Essex Cinemas: 21 essex Way, essex, 878-7231, essexcinemas.com • Merrill’s Roxy Cinemas: 222 College st., Burlington, 864-4742, merrilltheatres.net • Palace 9: 10 Fayette Dr., south Burlington, 864-5610, palace9.com • Sunset Drive-in: 155 Porters Point rd., Colchester, 862-1800, sunsetdrivein.com
outsiDe CHittenDen County
The Savoy Theater
Montpelier’s beloved theater is no Cineplex — it has just two small screening rooms, and the films skew toward art-house, indie and subtitled fare. But it’s got great popcorn and a bar. Prefer to watch at home? thousands of DvDs are just down the street at Downstairs video. (26 Main st., Montpelier, 229-0598, savoytheater.com)
STEVEN K., NEW YORK, NY
(802) 355-5585
www .
rodcainmassage.com
D6H14-RodCain.indd 1
7/22/14 9:41 AM
Chu e Urban Sp rch Street’s Petit a BRAZILIANS • WAXING FACIALS • MASSAGE
Other finalists: • Big Picture Theater & Café: 48 Carroll rd., Waitsfield, 496-8994, bigpicturetheater.info • Stowe Cinema 3-Plex: 454 Mountain rd., stowe, 253-4678, stowecinema.com
THANKS FOR THE VOTES!
Best CoMMunity event/ Festival
104 Church Street Suite 12 • Burlington
South End Art Hop
802.238.7524
Other finalists: • Burlington Discover Jazz Festival: 156 College st., suite 202, Burlington, 863-7992, discoverjazz.com • Burlington Farmers Market: City Hall Park, Burlington, 310-5172, burlingtonfarmers market.org • KeyBank Vermont City Marathon & Relay: 1 Main st., suite 304, Burlington, 863-8412, runvcm.org • Vermont Brewers Festival: Burlington Waterfront Park, Burlington, vtbrewfest.com
beSt tAttOO
Fern Elliott Barre
BOOK ONLINE
C YNT H EAS PA. C OM D6H-CyntheaSpa.indd 1
7/3/14 12:42 PM
Refresh your reading ritual. Flip through your favorite local newspaper on your favorite mobile device. (And yes, it’s still free.)
BONUS
artist: Bruce Washburn of Washburn tattoo in st. Johnsbury
Add Seven Days to your iPad/iPhone Newsstand for free at sevendaysvt.com.
LOCALS pick piCk the beSt best Of of VermOnt Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
vermont’s largest art event attracts more than 30,000 for a weekend filled with open studios, music, food and a fashion show. The mostly free fest is organized by the south end arts and Business association and centers around Burlington’s Pine street. (404 Pine st., Burlington, 859-9222, seaba.com/art-hop)
Burlington and NYC
33 6H-7Dapp.indd 1
7/22/14 3:39 PM
OLIVER PARINI
OK, true confession: We all like to shop at chains and big box stores now and again. But in Vermont, lots of folks are more loyal to local. We’re just not seeing a lot of “Walmart” in your votes, and that’s why few places in in the Green Mountain State resemble Everywhere USA. It’s cool, too, because a preponderance of independently owned small businesses better serve the local economy, give us more options and make shopping more fun. Would we like, say, Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace so much if it offered just one giant store? No way. Such is loyalty that Seven Days readers tend to cast their votes for the same stores year after year — no reason to radically change one’s tastes, really, unless a new contender turns heads. But in some categories the finalists are actually pretty close, and an incremental change can land a different one on top. That was the case this year with women’s boutique ECCO: A perennial winner for best evening wear, it also captured a Daysie for best casual clothing in Chittenden County. Bargain-conscious Vermonters moved Once Upon a Child to Daysie status for children’s clothing. And Earl’s Cyclery & Fitness made tracks to the top for best bike shop (in Chittenden County). But some stores apparently can’t be budged from the don’t-go-changin’ camp, among them Outdoor Gear Exchange, Eyes of the World, Mirror Mirror, Pet Food Warehouse, Bear Pond Books, Gardener’s Supply and Automaster. For them we have just one word: congratulations.
BEST WOMEN’S CASUAL CLOTHING STORE
BEST WOMEN’S EVENING-WEAR STORE
ECCO
ECCO
This Church Street boutique carries the latest in denim, dresses, casual and evening wear, and accessories. (81 Church St., Burlington, 860-2220, eccoclothesboutique.com)
Other finalists: • Bella Boutique: 96 Church St., Burlington, 865-1754, Facebook • Jess Boutique: 98 Church St., Burlington, 660-4004, jessboutique.com • Liebling: 198 College St., Burlington, 865-1110, lieblingvt.com • Stella Mae: 96 Church St., Burlington, 864-2800, stella-mae.com • Sweet Lady Jane: 40 Church St., Burlington, 862-5051, sweetladyjane.biz
Need to play dress-up? This Church Street boutique carries the latest evening wear and accessories, along with denim and other casual duds. (81 Church St., Burlington, 8602220, eccoclothesboutique.com)
Other finalists: • Jess Boutique: 98 Church St., Burlington, 660-4004, jessboutique.com • Liebling: 198 College St., Burlington, 865-1110, lieblingvt.com • Monelle: 75 Church St., Burlington, 657-4074, Facebook • Old Gold: 180 Main St., Burlington, 864-7786, oldgoldvermont.com • Sweet Lady Jane: 40 Church St., Burlington, 862-5051, sweetladyjane.biz
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Green Envy Boutique
This stylish little shop in Stowe outfits locals and tourists alike with unique fashions selected according to owner Mary Lou Baraw’s environmentally conscious criteria. (1800 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-2661, vermontenvy. com)
Other finalists: • Athena’s Boutique: 68 Main St., Montpelier, 224-1010, Facebook • Salaam Boutique: 40 State St., Montpelier, 223-4300, salaamclothing.com
BEST MEN’S WEAR
Outdoor Gear Exchange Vermont men are practical dressers — more Black Diamond than Brooks Brothers. — and Outdoor Gear defines “outdoor outfitter” broadly enough to keep them in clothes. It carries all the layers, including Vermont’s own Darn Tough socks. (37 Church St., Burlington, 860-0190, gearx.com)
Other finalists: • Banana Republic: 56 Church St., Burlington, 865-1230, bananarepublic.com • J. Crew: 5 Burlington Square, Burlington, 864-5590, jcrew.com • Michael Kehoe: 117 Church St., Burlington, 863-3550, mkltd.com • Men’s Wearhouse: 38 Connor Way, Williston, 879-1592, menswearhouse.com
BEST CHILDREN’S STORE
Once Upon a Child
The store’s name is a double entendre: It buys “gently used” children’s clothing, furniture, toys and other necessities and sells them to, in the case of the Williston outlet, bargain-conscious Vermonters. What savvy parent isn’t seeking good deals on items for tots who grow up all too fast? When they do, mom and dad can offload those too-small clothes and highchairs back at Once Upon a Child. What goes around, comes around. That must be why the store’s motto is “Buy. Sell. Repeat.”
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
38 Taft Corners Shopping Center, Williston • 878-5434 • onceuponachildwilliston.com
34
35
BEST EYEGLASSES
Eyes of the World
Folks with “four eyes” can get a new look at this perennial Daysie winner, thanks to the unique selection of fashion eyewear and vintage frames. (168 Battery St., Burlington, 651-0880, eyesoftheworldvt.com)
Other finalists: • Costco: 218 Lower Mountain View Dr., Colchester, 655-4356, costco.com • EyeCare of Vermont: 230 College St., Burlington, 658-3330, eyecareofvermont.com • LensCrafters: 155 Dorset St., South Burlington, 658-7436, lenscrafters.com • The Optical Center: 107 Church St., Burlington, 658-4683, opticalcentervt.com
BEST SHOE STORE
Danform Shoes
BEST PLACE TO BUY JEWELRY
Danform Shoes carries shoes and boots for all ages, specializing in high-quality brands. Fitting experts at all four locations help attire your unique feet. (2 Church St., Burlington, 864-7899 • 104 Heineberg Dr., Colchester, 863-2653 • 3310 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 9853483 • 150 Swanton Rd., St. Albans, 527-0916, danformshoesvt.com)
Perrywinkle’s Fine Jewelry
Perrywinkle’s hand-selects diamonds and gems from around the world for its original jewelry, and also carries many national brands of jewelry and watches. (277 Main St., Burlington, 8652624, perrywinkles.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Dear Lucy: 38 Church St., Burlington, 862-5126, dearlucy.com • Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel: 2121 Essex Rd., Williston, 879-6640 • 359 North Main St., Barre, 476-7446 • 295 Swanton Rd., St. Albans, 527-0532 • 285 Tom Miller Rd., Plattsburgh, NY, (518) 324-7400, lennyshoe.com • Stella Mae: 96 Church St., Burlington, 864-2800, stella-mae.com • The Shoe Horn Boutique: 8 Langdon St., Montpelier, 223-5454, theshoehorn.net
• Tick Tock Jewelers: 185 Bank St., Burlington, 862-3042, ticktockjewelers.com • Tradewinds Imports: 110 Church St., Burlington, 860-2829, tradewindsvt.com • Von Bargen’s Jewelry: 131 Church St., Burlington, 864-0012, vonbargensjewelry. com • 2 Chester Rd., Springfield, 885-2827 • 10 Arbor Rd., Stratton, 297-1975, vonbargensjewelry.com • Zinnia Jewelry: 57 Church St., Burlington, 864-1700, ilovezinnia.com
BEST SECOND-HAND CLOTHING
BEST BEAUTY-PRODUCT PURVEYOR
Second Time Around
Other finalists: • Battery Street Jeans: 7 Marble Ave., Burlington, 865-6223, Facebook • Goodwill: 1080 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 658-5359 • 329 Harvest Ln., Williston, 879-0088, goodwillnne.org • Old Gold: 180 Main St., Burlington, 864-7786, oldgoldvermont.com • Plato’s Closet: 34 Taft Corners Shopping Center, Williston, 878-0001, platoscloset williston.com
BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Once Upon A Child
36
Bargain-conscious Vermonters like the “gently used” idea when it comes to kids’ clothes — they grow up so fast! Toys, furniture and baby gear, too. (38 Taft Corners Shopping Center, Williston, 878-5434, onceuponachildwilliston.com)
Other finalists: • Buttered Noodles: 64 Harvest Ln. #30, Williston, 764-1810, butterednoodles.com • Carter’s Outlet: 21 Essex Way, Suite 405, Essex, 288-8107, carters.com • Gap Kids: 49 Church St., Burlington, 860-7592, gap.com/products/gap-kids.jsp • Yellow Turtle: 1799 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-4434, yellow-turtle.com • Zutano: 79 Main St., Montpelier, 223-2229, zutano.com
Mirror Mirror
MATTHEW THORSEN
The 35-year-old consignment company has an outlet on Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace. The shop is popular for its “new and mint condition” discounted designer duds. (89 Church St., Burlington, 660-8100, secondtimearound.net)
Owner Andrea King
Extensive lines of high-quality makeup and skincare products can help customers feel like “the fairest of them all.” Day-spa services include facials, massage, spray tans, waxing and nails. (3 Main St., Burlington, 861-7500, mirrormirrorvt.com)
Other finalists:
BEST LINGERIE STORE
Aristelle
Need a lift? This independently owned Burlington boutique prides itself on superior bra fitting for every woman’s body. From everyday to specialoccasion lingerie, maternity wear to swimwear, Aristelle carries numerous brands in an impressive variety of sizes. The store also offers gift registries, wish lists and special orders, and happily hosts events such as bridal showers and girlfriend nights. After all, what lies beneath is every woman’s secret. 61 Church St., Burlington • 812-5464 • aristelle.com
• MAC Cosmetics: 66 Church St., Burlington, 651-1090, maccosmetics.com • Sephora: 155 Dorset St., South Burlington, 860-6388, sephora.com • Splash Naturals: 68 Main St., Montpelier, 223-7752, splashnaturals.com • The Body Shop: 84 Church St., Burlington, 860-3664, thebodyshop-usa.com
BEST PET-SUPPLY STORE
Pet Food Warehouse
Since 1983, Vermonters have flocked to this animal-loving emporium, with outlets in South Burlington and Shelburne, for healthy dog foods, kitty toys, leashes and more. The store’s motto: “We care about your pets.” (2500 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-5514 • 2455 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3302, pfwvt.com)
Other finalists: • Guy’s Farm & Yard: 21 Zephyr Rd., Williston, 878-5112 • 19 Barre St., Montpelier, 229-0567 • 155 Portland St., Morrisville, 888-2025, guysfarmandyard.com • Petco: 861 Williston Rd., Burlington, 651-5228, petco.com • PetSmart: 21 Trader Ln., Williston, 872-1819, petsmart.com • The Pet Advantage: 350 Dorset St., South Burlington, 860-1714, thepetadvantage.com
SHOPPING
Always something new to discover. NO 32 1/2 CHURCH STREET BURLINGTON 861-3035 • TRINKET-VERMONT.COM D4t-trinket14.indd 1
6/26/14 2:17 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
Dear 7 Days Readers, Thank you for thinking the “best” of Phoenix Books. We intend to get even better! Think local first. Buy local first. Keep local first.
191 Bank Street Downtown Burlington | 448.3350
21 Essex Way Essex | 872.7111
www.phoenixbooks.biz D4t-PhoenixBooks073014.indd 1
37 6/27/14 1:43 PM
D4t-Playdogplay073014.indd 1
7/11/14 11:43 AM
BEST MUSICAL-INSTRUMENT STORE
Advance Music Center
This locally owned instrument shop sells quality guitars, amps, drums and keyboards, as well as sheet music and method books. It also offers lessons for all levels and rents instruments and sound equipment. (75 Maple St., Burlington, 6608652, advancemusicvt.com) • Guitar Center: 21 Hawthorne St., Williston, 872-7627, guitarcenter.com • GuitarSam: 71 Main St., Montpelier, 229-0295, guitarsam.com • Randolin Music Store and Guitar Repair: 215 College St., Burlington, 651-0070, randolin. com • Vermont Violins: 23 Church St., Burlington, 862-0349 • 24 Main St. #2, Montpelier, 299-4503, vermontviolins.com
BEST BOOKSTORE
Phoenix Books
With their shops in Essex and Burlington, owners Mike DeSanto and Renee Reiner defy the rumor that bookstores are passé. Of course, hardcovers and paperbacks are just part of the biz; they offer thousands of titles for your e-reader, too. (191 Bank St., Burlington, 448-3350 • 21 Essex Way, Essex, 872-7111, phoenixbooks.biz)
Other finalists: • Barnes & Noble: 102 Dorset St., South Burlington, 864-8001, barnesandnoble.com • Crow Bookshop: 14 Church St., Burlington, 862-0848, crowbooks.com • The Flying Pig: 5247 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3999, flyingpigbooks.com
OLIVER PARINI
Other finalists:
BEST SECONDHAND CLOTHING STORE
Second Time Around
The 35-year-old consignment company offers upscale clothing and accessories at more than 40 boutiques nationwide. One of them is on the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington. And for the first time, it’s won a Daysies award. Not a “vintage” store, STA maintains an inventory of “new and mint-condition” discounted designer pieces. It’s sort of like T.J. Maxx, but smaller, cozier and more inviting. Vermont voters have browsed the racks and said, “Yes, more, please.” 89 Church St., Burlington • 660-8100 • secondtimearound.net
OUTSIDE CHITTENDEN COUNTY
Bear Pond Books
One of several independently owned bookstores in tiny Montpelier, Bear Pond keeps on turning pages. With book clubs, author events and educator resources, the store has been “matching readers with books since 1973.” (77 Main St., Montpelier, 229-0774, bearpondbooks.com)
Other finalists: • Bridgeside Books: 29 Stowe St., Waterbury, 244-1441, bridgesidebooks.com • The Vermont Bookshop: 38 Main St., Middlebury, 388-2061, vermontbookshop.com
BEST HOUSEWARES STORE
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Homeport
38
The four-level store has a wide range of household products, including kitchen- and dishware, furniture, office supplies, decorative items and a terrific selection of greeting cards. (52 Church St., Burlington, 863-4644, homeportonline.com)
Other finalists: • Bed Bath & Beyond: 115 Trader Ln., Williston, 878-9991, bedbathandbeyond.com • Capital Kitchen: 18 State St., Montpelier, 229-2305, capitalkitchenvt.com • HomeGoods: 555 Shelburne St., Shelburne Road Plaza, Burlington, 658-7891, homegoods.com • Kiss the Cook: 72 Church St., Burlington, 863-4226, kissthecook.net • Stowe Kitchen Bath & Linens: 1813 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-8050, stowekitchen.net
BEST CHILDREN’S TOY STORE
Buttered Noodles
This “feel-good children’s store” has a host of baby items, kids’ clothing, books, shoes and gifts. And sometimes, yes, buttered noodles. (64 Harvest Ln. #30, Williston, 764-1810, butterednoodles.com)
Other finalists: • Jamie Two Coats’ Toy Shop: 54 Falls Rd., Shelburne, 985-3221, Facebook • Kids City: 10 Farrell St., South Burlington, 859-9130, kidscityvt.com • Toys “R” Us: 244 Retail Way, Williston, 872-8787, toysrus.com • Woodbury Mountain Toys: 24 State St., Montpelier, 223-4272, woodburymountain toys.com
BEST FURNITURE STORE
Burlington Furniture Company
Value, comfort and contemporary design are the hallmarks of this locally owned store. Showrooms house sleek dining-room and living-room furniture, wood-framed futons and decorative items. (388 Pine St., Burlington, 8625056, burlingtonfurniturecompany.com)
Other finalists: • Homeport: 52 Church St., Burlington, 863-4644, homeportonline.com • Modern Design Furniture: 2915 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-8487, moderndesignvt.com • The SuperStore: 543 Blair Park Rd., Williston, 879-4231, superstorevt.com • Wendell’s Furniture: 697 Hercules Dr., Colchester, 861-7700 • 4050 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 861-7777 • 60 Smithfield Blvd., Plattsburgh, NY, (518) 310-1430, wendellsfurniture.com
BEST LIGHTING STORE
Conant Metal & Light
Owner Steve Conant and his creative crew run one of the coolest stores in town. It’s got plenty of contemporary lighting options, but the shop specializes in turning vintage objects into functional lighting and furniture. (270 Pine St., Burlington, 832-4482, conantmetalandlight.com)
Other finalists: • Barre Electric & Lighting Supply: 856 Barre-Montpelier Rd., Barre, 476-0280, barreelectric.com • City Lights: 12 Bacon St., Burlington, 658-5444, city-lights.com • The Lamp Shop: 424 Pine St., Burlington, 864-6782, thelampshopvt.com • The Lighting House: 3002 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-2204, vermontlightinghouse.com
BONUS
BEST-DRESSED WOMAN
kat wright Burlington
BEST ANTIQUE / SECONDHAND STORE
ReSOURCE
“Household goods on a mission; not in a landfill” is the battle cry of this secondhand center for gently used or refurbished donations. There’s a huge selection of building materials, too. (266 Pine St., Burlington, 316-8157, resourcevt.org)
Other finalists: • Anjou & the Little Pear: 53 Main St., Burlington, 540-0008, anjouvt.com • Barge Canal Market: 377 Pine St., Burlington, 309-9151, bargecanalmarket.com • Junktiques: 324 North Winooski Ave., Burlington, 865-9983, junktiques.net • Vintage Inspired — Lifestyle Marketplace: 180 Flynn Ave., Burlington, 488-5766, vintageinspired.net
You Vermont k n a ! Th
SHOPPING
Keeping it real since 2003.
Monday-Saturday 10-8, Sunday 11–6 40 church street burlington • 8 62 5 0 51 S W E E T L A DYJ A N E . B I Z • I N F O @ S W E E T L A DYJ A N E . B I Z
2500 Williston Rd. MORE GREAT DEALS & MONEY SAVING COUPONS AT 2455 Shelburne Rd. S. Burlington Shelburne 862-5514 985-3302
WWW.PFWVT.COM
OPEN
M-F 9-7 Sat 9-5:30 Sun 10-5
4t-petfoodwarehouse073014.indd 1
CONT
6/27/14 11:46 AM
N. Y. C L E A R A R O P EM
S E X Y.
LOCALS PICK THE BEST OF VERMONT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/DAYSIES
LIEBLING 4T R AG
& BO N
E H EL M U
T LA N
G N IL I
LOTA
N IN HA
B IT
NSF
V IN C
E SH O
ES
A .L .C
.
198 COLLEGE STREET | BURLINGTON VT 05401
802.865.1110 | LIEBLINGVT.COM LIEBLING.AD.qtr7Days20.indd D4t-Liebling073014.indd 1 1
39 7/11/14 6/11/14 10:57 4:33 PM AM
BEST SNOWBOARD SHOP Outside Chittenden County
Darkside Snowboards JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
BEST PLACE TO BUY A COMPUTER
BEST BRIDAL SHOP
Small Dog Electronics
Fiori Bridal Boutique
Find everything Mac-related here, from the latest in laptops to software, cables and cases. The store also offers on-site Mac service and repair. (100 Dorset St., South Burlington, 8621316 • 1673 Main St., Waitsfield, 496-7171 • 116 West St., Rutland, 281-4490, smalldog.com)
Other finalists: • Best Buy: 26 Cypress St., Williston, 872-0992, bestbuy.com • Computers for Change: 196 College St., Burlington, 578-9687, computersfor change.com • Pine Computers: 2026 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 865-5002, pinecomputers.net • Staples: 861 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-2199 • 1375 Maple Tree Place, Williston, 872-0260, staples.com
BEST CAMERA STORE
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
LeZot Camera Shop
40
Ready to say “yes” to the dress? This bridal shop has an elegant collection of designer gowns and attentive consultants. (18 Main St., Essex Junction, 872-9663, fioribridal.com)
Other finalists: • David’s Bridal: 861 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 881-0462, davidsbridal.com • K’s Bridal and Formal: 75 North Main St., Barre, 476-7100, ksbridal.com • Needleman’s Bridal & Formal: 10 Dorset St., South Burlington, 660-7212, needlemans bridal.com • Sewly Yours Bridal & Once Upon a Bride: 2 Church St., Burlington, 660-9003, sewlyyours.com
BEST AUTO DEALER
The Automaster
Burlington’s oldest camera shop continues its 30-plus-year tradition of repairing and selling photography equipment. (34 Church St., Burlington, 652-2400• 8016 Williston Road, Williston, 863-6989, lezot.com)
It started as Jack DuBrul’s little Rambler dealership in 1968. Today the Automaster’s 120 employees enjoy capacious quarters in Shelburne filled with new and pre-owned Mercedes Benz, BMW, Honda and MINI vehicles. Check out the on-site museum. (3328 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-8411, theautomaster.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Best Buy: 26 Cypress St., Williston, 872-0992, bestbuy.com • Bob’s Camera and Video: 84 North Main St., Barre, 476-4342, bobscamerashop.com • Green Mountain Camera: 861 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 651-4100, gmcamera.com • PhotoGarden: 10 Dorset St., South Burlington, 863-1256, thephotogarden.com
• Burlington Subaru: 351 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 448-3880, subaruvt.com • Freedom Nissan: 1095 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 864-7400, nissanvt.com • Heritage Ford: 1600 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 865-8100, ford.heritagevt.com • Heritage Toyota: 1620 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 865-8200, heritagetoyotacars. com
Founded more than a generation ago as Blue Moon Sports, this independent, “rider-owned and -operated” shop has locations in three snowboarding hot spots: Killington, Stowe and Ludlow. Darkside carries dozens of brands of everything from boards to boots to Blu-rays and DVDs, and it rents, repairs and tunes up gear. When staffers aren’t conducting important mountainside research, they’re sharing their extensive knowledge with appreciative customers. The fireside couches and free coffee are nice bonuses. 2160 Mountain Rd., Stowe • 253-0335 • darksidesnowboards.com
BEST GARDEN CENTER
BEST ADULT TOY STORE
Gardener’s Supply Company
Good Stuff
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
Founded in 1983 by Vermont gardeners, this employee-owned business provides everything from fertilizer to outdoor furniture, seeds to perennials, in Burlington and Williston locations. (128 Intervale Rd., Burlington, 660-3505 • 472 Marshall Ave., Williston, 658-2433, gardeners. com) • Claussen’s Florist & Greenhouse: 187 Main St., Colchester, 878-2361, claussens.com • Evergreen Gardens of Vermont: 15 Cabin Ln., Waterbury Center, 244-8523, evergreengardensvt.com • Horsford Gardens & Nursery: 2111 Greenwood Rd., Charlotte, 425-2811 ext. 0, horsfordnursery.com • Paquette Full of Posies: 10236 Williston Rd., Williston, 434-2794, vermontnursery.com
BEST PLACE TO BUY A PIPE
Full Tank
Local glassblowers create dry and water pipes in a variety of styles. The shop also carries many other tobacco accessories. (150A Church St., Burlington, 863-8265, fulltankvt.com)
Other finalists: • The Bern Gallery: 135 Main St., Burlington, 865-0994, 135main.wix.com/bern-gallery-1 • Garcia’s Tobacco: 97 Church St., Burlington, 658-5737, garciatobaccoshop.com • Northern Lights: 75 Main St., Burlington, 864-6555, northernlightspipes.com • Stash N’ Stowe: 1024 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury, 244-6456, Facebook
With stores in St. Albans, Burlington, Rutland and Waterbury, as well as Newport, N.H., Good Stuff carries hundreds of adult items, from lubricants to sexy DVDs and tobacco pipes. (21 Church St., Burlington, 658-6520 • 192 Federal St., St. Albans, 524-6607 • 3595 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury Center, 244-0800 • 162 North Main St., Rutland, 855-8035 • 4267 U.S. 5, Derby, 487-9315, goodstuffstores.com) • Imago: 257 Jasper Mine Rd. #100, Colchester, 893-2977, imagoxxx.com
BEST PLACE TO BUY LINGERIE
Aristelle
The locally owned boutique specializes in brafitting for every woman’s body, offering pretty underthings in dozens of styles and sizes, as well as maternity and swimwear. It’s an intimate spot for bridal and girlfriend parties, too. (61 Church St., Burlington, 497-3913, aristelle.com)
Other finalists: • Bella Boutique: 96 Church St., Burlington, 865-1754, Facebook • Bertha Church: 32 Church St., Burlington, 658-2991, berthachurch.com • Old Gold: 180 Main St., Burlington, 864-7786, oldgoldvermont.com • Victoria’s Secret: 49 Church St., Burlington, 863-1124 • 155 Dorset St., South Burlington, 660-9977, victoriassecret.com
BEST SKI / SNOWBOARD SHOP
Burton Snowboards Flagship Store
HQ for the snowboarding pioneer, this hip outlet is your first stop for clothing and gear before hitting the slopes. (80 Industrial Pkwy., Burlington, 660-3200, burton.com)
Other finalists: • Alpine Shop: 1184 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 862-2714, alpineshopvt.com • Outdoor Gear Exchange: 37 Church St., Williston, 860-0190, gearx.com • Skirack: 85 Main St., Burlington, 882-4530, skirack.com
SHOPPING
We love you too! 232 MOUNTAIN ROAD | STOWE SALONSALONVT.COM | 253-7378 109 WINOOSKI FALLS WAY | WINOOSKI SALONSALONWINOOSKI.COM | 654.7400
thanks
D6h14-salonsalon.indd 1
7/9/14 11:54 AM
to everyone for your support and for helping us be one of the most unusual bike shops on the planet!
BONUS
CuteSt COupLe
Jessa Morrish & Wallace Kenyon Burlington
Outside Chittenden COunty
This independent rider-owned and -operated shop has locations in stowe, Ludlow and Killington. darkside carries loads of brands for everything from boards to boots to Blu-Ray dVds, and provides rentals, repairs and tuneups, too. (2160 Mountain Rd., stowe, 253-0335, darksidesnowboards.com)
Onion River sports has been central Vermonters’ goto bike shop for 40 years. Offering a sweet selection of mountain, road and hybrid bikes as well as fatties, ORs also builds good will through its annual contributions to local nonprofits. (20 Langdon st., Montpelier, 229-9409, onionriver.com)
Darkside Snowboards
Other finalists: • AJ’s Ski and Sports: 350 Mountain Rd., stowe, 253-4593, stowesports.com • Slopestyle Ski & Ride: 92 River st., Montpelier, 225-6320, slopestylevt.com
Best BiKe shOp
Earl’s Cyclery & Fitness
earl’s Cyclery & Fitness has been keeping locals in shape for more than 60 years. its longevity testifies to the range and quality of bikes, and the repairs it offers in its “home of the Bike doctors.” (2500 Williston Rd., south Burlington, 864-9197, earlsbikes.com)
Other finalists: • North Star Sports: 100 Main st., Burlington, 863-3832, northstarsportsvt.com • Old Spokes Home: 322 north Winooski Ave., Burlington, 863-4475, oldspokeshome.com • Skirack: 85 Main st., Burlington, 882-4530, skirack.com
Onion River Sports
Stop by and check out our Bike Museum!
old spokes home D6H14-oldspokes.indd 1
322 No. WiNooski Ave. BurliNgtoN
863-4475 | WWW.oldspokeshome.com 7/18/14 10:34 AM
Other finalists: • AJ’s Ski and Sports: 350 Mountain Rd., stowe, 253-4593, stowesports.com • iRide: 393 Mountain Rd., stowe, 253-1947, iridevt.com
Best OutdOOR OutFitteR
Outdoor Gear Exchange
Locally owned Outdoor Gear exchange has been selling outdoor apparel and equipment, and promoting environmental awareness, since 1995. (37 Church st., Burlington, 860-0190, gearx.com)
Other finalists: • AJ’s Ski and Sports: 350 Mountain Rd., stowe, 253-4593, stowesports.com • Eastern Mountain Sports: 100 dorset st., south Burlington, 864-0473, ems.com • Onion River Sports: 20 Langdon st., Montpelier, 229-9409, onionriver.com • Skirack: 85 Main st., Burlington, 882-4530, skirack.com
Burlington’s favorite Church St. boutique for over 20 years! Fabulous, feminine clothing, accessories, & gifts for the fashionista on a budget
96 Church St. (downstairs) •Burlington • 865-1754
LOCALS piCk the beSt Of VermOnt sevendaysvt.com/daysies
Outside Chittenden COunty
Offering Fine Bicycles and Bicycle Service Since the Turn of the Century
41
If shoppers tend to stick with their favorite stores, that goes double for most services. Once we choose a bank, say, or a hair salon, most of us don’t even want to try another one. Apparently that is also true of “place to get body art,” if Yankee Tattoo’s unbroken Daysie chain is any indication. And by the way, this is why the Daysies ballot doesn’t include highly idiosyncratic categories such as dentist or mechanic. Do you know the names of any besides your own? To keep things interesting — and to build up our Daysies “directory” — we added a bunch of new categories this year, including veterinarian/animal hospital, pet groomer, caterer, real estate agent and barber/men’s cut. Those winners were, respectively, Green Mountain Animal Hospital, Doggie Styles, Sugarsnap, Jessica Bridge and the Men’s Room. Welcome, people! We didn’t expect that another new entry — best nonprofit — would get anyone’s knickers in a twist. But one voter disapproved, saying all of them do good work. True dat. But animal lovers unleashed their passion on this one, giving the Humane Society of Chittenden County its very first Daysie award. Woof.
BEST PET DAYCARE
Humane Society of Chittenden County
Gulliver’s Doggie Daycare
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
The HSCC serves Chittenden and Grand Isle counties, taking in upward of 1,000 animals a year. Any day, 100 abandoned pets are being cared for — and prepared for adoption. (142 Kindness Ct., South Burlington, 862-0135, chittendenhumane.org)
42
Other finalists: • Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS): 95 North Ave., Burlington, 864-7402, cotsonline.org • Lund Family Center: 76 Glen Rd., Burlington, 864-7467, lundvt.org • Planned Parenthood of Northern New England: 183 St. Paul St., Burlington, 863-6326, plannedparenthood.org/ planned-parenthood-northern-new-england • Vermont Foodbank: 33 Parker Rd., Barre, 585-2265, vtfoodbank.org
A distinctive purple bus can pick up your pooch and transport it to a veritable puppy playground, with indoor play space and more than an acre of fenced yard in Williston. (59 Industrial Ave., Williston, 860-1144, doggiedaycare.com)
Other finalists: • Oh My Dog: 18 Lime Rock Rd., South Burlington, 489-5273, ohmydogvt.com • Play Dog Play: 668 Pine St., Burlington, 540-0545, playdogvt.com • Stowe Kennel Kare: 199 Adams Mill Rd., Stowe, 253-0921, stowekennelkare.com • The Crate Escape: 5 Green Mountain Dr., South Burlington, 865-3647 • 1108 West Main St., Richmond, 434-6411, crateescapevt.com
MATTHEW THORSEN
BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
Scott Carlson and Maggie
BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
Humane Society of Chittenden County
Here, kitty, kitty. Doggies and bunnies, too. Located at the aptly named Kindness Court in Burlington, the HSCC serves Chittenden and Grand Isle counties and takes in upward of 1,000 animals a year. On any given day, the organization is caring for 100 abandoned pets — and preparing them for new best friends. HSCC relies solely on donations and does not receive state or federal funding. Adopt a buddy! 142 Kindness Court, Burlington • 862-0135 • chittendenhumane.org
Best veterinarian / animal hospital
Green Mountain Animal Hospital
Founded in 1969 by Dr. Jon Stokes, the hospital has two locations (Burlington and South Burlington), five doctors and a team of skilled technicians. From puppy and kitten consults to geriatric meds, there’s a full menu of critter care. (1693 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 8627021 • 1372 North Ave., Burlington, 658-3739, greenmountainah.com) • Fitzgerald Veterinary Hospital: 220 South Park Dr., Colchester, 654-6800 • Milton Veterinary Hospital: 2 Chrisemily Ln., Milton, 893-4000, miltonvethospital.com • Old North End Veterinary Clinic: 57 North Champlain St., Burlington, 658-2202, oldnorthendvet.com • River Cove Animal Hospital: 7 River Cove Rd., Williston, 879-7984, rivercove.net
Best pet groomer
Doggie Styles
After a roll in something stinky, a pooch needs more than a squirt with a garden hose. Since 2003, this Colchester salon has been dedicated to providing “a safe, positive and comfortable grooming environment” for furry best friends. (48 Rathe Rd., Colchester, 654-7387, doggiestylesvt.com)
Other finalists:
Best wedding venue
Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms’ gorgeous inn is a spectacular place to get hitched, overlooking flower gardens and Lake Champlain, and serves award-winning locavore cuisine. Your guests can also visit the cheesemakers and pet baby animals at this 1,400-acre farm and educational nonprofit. (1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, 985-8686, shelburnefarms.org)
Other finalists: • Boyden Valley Winery: 64 Vermont Rt. 104, Cambridge, 644-8151, boydenvalley.com • Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa: 1746 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-2232, stoweflake. com • The Inn at Round Barn: 1661 East Warren Rd., Waitsfield, 496-2276, theroundbarn.com • Trapp Family Lodge: 700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe, 253-8511, trappfamily.com
Sugarsnap
New England Federal Credit Union
This farm-to-table caterer has grown fivefold in 10 years. With a farm in the Intervale, Sugarsnap operates out of a kitchen at Technology Park and ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, where it’s the exclusive caterer. The team also caters weddings and other events. (30 Community Dr., Ste 9, South Burlington, 825-1712, thesnapvt. com)
Other finalists: • Bevo: 70 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, 448-3230, bevovt.com • Catering by Dale: 336 Martindale Rd., Shelburne, 985-3871, cateringbydale.com • Cloud 9 Caterers: 142 Hegeman Ave., Colchester, 655-7370, cloud9caterers.com • Let’s Pretend Catering: 57 Commerce Ave., Suite 3, South Burlington, 651-1081, letspretendcatering.com
Buying a home? Refinancing one? The largest credit union in Vermont is also one of the most personable, from its convenient Sunday drivethru hours to the annual Shred Fest and Hard Drive Destruction. Oh, and it’s got some of the lowest interest rates around… (Williston, 1-800400-8790, nefcu.com)
BONUS most interesting woman in vermont
jan reynolds Stowe
Best florist
Kathy & Company Florist
That magenta building on Colchester Ave. with all the flowers out front is even more floral and fragrant inside. Since 1992, Kathy & Co. Florist has had a knack for making arrangements, delivering thousands of bouquets around Burlington and beyond. (221 Colchester Ave., Burlington, 863-7053, kathycoflowers.com)
Other finalists: • Chappell’s Florist: 1437 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 658-4733, chappellsflorist.com • In Full Bloom Florists: 5657 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-1410, infullbloomvt.com • Stray Cat Flower Farm: 60 Intervale Rd., Burlington, 865-0068, straycatflowers.com • Wildflower Designs: 232 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-6303, wildflowerdesignsstowe.com
Best real estate agency
Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty
At this Burlington-based agency, more than 65 Realtors and staff work with homebuyers, market luxury homes and assist professionals relocating to or out of Vermont. They also provide rental assistance to both tenants and landlords. (346 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 863-1500, hickokandboardman.com)
Other finalists: • Century 21 Jack Associates: 864-9855, c21jack.com/ • Keller Williams Vermont: 654-8500, vermontkw.com • Lang McLaughry Real Estate: 864-0541, lmsre.com • RE/MAX North Professionals: 655-3333, homesvermont.com
Other finalists: • Kelly Deforge: 30 Kimball Avenue, Suite 102, South Burlington, 318-7395, Facebook • Kim Negron: 302 Mountain View Dr., Suite 301, Colchester, 846-4646, homebridge.com/ loan-originator/kim-negron/#home • Nick Parent: 430 Shelburne Rd., Suite 100, Burlington, 863-8585, vermontmortgageguy. com • Spruce Mortgage: 430 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 863-8816, sprucemortgage.com
Best real estate agent
Best salon (unisex)
Jessica Bridge
Indigo Salon
Her friends will tell you: Jessica Bridge knows everybody. She owned or managed several businesses before she hit 30, and in 2010 launched, with Dan Cypress, Element Real Estate. As she put it, they knew “so many people who would be wanting to buy in Chittenden County in the future.” (875 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, 233-9817, realestatevt.com)
This upscale salon and perennial Daysie winner manages the ‘dos of many men and women — “whether rocker or business chic” — with haircuts, coloring, conditioning and styling. Services also include hair removal and makeup. (189 Battery St., Burlington, 865-2212, indigovt. com)
Other finalists:
• Chop Shop Hair Design: 86 Main St., Burlington, 660-4343, chopshophairdesign. com • O’Brien’s Salon: 247 Main St., Burlington, 658-6565 • 155 Dorset St., South Burlington, 863-2273 • 93 Pearl St., Essex Junction, 878-4554, obrienssalons.com • O’M Salon: 171 St. Paul St., Burlington, 660-9944, Facebook • Salon Salon: 232 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-7378 • 25 Winooski Falls Way #109, Winooski, 654-7400, salonsalonvt.com • Stephen & Burns: 116 Church St., Burlington, 865-4766, stephenandburns.com
• Brian Boardman: 346 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, 846-9510, brianboardmanvt.com • Yves Bradley: 69 College St., Burlington, 863-8210, vermontrealestate.com • Geri Reilly: 340 Dorset St., South Burlington, 862-6677, buyvtrealestate.com • Katrina Roberts: 1317 Davis Rd., Monkton, 453-5232, vermontgreentree.com/realestate/ viewagent/30848/
Best bank / credit union
New England Federal Credit Union
With nearly 90,000 members and $1 billion in assets, NEFCU is the state’s largest credit union. Besides offering loans, mortgages and credit cards, NEFCU is a community partner and benefactor of local charities. (Williston, 1-800400-8790, nefcu.com)
Other finalists: • Merchants Bank: 275 Kennedy Dr., South Burlington, 658-3400, mbvt.com • North Country Federal Credit Union: 69 Swift St., South Burlington, 657-6847, northcountry. org • TD Bank: 111 Main St., Burlington, 658-1010, tdbank.com • Vermont Federal Credit Union: 84 Pine St, Burlington, 658-0225, vermontfederal.org
Other finalists:
Best barber / men’s cut
The Men’s Room
Named one of America’s “25 Best Salons and Barbershops” by Men’s Health magazine, the Men’s Room in Burlington provides guys with stylin’ cuts and color (and does the same for female clients). An official Aveda salon, it has plenty of nice-smelling products, too. (106 Main St., Burlington, 864-2088, mensroomvt.com)
Other finalists: • Bugatti Barbers: 209 Battery St., Burlington, 652-9093, bugattibarbers.com • Chop Shop Hair Design: 86 Main St., Burlington, 660-4343, chopshophairdesign. com • Clay’s Barber Shop: 1174 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 660-4845 • Gentlemen’s Top Option (GTO): 86 Lake St., Burlington, 863-3969, gtovt.com
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
• A Passion for Pets: 110 Heineberg Dr., Colchester, 863-0012, apassionforpetsvt.com • Grateful Dog Grooming: 10694 Vermont 116, Hinesburg, 482-2977, Facebook • Pampered Pet Grooming & Supply: 1127 North Ave. #14, Burlington, 862-5334, pamperedpetvt.com • PetSmart: 21 Trader Ln., Williston, 872-1819, petsmart.com
Best mortgage broker
SERVICES
Other finalists:
Best caterer
43
BEST SPA
Topnotch Resort & Spa
Stowe’s Topnotch is a perfect place to be pampered. Don a fluffy robe and sign up for a Maple Sugar Body Scrub, or a science-y sounding Body Composition Analysis. Afterward, laze around the pool, meditate on the mountains or, hey, get another massage. (4000 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 760-6330, topnotchresort.com)
Other finalists:
BEST MANICURE / PEDICURE
Mini Spa VT (formerly Tootsies Mini Spa)
Toes and fingers are in for a treat at the Mini Spa, which offers express or more languorous mani/pedi experiences. Experienced staff also offer makeup consultations, massage and other services. (166 Battery St., Burlington, 658-6006, minispavt.com)
Other finalists: • Jennie Nail & Spa: 49 Church Ste. #1072, Burlington, 859-9990 • Mirror Mirror: 3 Main St., Burlington, 861-7500, mirrormirrorvt.com • Phinne Nail Salon: 1024 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury, 560-4098, phinnenail.weebly.com • Tropical Nails and Tan: 150 Dorset St., Suite 210, South Burlington, 652-9776
BEST PLACE TO GET BODY ART
Yankee Tattoo
Got ink? You could get some — or more — at this self-described “old-school street shop.” Ink artist “Bald Bill” Henshaw established the Pearl Street storefront in 1996 and, with his son Eric and other tattoists, has been decorating local body parts ever since. (198 Pearl St., Burlington, 8623328, yankeetattoo.net)
Other finalists:
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
• Aartistic Inc.: 7 East Allen St., Winooski, 338-9009 • Body Art Tattoo and Piercing: 178 Main St., Burlington, 863-7870, bodyartvt.com • Jade Lotus Tattoo and Piercing: 64 North St., Burlington, 881-0305, jadelotusvt.com • Magnetic North Tattoo: 47 Maple St., Suite 211, Burlington, 652-0842, magneticnorth tattoo.com
44
BEST HEALTH CLUB / FITNESS STUDIO
The Edge Sports and Fitness
With five locations, the Edge makes swimming, spinning, tennis and physical therapy convenient for just about everyone in Chittenden County. Each location has its own programs, camps and activities to make working out work well. (75 Eastwood Dr., South Burlington, 658-0002 • 142 West Twin Oaks
MATTHEW THORSEN
• Cynthea’s Day Spa: 102 Church St., Burlington, 238-7524, cyntheaspa.com • Oasis Day Spa: 300 Cornerstone Dr. #220, Williston, 879-9499, vtoasisdayspa.com • Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa: 1746 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-2232, stoweflake. com • The Essex Resort and Spa: 70 Essex Way, Essex, 878-1100, essexresortspa.com Stephanie Bauer and Ryan Bradley
BEST BARBER / MEN’S CUT
The Men’s Room
Named one of America’s “25 Best Salons and Barbershops” by Men’s Health magazine, the Men’s Room launched more than a dozen years ago in Burlington to serve the growing “metrosexual” market. Read: guys who like nice haircuts and clean fingernails. But the Main Street salon owned by veteran stylist Glenn Sautter also provides cuts and color to female clients, a full line of Aveda products and local art on the walls. Think barbershop meets salon meets gallery. 106 Main St., Burlington • 864-2088 • mensroomvt.com
Terrace, South Burlington, 658-0001 • 115 Wellness Dr., Williston, 860-3343 • 4 Morse Dr., Essex , 879-7734 ext. 1 • 4 Gauthier Dr., Essex, 879-7734 ext. 2, edgevt.com)
Other finalists: • Greater Burlington YMCA: 266 College St., Burlington, 862-9622, gbymca.org • Planet Fitness: 30 Community Dr. #7, South Burlington, 863-8910 • 57 River Rd., Essex Junction, 879-5100, planetfitness.com • REV Indoor Cycling: 208 Flynn Ave., Burlington, 598-9746, revindoor.com • Synergy Fitness: 426 Industrial Ave., Williston, 881-0553, synergyfitnessvt.com
BEST CAB COMPANY
Green Cab VT
This “clean” cab company is committed to using vehicles that run on alternative-to-petroleum fuels. Think electric and hydrogen injection systems. And yes, they can still get you to the airport in time. (1335 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington, 864-2424, greencabvt.com)
Other finalists: • Dunwright Taxi: 1900 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 557-2461, dunwrighttaxi.net • Snowflake Taxi: 1880 Mountain Rd. Suite 12, Stowe, 253-7666, stowetaxicab.com • Quick Cab: 658-2299
BEST MASSAGE / BODY WORKER
Cynthea’s Spa
It’s true, Cynthea Hausman and her staff can work out the kinks like nobody’s business. But this day spa also offers a spectrum of services including makeup, waxing, body scrubs, facials and on-site pre-wedding beautification. (102 Church St., Burlington, 238-7524, cyntheaspa.com)
Other finalists: • Rod Cain, Rod Cain Massage Therapy: 1 Mill St., Chace Mill Suite 244, Burlington, 355-5585, rodcainmassage.com • Karla Henning, All Wellness: 128 Lakeside Ave., Burlington, 863-9900, allwellnessvt.com • Errol Steele, Commonhealth Massage: 426 Industrial Ave., Williston, 760-7845, commonhealthmassage.com • Amanda Young, Shanti Mama Wellness: 1 Mill St., Chace Mill Suite 244, Burlington, 808-9297, shantimamawellness.com
BEST YOGA TEACHER
Kathy McNames, Yoga Vermont
Kathy McNames can strike an inspirational pose — and challenge students in an athletic Ashtanga class. Open since 1998, Yoga Vermont is one of Burlington’s most established yoga studios. There, McNames also trains aspiring yoga teachers. (113 Church St., Burlington, 2380594, yogavermont.com)
Other finalists: • Susan Cline Lucey, Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga: 20 Kilburn St., Burlington, 864-9642, evolutionvt.com/yoga-teachers/ susan-cline-lucey • Malaika DosRemedios, Burlington Yoga: 215 College St., Burlington, (401) 714-2825, Malaikayoga.com • John McConnell, Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga: 20 Kilburn St., Burlington, 864-9642, evolutionvt.com/yoga-teachers/ john-mcconnell • Caitlin Pascucci, Sangha Studio: 200 Main St. Suite 7, Burlington, sanghastudiovt.com/ instructor/caitlin-pascucci
BEST YOGA STUDIO
Evolution Physical Therapy & Yoga
Evolution promotes lifelong health with the complementary disciplines of yoga and physical therapy. Along with yoga classes, staff offers pre- and post-natal and other health care for women and children, massage, and body work. (20 Kilburn St., Burlington, 864-9642, evolutionvt.com)
Other finalists: • Burlington Yoga: 215 College St., Burlington, 658-9642, burlingtonyoga.com • Laughing River Yoga: 1 Mill St., Suite 126, Burlington, 343-8119, laughingriveryoga.com • Sangha Studio: 200 Main St. Suite 7, Burlington, sanghastudiovt.com • Yoga Vermont: 113 Church St., Burlington, 238-0594, yogavermont.com
Locally owned, serving the Burlington community since 1989
Nominated for:
BEST breakfast sandwich BEST late night eats
—5 time winner of Best Late Night Eats—
D6H14-CapitolGrounds.indd 1
Open 20 hrs a day (7AM -3AM), 7 days a week
Breakfast Served All Day!
7/21/14 8:00 PM
Open all year - 7 days a week 11am - 5pm Nov-April 11am - 6pm May-Oct
Home of the Rise & Shiner
SERVICES
Everything you need from a Deli... and more with a large selection of deli sandwiches, subs, salads and beverages.
TASTE • TOUR • ENJOY
Downtown Burlington, next to the Flynn • 155 Main St • 864-4408 See full menu and online ordering www.kountrykartdeli.com D4T14-KKD.indd 1
7/17/14 1:24 PM
KID
SM
ENU
AVA ILA
BLE
Featured in l, treet Journa The Wall S ette az G al re be, Mont Boston Glo Pouce and Sur le
st! a o A T To our wonderful customers-
Thanks for your enthusiastic support!
Check our website and Facebook Page for concerts and special events! www.shelburnevineyard.com
WINNER
LIBATIONS BREWERY
6308 Shelburne Rd. (US Route 7) Shelburne VT 802.985.8222
®
“Best beer town in New England.” - Boston Globe
Located in Waterbury, the food and beverage crossroads, we feature New England’s largest & best curated selection of craft beer, proper cocktails, eclectic wines with a full menu featuring barbecue, vegetarian and cozy American fare.
We’re now open for LUNCH on MONDAYS.
24 TAPS Including beers from our own brewery, Hill Farmstead, Lawson’s Finest Liquids & The Alchemist “Heady Topper”
$4 Fernet draughts everyday
23 South Main Street, Waterbury, Vermont • prohibitionpig.com D4t-ProPig14.indd 1
7/21/14 5:55 PM
Ingredients Matter! Thanks for your votes! D6H14-redhen.indd 1
Ingredients Matter! 223-5200
We’re now brewing in the basement AND our big brewery is being built out back.
Come visit us at our café just off Exit 9 in Middlesex and taste why. www.redhenbaking.com
LOCATED Just off exit 9, Rt. 2, Middlesex. OPEN every day. Mon Tue7-4. 7-4. Mon&&Tu Wed-Sat 7-6. Sun 8-6.
7/17/14 2:17 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
SMOKED MEAT
2012 Best New Restaurant 2013 Best Bartender
45
Recreation
Outdoor+
BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE
BEST CROSS-COUNTRY SKI AREA
Kwiniaska Golf Club
Trapp Family Lodge
Kwiniaska is a semiprivate, championshiplength golf course in Shelburne. It offers a clubhouse, pro shop and snack bar, as well as an on-site practice facility. (5531 Spear St., Shelburne, 985-3672, kwiniaska.com)
In winter this 2,400-acre, Austrian-style resort is a cross-country ski center. In summer, it offers hiking, horse-drawn wagon rides, birdwatching tours and Sunday concerts in the meadow. (700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe, 253-8511, trappfamily.com)
Other finalists: • Arrowhead Golf Course: 350 Murray Ave., Milton, 893-0234, arrowheadvt.com • Rocky Ridge Golf Club: 7470 VT Route 116, St. George, 482-2191, rockyridge.com • The Links at Lang Farm: 39 Essex Way, Essex Junction, 878-0298, linksatlangfarm.com • Williston Golf Club: 424 Golf Course Rd., Williston, 878-3747, willistongolfclub.com
BEST SKI / RIDE SLOPE
Stowe Mountain Resort Like rails, boxes, kickers and half-pipes? Hit up Stowe’s terrain park. Otherwise, give its unrelenting verticals a go before kicking back in the swanky lodge. (5781 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-3000, stowe.com)
Other finalists: • Bolton Valley Resort: 4302 Bolton Valley Access Rd., Bolton Valley, 434-3444, boltonvalley.com • Jay Peak Resort: 830 Jay Peak Rd., Jay, 988-2611, jaypeakresort.com • Smugglers’ Notch Resort: 4323 VT Route 108 South, Jeffersonville, 644-8851, smuggs.com • Sugarbush Resort: 1091 Golf Course Rd., Warren, 583-6725, sugarbush.com
Other finalists: • Bolton Valley Resort: 4302 Bolton Valley Access Rd., Bolton Valley, 434-3444, boltonvalley.com • Catamount Outdoor Family Center: 592 Governor Chittenden Rd., Williston, 879-6001, catamountoutdoorfamilycenter.com • Craftsbury Outdoor Center: 535 Lost Nation Rd., Craftsbury Common, 586-7767, craftsbury.com • Sleepy Hollow Inn, Ski and Bike Center: 427 Ski Lodge Dr., Huntington, 434-2283, skisleepyhollow.com
BEST IN-STATE WEEKEND GETAWAY
Jay Peak Resort
Vermont’s northernmost resort offers fresh powder, great glades, snowshoeing and ice skating in winter. Hit the golf course in summer. Frolic at the Pump House Indoor Waterpark — or relax at the spa — year-round. (830 Jay Peak Rd., Jay, 988-2611, jaypeakresort.com)
Other finalists: • Lake Willoughby: Westmore • Stowe: Stowe, (800) GO-STOWE, gostowe.com • Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa: 1746 Mountain Rd., Stowe, 253-2232, stoweflake.com • Trapp Family Lodge: 700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe, 253-8511, trappfamily.com
STEVE MEASE
Hiking and biking and running, oh my. Those are just three of the new categories we introduced this year. That is, best day hike, best place to bike and best foot race. And the winners are: Camel’s Hump State Park, Burlington Bike Path and KeyBank Vermont City Marathon & Relay. In a state filled with outdoorsy types, you’d think we might have come up with those before the Daysies’ 12th year. Guess we were focused on going downhill fast, aka best ski/ride slope. And to that point, Stowe Mountain Resort returns to the top. However, the entire town of Stowe, long our readers’ pick for weekend getaway, ceded the Daysie to Jay Peak Resort this year. Guess that indoor waterpark is making a big splash. What else is new? Best state park. Wonder where Mt. Philo is going to hang its Daysie. We also thought to ask you the best place to people-watch and the best place to take your parents. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace swept both categories. If you’ve got kids, though, Shelburne Farms is still the way to go. Who can compete with cute baby animals?
BEST FOOT RACE
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
KeyBank Vermont City Marathon & Relay
46
On Memorial Day weekend thousands of bodies — lean and fit, young and old, swift-footed and slow, on heels and wheels — take to Burlington’s streets and the shores of Lake Champlain for this annual 26.2-miler. While it’s not as huge as its Boston and Big Apple counterparts, Vermont’s marathon draws serious racers from far and wide, and friendly crowds of locals and Taiko drummers cheer for them all. RunVermont, 1 Main Street, Burlington • 863-8412 • runvcm.org
18 Full Day 30 Night
6 one way/ $10 roundtrip
Punchcard $180 Obedience and Agility $100/6 weeks
Voted Seven Daysies “Best Toy Store” in 2013
A Gigantic Children’s Store
Toys • Books • Children’s Wear • Foot wear Baby/Nursery • Consignment • Kitchen Gadgets & Cool Stuff
Thank you for the votes!
64 Harvest Ln, Williston, VT ~ 802.764.1810
1/2 mile from Tafts Corners Across from the New England Federal Credit Union
Store HourS: Mon-Fri 9:30-7:00, Sat 9:30-6:00 & Sun 11:00-5:00 www.butterednoodleS.coM 6h-butterednoodles073014 .indd 1
7/11/14 11:21 AM
THANKS FOR THE VOTES! With love from your Pedicure Super Heros!
D6h-gulliversdoggie14.indd 1
6/26/14 11:08 AM
Thanks for the Votes OUTDOOR+REC.
Annuals w Perennials w Top Soil Mulch w Compost w Flowering Shrubs Trees, Evergreens & Mums (plus more!)
The
166 Battery Street, Burlington 658.6006 • minispavt.com 7/21/14 1:04 PM
THANK YOU
YUP,
We appreciate the confidence you have in us and the financial products and services we have provided locally for over 50 years.
& OPERATED
D6h-paquettes073014.indd 1
we’ve got old school...
…for your votes!
Monday-Friday 8-5 Saturday 8-4, Sunday 10-4
7/3/14 12:12 PM
HOT L
STRAATHER IGHT BL
ADTHE E
SHAV
ESNEW ! SCHOOL
BARBER.
PLUS... Fridays are walk ins ONLY
with DJ Fatty Shay spinning 10-2pm!
800-400-8790 · nefcu.com
209 BATTERY STREET, BURLINGTON, VT FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA
6h-NEFCU073014.indd 1
Local, affordable, and on your side™. 7/11/14 11:12 AM
D6H14-bugatti.indd 1
802.652.9093 bugattibarbers.com
7/21/14 12:38 PM
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
D6h14-tootsies.indd 1
10236 Williston Road vermontnursery.com 434-2794 FAMILY OWNED
47
Outdoor+ BEST VERMONT DAY TRIP WITH THE KIDS
BEST PLACE TO TAKE YOUR PARENTS
Shelburne Farms
Church Street Marketplace
Walk the paths, take in the views, visit the cheese makers or pet baby animals at this 1,400-acre nonprofit farm and education center. Don’t miss dining, in season, at the gorgeous inn overlooking historic flower gardens and Lake Champlain. (1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, 9858686, shelburnefarms.org)
Other finalists: • ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center: 1 College St., Burlington, 864-1848, echovermont.org • Jay Peak Pump House: 830 Jay Peak Rd., Jay, 988-2611, jaypeakresort.com/ pumphouse/waterpark • Montshire Museum of Science: 1 Montshire Rd., Norwich, 649-2200, montshire.org • Shelburne Museum: 6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3346, shelburnemuseum.org • Stowe: Stowe, (800) GO-STOWE, gostowe.com
BEST FOOT RACE
KeyBank Vermont City Marathon & Relay
Long-distance runners pound the pavement for this annual 26.2-mile course through the Queen City. Cheering crowds and Taiko drummers raise everyone’s spirits. (1 Main St. #304, Burlington, 863-8412, runvcm.org)
Other finalists: • Craft Brew Races: Stowe, craftbrewraces.com • Leaf Peepers Half Marathon & 5K: Waterbury, cvrunners.org • Mad Marathon: Mad River Valley, Waitsfield, madmarathon.com • Rí Rá’s Santa 5K Run: Burlington, rira.com • Vermont Corporate Cup and State Agency Race: Montpelier, 846-7926, vcccsar.org
BEST PEOPLE-WATCHING PLACE
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Church Street Marketplace
48
Downtown Burlington’s pedestrian-only promenade is enlivened by shops, restaurants, food vendors and street performers. When the weather’s nice, you can get drinks, lunch or dinner outside and watch the world go by. (Church St., Burlington, 863-1648, churchstmarketplace.com)
Other finalists: • Burlington Farmers Market: City Hall Park, Burlington, 310-5172, burlingtonfarmers market.org • Burlington waterfront: Burlington, enjoyburlington.com/waterfront.cfm • Leunig’s Bistro & Café: 115 Church St., Burlington, 863-3759, leunigsbistro.com • The Champlain Valley Fair: 105 Pearl St., Essex Junction, 878-5545, champlainvalley fair.org
Mom and dad in town? Take them to Burlington’s version of a piazza — a pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, street vendors and performers suitable for all ages. When the weather’s nice, dine outside for the peoplewatching. (Church St., Burlington, 863-1648, churchstmarketplace.com)
Other finalists: • Burlington waterfront: Burlington, enjoyburlington.com/waterfront.cfm • Shelburne Farms: 1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, 985-8686, shelburnefarms.org • Shelburne Museum: 6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, 985-3346, shelburnemuseum.org • Stowe: Stowe, (800) GO-STOWE, gostowe.com
FILE PHOTOS: SHAWN CARROW
Recreation
BEST IN-STATE WEEKEND GETAWAY
Jay Peak Resort
BEST STATE PARK
Mt. Philo State Park
Mt. Philo is the perfect high-altitude locale for picnics with friends — your less-adventurous buds can drive up the 968-foot peak. Open from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Pay a modest fee at the top. (5425 Mt. Philo Rd., Charlotte, 425-2390, vtstateparks. com/htm/philo.htm)
Whether you’re into skiing, riding, golfing or free falling through a looping, pitch-black chute that jets water up your bathing suit, Jay Peak Resort is Vermonters’ hands-down pick for a quick and easy weekend of fun. In recent years, the Northeast Kingdom’s anchor industry has steadily expanded its year-round offerings, providing high-end accommodations, top-notch food and hospitality without breaking the bank. Lest anyone doubt its Vermont cred: Jay’s annual live-music event is called the Jeezum Crow Festival. Pump House it up!
Other finalists: • Groton State Park: 44 Stillwater Rd., Groton, 584-3822, vtstateparks.com/htm/stillwater. htm • Grand Isle State Park: 36 East Shore South, Grand Isle, 372-4300, vtstateparks.com/htm/ grandisle.htm • Little River State Park: 3444 Little River Rd., Waterbury, 244-7103, vtstateparks.com/htm/ littleriver.htm • Sand Bar State Park: 1215 U.S. Route 2, Milton, 893-2825, vtstateparks.com/htm/sandbar. htm
BEST DAY HIKE
Camel’s Hump State Park
Vermont founder Ira Allen initially named this distinctive, 4,000-foot mountain “Camel’s Rump” in the late 1700s. From the Huntington side, you can go to the top and make it back to town in time for dinner. (Duxbury, 879-6565, vtstateparks.com/htm/camelshump.htm)
Other finalists: • Mt. Mansfield: Underhill State Park, 352 Mountain Road, Underhill, 899-3022, vtstateparks.com/htm/underhill.htm • Mt. Philo State Park: 5425 Mt. Philo Rd., Charlotte, 425-2390, vtstateparks.com/htm/ philo.htm • Snake Mountain : Mountain Rd., Addison • Sterling Pond Trail: Mountain Rd., Jeffersonville
BEST PLACE TO BIKE
Burlington Bike Path
This scenic path for bikers, runners and walkers extends 7.5 miles along the city’s shoreline, from the southern end of Oakledge Park north to the Winooski River, where the path connects via bridge with the Colchester Bike Path. (861-2700, localmotion.org/programs/islandline)
Other finalists: • Catamount Outdoor Family Center: 592 Gov. Chittenden Rd., Williston, 879-6001, catamountoutdoorfamilycenter.com • Kingdom Trails: 478 VT Route 114 E. Burke, 626-0737, kingdomtrails.com • Stowe Recreation Path: Stowe, stowe-village. com/BikePath
830 Jay Peak Road, Jay • 988-2611 • jaypeakresort.com
We’re Grateful... . . . for great local food, our vibrant community, and all of your support. We couldn’t do it without you!
OUTDOOR+REC.
Open 8am-8pm daily
623 Stone Cutters Way, Montpelier, VT 802.223.8000 • www.hungermountain.coop
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
49
SEVEN DAYSIES 2014
Alice Levitt, Seven Days
50
BEST PHOTOJOURNALIST
Matthew Thorsen, Seven Days
Seven Days’ senior food writer and media personality Alice Levitt has attracted a following with her in-the-know food news, features and reviews, as well as her weekly cheap-eats blog Alice Eats. (@AliceEats)
Since 1995, Matthew Thorsen has filled the pages of Seven Days with his distinctively artistic images. Check out the online exhibit of his black-and-white music photos from the 1990s at bigheavyworld.com/soundproof. (matthewthorsen.com)
Other finalists:
Other finalists:
• Jeff Baker, Burlington Free Press: @aPhilosophyOf • Chris Bohjalian, Burlington Free Press: @ChrisBohjalian • Dan Bolles, Seven Days: @DanBolles • Anne Galloway, vtdigger.org: @GallowayVTD • Paul Heintz, Seven Days: @paulheintz • Ken Picard, Seven Days: Facebook
• Emily McManamy, Burlington Free Press: emilymcmanamy.com • Stephen Mease, Champlain College: stevemease.wix.com/stevemeasephoto • Glenn Russell, Burlington Free Press: Facebook • Jeb Wallace-Brodeur, Seven Days, Times Argus: Facebook
Eva Sollberger
FILE MATTHEW THORSEN
BEST PRINT / ONLINE JOURNALIST
MATTHEW THORSEN
We all like to eat — see the Food and Drink sections. And apparently, we also like to read about eating: Seven Days’ senior food writer Alice Levitt edged out stiff competition to win best print/online journalist this year. In addition to her reporting for the paper, Levitt writes the weekly blog feature Alice Eats, compiles the Bite Club e-newsletter, frequently appears as a guest on WCAX’s “The :30” and is active in the Twitterverse. But neither she nor anyone else could best Seven Days’ irrepressible multimedia producer Eva Sollberger for social-media personality. Seven Days readers are also partial to longtime contributing photographer Matthew Thorsen, whose distinctively arty images have helped define the paper’s look since its early days. In TV land, WCAX anchor Darren Perron is the man to beat — but no one does. The same can be said for WPTZ’s Tom Messner, who has won best meteorologist every year since 2006. Has his sunny personality ever seen a cloudy day? Vermont Public Radio dashed the competition in the Daysies this year: It won for best radio station and best radio morning show (“Morning Edition”), while VPR’s Jane Lindholm won best local radio host (“Vermont Edition”). But the perennially popular club DJ Craig Mitchell won best local radio DJ this year, for bringing the party to Planet 96.7. New to the Daysies is best college radio station, and the hands-down winner is WRUV 90.1 at the University of Vermont. With both student and community DJs and extremely eclectic programming, the station has been the “better alternative” since 1955. Now that’s what we call long playing.
BEST LOCAL TV JOURNALIST
Darren Perron, WCAX
Nine Emmys and 10 Edward R. Murrow Awards suggest the WCAX anchorman and reporter isn’t just the best local TV journalist in Vermont; the Northeast Kingdom native ranks among the state’s best journalists, period. (@WCAX_Darren)
Other finalists:
BONUS MOST INTERESTING MAN IN VERMONT
Sen. Bernie sanders Burlington
• Gina Bullard, WCAX: @WCAX_Gina • Brittney Hibbs, ABC 22/FOX 44: @brittneyhibbs • Kristin Kelly, WCAX: @WCAX_KK • Jack Thurston, NECN/WPTZ: @JackNECN
BEST LOCAL RADIO HOST
Jane Lindholm, VPR
On VPR’s “Vermont Edition,” listeners can count on host Jane Lindholm to ask incisive questions of her guests and callers, whether about local arts, politics or pressing issues of the day. Can we call her Vermont’s Terry Gross? (@JaneLindholm)
Other finalists: • • • •
Mark Johnson, WDEV: @MarkJohnsonShow Mike Luoma, The Point: @MikeLuoma Zeb Norris, The Point: pointfm.com Mitch Wertlieb, VPR: @mwertlieb
Best Social-Media Personality
Eva Sollberger
Seven Days’ multimedia producer doesn’t need Facebook or Twitter to be a major personality in her own right — though they sure help her get her work out there. Like Cher, Whoopi and Madonna, Eva enjoys a mono-name brand recognition that comes with being a one-of-a kind Vermont commodity: She’s the brains and brawn behind Seven Days’ Stuck in Vermont video series, as well as a regular guest on WCAX’s “The :30.” Perhaps one day, amid her tweets about cats, space aliens and snowplow drivers, Eva will share her secret to maintaining a goofy, childlike happiness. Little wonder she has so many followers. Burlington • @EvaDeadbeat
Best local radio DJ
Best radio morning show
Best meteorologist
Craig Mitchell, Planet 96.7
“Morning Edition,” VPR
Tom Messner, WPTZ
Craig Mitchell is a Burlington house favorite, in or out of the DJ booth, making his own music or playing a wild mix of others’. Now also DJ’ing at Planet 96.7, Mitchell brings the party to the podcast, dance floor and radio dial. (@djcraigmitchell)
Other finalists: • • • • •
Big Dog, WRUV: Facebook DJ Llu, WRUV: @djllu Mike Luoma, The Point: @MikeLuoma Zeb Norris, The Point: pointfm.com Pete Powers, 99.9 The Buzz: @powers802
Best radio station
Vermont Public Radio
With 13 full-power stations around the state, VPR beams and streams news, talk and music to nearly 200,000 listeners per week around the region. On a per-capita basis, its audience is one of the largest among public radio stations in the U.S. (vpr.net)
Other finalists: • • • • •
95 Triple X: 95triplex.com 98.9 WOKO: woko.com 99.9 The Buzz: 999thebuzz.com The Point: pointfm.com WRUV 90.1: wruv.org
“Morning Edition”’s popularity isn’t limited to Vermont. Hosts Steve Inskeep, David Greene and Renee Montagne help make it the second mostlistened-to news radio program in the U.S. Who’s number one? “The Rush Limbaugh Show.” (vpr.net)
Other finalists: • “Charlie + Ernie + Lisa in the Morning!,” WVMT AM 620: newstalk620wvmt.com • “Jamie & Chantal,” 95 Triple X: 95triplex.com • “Mike & Mary in the Morning,” Star 92.9: star929.com • “Morning Roundup,” 98.9 WOKO: woko.com
Can anyone ever “best” this cheerful TV weatherman, whose smile is always set to sunny? We forecast no. (@TomMessner)
Other finalists: • • • •
Mark Breen, VPR: vpr.net Kerrin Jeromin, Fox 44: @KerrinJeromin Sharon Meyer, WCAX: @WCAX_Sharon Gary Sadowsky, WCAX: @WCAX_Gary
Best social-media personality
Eva Sollberger
Best college radio station
WRUV 90.1 FM Burlington (UVM)
Few commercial stations have the staying power of the University of Vermont’s WRUV. With both students and community-member adults at the mike, the station has been pumping out eclectic programming since 1955. (wruv.org)
Other finalists:
Seven Days’ own multimedia maven has struck a chord with Vermonters for her offbeat, charming and informative weekly video Stuck in Vermont. Turns out she rocks the social-mediasphere, too. (@EvaDeadbeat)
Other finalists: • • • •
Rufus James: @rufusinvt Amber LeMay: @AmberLeMay Nichole Magoon: @nicholemagoon Nicole Ravlin: @pmgnicole
• WGDR Goddard College Community Radio: wgdr.org • WJSC-FM 90.7 (Johnson State College) • WRMC 91.1 FM Middlebury College Radio: wrmc.middlebury.edu • WWPV 88.7 The Mike (Saint Michael’s College): wwpv.smcvt.edu
Best Local Radio Host
Colchester • (800) 639-2211 • digital.vpr. net/programs/vermont-edition
matthew thorsen
Jane Lindholm
LOCALS pick the best of Vermont sevendaysvt.com/daysies
As noon rolls around and VPR cranks up its “Vermont Edition” theme music by Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, Vermonters count on Jane Lindholm for a deep dive into local politics, arts, culture and pressing social issues of the day, be they bees, bats, Bernie Sanders or binge drinking. Listeners know Lindholm will ask incisive and informed questions without getting too wonky or into the weeds, and politely but firmly keep the conversation focused and civil. Clearly, her three-month maternity leave didn’t dent Lindholm’s popularity one bit.
MEDIA
Jane Lindholm, Vermont Public Radio
51
SIMPLE, WHOLESOME FARE MADE FROM FINE VERMONT INGREDIENTS. (+ an exciting selection of craft beer, wine & spirits, too!)
DROP IN & SEE US AT ANY OF OUR BURLINGTON AREA RESTAURANTS! WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR VISIT.
FA R M H O U S E G R O U P. C O M THE FARMHOUSE TAP & GRILL / EL CORTIJO / GUILD FINE MEATS / GUILD TAVERN / PASCOLO RISTORANTE