MEET ME DOWNTOWN
10/24/2025 04:15PM ● By Best of Burlington VT
After years of anticipation, the AC Hotel Burlington Downtown has opened its doors, marking a new era for the city’s core. Located just steps from Church Street Marketplace and moments from Lake Champlain, the six-story hotel is located within the eleven-story South Building, now Vermont’s tallest building. Guests can enjoy sweeping lake views, modern European inspired design, and amenities like a rooftop terrace, fitness center, and the AC Lounge, featuring signature cocktails and local craft brews. The opening is being hailed as a major milestone in Burlington’s downtown redevelopment, transforming the former “Pit” into a vibrant destination for visitors and locals alike.
www.acburlington.com
COMING SOON: Jitters Cafe Burlington
Coffee lovers, get ready!
Jitters Cafe is set to open soon at the corner of St. Paul and Bank Streets inside the AC Hotel Burlington. This new spot promises gourmet coffee, specialty teas, and a menu of fresh breakfast and lunch options, including sandwiches, paninis, and light bites. With its cozy cafe vibe and lounge area for craft cocktails, local beer, and wine, Jitters will be the perfect destination for both early risers and evening socializers. Stay tuned for the official opening date and experience Burlington’s newest café hotspot.
www.jitters-cafe.com
Whizbangs Candy Lab DEBUTS
Sweet tooth alert! Whizbangs Candy Lab has officially opened its doors at the corner of Church Street and Cherry Street, bringing a playful twist to downtown Burlington. This vibrant shop specializes in fun, hard-to-find candies that will remind you of your childhood. From nostalgic treats to unique confections, Whizbangs is the ultimate destination for candy lovers looking for something special. Stop by and rediscover the joy of sweets!
www.whizbangscandy.com
MEET ME DOWNTOWN Dining
The Daily Planet
We’re serving dinner seven nights a week and brunch Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday! Experience our award-winning cocktails and locally sourced seasonal cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With over twelve vegan options and even more gluten-free dishes, we have a little something for everyone!
www.dailyplanetvt.comEl Cortijo
El Cortijo’s Western Omelet is a savory breakfast favorite, packed with tender carnitas, fresh peppers, and onions, then topped with zesty salsa roja for a flavorful kick. Enjoy this delicious omelet as part of El Cortijo’s breakfast menu, available every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 2pm.
www.cortijovt.comLEUNIG’S BISTRO
Leunig’s Bistro is one of downtown Burlington’s oldest and most beloved restaurants. This classic French bistro and bar serves lunch and dinner in a lively, welcoming atmosphere, offering some of the best people-watching and live music in the area. Dedicated to great food, great times, and giving back to the community, Leunig’s is a true local institution.
www.leunigsbistro.comDEEP CITY
Deep City is a vibrant brunch spot and event venue on Burlington’s waterfront, overlooking Lake Champlain. Open Thursday through Monday from 8am to 2pm, it’s walk-in only—no reservations needed. Waiting for a table? Foam Brewers next door opens at 10am on weekends. At night, Deep City transforms into a private rental space for unforgettable events.
www.deepcityvt.comBistro de Margot
Enjoy a delightful autumn evening at Bistro de Margo with a specially crafted fall dinner. Savor the local Boyden Farm oxtail “crisp,” perfectly complemented by a rich braising jus reduction. The meal is served with fresh frisée lettuce and a vibrant salad of seven-day pickled vegetables, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that celebrate the season.
www.bistrodemargot.comThe Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Farmhouse Tap & Grill’s Meatloaf is a hearty, farm-to-table favorite crafted with LaPlatte River Farm beef and Vermont Heritage Grazers pork. Served with roasted potatoes, tender baby carrots, and finished with rich mushroom gravy, it’s comfort food elevated with local flavor. www.farmhousetg.com
Pascolo Ristorante
The Pizza Funghi at Pascalo Ristorante features truffle whipped Champlain Valley Creamery ricotta, fresh mushrooms, onions, Maplebrook Farm mozzarella, and parsley. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a pizza with rich, earthy flavors and a fresh finish.
www.pascolovt.comChurch Street Tavern
Our crunchy Caesar wrap, packed with grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing, is the ultimate post shopping lunch on Church Street. Pair it with a side of golden sweet potato fries, and you’ve got perfection on a plate!
www.tavernvt.comFoam Brewers
Foam Brewers is a creative craft brewery in Burlington, known for imaginative, small-batch beers designed for enlightened palates. The taproom features a constantly rotating lineup of brews, alongside craft cocktails, wine, and unique non-alcoholic options. Pair your drink with world-class cheese and charcuterie, tasty bar snacks, live music, and local art for a truly vibrant experience.
www.foambrewers.comMEET ME DOWNTOWN Shopping
The Vermont Flannel Company
Nestled on the red-brick road of Church Street, Vermont Flannel offers handcrafted clothing, blankets, and accessories hand cut and sewn in America—from the finest organic cotton flannel. Each piece is brushed for unbelievable softness inside and out. Discover authentic comfort, style, and craftsmanship in the heart of Vermont’s most vibrant shopping district. www.vermontflannel.com
Home & Garden Vermont
Step into Home & Garden Vermont and enjoy all the scents and colors of the fall season! With goods inspired by the great outdoors, we are ready to make your home a cozy habitat. Looking for the perfect gift? We’ll help you find that special something for anyone from nine days to ninety-nine years!
www.homeandgardenvermont.comMirror Mirror - 3 Main St, Burlington, VT
For twenty-three years, Mirror Mirror has been Burlington’s beauty destination, creating unforgettable moments, from finding the perfect foundation to trying bold lips. Our full spa offers luxury facials, waxing, hydrafacials, and more, along with a premier salon. Explore designer sunglasses, fragrances, spray tans, and wellness essentials—everything today’s woman desires. www.mirrormirrorvt.com
The Optical Center
You’ll find a diverse selection of eyewear at Optical Cener. We carry independent labels, such as Garrett Leight and the Pellicer collection from Etnia Barcelona, plus sunglasses by brands like Ray Ban, Costa, Maui Jim, and Smith. Our premium optical brands include Oliver Peoples, Barton Perreira, Gucci, and Kate Spade. Everything in the store is designed to be custom-fit. Stop in or check us out online.
www.opticalcentervt.com
KARLISE JEWELRY
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, they craft timeless, exquisite jewelry. As a locally owned, family-run business, they combine meticulous craftsmanship with personal touches, creating unique pieces that reflect individuality and celebrate special moments.
www.karlisejewelers.com
Vermont Teddy Bear
Visit Vermont Teddy Bear on Church Street and discover a world of handcrafted teddy bears and stuffed animals of every shape and size— even giant! Filled with 100 percent recycled stuffing and guaranteed for life, these bears combine everlasting quality with eco-friendly care, creating a joyful Vermont tradition for all ages.
www.vermontteddybear.comCoco Goose Burlington
Coco Goose offers elevated essentials and effortless style with a curated selection of over 150 brands, including Ulla Johnson, Mother, Veronica Beard, Frank & Eileen, and Nili Lotan. Woman-owned with fifteenplus years of experience, they bring a personalized boutique experience to every shopper. Visit them in Stowe, Burlington, and Manchester Center, Providence, RI, or shop online at www.shopcocogoose.com.
Nu Chocolat
Located on the Lake Champlain Waterfront in Burlington, Nu Chocolat makes all their chocolate on-site at their Vermont family owned-and-operated chocolate boutique. Stop in for free samples of their world-class chocolate truffles or sit and enjoy an iced chocolate in their bright and contemporary cafe. You can even watch the chocolatiers creating the finest European-style chocolate confections through their viewing window.
www.nuchocolat.comVERMONT DISTILLERS AND SMUGGLERS’ NOTCH DISTILLERY
Vermont Distillers of Marlboro and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery of Jeffersonville have been working together since 2017 and now have opened their joint venture: Smugglers' Notch Distillery & Vermont Distillers Tasting Room . Located at 28 Church Street in Downtown Burlington, the shop also sells traditional liquors as well as canned cocktails, supplies, glassware, gift packs, and Vermont-themed merchandise like barrel-aged maple syrup. www.vermontdistillers.com
Spend the Day on the Waterfront
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Looking for the perfect way to enjoy the day with your loved ones? Gather your family, friends, and out-of-town visitors and spend an unforgettable day on the beautiful waterfront of Lake Champlain! Start your adventure at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, where kids and adults alike can dive into hands-on fun! Explore engaging games, meet live animals, and take in special exhibits tailored for curious minds. It’s the perfect place to discover the wonders of our unique and stunning natural environment while having a blast.
Continue the excitement by renting bikes for a leisurely ride along the scenic lakeshore. The paved paths offer breathtaking views and are suitable for all skill levels. When it’s time for a break, grab lunch and savor a picnic on the lush lawn overlooking the water.
For those seeking a laid-back afternoon, unwind on the patio at Foam Brewers. Enjoy a refreshing local brew and soak up the vibrant atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. It’s a great spot to relax and catch up with friends while taking in the waterfront vibes. Treat your taste buds to Cuban cuisine at Santiago’s for lunch, where bold flavors and friendly service await. Don’t forget to indulge your sweet tooth with gourmet chocolates made right onsite at Nu Chocolat—a must-visit for chocolate lovers! See you on the Waterfront!
