Perfect for Fall Dining!

The view from the outdoor deck at The Publyk House in Bennington
The view from the outdoor dining area at The Publyk House. Photo credit: The Publyk House

September 14, 2020

6 Awesome Outdoor Patios in Bennington

The weather may be getting cooler, but there’s still time to take advantage of Bennington’s fabulous outdoor patios for relaxing, dining, or sipping a cocktail. Whether you’re into drinks with friends or a casual family dinner, check out some of these amazing restaurants that offer outdoor dining in the summer and fall. 

COVID-19 alert: Before heading over to your favorite patio for dinner, please check the restaurant’s website or Facebook page so that you are prepared for any changes to their hours, menu, or reservation policy.  

The Publyk House: Harwood Hill

The outdoor dining patio at The Publyk House in Bennington.
Outdoor dining at The Publyk House. Photo credit: The Publyk House

The expansive deck at The Publyk House on Harwood Hill is perfect for cocktail sipping, sunset watching, and enjoying a meal with friends. Not only is the view of Mount Anthony as stunning as they come, but the Publyk House has been wowing guests with its mouth-watering steak and seafood offerings, and New England comfort foods for more than 40 years. Heaters will keep you toasty during those chilly fall evenings and the great food and drink will keep you coming back for more. To view a menu or make reservations, please visit the Publyk House website.

The Miller’s Toll: Main Street

Outdoor dining at The Miller’s Toll

On the east end of Main Street is a unique dining establishment that is known far and wide for its hand-crafted cocktails and small plates. What you may not know is that there’s a tucked-away patio next to the river that is just perfect for chilling out with your favorite drink or enjoying an intimate dinner. In addition to the swanky cocktails, menu items include a selection of mouth-watering flatbreads, inspired sliders, and special appetizers. The Miller’s Toll is currently open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5 to 9:30 (last seating at 8:30). To browse the menu or make reservations, visit The Miller’s Toll website. 

Mount Anthony Country Club: Bank Street

The outdoor patio at The Grill at Mount Anthony Country Club in Bennington, Vermont
The expansive patio at Mount Anthony Country Club in Bennington. Photo credit: Mount Anthony Country Club

If you haven’t eaten on the outdoor patio of The Grille at Mount Anthony Country Club, you’re in for a treat! The Grille is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with lots of new food and drink specials. Fall favorites include decadent onion soup, pumpkin ravioli, and meat or vegetarian quesadillas. The patio at The Grille overlooks the golf course and the Green Mountains, and exquisite sunsets are a regular experience. To make reservations or check out the menu, visit the Mount Anthony Country Club website.

The Dutchman’s Tavern: Depot Street

The outdoor patio at The Dutchman's Tavern in Bennington, Vermont
The patio at The Dutchman’s Tavern on Depot Street. Photo credit: Tara Schatz

The patio at The Dutchman’s Tavern is a lively, in-town dining area that is perfect for a mid-day lunch or casual evening supper. It’s open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, and features 26 beers on tap, with daily specials available. Enjoy $3 domestic pints on Thursdays, sign up for the upcoming corn hole league, or catch some live music on select weekends. There’s always something going on at The Dutchman’s Tavern, and the food is pretty spectacular too! Check out The Dutchman’s Tavern Facebook page to learn more. 

The Lounge: North Bennington

The patio at The Lounge in North Bennington, Vermont
The tucked-away patio at The Lounge in North Bennington. Photo credit: Tara Schatz

The other half of Pangaea fine dining in North Bennington, The Lounge takes pride in its use of fresh, local ingredients. They are a local provider of Berle Farm cheese, Hildene Farm cheese, Maplebrook cheese, and produce from Clear Brook Farm and Mighty Food Farm. The multi-tiered patio is located in a quiet corner with peek-a-boo views of the river and live music on select weekends. The Lounge is currently open from Tuesday – Saturday, 1 – 7 pm. Visit The Lounge website to view a menu or make reservations. 

The Tap House at Catamount Glass: County Street

The outdoor patio at The Tap House at Catamount Glass in Bennington VT
Outdoor dining at The Tap House at Catamount Glass – taken in 2019 (ED NOTE: sadly this venue closed in early 2023)

For a delightful outdoor dining and sipping experience, be sure to check out The Tap House at Catamount Glass. This County Street establishment has been wowing visitors since 2015 with its diverse beer selection, full bar, and comprehensive menu items. Burgers, sandwiches, and delightful pub fare are always a hit with the outdoor dining crowd, and specials are offered daily all through the week. The Tap House is open from Tuesday to Saturday 12 – 8 pm and Sundays from 12 – 5 pm. Check out The Tap House Facebook page to read about this week’s specials or make reservations.   

Yes, fall is in the air, but there’s plenty of time to enjoy a meal or a drink on your favorite Bennington patio. That’s what sweater weather is for! Looking for indoor dining, check out all of Bennington’s fabulous eateries here.