Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Ludlow

The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow, VT, is celebrated for its intimate dining experience, personalized service, and innovative Southern-inspired cuisine. Guests frequently commend the husband-and-wife team, Abby and Rogan, for their dedication to quality and hospitality. The menu, which changes seasonally, features dishes like venison ravioli, celeriac soup, and Prince Edward Island mussels. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The downtown grocery dining experience in ludlow vt 

Nestled in the heart of Ludlow, Vermont, The Downtown Grocery offers an intimate and elevated Southern dining experience that food lovers rave about. This husband-and-wife run gem transforms local, seasonal ingredients into imaginative dishes that delight the palate. From the divine corn soup with lobster to perfectly textured eggplant arancini, every course is crafted with reverence and care. Guests often describe the atmosphere as cozy and quaint, where you feel like a longtime friend welcomed into a warm home.

seasonal menu highlights and wine pairings

The menu at The Downtown Grocery changes with the seasons, showcasing farm-to-table excellence. Signature dishes like venison ravioli, celeriac soup, and Prince Edward Island mussels highlight the culinary creativity and fresh local ingredients. The thoughtfully curated wine pairings invite diners to explore unique varietals beyond their usual favorites, enhancing the flavors and elevating the entire meal.

Diners consistently praise the warm hospitality and attentive service provided by Abby and Rogan, who not only run the kitchen but also create an inviting ambiance. The Downtown Grocery is not about rushed meals; it’s about savoring each course in relaxed conversation, often spanning three hours. Whether seated at the intimate bar or a cozy table, guests leave feeling like cherished friends rather than customers.

Reservations are made through Resy with monthly date releases on the 1st at midnight. Early booking is recommended due to limited seating.

Open Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Closed Sundays and Tuesdays through Thursdays.

No formal dress code; guests are encouraged to dress comfortably for this casual fine dining experience.

Available via the restaurant’s website and popular platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates.

Yes, and it’s best to communicate dietary preferences when making a reservation.

How do I make a reservation at The Downtown Grocery?

 Reservations can be made through Resy, with dates released monthly on the 1st at 12:00 AM. It's recommended to book early due to limited seating.

What are the operating hours of The Downtown Grocery?

 The restaurant operates on Mondays and Fridays from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Tuesdays through Thursdays.

Is there a dress code at The Downtown Grocery?

 While there is no formal dress code, guests are encouraged to dress comfortably for the casual fine dining experience.

Does The Downtown Grocery offer takeout or delivery?

 Yes, The Downtown Grocery offers takeout and delivery services. Orders can be placed through their website or via platforms like Uber Eats and Postmates.

Are there vegetarian options available on the menu?

 Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options. It's advisable to inform the staff of any dietary preferences when making a reservation.

 — The Downtown Grocery is beloved in Ludlow for its exceptional hospitality, intimate setting, and culinary craftsmanship. Visitors and locals alike praise the personalized service by the owners, the fresh and inventive Southern-inspired menu, and the inviting ambiance that makes each meal memorable. It’s a top choice for discerning foodies seeking a unique and cozy fine dining experience in Vermont.

North America

United States

Nestled in the charming town of Ludlow, Vermont, The Downtown Grocery offers a culinary experience that is as delightful as the picturesque surroundings. This intimate restaurant, located at 41 S Depot St, is renowned for its elevated Southern cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for food lovers seeking a unique dining adventure.

 With a focus on seasonal menus, each visit promises something new and exciting. The Downtown Grocery is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey where every dish tells a story.

The Downtown Grocery is celebrated for its imaginative dishes that highlight the best of Southern flavors. Two standout offerings include the rich and creamy Corn Soup with Lobster, which is a delightful blend of sweetness and oceanic freshness, and the Eggplant Arancini, perfectly crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside. Each bite is a testament to the chef's dedication to quality and creativity.

 The cocktail menu is equally impressive, featuring unique libations that pair beautifully with the food, such as a refreshing Tomato Leaf Pesto cocktail that tantalizes the palate.

One of the most charming aspects of The Downtown Grocery is its intimate setting, run by just two passionate owners who pour their heart and soul into every meal. This personal touch creates a warm atmosphere where guests feel like part of the family. The restaurant’s commitment to farm-to-table dining means that the menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers something fresh and exciting.

 A fun fact: the owners often share stories about the local farms from which they source their ingredients, adding a layer of connection to the community.

 It is known for its elevated Southern cuisine and commitment to using local ingredients.

 For a unique dining experience that combines local flavors with a personal touch.

 The restaurant is close to several ski resorts and beautiful hiking trails, making it an ideal stop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Downtown Grocery is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates fine dining. Make a reservation today and treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience.

Elevated Southern cuisine made with local ingredients plus unique cocktails & a relaxed ambiance.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIazhPTGVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI_eCtMnK4YkR-m3w765XaDo/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIazhPTGVREAE

Finally was able to get a reservation! Exceeded all our expectations. The food and drinks were imaginative and so fresh. Corn soup with lobster was divine. Eggplant arancini had all the right flavors and textures.. libations were inventive and delicious. I will dream about The Jubilee for years to come. Tomato leaf pesto? Yes please! Suggested wine pairings were a great way to explore outside our comfort zone and try new and delicious varietals. Then there is the atmosphere and service. Cozy, quaint and left feeling like we had been good friends forever. Abby paints a glorious picture of every offering. 3 hours of relaxed conversation and time to savor each course. If you want fast food and service, this is not your place- for us that’s a good thing.I can’t wait to go back!! We get to eat at a lot of very nice places all over the world, but this hit special in a way few places can. Top 5 all time for me.(not great at capturing the food but trust me. Amazing!)

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNG9UMDNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI_eCtMnK4YkR-m3w765XaDo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNG9UMDNnRRAB

Above all expectation! I couldn't imagine the casual fine dining with this great experience. We arrived 30 mins before close and so lucky to get the table at the bar.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYcGRYenRBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI_eCtMnK4YkR-m3w765XaDo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYcGRYenRBRRAB

This is a real gem of a place in a small town that mostly serves as a base for skiing types.

We used Ludlow as a base for day trips throughout the region.

Regardless, we booked a night (well in advance of our arrival) and anticipated the experience.

We were not disappointed. The "staff" were amazing, every dish thoroughly explained with a reverent detail only a food lover can bring. There was an equally detailed approach to the wine. Pairing of food and wine is taken very seriously.

This is farm to table at its finest.

The menu changes seasonally and given the lighting, I didn't take photos because I didn't want to do their food a disservice.

This was true dining in the beat sense of the word.

If you are staying in Ludlow and you are a food lover, do yourself a favor and book a meal or two here.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIOTk3dFh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI_eCtMnK4YkR-m3w765XaDo/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIOTk3dFh3EAE

We just enjoyed the most amazing dining experience of my life.  This was a return trip to Downtown Grocery and Abby’s hospitality and theater skills, brought the menu to life.  Then Rogan’s chef skills had every bite taste equally amazing.  Treat yourself to a unique and delicious dinner as soon as possible.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSaXJhbXJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJI_eCtMnK4YkR-m3w765XaDo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSaXJhbXJRRRAB

This is definitely one of the top restaurants in Ludlow.
Just the two owners running the place, so not many seatings per night.  But this is really a culinary delight - food is so well prepared - could have been eating at a top restaurant in NYC.
We had the Pappardelle Bolognese and Shrimp and Grits and both were some of the best we ever had.  Everything homemade, including the bread that comes out for starters.  Also, they add some top bartending skills to their repertoire.  And given that they only have limited seating, its a very intimate and pleasant setting.  The one downside is that the prices are high, but you are getting what you pay for.  Just need to make reservations well in advance - we took the 5:30 seating just so we could get in.

Downtown Grocery: Fine Dining in Ludlow, VT

The Downtown Grocery, established over a decade ago by husband-and-wife team Abby and Rogan, has evolved to offer an intimate dining experience with a focus on Southern-inspired cuisine using local ingredients. The restaurant has adapted its operations over the years, including offering takeout during the pandemic and now operates with limited seating to provide a more personalized experience.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Breakfast

Serves Cocktails

In the charming village of Ludlow, Vermont, lies an inviting gem known as The Downtown Grocery, a culinary haven that transcends ordinary dining experiences. This delightfully casual eatery vibrates with a warm, inviting ambiance, accentuated by its rustic charm and friendly staff. The Downtown Grocery is renowned not just for its delectable fare, but also for its commitment to local ingredients, offering a mouthwatering array of dishes crafted with seasonal offerings from nearby farms.

The Downtown Grocery

A selection of seasonal dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Braised Pork Belly

French Toast

Heirloom Tomato Salad

Pineapple Basil Sorbet

Oysters

Plew Farm Chicken Breast

Tempura

Mint Chocolate Chip

Scallops

The Downtown Grocery Menu

Discover a delightful journey through elevated Southern cuisine at The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow, Vermont. This carefully curated menu features seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, designed to tantalize your palate with fresh, imaginative flavors in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Begin your meal with a vibrant selection of starters that perfectly balance freshness and bold taste:

Juicy heirloom tomatoes paired with peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and finished with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Freshly shucked oysters served with zesty lemon and a classic mignonette sauce to awaken your appetite.

A crispy array of assorted vegetables lightly battered and paired with a savory dipping sauce.

Savor the heart of Southern-inspired cooking with mains that highlight locally sourced meats and seafood, each expertly seasoned and paired with fresh vegetables:

Tender pork belly slow-cooked with a blend of seasonings, accompanied by seasonal vegetables that complement its rich flavor.

Juicy chicken breast sourced from Plew Farm, seasoned to perfection and served alongside crisp, fresh vegetables.

Seared scallops seasoned delicately and served with a medley of fresh vegetables, showcasing the best of local seafood.

Indulge your sweet tooth with desserts that combine classic comfort with a refreshing twist, crafted to provide a perfect finale to your dining experience:

Classic bread soaked in eggs and milk, dusted with cinnamon and sugar, then drizzled with authentic maple syrup for a sweet finish.

A refreshing tropical sorbet that blends sweet pineapple with fragrant basil and a splash of lemon juice.

Creamy mint ice cream dotted with rich chocolate chips, offering a cool and indulgent treat.

Complement your meal with inventive cocktails and thoughtfully selected wines. The Downtown Grocery also offers seasonal specials that reflect the best local harvests and culinary creativity, ensuring a unique dining experience with each visit.

Savor farm-fresh dishes at The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow, VT! Experience flavor and charm in every bite. Visit us today!

The Downtown Grocery Ludlow - Farm-Fresh Dining

Windsor County

Abby offers personalized wine tasting experiences at your home for 8 or more guests.

Wine Tasting at Home

Host a private tasting menu-wine dinner for 10-20 guests at The Downtown Grocery.

Private Tasting Menu-Wine Dinner

The downtown grocery: a culinary gem in ludlow vermont's heart.

Nestled in the charming town of Ludlow, Vermont, The Downtown Grocery offers an elevated dining experience that masterfully combines Southern-inspired cuisine with the freshest local ingredients. This intimate establishment, located at 41 South Depot Street, is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique blend of creative flavors, warm hospitality, and a relaxed ambiance.

an unforgettable farm-to-table dining experience

The Downtown Grocery's menu is a celebration of seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients that change throughout the year, ensuring every visit reveals new and exciting tastes. From the rich and comforting corn soup with lobster to the perfectly textured eggplant arancini, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to delight your palate. The kitchen’s dedication to homemade preparations, including fresh breads and sauces like the intriguing tomato leaf pesto, sets it apart as a culinary destination far beyond its small-town roots.

Abby, the hospitality maestro at The Downtown Grocery, elevates the dining experience with expert wine pairings and inventive cocktails that perfectly complement each course. Whether you're sipping on craft libations or exploring unique wine varietals curated to push your palate beyond the familiar, the beverage selection enhances the menu's bold flavors. Guests consistently praise the attentive service and the thoughtful presentation that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

exclusive private dining and wine tasting experiences

For those looking to celebrate a special occasion or host an intimate gathering, The Downtown Grocery offers two remarkable private options: a Wine Tasting at Home for groups of eight or more and a Private Tasting Menu-Wine Dinner at the restaurant for groups between ten and twenty guests. Both experiences are priced at $125 and promise personalized, immersive culinary journeys that showcase the best of Southern cuisine paired with exquisite wines.

Why choose The Downtown Grocery for your dining experience?

 Enjoy a farm-to-table menu that changes seasonally with locally sourced ingredients and expertly crafted cocktails and wine pairings.

Is The Downtown Grocery suitable for families with children?

 The restaurant is designed more for adult dining experiences and does not offer a children's menu, making it a perfect spot for romantic dinners or food-centric gatherings.

How do I secure a reservation at The Downtown Grocery?

 Due to its limited seating and popularity, it's best to book well in advance to guarantee your spot at this exclusive dining destination.

Whether you're a local or traveling through Vermont's scenic Windsor County, The Downtown Grocery offers a culinary retreat where every detail, from the food to the ambiance, invites you to savor the moment. Open for breakfast, dinner, and dessert, this establishment also offers takeout and delivery options for those who prefer to enjoy their gourmet meals at home. While there is no outdoor seating or valet parking, the cozy interior and attentive service create a memorable setting that will have you returning again and again.

Vermont

Savor Southern-inspired cuisine at The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow. Unique dishes, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere. Book your reservation now!

The Downtown Grocery - Intimate Dining in Ludlow, VT

Explore essential tips for an unforgettable dining experience at The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow. Limited seating, seasonal menu, and intimate ambiance await!

Tips for Dining at The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow, VT

Learn about The Downtown Grocery, a unique dining experience in Ludlow, VT, featuring locally sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired dishes prepared by a husband-and-wife duo.

The Downtown Grocery Menu

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks and Specials