Small-town chic
The Tillerman (Bristol, VT)
GETAWAYS • Vermont
After a day of skiing the Green Mountains (particularly nearby Sugarbush and Mad River Glen), there’s no more inviting restaurant than The Tillerman in Bristol, Vermont. Upon arrival, you’ll find a parlor with comfortable seating and a blazing fireplace, an Italian wood-fired oven churning out bubbly-crusted pizzas, and a well-equipped bar, all of which make for a welcome respite from the bitter cold.
Although The Tillerman is a relative newcomer to the area, having opened in 2021, it occupies a farmhouse dating back to the 1790s and carries on the legacy of Mary’s, a beloved farm-to-table inn and restaurant that preceded it. Today, The Tillerman operates as a restaurant, inn, and wedding venue, blending small-town charm with city-quality food. Think of it as Vermont’s answer to Stissing House: a historic space with inventive, seasonal cuisine.
The pizzas stand out. With a sourdough crust, rotating seasonal toppings, and a focus on fresh, local ingredients, the pies reflect a Vermont-meets-California sensibility. It makes sense: The owners are Californian hospitality veterans who relocated to Vermont at the end of the pandemic. Take, for example, the profoundly satisfying potato pizza, adorned with rosemary, house mozzarella, and toum, a fluffy Lebanese garlic sauce.
Pair your pizza with a salad, especially one with spinach, sourced from nearby Footprint Farm. Its delicate, naturally sweet leaves are a delight. Or consider the wintry watermelon radish and crispy puffed rice, dressed simply with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. For specialty Italian products like these, The Tillerman works with Gustiamo, a Bronx-based purveyor of premium Italian pantry staples. The result — Vermont-grown produce paired with the best Italian ingredients — is something special.
Whether stopping by for dinner after a day on the slopes, planning a weekend getaway, or seeking a charming overnight stay, The Tillerman delivers on every front. The combination of seasonal cuisine, historic accommodations, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a memorable Vermont destination. –Phoebe Fry
→ The Tillerman (Bristol, VT) • 1868 N 116 Rd • Rooms from $270.