Where to Eat in the Mad River Valley of Vermont

Kids seem to be welcome just about everywhere in Vermont, especially in the Mad River Valley. With world-class skiing available at Sugarbush and Mad River Glen, kids can work up quite an appetite. In the Mad River Valley, family time begins on the mountain and carries on to some great meals.

Here are the top 5 Family Friendly Dining Spots in the Mad River Valley

1. American Flatbread. Don’t call it pizza (even though it’s pizza). Located on the property of Lareau Farm, in 1985 this is where American Flatbread began.

Momtrends Tip: Go early or mid-week, it’s tough table to get on weekends.We love the classic Medicine Wheel (a classic cheese and red sauce pizza loaded with herbs). The wood-fired oven stays incredibly busy all winter long, kids can enjoy the fire pit outside while they wait. They do not take reservations. They do take names, in person starting at 4pm for dinner that night. In the summer, there’s plenty of space to roam while you wait for your table.

46 Lareau Rd, Waitsfield, VT 05673

http://americanflatbread.com/

2. Mad River Barns: The Mad River Barn serves dinner in the upstairs Pub & Game Room and the downstairs Dining Room. Both locations offer the same menu. The upstairs pub area has air hockey and open seating.

Route 17, 2849 Mill Brook Road, Waitsfield, Vermont 05673

www.madriverbarn.com

3. Pitcher Inn: The Relais & Chateau property might be a little pricey for most families, but tucked downstairs is the more casual Tracks restaurant that’s perfect for an early family dinner. The pub has a huge fireplace warming up the room and the atmosphere is lodge chic. Kids can get upscale mac and cheese or a hearty burger and the parents can get a gorgeous glass of wine and Local Cheese and Charcuterie Plate. After dinner, we played a few rounds of shuffle board game…it’s kind of like curling.

Pitcher Inn 275 Main St, Warren, VT 05674

https://www.pitcherinn.com/

4. Lawson’s: Oh the irony, a tap room that’s incredibly family friendly. This new Vermont experience is as much about the vibe as it is about the brew. Kids love the pretzels and the Full Monty (it’s a plate of local cheese + local charcuterie) and parents love the award-winning beers. Lawsons has stocked the tap room with games for the kiddos as well as the classic corn hole game outside. If it’s sunny, grab a table near a fire pit as you sip. I love the option for a 6 oz pour. We’re all for drinking responsibly.

155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT 05673

https://www.lawsonsfinest.com/

5. Twisted Halo: If you want a great coffee and something sweet, this colorful spot is a must. They have terrific coffee and some sunny seating in the back room–you might even get to meet one of the owner’s dogs. I love the scones and the donuts are popular too. Sit outside and enjoy a Mad River view in the summer. Open from 11-3 daily.

40 Bridge St, Waitsfield, VT 05673

https://twistedhalowaitsfield.square.site/

And a few more ideas..

Mad Taco: The food is tasty (and spicy, but the interior is grim). They smoke the meats right out front and they do have a trusted local scene at the bar. Order this to go! 5101 Main St, Waitsfield, VT 05673 https://www.themadtaco.com/
Mad Bush Falls: Located just off Route 100, it’s a go-to for locally sourced fare, craft beer, and a relaxed, modern atmosphere. Whether you’re fueling up before a big ride or unwinding after a day on the mountain, Mad Bush delivers with seasonal menus, cozy communal seating, and the kind of friendly service that makes you want to linger. The wings are a real crowd-pleaser. I love the roast chicken plate with fresh veggies. Open 7 days a week. 7575 Main St
Waitsfield VT 05673. https://www.madbushfalls.com/eat
Deco/Hostel Tevere: This is a new player on the scene. In the summer they have a nice outdoor deck, but we love this place in the winter. The menu is casual and limited, but what they do, they do well. Start with a plate of wings (you pick from three styles), then go for a burger or my favorite, the lamb gyros. The bartender makes excellent drinks (and mocktails), but the vibe is 100% family-friendly. 203 Powderhound Rd, Warren, VT 05674. https://hosteltevere.com/
Warren Store: The Warren Store is part deli, part bakery, part curated general store—and all charm. Tucked in the heart of Warren Village, it’s the perfect stop for a hearty sandwich, fresh-baked goods, or a locally brewed coffee on the porch overlooking the river. Upstairs, you’ll find a selection of Vermont-made gifts, pantry staples, and unique finds. In the nice weather there are outdoor tables, during winter, there are two shared wooden tables up front. .284 Main St, Warren, VT 05674 https://www.warrenstore.com/

Breakfast picks in the Mad River Valley

Try Toast & Eggs (4752 Main St, Waitsfield, VT 05673) has yummy breakfast sandwiches. My pick is the daybreaker burrito to fuel up for a big ski day.

Three Mountain Cafe ( 107 Mad River Green, Waitsfield, VT 05673_ has awesome scones and the girls also love the BLT’s there. Get the menu and more information here.

The nearby Trapp Bierhall at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe has awesome schnitzel and is quite family friendly.