Misery Loves Co. in Winooski's compact downtown has earned a devoted following as one of the most thoughtful and intimate dining destinations in Greater Burlington. The restaurant operates as a wine-forward small-plates concept, pairing a natural and low-intervention wine list of exceptional depth with a concise kitchen menu built around seasonal Vermont sourcing and precise contemporary technique.
The menu changes frequently and reflects what is available from Vermont farms and regional foragers. Braised pork cheeks, rendered until yielding and served with pickled seasonal vegetables and grains, represent the kitchen's ability to coax deep flavour from local proteins. Beef tartare, hand-cut and seasoned with precision, has appeared in various iterations on the menu and consistently demonstrates the quality of the Vermont sourcing. The Vermont cheese selection — assembled from the state's finest artisanal cheesemakers and served with house-made pickles, honeycomb, and crackers — functions as both starter and conclusion for many tables.
The wine list is a genuine destination in itself, curated around small producers working with minimal intervention across both Old World and New World regions. The Vermont and New England producers receive careful attention alongside European selections. The rotating by-the-glass list changes regularly, and knowledgeable service ensures that guests feel guided rather than lectured.
The dining room is intimate and candlelit, with exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and close-set tables that create an atmosphere ideal for a serious date night or a long, unhurried dinner with wine-minded friends. The capacity is small, and the fill rate is consistently high.
Reservations via Resy are strongly recommended and should be made at least one week in advance for weekend seating. The restaurant is located in Winooski, a short drive or rideshare from downtown Burlington.
Signature dishes
- Braised pork cheeks
- Beef tartare
- Vermont cheese selection with house pickles
Good to know
- Known for
- Intimate wine-forward dining with thoughtful Vermont sourcing; outstanding natural wine list
- Hours
- Tuesday–Saturday 5–10 PM; closed Sunday–Monday
- Reservations
- Strongly recommended; book via Resy or call (802) 497-3989
Location
46 Main St, Winooski, VT 05404
44.4938, -73.1873 View on map
Highlights
- One of Vermont's most serious natural wine programmes, curated around small low-intervention producers
- Braised pork cheeks and beef tartare — small plates showcasing precise technique and Vermont farm sourcing
- Vermont cheese board assembled from the state's finest artisanal producers with house-made accompaniments
- Intimate candlelit dining room in Winooski's downtown, just minutes from Burlington
- Menu changes frequently to reflect peak-season Vermont and regional produce
Tips for visiting
- Reserve via Resy at least a week in advance for weekend tables — this small restaurant fills quickly
- Order multiple small plates to share; the menu is designed for grazing across four to six dishes per couple
- Ask the team about the current by-the-glass natural wine selections — the list rotates and the staff are deeply knowledgeable
- The cheese board is excellent as an opener or to conclude the meal alongside a dessert wine
- Winooski is a five-minute drive from Burlington — rideshare is convenient given the quality of the wine programme
Accessibility
The Main Street entrance and dining room are on a single level. The dining room has limited space between tables due to the intimate layout; guests with mobility requirements should contact the restaurant in advance.
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Frequently asked questions
What does 'small plates' mean at Misery Loves Co.?
The menu consists of shareable dishes sized between a starter and a main. Most tables order four to six plates to share, building a full meal through an informal progression.
Is the restaurant wine-bar focused or a full restaurant?
Both — Misery Loves Co. functions as a wine bar with serious food. The wine list is exceptional and the kitchen menu is equally considered. It works well as either a drinks-with-snacks stop or a full dinner.
How far is Misery Loves Co. from Burlington?
Winooski is approximately a five-minute drive or rideshare from downtown Burlington. The Green Mountain Transit bus also connects the two city centers.
Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes — the menu typically includes several vegetable-forward small plates, and the kitchen can accommodate plant-based diners. Advance notice when booking is appreciated.