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Welcome to Oakes & Evelyn

Oakes & Evelyn is a culinary gem nestled in Montpelier, Vermont, where creativity and freshness converge to create an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on a diverse menu that features large plates like Spicy Duck Confit Bucatini and Pan Roasted Halibut, alongside enticing small plates like Gnocchi and Roasted Bone Marrow. Each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to flavor and presentation, showcasing local ingredients. With glowing reviews from patrons who rave about the unique flavor profiles and impeccable service, Oakes & Evelyn stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking an exceptional gastronomic journey.

Oakes & Evelyn: Reviews & Ratings

Jun W.
Jun W.

We loved this restaurant so much that we went back for dinner after having brunch at the same day. We were happy surprise by every dish we ordered. The ingredients are fresh, and every element of the dish is creatively put together that makes it unique and flavorful. This restaurant is definitely a hidden gem in Vermont.

Lee Espinoza
Lee Espinoza

Being new to VT (and possibly wanting to move here), we were surprised by the flavor profiles at this restaurant. They had to substitute the meat for the bao buns to brisket, but we think it should be a menu item. I personally had a cinnamon toast waffle which I was expecting more taste close to the cereal, however it was light and fluffy so I wouldn't mind having it again. My boyfriend had an Avocado toast which was really packed with flavor and something that even i would recommend.

Rodd Riesenberger
Rodd Riesenberger

Outstanding! Parking was easy and free right in front. Amazingly, we walked right in without a reservation and we’re seated immediately. This place is busy and they accommodated us seamlessly. We tried several dishes, shared them all and each kept getting better. Service was excellent (esp. Vanessa) and the food was well worth the price. Highly recommended!

Jordan Russell
Jordan Russell

Every bite at Oakes & Evelyn gave me a novel but welcoming burst of flavor. I very much enjoyed every plate and beverage. These are serious chefs at work. I don't remember my server's name, but she was always there when needed. The habanero sauce for the oysters was unbelievable because it had all of the flavor of scotch bonnet peppers, but the heat was just enough. I am not in Montpellier often, but I will swing by here at least once more, and then Savoy Theater around the corner for a movie. I wonder what brunch is like on Sundays...

Max Auerbach
Max Auerbach

Wow this place is absolutely amazing! All of the food was fresh and in season, as well as prepared with extreme attention to detail. Chef Justin has an incredible palate, and was really able to execute on all of the flavors. It’s really hard to choose two favorites from everything we had, but I would have to say the crispy octopus and the fontina tortellini. 10/10 we will be coming back here. Cannot stress enough how friendly and welcoming the staff was in addition to the high caliber food. EDIT: It’s now August and my partner and I have been here a few times since our first review. I have to say I’m am thoroughly impressed with Chef Justin Dain’s ability to present seasonal dishes at a highly consistent level each time. The gnocchi is some of the most delicate and flavorful I have ever had. At this point I have been here enough times to say this is is truly the best restaurant in Vermont!

Rebecca Waugh
Rebecca Waugh

What a great way to end our honeymoon!!!! We were looking for a more formal dining experience to wrap up our trip and this stop definitely did not disappoint!! Thank you for the wonderful experience and only weeping a little over the leftovers that we forgot ((get the gnocchi))

Ryan Gardner
Ryan Gardner

Updated review, July 2023: Everything below is still true, but now it's even less in dispute. O&E is the best restaurant in Vermont. The new menu is fantastic, and they have hit their groove. If you are reading this review to decide if you want to eat there - let me save you some time. The answer is definitely "yes". It's an upscale farm-to-table restaurant aimed at an adult audience. And it's my new favorite restaurant in the state of Vermont. Every part of every dish was excellent. It's got a relaxed but refined atmosphere, the food is brought out quickly, but nothing feels rushed. I'd recommend literally anything on the menu, but the buffalo chips are easy to single out as a "must try". The chef is unbelievably talented and is calmly fixated on making everything perfect. Having traveled for work a lot, I've eaten in places all over the country that the locals refer to as "can't miss" - O&E is a notch above them all. If you have a special occasion, a job interviewee you want to impress, or any other excuse - I would recommend O&E above any other restaurant in the state. Or eating there could be a special occasion on its own.

Rebecca Madison
Rebecca Madison

My husband and I absolutely adore this restaurant. We come here for nearly all our special occasions as a couple. I would feel quite confident saying this is the best restaurant in VT where we’ve dined and we are huge travel foodies. You will not be disappointed if you enjoy fine dining.

Location

  • Oakes & Evelyn
    52 State St, Montpelier, VT 05602, United States Hotline: +1 802-347-9100

Welcome to Oakes & Evelyn, an enchanting culinary gem nestled in the heart of Montpelier, Vermont. Located at 52 State St, this vibrant eatery offers an innovative twist on modern dining, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients combined with inventive flavor profiles that tantalize the palate. With a solid commitment to quality and creativity, Oakes & Evelyn has rapidly climbed to the top of local dining recommendations, drawing in both residents and newcomers alike.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, along with a passionate staff dedicated to ensuring a memorable dining experience. The menu features a captivating array of dishes, such as their Mushroom Bao Bun drizzled with sweet & sour glaze, accompanied by kimchi and kewpie mayo for just $10.00.

  • Fried Chicken Bao Bun — A crispy delight with Calabrian chile aioli, pickled daikon, and carrots, topped with cilantro, also priced at $10.00.
  • Harissa & Balsamic Marinated Olives & Tiny Onions — An exquisite appetizer for $9.00.

Oakes & Evelyn isn’t just about amazing food; their drink menu is equally impressive. Signature cocktails like A Walk In The Woods, which features Ruth's Pine Bud Syrup and Barr Hill Gin, offer a unique experience for $16.00. Each drink is crafted with the same attention to detail as their food, aiming to provide a complete sensory experience.

The Raw Bar is another highlight, offering delicacies like Tuna Tartare served with torched sushi rice and crispy shallots for $21.00 and refreshing Hamachi Crudo with passionfruit and yuzu for $19.00. The Cape Cod Oysters, paired with a habanero-cucumber-lime vinaigrette, showcase the kitchen’s creativity and are priced at $18.00. It's clear that every dish reflects the expertise of the culinary team, led by the talented Chef Justin Dain.

Customer reviews echo this sentiment, with praise for both the flavors and the friendly service. Jun W. raves about the fresh ingredients and creative combinations, while Lee Espinoza enjoyed the flavorful upgrades to classic dishes. Rodd Riesenberger described his experience as “outstanding,” while Max Auerbach claimed it to be “the best restaurant in Vermont.” These glowing testimonials highlight Oakes & Evelyn's reputation for excellence.

As I reflect on my dining experience at Oakes & Evelyn, I can confidently say that each bite transports you on a flavor journey. The chefs here are serious about their craft, evident in the delicate balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s the crispy octopus or the exquisite fontina tortellini, each dish offers something memorable that lingers long after the meal is over.

In summary, Oakes & Evelyn is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an extraordinary dining experience in Montpelier. With its creative dishes, refreshing cocktails, and a commitment to quality, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight; your taste buds will thank you!