Blue Paddle Bistro had some hits and misses, but overall, we had a decent experience. Visiting from out of town, we needed a dinner spot and made a same-day reservation, which they kindly accommodated. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic vibe -- think cabin-in-the-mountains charm. The menu was a bit limited, especially with appetizers, but we went with the mussels from Prince Edward Island, and they were incredible. Seriously, some of the best I've had. That said, the portion of bread they served alongside was laughably small, especially for a dish made to share. For our mains, we ordered two different burgers, both medium rare, and unfortunately, they were both overcooked. It was disappointing because the burgers themselves were huge and packed with flavor. The fries, though, were excellent and saved the meal a bit. On the drinks side, the martini I had was fantastic. Overall, I'd rate this a 3.5 but am rounding up to 4 since it was our first visit, and I can see the potential. read more

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This is one of those places where the cliche "I really wanted to like it" fits. But it didn't live up, confirmed after a second visit. I tried the Veggie Spring Rolls appetizer, with spicy aioli. The veggies were crisp as were the wrappers. There was a flavor that I couldn't place, not disagreeable but strange - or should I say intriguing? Unfortunately it was overpowered by an excess of ginger and way too much salt. The aioli was very disappointing: bland, thin, and blended smooth. It reminded me of thousand island dressing right out of a bottle. Their drinks menu had some interesting cocktails, a very small selection of wines, not just one hard cider but two, and a rotating selection of beers on tap. If you want a bottle you have choices - Bud or Bud Lite! I tried the pineapple daiquiri. It was way too sweet with not great pineapple flavor. I would hope they were using fresh juice but it sure didn't taste like it. For my entree I got the Gorgonzola Encrusted Filet Mignon, with mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, sauteed garlic, grape tomatoes, and balsamic drizzle. I remember really liking this last visit. But it was nowhere as good this time and looked nothing like the beautiful photo on their website. The gorgonzola, which was ample and crispy last time, was scarce and not "encrusted": soft and not even completely melted. Just a slab placed on top of the steak. And first time there was enough that it melted onto the potatoes underneath for more flavor. Not this time. So much for their motto "delicious, unpretentious (and consistent) food." Beware specifying doneness here. Both times, I (and the wife last visit) ordered it medium-rare. All three were somewhat under that level, slightly more than rare but not by much. She sent hers back last time and they corrected it. I probably should have too but didn't as I'm a little more tolerant of underdone steak. But the biggest problem so far in the meal? The entree arrived not more than 5 minutes after my appetizer, which I had only just begun to eat. That's a serious no-no in any restaurant, let alone one that tries to identify as "fine dining". I was having a relaxing meal, nibbling my appetizer, sipping my drink, contemplating life, and out of the blue this plate of steak is plopped onto my table! I expressed my surprise and displeasure to my waitress, whose specific response I don't recall but didn't make any sense, but she did immediately box up the spring rolls for me as I asked. Dessert was a Raspberry Lemon Drop: layered lemon cake with raspberry puree and lemon custard. It was served very cold which I liked. But surprisingly lacking in much lemon flavor, and especially the brighter notes like grated lemon zest of which there was none. The division of the dining area into many small rooms is likely a reflection of its conversion from a house in a prior life. This could make it a problem to find your waiter if you need them, but it didn't impact me personally this visit or last. The biggest problem is noise, especially if a large party is nearby as happened on the first visit. The "Wal-Mart special" air conditioner in the window, complete with dangling power strip to a distant outlet contributed to the noise on the second visit and certainly made the place feel less classy. My waitress in general was polite and adequate but we never did "click" as far as the waiter/diner relationship is concerned. And never once was I asked how things were going, how I liked the food, etc. I did write my comments in the suggestion box on leaving, with my name and contact info, but 2 months later and I haven't heard back. They have a great website with lots of photos by category. Including photos and names of all the staff, bios of the chefs, local info, and lots of dogs. I think they quality as "dog-obsessed" here, even closing their voicemail message with a "Woof!" Good place to bring your dog though, on the outside patio. Worth another visit? Maybe, given the limited choices in the area? But I had hoped for better. read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

My friend took me to dinner here for an early birthday dinnerand I also had a gift card, which helped offset the cost of the meal. The bistro is really cute. Our server was very friendly and welcoming. My friend raved about the filet mignon, so I ordered a pinot noir and the Center-Cut Filet Mignon which was described as "gorgonzola-crusted filet, mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, sautéed garlic & basil grape tomatoes, balsamic drizzle." She was right; it was delicious. She ordered a Pino Grigio and the shrimp scampi and pasta special. She said It was also very good. We were stuffed, so we opted out. I took pictures, but they came out blurry. :( rest assured, the meal was well worth it. I would come back here in a heartbeat. read more

Fantastic food Great atmosphere, Friendly kind service. We would gladly return when we are in the area again.

Will give this 3.5 stars. Came her for dinner with the family. Enjoyed my salmon and salad but my bf did not enjoy his steak as they came in medium rare still instead of medium. My boyfriend's brother and his wife also did not enjoy their surf and turf unfortunately. Will give this place another try! Trust! read more

food was delicious! wait staff were lovely. Mandy was kind and attentive. the chef was not pleased with being asked to make lobster pasta dish vegetarian (by just leaving lobster out) and insisted on charging me full price -$38 for asparagus substitution. the frustration really impacted our experience. thank you Mandy for apologizing with a gift certificate. read more

Super delicious would go again! My kids loved it and my picky husband had a great time so I consider it a win!!!

Just meh... nothing to write home about! Picnic tables are nice. Food is okay, service is okay

Incredible meal at the Blue Paddle, outside on the porch with my pup right after a huge rain storm. Mandy couldn't have been more accommodating or personable, and Chef Phoebe's food was divine - highly highly recommend the salmon with risotto. Will absolutely be back on my next trip to VT! read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - Porch dining - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

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I want to begin by expressing my gratitude for going to the Blue Paddle Bistro a week ago. My friends and I had a terrific time, the food was delicious, and our waitress Nadia was very attentive and highly skilled. I would like to share my thoughts about the restaurant hostess who was clearly intoxicated and continued to drink during her shift. This, in my opinion, is incredibly unethical action that harms the restaurant's reputation. read more

I can't recommend the Blue Paddle enough. While the food, staff, and ambience have been consistently awesome since we began visiting the Paddle many years ago, Mandy and Phoebe went above and beyond for the bridal shower we hosted there this past weekend. Some of our guests have strict dietary restrictions, and Phoebe was so accommodating, offering to modify current menu options and make other dishes. As always, the food was absolutely delicious! Mandy was so kind, attentive, and genuine and went out of her way to make the party a success. Thank you, Paddle crew! PS - Make sure to get the risotto! read more

I'll start with the friendly, soft spoken and delightful server Nataly who made both of our visits pleasurable. Owner, Mandy, made sure our seating was perfect and the chef prepared lamb pops and shrimp to a grilled perfection with a balsamic drizzle. On our second visit my meal began with a lemon-garlic buttery display of mussels and then a soy glazed salmon with Asiago and cranberry risotto, paired with a light citrus sauvignon blanc. I would highly recommend adding this exquisite restaurant to your visit to S. Hero VT. read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - Lamb & Shrimp delicacy. - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

Went here for dinner with my parents as part of our Vermont Vacation on august 26th 2023. We looked at local places near south hero as we were staying in Apple Island Resort which is nearby. What caught my eye was the butternut squash ravoli. We got there as it was a short drive, was immediately greeted at the host stand. The restaurant is basically a little quaint house, with an upstairs and a downstairs. we sat upstairs. Loved the fish and turtle decorations in the room where we sat. The host had a late party that reserved a table, and since they were late, we took their spot. I appreciated that we didn't have to wait, and was served right away. They even said that they don't like to turn customers away, which is a great thing in the food business! Our server was very nice and started all 3 of us with waters. I knew what i wanted, but sadly was disappointed that they were all out of the butternut squash ravoli. They also had 2 other things on their online menu that wasn't on the menu in the restaurant. Maybe just some feedback is if you don't have that menu item anymore, maybe they should update their online menu. Anyways, after a while i decided what i wanted, and ordered the shrimp scampi. My dad and mom got some chicken dish. Food was actually very good, and we all enjoyed it. It is a bit of a small portion place, so we also got dessert. We got the molton Chocolate cake with vanila ice cream, and the apple crisp with vanila ice cream. i didn't taste the apple crisp, but the molton cake was very good! Our server also checked on us alot, and made sure we were happy, and provided drink refills as well. Paid with a credit card, duly note that they don't take discover credit cards, but we were able to pay with another. Left a cash tip, and left with our bellies content. Not sure if we would be back to Vermont again, but this place is a must stop! read more

We loved this gem of a restaurant. Fantastic food and the service was exceptional. We had a large group of about 8 people, and we sat outside on a lovely summer evening this past week. This restaurant is a real treat. read more

Lucky us to be seated outside on a beautiful night with the sounds of Cooie Trio play great music. Definitely a local favorite as a lot of waves and hugs with diners and staff. We're sure the food is what keeps people coming back as we devoured our shrimp scampi and Salmon entrees and promptly ordered a chocolate molten cake with ice cream - delicious choice to cap a great meal. Staff is great and it's especially dog friendly outside so bring your pet and have a great night! read more

Always a pleasure to eat here! The owner and chef are friendly and welcoming, and go above and beyond to ensure everyone there is happy. As soon as the food came, conversation at the table stopped as we were too focused on eating. Everything was cooked perfectly; the salads were fresh and the pasta dishes were great. The Miso Salmon with risotto was the biggest hit at the table, with amazing flavor and a tasty crust on the salmon. We'll be back soon. read more

What a treat!!! Today we were able to score a Brunch res at the Blue Paddle Bistro to celebrate a birthday. The table service, the location, the food...all 10/10!!! The Bistro is as special as the island that is South Hero. You will truly feel like you are visiting someone in their home for a meal!!! read more

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We looked forward to bringing our 20 something granddaughter to dinner here but were very disappointed in the quality of the food and cost. I know all food prices have gone up and restaurants have to pass the cost along but this was a little much. We spent $140 for 3 of us. 2 glasses of wine for ($9 and $10)each and only about 3 ounces in each glass. The chicken saute ($25) portion was small and the sauce very thin. The duck spring rolls were overcooked and dry. The other parts of our meal were similar - small and overpriced. We live locally and try to go to the paddle a couple of times a year but it will be a while before we return. The ambiance was nice. read more

Service was very good. One suggestion another server brought my Manhattan drink to a different table sat there for five minutes then they asked them if they tried it. Then brought it back to the bar and then back over to me. They should have re made it. Would give 4.5 overall but rating won't let you. All food was good or excellent. Ambiance is different than the norm and cozy. Bathroom was extremely clean read more

Our first time here and not our last. Mandy was incredibly welcoming and our server, Catherine, was cheerful and attentive. We sat upstairs, which I think I prefer, though it doesn't really matter. The food (soy salmon, root beer bbq chicken) was perfectly prepared and showed up promptly and piping hot. As my husband (who is a chef) said, "there's not one thing to say that isn't positive.". I'd also add that the aroma of the neighbor's lilac wafting up through the open window was an added delight. A 5-star rating because the experience was great from start to finish. read more

After a ride on the Ferry, this should be your first stop! On Saturdays dinner starts at 4:45 PM. We happened to get there at 4:35 PM so they asked us to come back- even Chef Phoebe ran outside the restaurant just to make sure we would come back! The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. The food is SUPERB! Chef Phoebe curated a variety of delicious entrées- You MUST try the Irish Nachos- To die for!!! We also enjoyed the Caesar Salad, Clam Chowder and Grilled Chicken Sandwich all PHENOMENAL! They offer different wines, beers and ciders. There is something for everyone meat, plant and fish eaters, all are welcome here. The decor is absolutely amazing- Mandy the owner decorated everything- surrounding her adorable pups! She has a beautiful wood carving of them- furry friends are family. Lovers of puppies must come visit. We absolutely loved eating here and meeting Chef Phoebe and Mandy- what a beautiful place to be! We will be visiting from Plattsburgh again as we just moved to the area! read more

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Always great service and island ambiance. Highly recommend the filet mignon and the soy glazed salmon with Asiago risotto and house veggie. All around a charming restaurant that never fails to impress. read more

Want a wonderful drive over Lake Champlain and a delicious dinner, near Burlington? This is the place to visit. This small restaurant on Grand Isle has mouth watering food. The service is friendly, with a variety of dishes for the most discriminating diner. We had 4 different dishes ranging from Butternut ravioli to duck. The lightly dressed salads let the seasonal farm fresh ingredients shine. I added grilled shrimp to my salad and it was perfect. Call ahead to make a reservation, this hidden gem fills up fast. read more

We went to Blue Paddle on the Bay for a late afternoon lunch - the best damn burger I have ever had. The weather was perfect, service was good, everyone was friendly, and we were able to sit and relax and just enjoy the late summer afternoon Due to coronavirus, I do not dine indoors, so this had been a great innovation by the owners. read more

A charming place in an old Vermont farmhouse. Easy to find in South Hero, Vermont right on Rt. 2. Great food and atmosphere. Loved it.

The veggie spring roll was delicious! The Mushroom soup was delicious but not hot. The house risotto was tasty but cold. My husband had the Scallops with lobster risotto, also cold. Not all menu options were available. The last time I was here my burger was overcooked. Probably not going back. read more

What started as a yummy sounding menu coming home from Canada has turned into our favorite restaurant. Many of our family memories with trips to visit me as a student at UVM included a dinner at the Blue Paddle including my graduation dinner. Even though we were from out of state we would make a trip to the Paddle twice during the pandemic, and now that I relocated permanently back to the Burlington area, one of my favorite things is that my house is a short drive to the paddle for brunch, dinner or even takeout. The Blue Paddle is a delicious meal where you feel as though you're family instead of just another table in a restaurant. The food is always delicious and my dad (who is a chef) ALWAYS enjoys his meal. If you are local and looking for another small business to support or a visitor looking for the hidden gems of Burlington and surrounding areas, I cannot recommend this place more. I tell my friend and family, even if they've been to Vermont before a visit that includes a stop with me includes a stop at the Paddle, because the Paddle represents every good about Vermont, caring people, local ingredients and delicious food. read more

Disgusting. Ordered Thanksgiving dinner a week in advance and they gave our food away. Was supposed to be delivered and instead of showing up in person to deliver or apologize they called AT the delivery time to say they didn't have any more food. When we complained they brought us whatever crap was left in their fridge. We ended up getting soggy French fries and gray meat that was not identifiable. Disgusting. Complained on Facebook and they ignored me but thank all the people that gave them pity. This place does not have any idea how to manage a business. You should know how to manage your food orders and give priority to those that order first. Please do yourself a favor and skip this overpriced mess. read more

The food was phenomenal. Very cozy and fun environment. We were a group of ten and they accommodated us on short notice. Everyone in our party thoroughly loved their meal. We are looking forward to our next visit back to South Hero and going back to the Blue Paddle Bistro. read more

Enjoyed this place, was looking for good food,but did not want to hang out. Workers out fine. read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

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Excellent food in a quaint setting. Staff was super nice. Made our first night of vacation in Vermont off to an awesome start.

We were there shortly after 5pm on the last Saturday of July. After being warmly greeted by who we think was the owner, we sat down at a table in one of the many rooms of this business. Our table was near the kitchen and bathroom :(. The food we ordered was very good cept for the bone in the boneless salmon. The burgers were excellent and so was the pork tenderloin :). I thought the pork tenderloin portion was light however. Excellent waiter and friendly staff. The room we were in was very loud. It could use some sound absorption. We were a foursome. All agreed to a four star rating. We would all go again. I'm Joe T read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

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I ate here tonight and the service and quality of food were lacking. We were provided with a drink menu and a plate menu, both of which were outdated with many items that were not actually available (and we were not informed of this). We ordered caesar salad, one entree from the specials menu which featured duck, and one regular menu entree of crab stuffed ravioli. We had a reservation, the hostess informed us that the table was prepared and to "head back there", however, there was no table prepared for us so we waited around until redirected by servers who were unsure of where to place us. We asked for a recommendation for wine from the chef and the chef sent the server to "find a Pinot". The duck was overcooked and the risotto it topped was ill-prepared. The crab cake that topped the ravioli had exoskeleton in almost every bite and the ravioli had very little flavor. We were seated at the bar with high traffic in and out. The servers placed empty cups and cans on the bar on each side of us next to our plates throughout the meal. It was apparent that the servers were trained minimally. They did not use proper hygiene when working in the bar, we watched as servers guessed at how to make mixed drinks, and I observered them saving poured wine and mixed drinks in glasses for later tables that had been poured out of error. I have worked in the food service industry in a variety of settings from casual dining to five star and I am incredibly disappointed with the experience here. read more

Came here for my birthday dinner, and they couldn't have been more personable or sweeter for my birthday. Food: Delicious. I was dying to try their duck breast but they ran out. I went for their butternut squash ravioli instead while my husband tried their blue cheese crusted filet. First, the butternut squash...what an amazingly complex set of flavors. I don't even know why I eat meat sometimes when veggies taste this good. The dish was well balanced between sweet and savory. Some creaminess from the ravioli was balanced with the crunchiness of the maple crusted walnuts. Amazing. The filet was cooked to perfection and the blue cheese added a new depth of flavor. They also were so sweet to bring out some apple crisp and sing me happy birthday. And that apple crisp was so fresh and flavorful. Decor: The blue paddle is a house that is converted into the restaurant. The bar is towards what would be the dining rooms. We ate in one of the bedrooms upstairs. The house feel actually added to a cozy atmosphere. There were photos in the hallway as there would be in a house but all about the restaurant. You felt like you were eating some delicious home cooking. Service: From the moment we walked in, we felt like we were old friends of the owner and servers. They made us feel like we were the only ones int he room and took extra care to make sure I had a good birthday dinner. Price: Slightly pricier than the other restaurants we went to in Vermont, but your paying for finer dining. For the value, it was well priced. Other: Just the friendliest service around. Make sure you make a reservation, this place gets PACKED. read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - Gorganzola crusted filet - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

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I was tooling around Lake Champlain and the Champlain Islands when I realized that I was getting hungry. Checked Yelp and found this wonderfule bistro. The reviews were so good, I had to try it. I got there at 5:00' when they open and people were already pulling up and standing in line. Although I did not have a reservation, they fit me in at the bar since I was by myself. The restaurant quickly filled up. After looking over the menu, I chose the glazed salmon on cranberry risotto. And yes, it was one of the best meals I've ever eaten. Served on a bed of wilted spinach and asparagus spears, the portion size was a perfect size and the risotto was creamy goodness. Definitely stop by here if you ever get the chance. I'd love to try their other dishes! read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - The charm of the Blue Paddle Bistro is both inside and out! - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

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We had a 5p reservation, which is when they open. Arriving at 4:45p, we were the 2nd car in the lot. While we had a reservation, outdoor seating is first come first serve. They have 4 bar seats facing Route 2 on their porch. In the back, they have 2 picnic tables on their back deck. However, if you have a dog, then your seating is further back, past the tall hedges... Almost like going to a secret oasis. There are 3 picnic tables to choose from, as well as some Adirondack chairs to relax in. There is even a dog pool for dogs to cool down. Much better ambiance than their back deck. Shane took care of us. He was pleasant and friendly. Now the food... Our friends had the spicy duck spring rolls. They seem quite happy with them! We had a Caprese Salad, Butternut Squash-Stuffed Ravioli, and Gorgonzola Crusted Filet Mignon. The ravioli was good, but not very filling. The filet was placed on top of the mashed potatoes, which were flavorful, but just slightly too dark for this dish, since there isn't much of a sauce. The caramelized onions with the Gorgonzola cheese was a nice balance of flavors with the filet. We're not in the area often, I would definitely come here again. Very quaint restaurant. Wish I took a picture of the grassy outdoor dining area, it was really a nice environment for dining. read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - Gorgonzola-Crusted Filet Mignon - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

Went here for a birthday dinner after walking along the water in South Hero. The restaurant is a converted house with a large porch and chairs to sit outside. We ate upstairs in a 'bedroom' with some others celebrating as well. They give free bread (so rare these days) which was a pleasant surprise! For dinner I had the coffee crusted pork loin with goat cheese mashed potatoes (yum!) and asparagus. The serving size was substantial and I cleaned my plate (something I never do). Even my dining partner drank the liquid from his lobster sauté like soup to get every little bit. The wine glasses are comically large, we had a good laugh! read more

Blue Paddle Bistro - Coffee Crusted Pork Loin with Goat Cheese Mashed and Asparagus - New American Near Me - South Hero, Vermont

Visited blue paddle while visiting Vermont for the week. Excellent restaurant. We ordered the Brussels sprouts which were excellent! I had the salmon dish which was also excellent. The peach and blueberry dessert was also on point. Great wine selection and service was top notch. Will certainly visit again! read more

Disappointed. My first disappointing time there. The bartender made a martini which was a small pour @ $12 . She first messed up the first order. Returned with a smaller 1/2 pour . no apologies. We ordered the night special a $38 Paella , we got 3 claims, 3 shrimp , 2 piece of chicken and a very small portion of rice. We were two adults sharing the Paella special with two good individual Caesar salads. We did order desserts which were good , a pistachio filling cake and an ice cream they had no GF options but Vanilla Ice cream . All and all it seemed over priced for what we ordered and the quality of what we got. read more

Amazing food and service was excellent! We came in just 15 minutes before they closed, but they still allowed us to seat down at their heated patio and order. Christa, was our server and she was super sweet. We enjoyed the conversation. The outside seating has been adapted due to Covid and tables were safely distanced. The crab cake appetizer was exquisite! Burger and lobster linguini was perfect. Thank you-- we will be back!! read more