Introduction
That familiar rumble in your stomach signals the need for sustenance, but the energy for cooking just isn’t there. Sound familiar? Perhaps a busy workday is winding down, or maybe the allure of a cozy night in outweighs any desire to spend hours in the kitchen. Whatever the reason, the call for convenient and delicious food echoes through the city. When the craving for a great meal strikes, and time is of the essence, takeout becomes the ultimate solution. Luckily, for those of us in Burlington, Vermont, a culinary haven awaits, just a phone call or click away.
Burlington, Vermont, a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, isn’t just about breathtaking views and a lively arts scene; it boasts a remarkably diverse and delicious food scene. From comforting classics to exotic international flavors, Burlington offers a takeout experience for every palate. The city’s restaurants, cafes, and eateries have masterfully adapted to the demands of modern life, providing exceptional food that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home, at a scenic park, or wherever your adventures take you. This article is your insider’s guide to navigating the best takeout in Burlington, VT, providing recommendations for a range of cuisines, budgets, and culinary desires. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor exploring the Queen City, get ready to discover your new favorite takeout treasures. So, let’s embark on a flavorful journey and unlock the best Burlington, VT take out food the city has to offer!
Pizza, A Burlington Staple on the Go
Pizza. The word itself conjures up images of gooey cheese, perfectly crisp crust, and endless topping possibilities. It’s a universally loved food, and in Burlington, it reigns supreme as a takeout favorite. Burlington is known for its many pizza joints so when looking for take out food Burlington, VT this should be high on your list. Whether you crave a classic margherita, a loaded meat lover’s delight, or a creative pie with unique toppings, Burlington’s pizzerias deliver (literally and figuratively!). What makes pizza so perfect for takeout? It’s easily transportable, reheats well (if there are any leftovers!), and satisfies cravings for comfort food with ease. Here are a couple of top-notch Burlington pizza places that excel in the takeout game:
American Flatbread Burlington Hearth
Located right on St. Paul Street in the heart of downtown, American Flatbread is a Burlington institution. They are known for their wood-fired pizzas featuring locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to sustainability. What makes them ideal for takeout? Their efficient ordering system, well-packaged pizzas that stay hot during transport, and central location make them a convenient choice for anyone exploring downtown or heading home after work. The “Revolution” pizza, with its sun-dried tomatoes, red onions, and Vermont goat cheese, is a popular takeout order that’s both flavorful and satisfying. “I always order from American Flatbread when I want a guaranteed good pizza night at home,” shares Sarah, a Burlington resident. Prices are moderate, making it a great option for a casual family meal or a solo treat.
Pizzeria Verità
Nestled on Church Street, this pizzeria offers an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience. Their pizzas are crafted with imported Italian flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella, then baked in a wood-fired oven to perfection. What sets Pizzeria Verità apart for takeout is their dedication to quality, even when the pizzas are enjoyed at home. The “Margherita” pizza, simple yet sublime, is a takeout staple, showcasing the quality of their ingredients. They also have excellent online ordering and quick pick up service. Verità is the place to go when looking for upscale take out food Burlington, VT. The atmosphere of Church Street also adds to this establishment’s appeal.
Global Flavors, Local Takeout
Burlington isn’t just about pizza; it’s a melting pot of culinary influences, reflected in its diverse range of restaurants offering exciting takeout options. From spicy Thai curries to aromatic Indian dishes and savory Mediterranean delights, Burlington’s global eateries bring the world to your table. The best part? Many of these restaurants have perfected the art of takeout, ensuring that their vibrant flavors and textures are preserved even when enjoyed outside the restaurant. The diversity of Burlington makes the take out food Burlington, VT options incredibly appealing to many different customers. Let’s explore some of the global takeout gems Burlington has to offer:
Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant
For a taste of Southeast Asia, Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant on Church Street is a must-try. This restaurant is known for its authentic Indian and Nepali dishes, bursting with spices and aromas. Their takeout menu is extensive, featuring classic curries like chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, and dal makhani, as well as flavorful Nepali specialties like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup). Laliguras excels in takeout because their dishes are hearty, travel well, and offer a satisfying and comforting meal. Be sure to order some naan bread to soak up all the delicious sauces! “Laliguras is my go-to for takeout when I’m craving something flavorful and warming,” says Mark, a local food enthusiast.
Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup
If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean flavors, Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup on Main Street is an excellent choice. This beloved Burlington deli and cafe offers a wide array of Mediterranean-inspired salads, sandwiches, and soups, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their falafel sandwich, hummus platter, and Greek salad are particularly popular for takeout, providing a light, healthy, and flavorful meal on the go. Zabby & Elf’s is perfect for takeout because their food is fresh, customizable, and conveniently packaged. The cafe is always bustling with people, but the takeout service is efficient and friendly. Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
Quick and Casual Bites
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy bite to eat, something that can be grabbed on the run or enjoyed without any fuss. Luckily, Burlington has plenty of options for quick and casual takeout, from classic sandwiches and salads to delicious cafes and bakeries. These establishments are perfect for lunch breaks, after-school snacks, or those days when you simply don’t have the time or energy to cook.
The Daily Planet
When looking for quick take out food Burlington, VT consider The Daily Planet. Known for its eclectic menu and funky atmosphere, The Daily Planet on Center Street also does takeout well. While they have a robust menu for dine-in, they are quick to accommodate takeout orders, especially from their sandwich and salad options. Their burgers are also a popular choice for a quick bite.
Maglianero Cafe
Maglianero Cafe is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying takeout breakfast or lunch. Their location on Pine Street means they are ideally situated for take out food Burlington, VT if you want to explore that area. This cafe offers a selection of gourmet sandwiches, flavorful salads, and delicious pastries, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their breakfast sandwiches are a particular favorite for takeout, providing a quick and energizing start to the day. Maglianero Cafe is perfect for takeout because their food is fresh, convenient, and beautifully presented. The cafe is always buzzing with people, but the takeout service is efficient and friendly.
Fine Dining, Takeout Style
In recent years, even fine dining establishments have embraced the takeout trend, offering elevated experiences that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. This is especially true now after the pandemic forced many restaurants to adapt. Burlington’s fine dining restaurants have stepped up to the challenge, creating curated takeout menus, using special packaging, and providing detailed reheating instructions to ensure that their exquisite cuisine is enjoyed at its best, even outside the restaurant.
Hen of the Wood
Hen of the Wood on Cherry Street is one such establishment. Known for its elegant ambiance, creative cuisine, and commitment to local ingredients, Hen of the Wood offers a limited takeout menu featuring some of its most popular dishes. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients available. The restaurant provides detailed reheating instructions to ensure that the food is enjoyed at its best at home. While this may be more expensive take out food Burlington, VT, the quality and preparation ensure a fine dining experience.
Tips for Ordering Takeout in Burlington
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable takeout experience in Burlington, here are a few helpful tips:
Order in advance: Especially during peak hours (lunchtime, dinner time, weekends), it’s always a good idea to order your takeout ahead of time, either online or by phone. This will help you avoid long wait times and ensure that your food is ready when you arrive.
Check for delivery options: While many Burlington restaurants offer takeout, some also provide delivery services. Explore options like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or direct delivery from the restaurant to see if your desired establishment offers this convenient service.
Check websites and social media: Restaurant menus and hours can change frequently, so it’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information. You might also find special offers or promotions that are only available online.
Support local businesses: Burlington is a city of small, independent businesses, so make an effort to support these local gems when ordering takeout. Not only will you be enjoying delicious food, but you’ll also be contributing to the vibrant local economy.
Be mindful of packaging: When ordering takeout, be mindful of the packaging and dispose of it responsibly. Recycle whenever possible and consider composting food scraps to minimize waste.
Conclusion
Burlington, Vermont, is a city that celebrates food, and its diverse and delicious takeout scene is a testament to that. From classic pizzas to exotic global flavors and quick casual bites, Burlington’s restaurants offer a takeout experience for every craving and occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional, a family on the go, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and convenient meal, Burlington’s takeout options are sure to satisfy. The appeal for take out food Burlington, VT is that it’s delicious and accessible.
So, next time you’re looking for a great meal without the hassle of cooking, explore the takeout treasures Burlington has to offer. Support local businesses, discover new flavors, and enjoy the convenience of dining at home without sacrificing taste or quality. Burlington’s culinary scene is waiting to be explored, one takeout order at a time. Embrace the flavors, savor the convenience, and enjoy the best of Burlington’s takeout scene, right in the comfort of your own home!
