Burlington | A Women-Founded & Run Tapas Gem 🍴✨

The day I discovered this restaurant was my first day off after working 3 weeks straight at summer camp. I drove two hours to Burlington feeling like I’d just broken out of jail—that sense of freedom was indescribable! 🚗💨 I had brunch, browsed a record store, got hooked on local Ben & Jerry’s, wandered around all day, and swung on a swing by the Waterfront. I planned to head back to camp after dinner, but the restaurant I wanted was closed. 😔 My good mood suddenly vanished. I sat outside the closed spot, unsure where to go next. A few other groups showed up, equally disappointed, and left. Just as I was about to settle for anywhere, an older woman arrived and found the same locked door. We started chatting—she said she knew a James Beard-nominated place nearby and asked if I wanted to join. Normally I’m introverted, but when I travel, I turn super outgoing—so I said yes! That’s how I ended up at Honey Road. 💫 It’s on Church St. Roadwork made the area look plain during the day, but inside the vibe was amazing! The woman was lovely—chatting with the bartender, asking neighboring guests questions. She and her husband love traveling; they’d split up for the day and planned to meet for dinner. Soon, her husband arrived too. 👵👴❤️ Unexpected encounters like these make traveling so special. Honey Road is a women-founded and run Eastern Mediterranean tapas restaurant. One of the founders, Cara Tobin, was formerly a chef at Boston’s popular Oleana. They also run a sister restaurant called The Grey Jay—have any Vermont locals been? 🧑🍳🌿 🍽️ Dish Highlights: Braised Lamb Sandwich 🥪 Elegantly plated but seriously comforting—spiced mayo on grilled bread with tender braised lamb and pickled cucumbers. So tasty! Salmon Shish 🐟 Absolutely delicious—the salmon was melt-in-your-mouth tender, served over a basil-cucumber mix with a hint of sesame. A must-order! I happened to sit next to one of the chefs who was off-duty and having a meal. He ordered all vegetarian tapas—they looked incredible! Veggie friends, you’re in for a treat! 🥒🌱 Have you had a memorable unexpected encounter while traveling? Or tried a women-led restaurant that left an impression? Share your story below! 👇 #Vermont #TravelBoost #TravelEditorial #ShareYourJourney #HiddenGemEats #BistroDiaries #SoloDining #AestheticDining #FoodToShareWithFriends #LocalEats