Kipling's Tavern — Restaurant in Brattleboro

I set up camp in nearby Ft. Dummer State Park after hiking Mt. Abraham earlier that day and a week of hikes across VT and NH. Metabolism was screaming for a big satisfying meal and maybe that 1 beer. Kipling's has great ratings, and I saw a picture of this ridiculous looking caprese salad board with giant ripe heirloom tomato slices. That's pretty much all it took to get me in the door, but once there, I really didn't want to leave.

By great fortune, that caprese salad was a special that weekend since tomatoes were in season mid August. Dining solo, was it really too much for one person? Yes. Did I care? No. I ate it allllllllllll. And another special of the day was a noodle dish full of grilled shrimp, veggies and the spicy savory flavoring of the classic Tom Yum asian soup. Knock your socks off good. I was too full from the caprese, but kept trying to shovel the last of the noodles in my face too since I was camping and didn't have a cooler with me.

I sat at the bar for my meal. Turns out the helpful bartender was one of the owners and also conceptualized the special dishes. Sorry I forget his name. Other friendly members of the crew jumped in now and then. The music was a mix of classic, offbeat 80s and other rock. When was the last time you hear The Smiths' What Difference Does It Make in an Irish American style pub? First time for everything I guess? The long haired, bearded 30-something carpenter sitting next to me (pretty sure he was NOT Jesus) struck up a cool conversation about the area, sustainability and zen philosophy. The vibe was... frankly for a guy like me... like coming to your home bar in a town you've never even visited before.

If I have one complaint, it's this. I went out for more hikes the next day, Sunday, and was literally fantasizing all day of a return visit to Kipling's for the other special dish that weekend. Sadly, they are closed on Sundays. But I can't be selfish. People need rest, and if it means they're this good every other day their open, it's worth it. Not...

I can’t put into words how much I love this place, but I will try. Smile emoji. Recommended by a friend for our first visit to the area. We ate there each night for our remaining 3 days. Excellent food. Remarkable service. Came back to the area with my family several weeks later. While placing an order for takeout, Zach asked if I would like a drink. I said, “Yes.” Zach replies and says, “I know what you want…” He remembered my drink from 3 weeks prior!! I was blown away. Our family proceeded to eat there every single night for the remainder of our stay. Exceptional food. The seared tuna was obscene. The vibes were terrific. Warm and welcoming this town should be incredibly proud of Zach, Jaycee, Maggie and Lucas. Busy nights and I’m standing in front of the service bar and they make me feel like their favorite regular should tell you everything you need to know abt this place. I live in Del Mar, CA and I can’t wait to be inside Kiplings once again. A...

Came in as a solo woman traveler & was welcomed by a kind gentleman and woman behind the bar. I was starving, craving protien and ordered a cheeseburger (6 oz.) w/bacon, lettuce & mayo. Opted for the side of homemade fries (served with vinegar) instead of the chips that came with it. My meal arrived about 10 minutes after ordering. Also on the plate came a few pickle chips (which I forgot to eat) and a light homemade slaw. This was THE BEST burger I've had in awhile especially when the server (owner?) asked if I needed hot sauce & presented me with bottles of Chalula sauce and Shirracha. Just a few drops of that Chalula blended nicely with the mayo cheese bacon & lettuce. The menu here offers some great pub favorites, which I'm sure are all quite tasty! And don't want to leave out the great crafted beer they have on tap! Highly suggested! I gave it 4 stars because it's mid-December & the bathroom...