Paradiso Hi Fi Lounge — Restaurant in Burlington

What a discovery. This would not be out of place exactly as it is in any large cosmopolitan city - only the service here was likely much friendlier than it might have been in a big city. THis would actually be the envy of many places which try to match stunning atmosphere with absolutely top-notch food with the best retro analogue sound equipment with a flawless wine and cocktail selection, etc. This just blew us away. One dish after another came out as jaw-droppingly beautiful as it was tasty and creatively prepared. Where so many fancy restaurants overdo adding unusual ingredients to make a posh sounding but underwhelming dish, here every ingredient plays a vital role. A DJ spins vinyl on 1960s furniture-sized speakers, loud enough to make it feel like a lounge but quiet enough to comfortably hear each other talk. The ambiance reflects some Japanese minimalism and natural textures as well as semi retro furniture. The lighting is so exquisite it adds to a kind of vortex feel - one has little sense of time passing in such a pleasant cocoon. It manages to feel at once like a hidden gem, a speakeasy of sorts, and a top-tier fine dining...

This restaurant has modern-day-speak-easy vibes. The decor is restrained letting, the music be the focus. There was a person spinning records; hypnotic mix. Seating is comfortable.

The staff were welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and responsive. They know and love the food and drinks, which is helpful.

Now to the food. It is elevated. The Head Chef clearly has mastered his craft, and knows how to make the flavors sing fabulous songs. I had the monk fish, which romanced me. The sauce was perfection, I requested a spoon so I could enjoy all of it. My husband had the venison. It was tender and delicious. He stopped and paused after each bite. We capped it off with a blueberry-dessert. I absolutely loved it. We left delightfully surprised by this cooking.

Drinks were good. I got Purple Rain and my husband had Bear Beer.

The prices are reasonable for the level of cooking. This is now on my top restaurant list, next to Hen of the Woods.

Great date...

First time in Vermont ever, and was blown away by the caliber of this particular establishment. Opted for a bunch of smaller plates to try as much as possible: the grenki, savory carrot pudding, allium tart, the float me to the moon, and the crème brûlée. The first four were flawless. Each had one ingredient I’d previously thought I hated, yet the taste of each was exceptional. The crème was good but couldn’t help feeling that the custard texture was a bit chunky.

There were also numerous drinks on the menu that appealed, but was very pleased with my two choices. The deliciously herbal Proud Mary and the Picture of Nectar (bravo for using the local wolfpeach as a base).

I would be remiss if I didn’t note my fantastic guide for this culinary journey while sitting at the bar, Laura. She knew the in’s and out’s of every ingredient and was the perfect mix of knowledgeable/approachable. She’s got a bright future in this industry....