Mistral's at Toll Gate — Restaurant in Winhall

It's shocking that many restaurants in Manchester VT are closed on Sunday and Monday. I was scrambling to find a fine dining spot to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. After a couple of unsuccessful calls, Mistral's was able to accommodate us. Arriving on scene, we were greeted by an area appropriate chalet building. This esthetic is carried on inside. We were greeted and lead to our table adjacent to the kitchen doors. Less than 1/2 the dining room was filled but decided to roll with the punches. The bar was efficient and landed our cocktails quickly. Mistral's menu is heavy with french technique. We selected the pate as the 1st course. My wife and I have had more than our share of pates; we even might be 40% pate at this time. We were both impressed with this dish. Silky, unctuous, rich. Totally on point. We both ordered the sirloin steak. This is where the dinner came off the rails. The plate arrived cold. The julienned carrots especially came out cooked but cold. The steak while cooked to our requested doneness was basically room temperature. Half of my wife's steak was inedible due to a large bit of grizzle running through the cut. The 2 spears of asparagus seemed to be an after thought as was the 2 wedges of potatoe. The desert was cream brulee and carrot cake. The brulee was the clear winner. Carrot cake has lost its way; more spiced fruit cake than a carrot forward cake. Service for the most part was acceptable. The fine dining experience at Mistral's was disappointing. The food quality was uneven considering the price point. Wouldn't be my first choice...

Such a unique experience. Thank you so much. We only tried the French Onion soup and a glass of wine. The soup, is now the best fo I've ever had. So delicious. I wanted to order the rack of lamb but unfortunately, my wife only eats grilled chicken (not thigh), so there wasn't anything for a full meal for her. (For me.. everything on the menu looked great). She was going to order the salad but I offered to go elsewhere and she took me up on that; which was fine. So I immediately cancelled the rack of lamb and asked if that was okay. They hadn't started it and were So understanding and kind. The service was warm, friendly and spot on. They didn't make us feel uncomfortable for that at all. Throughout the entire time we were there we felt wanted and were treated with excellence, even though we were only ordering two soups and wine. The view we had was wonderful. The atmosphere was absolutely top knotch. Certainly, I will come back here one day, of the opportunity comes up. This is 5 dtar in. Oth me and my wife's view for The French onion soup, The service and the environment.

Thank you so much. Highly recommended five...

Absolutely exquisite dining experience! The ambiance was charming and romantic with the river right outside the window, which was perfectly complemented by attentive service. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing authentic French flavors. Highly recommend the extensive wine list, featuring unique selections. The Filet Mignon was tender and rich, while the spinach soup was creamy and delightful. We tried everything from Endive salad, Escargot to Artic Char, Pork Tenderloin, 10oz Sirloin etc etc. A true gem that literally had everyone making "mmmm..." sounds with each bite. We were a large group and everyone went full out from cocktails to bottles of wine and 4 courses- there was not a single thing that anyone was disappointed with- every plate was left completely cleaned. Can't wait to return! We were all blown away by the food, service and ambiance. Merci Beaucoup...