Santé — Restaurant in Woodstock

We were so incredibly excited to try Sante. The menu looks absolutely fantastic, and it's disappointing that we weren't even able to try it and that we have to write this poor review. Sante does not take reservations. They open at 5pm and there is already a line out the door to put your name on the list. We showed up around 6:00pm, fully aware that we would have to put our names in and wait on a table. There was no line, and no one else waiting so we walked right in to speak to the host and he let us know that he'd likely be able to seat us in an hour. There were several tables available, but we said ok - no problem! We then asked him if the bar was also a wait, and he said "Oh no, the bar is actually first come, first serve." Wonderful - we thought. So we noticed a couple was about to leave the bar so we told the host that we'd just stand off to the side and wait for them to finish so we could grab the bar seats. He got extremely agitated and said "no, no, you CANNOT wait in here and also I have two groups waiting on those bar seats," Utterly confused, we asked him to clarify "Oh, sorry, we thought you said these were first come, first serve?" You would've thought that we insulted his mother the way he reacted to that question - "ARE YOU QUESTIONING MY WORDS?? Ok sorry that I said the wrong thing - LIKE I SAID - I will seat you in ONE HOUR." He raised his voice at us and then dramatically held the door open for us until we stepped outside, hurrying us out of the restaurant. Other diners at the outdoor tables were visibly perplexed, and another group that was about to walk in decided not to even put their names in for a table as they saw that reaction from the host. His demeanor the entire time made us feel like we were being an inconvenience to him and that we were holding him up from doing more important things. I've never felt so disrespected at a restaurant and truly so shocked by the way the host reacted to basic questions from patrons who wanted to genuinely enjoy the chef's menu and also spend plenty of money there. Never again would we go there or recommend it to anyone based on that host - I hope he was not their regular host and that the owners of Sante have reconsidered having him at...

Sante Woodstock, nestled in the heart of Woodstock, Vermont, offers an exceptional dining experience that seamlessly marries culinary excellence and remarkable service. This concise review will spotlight the outstanding food, with a special mention of the incredible fried polenta, and the exceptional service provided by the staff, particularly Ivone, the server.

Culinary Excellence:

Sante Woodstock’s standout feature is its exceptional cuisine, notably the fried polenta. The fried polenta here is a culinary masterpiece, expertly fried for a delightful crunch while maintaining a creamy interior. It balances rich flavors and subtlety in a way that is truly exceptional.

Maple Lemonade:

Complementing the food is their unique maple lemonade, infused with local maple syrup, offering a refreshing and regional twist to a classic beverage.

Exceptional Service:

The staff at Sante Woodstock go above and beyond in providing friendly and respectful service. Ivone, our server, personifies warmth and attentiveness, making the dining experience truly special. Her knowledge of the menu and her courteous approach enhance the overall experience.

Conclusion:

Sante Woodstock is a culinary gem in Woodstock, Vermont, known for its remarkable food and exceptional service. The fried polenta is a must-try, and the staff, especially Ivone, create an inviting and enjoyable atmosphere. For a dining experience that combines excellence and hospitality, Sante Woodstock is...

We are so glad we found this place. It was a great experience. My husband and I were there celebrating his 50th birthday weekend and wanted a special dinner. We had bar seat reservations and the hostess who seated us also took our order. I was SO thrilled they had mocktails! (As a suggestion, it should be on the wine/beer menu. We had to ask about it!) And then I was asked if I wanted fruity, citrus or spicy. I chose citrus and had the very coolest drink. I ordered another! Everything is tappas style so you order to share. We ordered raw oysters, whipped ricotta toast with fig jam, teriyaki pork tacos and the chocolate mouse. All the food was literally INCREDIBLE except the mouse. It had no sweetness at all and we strongly disliked the cherries on top. The only good thing about it was the little shortbread cookie. We'd try something else for dessert next time. The other downside was no one asked how we were doing or if we needed anything the entire time we were seated. Our ricotta toast had been forgotten and we had to flag someone down in order to ask about it even though the people next to us had all their courses before we did though they were seated much later than us. I felt a little forgotten overall. BUT the service was all met with a smile and kindness! I would...