Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Champlain on Burlington’s north end, Appletree Point offers more than just tranquil views and a quiet residential vibe. This often-overlooked neighborhood is quietly emerging as a go-to food destination, boasting a variety of hidden gems, local hangouts, and an enthusiastic community of food lovers. Whether you're a longtime resident or an adventurous visitor, here’s an enthusiastic tour of Appletree Point’s best dining experiences—from cozy eateries to surprise street food finds.
Lakeside Eats: Where Local Flavor Meets Laid-back Charm
*Appletree Point Road* and nearby stretches like *Van Patten Parkway* are peppered with local flavor, and the neighborhood’s easygoing spirit means you’re likely to find welcoming staff, generous portions, and plenty of lakeside character.
The Greenhouse Deli & Market (Van Patten Pkwy at Plattsburgh Ave)
A cornerstone for locals, The Greenhouse Deli & Market is part café, part neighborhood grocery, with a commitment to seasonality and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Here you’ll find:
- Build-your-own breakfast sandwiches (locally baked breads are a highlight)
- Vibrant salads with produce from local farms
- Lunch specials like Vermont cheddar grilled cheese with crisp apple slices
- House-made soups—perfect for a lakeside picnic
Coffee roasted by Burlington’s own Brio Coffeeworks
It’s moderately priced ($7-12 for most meals), perfect for swinging by on your way to Appletree Point Beach or Oakledge Park.
Bay Breeze Café (Appletree Point Rd near the waterfront)
Perched just steps from the water, Bay Breeze Café is a must for anyone seeking a leisurely brunch or a sweet afternoon treat after paddleboarding. What makes it outstanding?
- Omelets featuring local goat cheese and seasonal vegetables
- Fluffy buttermilk pancakes with Vermont maple syrup
- An extensive selection of scones and pastries (wash them down with maple cold brew!)
- Outdoor seating with a view of the lake
Prices are reasonable ($6-15), and it’s especially popular on weekends—go early to snag a patio seat.
Global Bites: Flavorful Diversity
Appletree Point may be small, but its residents have a big appetite for global cuisine. Just off the main drag, you’ll discover exciting flavors from around the world.
Lak Cham Pho (Plattsburgh Ave near Van Patten Pkwy)
A warm, family-run Vietnamese spot, Lak Cham Pho has developed a devoted following for its comforting noodle soups and fresh street food classics:
- Signature beef pho and lemongrass pork banh mi
- Vegetarian spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce
- Bold, fragrant curries—the red curry is a local favorite
- Vietnamese iced coffee that packs a punch
Most dishes are under $14, making this an affordable (and satisfying) escape on cooler evenings.
Tortilla Bay (Bay St. and Appletree Point Rd)
Taco trucks are an Appletree Point tradition, with Tortilla Bay being the undisputed favorite. Parked near the intersection in summer months, this food truck draws crowds with:
- Hand-pressed corn tortillas filled with maple-glazed pork, citrusy local fish, or grilled veggies
- Fresh salsas and homemade guacamole
- Vegan and gluten-free options that don’t skimp on flavor
Tacos are $4 each, and locals insist on the creamy jalapeño sauce—don’t let the line deter you, it moves fast!
Sweet Spot: Bakeries and Treats
After a walk on the beach or a stroll down the neighborhood’s leafy streets, there’s nothing better than indulging your sweet tooth.
Orchard Oven Bakery (Appletree Point Rd, near Staniford Rd)
Appletree Point’s artisanal bakery specializes in European-style rustic breads, but their pastry selection is a revelation:
- Buttery pain au chocolat and berry danishes
- Rye and caraway loaves with a perfect chewy crust
- Saturdays-only cider doughnuts, still warm from the fryer
If you’re hunting for a weekend treat, arrive early—favorites often sell out before noon. Breads range from $4 to $8, and pastries are mostly under $5.
Hidden Gem: The Lakeside Creamery (Appletree Point Beach, summer pop-up)
Only open in summer, The Lakeside Creamery is pure local magic. Housed in a historic boathouse, this scoop shop uses Vermont cream and local fruit:
- Blueberry-basil sorbet and classic maple walnut
- Waffle cones made fresh to order
- Kid-friendly ice cream sandwiches—simply unbeatable on a sunny afternoon
A single scoop is $3.50, but the playful flavors and lakeside location make it priceless.
Neighborhood Traditions and Foodie Gatherings
Appletree Point’s communal spirit comes alive most during neighborhood food events. In late summer, Plattsburgh Avenue hosts the Appletree Food Fest, a relaxed block party where food trucks, bakers, and homegrown chefs set up shop. Expect smoky BBQ, farm-fresh salads, and craft beer from Burlington breweries—plus live music and lake views.
For locals and visitors alike, these gatherings are a chance to swap stories, share recipes, and enjoy the rich culinary melting pot that defines Appletree Point.
Why Appletree Point is Worth Exploring
While bigger Burlington neighborhoods might get the culinary headlines, Appletree Point’s food scene rewards those who look a little closer. Its standouts—whether cozy delis with heart, family-run international kitchens, or inventive seasonal pop-ups—reflect a neighborhood with deep roots and an open, adventurous palate.
Here, you’re as likely to meet a passionate baker sharing morning buns as a food truck chef riffing on old Vermont traditions. Prices remain down-to-earth, and friendly faces abound—making every meal feel like a homecoming.
So next time you’re in Burlington, grab your bike or take a lakeside stroll north, and let your taste buds lead you through Appletree Point. From brunch by the water to a moonlit ice cream on the sand, it’s a slice of Vermont foodie heaven you’ll return to again and again.