As if you needed any more reasons why you should visit Quechee, and the rest of the Upper Valley of Vermont, Foley Brothers has opened up a location in the Quechee Gorge Village. And here’s the kicker, it’s located in an old diner!
Quechee Gorge Village
The Quechee Gorge Village is a touristy spot right on Route 4. The shopping plaza ranges from stores full of tchotchkes, and others selling Vermont-y things, to a distillery and live alpacas. The diner which now houses Foley Brothers Quechee has had many incarnations, including Farmer’s Diner and a dining car operated by the Quechee Public House. I think I’ve eaten at them all, even at whatever it was in the 90s.
Foley Brothers Take Over
Brandon’s (Vermont) Foley Brothers Brewing has taken over the diner as the outpost of their second brewery. I’ve been to a subterranean brewery, a beer garden in the rec area of a prison, and plenty in former factories but never one in a dining car! When I found the combination of Foley Brothers and this location, I knew I had to go.
Years ago, when visiting Vermont, I just had to seek out Foley Brothers. A few years later the beer made its way to its southern neighbor (Massachusetts). Whenever I’d find their beer on tap or in a can, I was always satisfied.
The experience
My only qualm with the Woodstock and Quechee area is that I often feel there are not enough restaurants to manage all of the travelers that flock to this area. Long lines or eateries that are only open for limited hours make it difficult for a family to find an easy bite to eat.
Looking at the menu at Foley Brothers Quechee, we decided that this would be perfect. Crowd pleasers such as wings, burgers, sandwiches, and pretzels are perfect for my crew. I chose the Hawaiian BBQ wings which are a delicious mix of sweet and spicy. Everyone enjoyed their food, and the beer, as to be expected, was top-notch. I opted for the Prospect Double IPA whereas my father chose a stout.
Our group split two diner booths and there is also seating in the adjacent dining room. The Foley Brothers Quechee has a funky retro feel in the dining car and a modern taproom vibe in the dining room. Either is a great way to enjoy a brew or a burger whether for a meal or just a drop-in after roaming the Quechee Gorge Village.
