fancy's

Rivaling many progressive European establishments in their sourcing of locally grown foods and their innovative preparation and presentation, Fancy’s is hands down the best restaurant we’ve been to in Vermont. Located in Burlington’s Old North End—the oldest section of the city and a rough melange of cultural diversity—this restaurant is nowhere near the more traveled thoroughfares of the city. It is, however, certainly worth the short drive through the neighborhood and pleasant walk from your street-side parking spot. My wife and I arrived for their first seating at 5pm and the small interior soon filled up (had it been a little cooler, we would have opted for a front sidewalk table). For drinks my wife ordered the Pink Panther and I got the ‘non-boozy’ Frisky Sour, which was deliciously refreshing and mildly sweet. Food is served tapa-style, on small plates meant to be shared, the next dish brought to the table soon after the prior one is finished. This timing was great, allowing for some interim conversation and a few sips of our drinks as a palate cleanser in preparation for the next gustatory revelation, each different from the last in terms of ingredients and flavor, but consistent with regard to the use of extremely fresh and aromatic plant-based foods and seasonings in an array of brilliant colors and creative combinations. We chose the following plates: Black Chickpea Hummus, Charred Romano Beans, Crispy Lentil Pancake, Squid & Shishito Peppers, and Ginger Scallion Broccolini. Each was as flavorful as its predecessor, and I sense we could have ordered five totally different plates and they all would have been equally delicious. And, yes, aside from the squid, the Black Cod, and two vegetarian options, each of the dishes on the menu was vegan. For dessert: Vanilla Creemee Sundae, made from an oat milk base. In addition, the service was exceptional—all the waitstaff seemed genuinely relaxed and happy to be there. If you’re anywhere near Burlington, VT I highly recommend you set aside some time for a visit to Fancy’s.

Absolutely top tier. A mainly vegetarian restaurant that leaves no yearning for more meat. Everything was very thoughtfully created, sourced, written and plated. I feel like this spot gets slept on, and I have no idea why they didn’t have a line around the block. Everything we tasted was special, unique, healthy, and absolutely delicious. We ordered the whole menu and a couple of cocktails. 10/10 would recommend.

Fancy’s is an absolute must-go. If this place isn’t already critically acclaimed or James Beard–recognized, it truly should be. In my experience, it outshines most of the Beard-nominated spots I’ve visited and easily rivals the rest. What sets Fancy’s apart is the extraordinary attention to flavor, texture, and balance. Every dish feels deeply thought out. The halloumi was crisped to perfection on the outside yet tender inside, paired with herbs and vegetables so fresh they tasted just-picked. The duck kebab? One of the best things I’ve ever eaten—layers of flavor brought together by perfectly toasted walnuts that elevated the dish to another level. And the zucchini with rice cakes and tahini—oh my god. Add to that the lentil pancakes, the olive oil cake… every single plate had me savoring every bite and longing for more. I also love that Fancy’s isn’t just about incredible food—they’re committed to sourcing carefully and supporting local farms. That’s the kind of standard every restaurant in a region this abundant should strive for. And the pricing? Incredibly fair given the artistry and care that goes into every detail. I don’t have a big dining-out budget, but this is a place worth investing in. If you’re hesitating because of the price, trust me—every dollar supports not just unforgettable food, but local farmers and makers. Fancy’s is the kind of restaurant that makes you excited about eating again. I can't imagine another restaurant with better price to quality (artistry) ratio. I was so excited I only took pictures of two of the dishes over my two visits!

What a gem! This is a must go to if you’re in Burlington :) Everything is sourced locally from farms and spots in Burlington so it couldn’t be more fresh or flavorful. The drinks are delicious as well. We got the hen of the woods mushroom & oyster mushroom dish with sunchokes, garlic, and pea shoots, woah woah woah honestly one of the best things I have eaten in my entire life❣️ IT WAS SOOOOO GOOD!! The mushrooms had the best flavor and texture and the sunchokes, garlic, and pea shoots (and whatever sauce it had on it) was absolutely fire :) my sister & I ate the whole thing and then ordered another one to split because it was that good. We also got the grilled sweet potato with pineapple, red curry, and thai basil, another phenomenal dish full of flavor and freshness (wish I got a picture but we started eating it cuz it looked so good hehe) I’ve never had food that was more fresh or packed with flavor. Highly, highly, highly recommend checking this local gem out, next time I’m back in Burlington I will be coming here :)

Went to fancy's for the first time this weekend, and it was so good I had to go back the next day. Don't sleep on this place-it's some of the best food around. The dishes are so inventive and delicately presented. We ordered the oyster mushrooms and the presentation made it look like something straight out of a fairytale forest. The portions are lighter but filling, it's the kind of place where you order a few things to share, just so everyone can try a little bit of everything. I'm excited to keep coming back as the menu changes. There are also a lot of options for different dietary needs and the vegan or gf dishes are just as thoughtful and creative, making it easy to bring people knowing everyone will be able to find something. The service is friendly and attentive, rounding out the whole experience.

This is a top tier Burlington food experience in a laid back unfussy but cute tiny dining room. It is not oodles of wait staff fawning over you, but you will eat unexpected and delicious combinations delivered by someone who cares if you enjoy what you eating. The menu changes weekly or more often depending upon what is harvested locally. I expected a lot based on experience with Mr. Food Fancy, and was surprised and delighted. Expectations surpassed. Our party all eats meat, but the no meat menu did not diminish the flavor.

Absolutely phenomenal flavors. This new spot in the ONE has instantly become one of my favorites in the county. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, an extensive drink menu, yummy apps and delicious entrees with great sized portions! The sauces and flavors were incredible. Excited to go back again!

We had an excellent meal and experience at Fancies tonight. We ordered 4 dishes, plus drinks and desserts, and every single thing was delicious. We appreciate the vegan friendly menu, we appreciate the friendly vibes and relaxing decor, and we appreciated the great service—thank you Diane. We can’t wait to come back. Also, here’s a picture of my cat.