About This Spot

Emily's Bar and Bistro is one of those rare spots where stepping inside feels like entering a close friend’s warmly lived-in home. Nestled on Main Street in Waitsfield, this bar carries a gentle, inviting pace that encourages lingering conversation over well-crafted drinks and thoughtfully prepared small plates. The soft lighting and rustic touches give it an intimate, unpretentious charm that wraps around you from the moment you walk through the door.

The atmosphere here is relaxed but attentive, striking a perfect balance between cozy and lively. It’s the kind of place where locals and visitors alike find themselves easily settled at the bar or a corner table, drawn by the genuine warmth of the staff and the approachable friendliness that permeates every interaction.

Food and drink here are part of the experience, not just the backdrop. Seasonal ingredients and clever combinations show up in dishes and cocktails that feel both familiar and thoughtfully tuned. Whether it’s sharing a beautifully arranged charcuterie board with a handcrafted cocktail or enjoying outdoor grilled selections as the sun sets, the offerings gently invite you to savor each flavor and moment without rush.

Beyond the menu, Emily’s Bar and Bistro is a spot rich with human moments — where a welcoming smile from the owner feels as meaningful as the food on your plate. It’s a place to pause, connect, and discover the joys of good company and well-made simplicity in the heart of Vermont’s vibrant local scene.

What’s Available Here

  • IconIdentifies as women-owned
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat beer selection
  • IconGreat cocktails
  • IconKaraoke
  • IconLive music
  • IconLive performances
  • IconQuiz night
  • IconSport
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconDancing
  • IconFood
  • IconFood at bar
  • IconSpirits
  • IconWine
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconGroups
  • IconLGBTQ+ friendly
  • IconTourists
  • IconTransgender safe space
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Pam Harris 07 Jan 2026

What a great little spot! Had the Hungarian mushroom soup and charcuterie board. I inhaled the soup before I could take a pic. It was DELICIOUS! This charcuterie for 1 was just as good. Great little homemade menu and crafty cocktails. Outdoor grilled food in summer and fall. Definitely worth the stop!!

Jeannie PC 05 Jan 2026

We happened upon Emily by total chance and had an amazing meal. When you walk into a bar, your expectations are lowered, but holy cow was I blown away. The brisket with kimchi and the lamb were the quality I would expect at a high end restaurant. The portions were perfect for small plate sharing, so order accordingly. The flavors were delicious and memorable. They take the time and care to do things right. The burgers are char broiled on the Weber grill. Delicious. The desserts were so good we ordered a second piece to go.

Ally Healy 18 Dec 2025

Emily is the best! We had such a good lunch here, with clam chowder, shrimp ceviche and Michigaaaans! Great vibe and great people. We will definitely be coming back.

Tracy Beckman 16 Dec 2025

Walking into this little gem feels like stepping into someone’s home. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, with soft lighting, rustic touches, and the kind of charm you only find in a family-run spot. From the moment we were greeted, the service was genuine—friendly without being rushed, and you could tell the staff really cared about making each guest feel welcome. The menu is thoughtfully crafted with a mix of comfort dishes and seasonal specials that highlight local ingredients. Every plate that came out looked fresh and made with love, not mass-produced. A must try!

Sarah Karandy 11 Dec 2025

We LOVE coming to Emily’s!! The drinks are stellar and for a bar — the food is on POINT!!! To top it off — Emily is the sweetest person I’ve ever met. Go in and introduce yourself - you won’t regret it!

Laura M 04 Dec 2025

We had a wonderful time at Emily’s bar and bistro! We are visiting from out of town and came by on taco Tuesday with our 3 kiddos. The place had a really nice relaxed vibe and you could tell that people who were there were regulars and it seemed like a very family-like establishment. Emily was so sweet. The food was incredibly fresh and delicious. Our kids ate everything! We also had dessert (the berry chantilly cake was outstanding) and the drinks were delicious. I highly recommend coming here! I could see it getting very busy during dinner time and later in the week but even on Tuesday it was pretty lively. Thank you for an amazing dinner experience! We will be back!!! Thank you Emily :) (and your son!)

WalVon Guptill 06 Nov 2025

We went to Emily's after being rejected at another restaurant for take out. What amazing service! She offered to prepare the food as take out and gave us some awesome suggestions. The food was very good. The atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended!

John Donovan 11 Oct 2025

Incredible atmosphere and the energy from the owner was amazing. On the ball with drinks and orders. Live entertainment aswell. Great menu for a bar bistro with plenty of options and incredible bar food. Very much enjoyed my time there and would definitely go again plus recommend to my friends!!

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