Vergennes Laundry

Hello, fellow Vermonters! In our pursuit of exceptional local food experiences, some places simply stand out, offering not just a meal but an entire atmosphere that transports and delights. Vergennes Laundry, located in the charming Little City of Vergennes, is precisely one such destination. Far from being an actual laundromat, this establishment has beautifully transformed itself into a sophisticated yet welcoming bakery, cafe, and épicerie, earning a reputation that extends far beyond our state lines. For those of us who cherish authentic flavors, artistic presentation, and a truly unique dining experience, Vergennes Laundry is a must-visit. This article aims to provide a comprehensive look at what makes this place a cherished "little gem here in Vermont," as one local put it, highlighting its culinary artistry, its inviting ambiance, and why it's a perfect fit for our discerning local community.

Vergennes Laundry is celebrated for its commitment to culinary excellence, where every dish and pastry feels like a "work of art." The proprietors have infused the space with a distinct European cafe sensibility, creating an environment that encourages lingering, conversation, and the pure enjoyment of good food. The dedication to "love and dedication to the craft" is evident in everything they offer, from their meticulously prepared eggs benedict adorned with edible borage flowers to their "incredible" pastries. This isn't just about serving food; it's about curating an experience that engages all the senses, making each visit memorable. Their use of wood-fired techniques further enhances the unique flavors of their baked goods, setting them apart in Vermont's vibrant culinary scene. It’s a place where quality ingredients meet passionate execution, resulting in a consistently high standard that resonates deeply with those who appreciate fine, local dining.

Vergennes Laundry is ideally situated at 247 Main St, Vergennes, VT 05491, USA. This location places it squarely in the heart of Vergennes, Vermont's smallest city, known for its historic downtown, vibrant community, and picturesque setting along the Otter Creek. Main Street is the central artery of Vergennes, making the bakery and cafe easily accessible for both local residents and visitors exploring the Champlain Valley and Addison County.

The accessibility of Vergennes Laundry is a significant advantage. Whether you're coming from nearby towns like Ferrisburgh, Middlebury, or Bristol, or making a day trip from Burlington, the journey to Vergennes is straightforward. Parking is generally available nearby, with mentions of "Free parking lot" and "Free street parking," which is always a plus in any town center. The charming walk along Main Street to reach the cafe adds to the overall experience, immersing visitors in the quaint, friendly atmosphere of Vergennes. Its central location also means it's a convenient stop for those exploring the wider region, perhaps on their way to Lake Champlain or the scenic routes of the Adirondacks. The fact that it's open Thursday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (sometimes later) also provides ample opportunity for locals to enjoy their offerings at various times of the day, from a leisurely breakfast to a late lunch.

Vergennes Laundry offers a sophisticated and diverse menu that spans beyond typical bakery fare, incorporating French and Middle Eastern influences with a strong emphasis on fresh, organic, local, and seasonal ingredients.

• Artisan Baked Goods: A core offering from their wood-fired bakery. This includes highly praised items like Sourdough Croissants, Almond Croissants ("best I’ve ever had" according to one review), Pistachio & Lime Cake, Lemon Yogurt Cake, Banana Coconut, Almond Chocolate Cake, Bostock, Gateau Basque, Sour Cherry Shortbread Cake, Biscotti, Swedish Cardamom Buns, Canelé de Bordeaux, Madelaine, Kouign Amann, Lemon Tart, and Hazelnut Chocolate Tart.
• Artisan Breads: Their wood-fired bread selection includes Sourdough Baguettes, Sourdough Country Loaf, Sourdough Rye, Sourdough Fougasee, Sourdough Epis, Sourdough Pita, Focaccia, and a GF Sourdough boule.
• Unique Breakfast & Brunch Dishes: Creative and beautifully presented plates like Eggs Benedict Dutch Baby with Miso Hollandaise, Turkish Eggs (two poached eggs over labne with mint, dill, Aleppo pepper, garlic butter, roses, sumac and smoked salt served with a wood-fired sourdough pita), Breakfast Panini with harissa mayo, and Seasonal Fruit Wood Fired Granola and Yogurt Bowl.
• Coffee and Beverages: A selection of freshly brewed coffee, espresso drinks (though one reviewer noted coffee was "just okay"), and possibly fresh juices.
• Savory Lunch Items: Options like Caesar salad with Seaweed cultured butter bread crumbs and aged parmesan, Ala Française (cheddar, cornichon dijon mustard grilled on sourdough), Kimchi Grilled Cheese on sourdough baguette, and Soup Du Jour.
• Home & Pantry Goods: A "fun selection of beautiful home & pantry goods," including housemade mustards, kimchi, pesto, select grocery items, and wine, adding an épicerie element to the experience.

Vergennes Laundry boasts several features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional and beloved establishment in Vermont.

• Artistic Culinary Presentation: Dishes are described as "a work of art" with thoughtful garnishes like "edible borage flowers" and "dried rose petals," showcasing immense dedication to aesthetics and craft.
• European Cafe Atmosphere: Customers are "pleasantly transported to a small European cafe" with "long communal seating areas and people chatting," fostering a warm, relaxed, and social ambiance.
• Wood-Fired Bakery: Their use of a wood-fired oven for breads and pastries imparts unique flavors and textures, setting their baked goods apart.
• Globally Inspired Menu: The menu reflects French and Middle Eastern heritage, with influences from the chef's travels, offering unique dishes like Turkish Eggs and a Breakfast Panini with harissa mayo.
• Emphasis on Quality Ingredients: They use "organic local & seasonal ingredients" and mill most of their flour, demonstrating a strong commitment to freshness, sustainability, and supporting local agriculture.
• Exceptional Pastries: Reviews consistently highlight "incredible pastries" and praise for their almond croissant as potentially "the best I’ve ever had."
• Curated Retail Selection: The "fun selection of beautiful home & pantry goods" allows customers to take a piece of the Vergennes Laundry experience home, including housemade items.
• Warm and Welcoming Staff: Described as having "warm, welcoming staff" and a "fun, relaxed atmosphere," indicating a strong focus on customer service and creating a positive environment.
• Woman-Owned Small Business: The business identifies as woman-owned, aligning with Vermont's appreciation for diverse local entrepreneurship.

For those eager to experience the unique charm and delicious offerings of Vergennes Laundry, here's how to connect:

Address: 247 Main St, Vergennes, VT 05491, USA

Phone: (802) 870-7257

Mobile Phone: +1 802-870-7257

It is important to note that Vergennes Laundry is typically open Thursday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (and sometimes later if the light is on, as their website playfully states). For the most current hours, daily specials, or to inquire about their pantry goods, it's always best to check their official website or social media channels, or call them directly.

In conclusion, Vergennes Laundry is an absolutely ideal destination for locals throughout Vermont, embodying many of the qualities we cherish in our state's independent businesses. It's a place where culinary artistry meets genuine hospitality, creating an experience that is both sophisticated and deeply comforting. For Vermonters, the emphasis on "organic local & seasonal ingredients" and the commitment to milling their own flour speaks directly to our values of supporting local agriculture and sustainable food systems.

The unique "European cafe" atmosphere, with its communal seating and lively chatter, offers a refreshing alternative to standard dining experiences, fostering connections and a sense of community. Whether you're indulging in an "incredible" pastry, a perfectly crafted breakfast dish, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee amidst their beautiful home and pantry goods, Vergennes Laundry provides a sensory delight. It's more than just a bakery; it's a cultural and culinary hub that enriches the fabric of Vergennes and stands as a testament to Vermont's vibrant local food scene. Its presence is a true gift, as one grateful customer noted, making it a place we're all lucky to have right here in the Green Mountain State.

Vergennes Laundry

247 Main St, Vergennes, VT 05491, USA