Located in the old Champlain Mill on the Winooski River in Vermont, Waterworks turns out some of the most creative American cuisine in a funky and cool setting. You’re sure to get a unique dining experience in this beautiful and historic place. Bon appetite!

The Champlain Mill.

This Mill, known as Mill No. 4, was completed in 1912 as part of American Woolen Company’s expansion.

Here, wool fabric was manufactured for military, police and railroad uniforms, men’s suits and fashion.

During World War II, machines operated 24 hours a day, with 300 people in 3 shift changes.

During the early 20th century, documentary photographers took pictures of mills in the area.

They captured images of factory workers at Winooski Falls from 1910-1915. These photographs helped to pass early labor laws to protect workers, especially children.

The Mill shut down in 1954.

The building remained vacant for several years, filled with broken glass and pigeons until renovations in 1980 transformed the interior to office space, boutique shops and dining establishments.

One notable restaurant that opened in this space was the original Waterworks.

The Mill Museum opened in 1998 on the premises as well.

By early 2000, many tenants left.

In 2011, My Web Grocer purchased and renovated the building, adding windows, a new roof and moved their company office spaces to this location.

In 2014, a new Waterworks opened to occupy the space of its predecessor.

Here you’ll find an updated interior, a creative New American menu and the same spectacular views of the Winooski River. Also, it has one of the best Sunday brunches around!

Here are some of our favorite things about Waterworks:

Garage parking. This is a big win for anyone who is driving to dinner.

Location

Waterworks is right on the river, and its corner location makes for plenty of floor to ceiling windows that don't skimp on the view.

Outdoor Seating

There is plentiful outdoor seating available that is also right on the river. Since there isn’t much foot traffic, it makes for a peaceful outdoor setting with the bustling river for ambiance.

The Food

Wow. Fresh, creative and delicious, Waterworks simply hits it out of the park. If you've never had poutine in your life, this is the place to try it. The desserts are amazing as well. After all, food should taste as good as it sounds, and they certainly deliver on this expectation.

Drinks

You can find creative, fun and delightful offerings, as well as the old standbys here.

Atmosphere

It's the perfect balance of classy and casual, modern and rustic, comfortable and impressive.

Service

You'll always have absolutely fantastic service at Waterworks. The food comes quick, and you always have everything you need without the staff being excessively intrusive throughout your meal. Pictured is some of the staff after they climbed... you guessed it... Mt. Hunger!

Waterworks is one place in Vermont that you simply must try - you won't be disappointed. Be sure to save room for dessert! For more incredible dining experiences, try one of these 15 restaurants that are hard to get in, but totally worth it.