1. A Personal Touch

Blue Paddle was founded in 2005 by two best friends, Mandy Hotchkiss and Chef Phoebe Bright…and twenty years later, they're still at it, still owner-operated, still greeting guests and running the kitchen. Mandy is super active on social media, regularly updating guests on events, challenges, and news. And, something else that really sets them apart: Mandy answers the phone herself seven days a week, as early as 6 a.m. She actually wants to talk to you and pick the best table for your needs. She'll call ahead if the table before yours is running late, send you edited photos from your visit, and even personally deliver gift cards in the local area. This isn't marketing fluff…it’s just how they run the place.

2. The Paddle Pups

How can you not love a restaurant whose brand is rooted in their dogs? The series of "Paddle Pups" have been a prominent part of Blue Paddle's identity over the years, all the way through current pup Wilbur and his buddy, Willoughby. Their presence is felt throughout the restaurant and across their social media. There's something charming about a place that's so unapologetically dog-centric….and if you visit with your own pup during warmer months, they're welcomed at the outdoor tables with water bowls and treats.

3. Signature Dishes Worth the Drive

Chef Phoebe's menu is full of what they call "unpretentious" food, and there are several dishes that keep guests coming back. The Duck Spring Rolls with sweet Thai chili sauce are a must-order starter. Then there are the “sautés”…Lobster Sauté (with lobster meat, tomatoes, prosciutto, garlic, and arugula tossed in a lemon butter cream with linguine and topped with fresh parmesan) and the Chicken Sauté (bringing roasted walnuts, shallots, tomatoes, and craisins together in a maple cream sauce). My personal favorite is the Soy Glazed Salmon with cranberry ginger asiago risotto. That risotto is crazy delicious.

4. An Excellent Wine List

For a small bistro tucked into South Hero, Blue Paddle offers a wine list that's thoughtfully curated and well worth exploring. The varietals are familiar enough, but they don't fall back on the giant supermarket brands…they're not afraid to venture into featuring smaller producers. They've clearly put care into their selections, and it’s the kind of list where you can always find something that pairs beautifully with Chef Phoebe's food. It offers the right size and the right choices for this restaurant.

5. Save Room for Dessert

I'm one who believes that dessert is generally wasted if chocolate is not involved, and Blue Paddle delivers. The Chocolate Lava Cake is exactly what you hope for, as is the Pecan Turtle Cheesecake. But if you're not a chocolate devotee, they've got you covered with some other fun choices…a Raspberry Lemon Drop (layered lemon cake sandwiching raspberry puree and lemon custard), Carrot Cake, and a classic Red Velvet Cake. Whatever your preference, they take dessert seriously here.

6. That Intimate, Tiny Bar in the Back

The dining room itself is intimate, but you might not even notice the super cute, tiny bar area in the back, where you just might find yourself waiting for your table. It's one of those spaces where you end up engaging with the bartender, and somehow a wait becomes part of the experience rather than an inconvenience.

If you're looking for Valentine's plans, Blue Paddle is a solid choice. At press time they had very limited availability for Valentine’s evening, but they're also offering a Pre-Valentine Dinner on Friday the 13th with the same special menu, door prizes and treats throughout the evening. Or, you might prefer their special Valentine's Brunch on Sunday the 15th, with Champagne and oysters, an extensive menu, door prizes and more fun. Call them at (802) 372-4814 to reserve your spot.