(Published in 7 Nights 2009-10)

The citizens of hardscrabble Hardwick are a mix of farm folk and back-to-the-landers. So it’s not surprising that the “downtown” hosts both a natural-foods store and a busy, homestyle diner.  

But the burg boasts one totally unexpected eatery: Claire’s Restaurant & Bar. The chef, Steven Obranovich, has a culinary pedigree that extends from the California Culinary Academy to a pair of Michelin-three-star restaurants in Strasbourg, France. At Claire’s, he prepares localvore fare infused with global sensibilities. 

(Published in 7 Nights 2009-10)

The citizens of hardscrabble Hardwick are a mix of farm folk and back-to-the-landers. So it’s not surprising that the “downtown” hosts both a natural-foods store and a busy, homestyle diner.  

But the burg boasts one totally unexpected eatery: Claire’s Restaurant & Bar. The chef, Steven Obranovich, has a culinary pedigree that extends from the California Culinary Academy to a pair of Michelin-three-star restaurants in Strasbourg, France. At Claire’s, he prepares localvore fare infused with global sensibilities. 

(Published in 7 Nights 2008-07)

Talk about chemistry. Two couples co-own Elements in St. Johnsbury, and five years after they joined forces to open the eatery, it's thriving. Elements occupies an old mill building in a gritty section of town, where funky copper light fixtures lend a modern vibe to the two dining rooms and sizable bar. A rustic wood-fired bread oven exhales smoke that gives the space a homey feel; in summer, there's an outdoor patio.

(Published in 7 Nights 2008-07)

Talk about chemistry. Two couples co-own Elements in St. Johnsbury, and five years after they joined forces to open the eatery, it's thriving. Elements occupies an old mill building in a gritty section of town, where funky copper light fixtures lend a modern vibe to the two dining rooms and sizable bar. A rustic wood-fired bread oven exhales smoke that gives the space a homey feel; in summer, there's an outdoor patio.