The Lake House Pub & Grille: Vermont Waterfront Dining on Lake Bomoseen

There’s something about a restaurant overlooking the water that makes me want to linger a little longer. Give me a sunny afternoon, a cold Vermont beer and a table overlooking the lake, and I’m in no hurry to leave.

The Lake House Pub & Grille on Lake Bomoseen has been one of my favorite examples of lakeside dining in Vermont for years.

I first visited nearly a decade ago while meeting a friend from Killington. At the time, The Lake House was a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant along Route 30, with a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere and some of the prettiest views of Lake Bomoseen.

I fell hard for the setting. The food and interior, however, needed some attention.

After several more visits, I watched the restaurant become increasingly dated, which made its transformation in 2016 particularly exciting. The historic property received a substantial renovation, preserving its nautical character while creating a brighter, more comfortable space for dining.

Today, The Lake House remains a popular seasonal gathering spot for locals, summer residents and visitors exploring the Lake Bomoseen area.

And those views are still the main attraction.

The Best Seats Overlook Lake Bomoseen

Lake Bomoseen stretches across approximately 2,400 acres in Rutland County, with wooded shorelines, summer cottages and beautiful views across the water.

The Lake House sits directly along Route 30, with a large deck overlooking the lake.

During warmer months, the outdoor seating is the biggest draw for me. There’s something wonderfully relaxing about watching boats pass while enjoying lunch or a leisurely dinner.

The deck faces west, making sunset a particularly beautiful time to visit.

Inside, the restaurant has a comfortable, lakeside atmosphere, with wood furnishings and windows that bring the water into view.

I’d request outdoor seating whenever the weather cooperates, although the dining room is a nice alternative on cooler or rainy days.

What to Eat at The Lake House

The Lake House serves casual American food with an emphasis on seafood, familiar pub favorites and seasonal specials.

The menu has evolved over the years, but the approach remains well suited to a lakeside restaurant. Think generous appetizers, burgers, seafood and dishes that taste particularly good after spending the day on the water.

During an earlier visit, I sampled everything from Old Bay peel-and-eat shrimp and crab cakes to maple-sriracha chicken wings. The portions were substantial, and the food was fresh and flavorful.

More recent menus have featured New England clam chowder, beer-battered fish and chips, loaded nachos and wings with maple-bourbon barbecue sauce.

I’d also look for the lobster roll when it’s available. A good lobster roll overlooking Lake Bomoseen sounds like a pretty excellent summer lunch to me.

The restaurant’s seasonal menu changes, so check current offerings rather than planning around a particular dish.

Cocktails With a Lake View

The Lake House has a full bar, with Vermont craft beers, cocktails and other beverages to enjoy alongside your meal.

During one of my earlier visits, I was tempted by the Coconut Mojito and Painkiller, both fitting choices for a warm afternoon on the deck.

I’m generally a Vermont craft beer drinker, but there’s something about sitting beside the water that makes a tropical cocktail particularly appealing.

The beer selection has included familiar Vermont breweries alongside domestic favorites, and the cocktail menu changes throughout the season.

I’d recommend arriving before sunset, ordering a drink and enjoying the views before dinner.

Arrive by Boat or Make a Day of Lake Bomoseen

One of the more entertaining ways to visit The Lake House is by boat.

The property has historically offered dock space for customers arriving from the lake, making it convenient for boaters spending the day on Lake Bomoseen.

I’d call ahead to confirm current docking arrangements, particularly during busy summer weekends.

If you’re arriving by car, the restaurant is located along Route 30, a short drive from Castleton and Bomoseen State Park.

Lake Bomoseen is a wonderful destination for boating, swimming and spending time outdoors during Vermont’s warmer months.

You can also explore nearby Castleton Village or spend time at Bomoseen State Park, which offers swimming, hiking and lake access.

And if you’re visiting during summer, check The Lake House’s entertainment schedule. Live music has long been part of its seasonal atmosphere.

What to Know Before You Go

Location

The Lake House Pub & Grille is located at 3569 VT-30 in Bomoseen, Vermont, overlooking Lake Bomoseen.

Season

The restaurant operates seasonally. Its 2026 season has ended, and the restaurant currently plans to reopen in 2027.

Hours

During the operating season, the restaurant generally offers dinner Wednesday through Friday and lunch and dinner on weekends. Check the current schedule before visiting.

Reservations

Recommended for weekend dinners and sunset dining. Reservations have been available through OpenTable.

What to Order

Look for the lobster roll, seafood specials, fish and chips, and shareable appetizers.

Drinks

Vermont craft beer, cocktails, wine and nonalcoholic beverages.

Outdoor Seating

The waterfront deck is one of the biggest attractions, particularly during summer evenings.

Boat Access

Docking has historically been available for restaurant guests. Confirm current arrangements before arriving by boat.

Parking

Parking is available near the restaurant, although space can be limited during busy periods.

Dogs

The restaurant has previously welcomed dogs in designated outdoor areas. Confirm the current policy before bringing your pup.

Nearby Attractions

Lake Bomoseen, Bomoseen State Park, Castleton Village and the surrounding Rutland County countryside.

Address

3569 VT-30, Bomoseen, VT 05732

Phone

802-273-3000

The Lake House has changed considerably since my first visit, but the reason I originally fell in love with the restaurant hasn’t changed.

It’s the setting. There aren’t nearly enough restaurants in Vermont where you can sit directly overlooking a lake, enjoy a good meal and watch the sun disappear behind the opposite shore.

And on a beautiful summer evening at Lake Bomoseen, that’s exactly where I’d want to be.