Of all the country stores I’ve visited throughout Vermont, the Warren Store Local favorite: Warren Store is probably the one I’ve returned to most often.
Located in the heart of Warren Village, directly across from The Pitcher Inn, this historic general store has been a regular stop on my drives through the Mad River Valley for years. Sometimes I’m there for lunch, sometimes to browse the upstairs shop, and sometimes just to grab a coffee and something from the bakery.
And yes, there was a time when I made special trips to get my hands on Lawson’s Finest Liquids‘ Sip of Sunshine. Long before Lawson’s opened its Waitsfield taproom, the Warren Store was one of the places to find Sean Lawson’s highly sought-after beer. Thursday deliveries were practically an event, with people lining up hoping to score a few four-packs.
Fortunately, getting your hands on Sip of Sunshine is considerably easier these days. But my affection for the Warren Store hasn’t changed.
I love its crooked floors, the old wooden coolers, the shelves packed with Vermont products and the fact that you can pick up a sandwich, a birthday gift and a few groceries without leaving the building.
And if the weather’s nice, there’s no better place to enjoy lunch in Warren than out on the store’s back deck overlooking the river.
A Vermont Country Store With Nearly 200 Years of History
The Warren Store’s history dates back to around 1840, when the building served as a stagecoach inn along the route between Boston and Montreal. Over the years, it has been a boarding house, gas station and gathering place before becoming the country store we know today.
The building has plenty of character, from its uneven wooden floors to the narrow aisles and little corners packed with things you didn’t know you needed.
Today, the store is owned by longtime Vermonters Gale and George Dorsey, who have continued its role as a gathering place for the Warren community.
And that’s what I appreciate most about Vermont’s historic general stores. They’re not simply places to buy groceries. They’re where neighbors catch up over coffee, locals stop for lunch and visitors get a little glimpse into everyday life in a Vermont village.
The Warren Store has been doing that for generations.
Come Hungry: The Warren Store’s Deli & Bakery
If there’s one reason I keep returning to the Warren Store, it’s the sandwiches.
The deli has been a favorite of mine for years, and I have a few go-to orders.
The ABLT, made with avocado, Northfield Smokehouse bacon, lettuce and tomato on house-made toasted wheat bread, is hard to beat. I’m also a fan of the Classic #6, with roasted turkey, cheddar, lettuce, tomato and cranberry mayonnaise.
And then there’s the Caprese, with fresh mozzarella, local pesto, heirloom tomatoes and balsamic on a toasted baguette.
I’m not sure I’ve ever had a bad sandwich here.
The current menu also includes some more substantial options, like the Vermonter grilled cheese with Cabot cheddar, caramelized onions, bacon, apple and maple syrup. It’s a pretty fitting combination for a Vermont country store.
Sandwiches are available in half and full portions, which I appreciate when I’m stopping for a quick lunch and still have a full afternoon of exploring ahead.
And don’t overlook the bakery.
The Warren Store makes its own breads and pastries, including croissants, muffins and other baked goods. I’m a sucker for a good bakery case, particularly when I haven’t had breakfast yet.
The store also serves espresso drinks, so you can grab a latte and something fresh from the oven before heading out for the day.
Lunch on the Deck Overlooking Freeman Brook
One of my favorite things about the Warren Store is its back deck overlooking Freeman Brook.
On a warm summer day, it’s hard to beat grabbing a sandwich and finding a seat outside, listening to the water rushing below.
I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the Mad River Valley, and I still think this is one of the nicest casual lunch spots in Warren.
You don’t need a reservation or a particularly elaborate plan. Order your sandwich, head outside and enjoy being in one of Vermont’s prettiest little villages.
In winter, the indoor seating is a welcome place to warm up, particularly after skiing at nearby Sugarbush or Mad River Glen.
Shopping Upstairs at the Warren Store
If you only visit the deli and grocery section, you’re missing half the experience.
Upstairs, the Warren Store has a boutique filled with clothing, jewelry, home goods, bath and beauty products, and gifts for children.
I’ve always loved browsing this part of the store, particularly when I’m looking for a birthday gift or something a little different to bring home.
The selection goes well beyond typical Vermont souvenirs, with quality clothing, accessories and home decor.
It’s also a good place to pick up a last-minute gift if you’re staying in the Mad River Valley.
The upstairs shop has recently been refreshed, and I’d recommend allowing a little extra time to look around.
One important thing to know: the upstairs boutique currently operates Friday through Sunday, so plan accordingly if shopping is part of your visit.
The Warren Store & Vermont Craft Beer
For years, the Warren Store was one of the most sought-after beer destinations in Vermont.
Before Lawson’s Finest Liquids opened its Waitsfield taproom and expanded distribution, getting your hands on Sip of Sunshine wasn’t nearly as easy as it is today.
Sean Lawson would deliver beer to the Warren Store, and people would line up on Thursday mornings hoping to purchase a few cans.
I remember those days well.
There was something entertaining about watching people make a special trip to a tiny Vermont country store just to buy beer.
Today, you can find Lawson’s throughout the Northeast, but the Warren Store still carries a good selection of Vermont craft beer and wines from around the world.
It’s a convenient stop if you’re staying nearby and want to pick up a few local favorites to enjoy later.
Just remember that the store isn’t a bar. Save those beers for wherever you’re staying.
Exploring Warren Village & the Mad River Valley
The Warren Store is right in the center of Warren Village, directly across from The Pitcher Inn, which remains one of my favorite places to stay in Vermont.
I love this little village, particularly in summer and fall.
Warren’s Fourth of July parade is one of the most memorable small-town celebrations in Vermont, and the surrounding Mad River Valley has plenty to keep you busy.
Nearby Sugarbush Resort offers skiing in winter and mountain activities during warmer months. Warren Falls is a popular swimming destination in summer, while Waitsfield has wonderful restaurants, shops and scenic back roads.
I’d encourage you to take some time exploring the village itself before continuing your drive. The Warren Store might be the reason you stop, but there’s plenty to appreciate in the surrounding area.
What to Know Before You Go
- Location
- The Warren Store is located at 284 Main Street in Warren Village, Vermont, directly across from The Pitcher Inn.
- Hours
- The store currently opens at 7:30 a.m. daily, closing at 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
- Grill Hours
- The Warren Store Grill is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Upstairs Shopping
- The second-floor boutique is open Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed Monday through Thursday.
- What to Order
- My favorites include the ABLT, Classic #6 and Caprese sandwiches. The Vermonter grilled cheese is another tempting option, particularly if you want something warm.
- Gluten-Free Options
- Gluten-free bread is available for sandwiches. Check with staff about individual ingredients and cross-contact concerns.
- Outdoor Seating
- The back deck overlooks Freeman Brook and is a wonderful place to enjoy lunch during warmer weather.
- Catering
- The Warren Store offers catering and custom bakery orders for gatherings, ski weekends and special occasions.
- Parking
- Parking is available in Warren Village, although it can get busy during peak foliage season and summer weekends.
- Nearby Stops
- The Pitcher Inn, Warren Falls, Sugarbush Resort, Mad River Glen and Waitsfield Village.
- Website
- https://www.warrenstore.com/
- Phone
- 802-496-3864
I’ve visited plenty of Vermont general stores over the years, but the Warren Store remains one of my favorites.
Maybe it’s the sandwiches. Maybe it’s the historic building and the fact that I can always find something interesting upstairs. Or perhaps it’s simply that I’ve made so many stops here over the years that visiting feels like part of my Mad River Valley routine.
Whatever brings you to Warren, I’d recommend making time for a stop.
And if the weather’s nice, grab an ABLT and head out to the deck. That’s exactly where you’ll find me.
Talk with locals
Comments
Be the first to chime in
Been here? Your tip could save the next visitor a wrong turn.