Mistral's at Toll Gate

It's shocking that many restaurants in Manchester VT are closed on Sunday and Monday. I was scrabbling to find a fine dining spot to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. After a couple of unsuccessful calls, Mistral's was able to accommodate us. Arriving on scene, we were greeted by an area appropriate chalet building. This esthetic is carried on inside. We were greeted and lead to our table adjacent to the kitchen doors. Less than 1/2 the dining room was filled but decided to roll with the punches. The bar was efficient and landed our cocktails quickly. Mistral's menu is heavy with french technique. We selected the pate as the 1st course. My wife and I have had more than our share of pates; we even might be 40% pate at this time. We were both impressed with this dish. Silky, unctuous, rich. Totally on point. We both ordered the sirloin steak. This is where the dinner came off the rails. The plate arrived cold. The julienned carrots especially came out cooked but cold. The steak while cooked to our requested doneness was basically room temperature. Half of my wife's steak was inedible due to a large bit of grizzle running through the cut. The 2 spears of asparagus seemed to be an after thought as was the 2 wedges of potatoe. The desert was cream brulee and carrot cake. The brulee was the clear winner. Carrot cake has lost its way; more spiced fruit cake than a carrot forward cake. Service for the most part was acceptable. The fine dining experience at Mistral's was disappointing. The food quality was uneven considering the price point. Wouldn't be my first choice in the area.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

Good appetizer and desert. Dinner plate well composed but meal was cold and could not eat the steak; it was all grizzled. For the price I would select a different restaurant

Long time Mistral imbiber!
Absolutely fabulous last night
The filet the sides the Mediterranean salad; all evincing a classic technical expertise the tastes and combinations were brilliantly conceived and executed. The drinks were special ample; delightful libations amplified the feeling of French countryside experience that was a deal sealed by the beautful sight and sound of the river rushing to the starboard side of the room!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Fine dining! Staff very receptive. Food is absolutely amazing. Very respectful of people’s dietary restrictions. Beautiful atmosphere. Can’t get better. Last visit was as wonderful as last nights!

The best Fine Dining in our community for years!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Absolutely exquisite dining experience! The ambiance was charming and romantic with the river right outside the window, which was perfectly complemented by attentive service. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing authentic French flavors. Highly recommend the extensive wine list, featuring unique selections. The Filet Mignon was tender and rich, while the spinach soup was creamy and delightful. We tried everything from Endive salad, Escargot to Artic Char, Pork Tenderloin, 10oz Sirloin etc etc. A true gem that literally had everyone making "mmmm..." sounds with each bite. We were a large group and everyone went full out from cocktails to bottles of wine and 4 courses- there was not a single thing that anyone was disappointed with- every plate was left completely cleaned. Can't wait to return! We were all blown away by the food, service and ambiance. Merci Beaucoup Dana and Cheryl!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Carrot Cake

Very cute and homey, everyone is super friendly and warm. Beautiful building with rich history. The food was decent but nothing extraordinary - definitely fresh and prepared with love!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Quiet and cozy. Excellent roasted duck. My friend had trout with salmon mousse, also excellent. Attentive service. Next to a creek so probably even nicer in summer.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This is the best fine dining place in our area! The service, food and atmosphere are fabulous! A perfect place for that very special occasion!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My wife and I absolutely enjoyed ourselves here. The service is wonderful and the ambience is perfect. Great drinks, like the pink squirrel and satin Manhattan, to go with outstanding entrees. But first, our appetizer the scallops and mushrooms were delicious. For the mains, we definitely recommend the duck and veal. You'll have a great date night here or any special occasion for that matter!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Duck

Traditional French food with a good wine list. Old school ambiance and excellent service.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Duck

Our fourth or fifth visit to this lovely little French restaurant outside of Manchester Center. Off the beaten path, it is beautifully situated overlooking a brook tumbling through large rocks. The warm ambiance and handsome artwork on the walls add to the experience. Our meals were excellent, starting with the Country Pate Maison and the House Made Duck Liver Pate with Black Truffles. Our mains were the Sautéed Rainbow Trout Stuffed with Salmon Mousse and the Sautéed Black Tiger Shrimp. What tied it all together perfectly was our terrific waitress, attentive but unobtrusive, and with very helpful menu advice. She was delightful and really added to the whole experience!

Restaurant is lovely. Food and service was excellent. A total wonderful experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We’ve been here several time a and have never been disappointed. The food is very good and they have one of the best wine lists in southern Vermont. Service is always attentive and if you happen to be there while it’s snowing, watching it snow over the backyard brook is so romantic!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The leon chicken and rice was to die for. Best soup I've ever had in my life! Food was perfect. Served you just enough. Pomegranate martini was decent. The view was incredible! It was a little pricey but they were super attentive. Highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5