The Reluctant Panther Restaurant

Our overnight at the Reluctant Panther was magnificent, a five-star experience in every way. The Inn is one of the finest in Vermont, if not in all New England, and is indeed a quintessential New England lodging. If they were making a movie about a beautiful Vermont inn, this would be the choice. The room sparkled, well-decorated from its art and crown molding to the see-through gas fireplace in bedroom and bath. The bath is larger than some motel rooms and in pristine condition, although the shower could have used another grab bar closer to the head. The bed was comfortable beyond anything you can imagine – how do they make it so refreshing, inviting, and satisfying? Have a hard time sleeping? Come here and find soothing rest. Dining at the Reluctant Panther was an adventure, from its sparkling dining room as nice as any that could be found, to the staff tending to every need and the original art gracing the walls. Speaking of which, one of our party has significant allergies and a complicated list of things that cannot be consumed (e.g., dairy, butter, high fructose, oranges, mushrooms, etc.) The chef prepared well in advance and walked the second mile to accommodate the needs, to the extraordinary delight of the one with allergies. If you have any or many allergies, come here and they will make something special just for you. WARNING: It is highly possible to over eat! Everything is so exemplar that it beckons you to order and eat more than you should. Check-in and check-out were personal and delightful – it was a pleasure to meet these folks who welcomed us and aided in whatever was needed. The cost for the room and restaurant was reasonable, a good value, especially when compared to other high-end boutique lodgings. I hope we have the opportunity to return again and again to work our way around the inn by sampling every room in the place. And, should romance be your interest, the Reluctant Panther is second to none.

The visit here was part of the holiday tour of Vermont Country Inns to support the local food bank. We arrived after the 3pm time slot so we didnt get to see the rooms but the Inn is pretty and centrally located in Manchester. Its very comfortable and would make a romantic little get away for couples wanting to enjoy the sights of Manchester

We very much enjoyed our stay at TRP. The hotel staff is kind and attentive, our room was very spacious and super comfortable. The surroundings are quiet and relaxing. The garden and patio offer beautiful vistas of the hilly backdrop. I put “only” four stars here because we were a bit disappointed by the food options. The breakfast-in-a-basket idea is neat and fun, but what’s inside needs to be ramped up in terms of quality and originality to be on par with the expectations from the standing of the hotel. We also thought the food and ambiance of the restaurant could be much better, to match or surpass the excellence of other options around, again, for this level of standing. Will we go back? Certainly yes!

Very smart b&b. Staff (both b&b and restaurant) were extremely pleasant and helpful. The room (The Library) was spacious and nicely decorated and furnished, with a very comfortable bed. Breakfast was provided in a hamper to have in your room (or on the patio or restaurant) which initially felt a bit odd, but actually worked well for us.

Great dinner from beginning to end! Service was thoughtful and non-intrusive. Special touches throughout the meal from the chef from the amuse bouche to the chocolate truffles at the end. Loved the speciality cocktails made with local products (I had the Vermont Mule). Beet salad with buratta was delish, loved the table bread and enjoyed my short rib dinner. Hubby had the rib eye and it was super tasty as well. Saved a bit of room for a chocolate mousse which was also unique with homemade marshmallow and caramel popcorn. Looking forward to coming back soon!

Dining at the Reluctant Panther over the past few years is always a lovely experience. We always look forward to our next visit. All staff who take reservations are accommodating and just super, especially Richard and Bonnie. The servers are helpful, friendly and professional. The menu offers different flavors. The food is well prepared and doesn't disappoint. Your food arrives plated attractively but not overly fussy. Always room for their delicious desserts. Only issue is my giving this review, which will make you try to dine here, which makes it more difficult for me to get a reservation.