When you live in rural Vermont, going out to dinner is usually not a spur of the moment endeavor. The drive is typically long, restaurant hours can be very unpredictable, and the quality is not always consistent. Last night my hubby treated me to dinner at one of my newest favorites. Our oldest was coming in from NYC on the train to White River Junction, and in the midst of a snow storm we decided to head out early and grab a bite. White River Junction is a historic little town where the Connecticut and White Rivers meet. At one time 50 or more trains passed through their station in a day, now only Amtrak’s Vermonter stops twice a day. The community has been working hard to revitalize the area, and has attracted an artist colony that has brought color and life back to the vacant buildings.
White River Junction is home to Cartoon Studies a school for budding cartoonists, Northern Stage one of the top professional theater companies in Vermont, and Tip Top Media and Arts Building, housing 33 artist studios, workshops and small businesses. Many more businesses and related venues are moving to town.
While the artists are flooding the town, it seems like the restaurant scene was slipping out the back door. Tip Top Cafe in the Tip Top Building has survived the slipping economy, and consistently serves a good meal, but two others recently have left the White River scene leaving the Northern Stage patrons fewer dining options.
In steps Chef Jean Pierre Debeuf, Elixir’s secret weapon. A native of Nice, France, Debeuf is not only charming but very talented. This was my third trip since they opened the doors in the old Freight House in White River Junction. I have to tell you I was a bit nervous. Usually I find a restaurant that really makes me stop and catch my breath. Then it happens, just like when you think your falling in love, the excitement wears off and your left with that sinking disappointed feeling.
Well Elixir has kept that feeling for alive for me. Each time I sample the cuisine I am left speechless. The freshness of ingredients, unique combinations, and presentation is superb. The staff is charming, the atmosphere is romantic and cosy. I am embarrassed to say I forgot my camera and notebook so I did not document the trip very well. I will tell you the stuffed dates wrapped in bacon accompanied by a small arugula salad with balsamic dressing was absolutely delicious. My hubby had the lobster risotto and smiled after each mouthful. I went totally against my usual path and ordered the veal chop. It was very good but I wished I had ordered the artichoke and fontine ravioli in a light broth, that is more my speed. We shared an incredible chocolate bread pudding dribbled with vanilla sauce, that finished the meal off perfectly.
I wish these talented people the best for the new year.
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