If you have a little time or an abiding interest in America’s industrial heritage, get off I-89 at exit 15, or follow Riverside Street (old US-2) north from Burlington to the center of Winooski, an old woolen mill town now focusing on the restored Champlain Mill, downtown at 1 Main Street. This former woolen mill now houses more than 20 cafés and specialty shops, and the rest of town provides a blue-collar balance to Burlington’s somewhat upscale airs. The town green is marred by a bank and large parking lot, but the surrounding buildings hold some interesting spots, including Sneakers Bistro (802/655-9081), at 36 Main Street, which serves great breakfasts and lunches every day. Another popular spot for “homecooked food and friendly, upbeat service” is Libby’s Blue Line Diner (802/655-0343) north of Winooski on Main Street in Colchester, just off I-89, exit 16. The usual diner menu of breakfasts and burgers is enhanced by grilled eggplant and fresh fish.
