JUST SOLD! Michael’s on the Hill Restaurant

4182 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

Listed by Steven Foster and Ken Libby

Sold by Jessie Cook (Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman)

Closed: 9/19/2023

Michael’s on the Hill, the award-winning, landmark restaurant located in the Waterbury/Stowe area for 20+ years, sold for $1.2 million. This highly visible property on Route 100 is a meticulously restored and decorated 1820s farmhouse with multiple intimate dining spaces for up to 82 guests.

The sale included a loyal customer base, inventory, 4 acres, furniture, equipment, website and intellectual property.

Congratulations to new owners Don Jones and Andrew Kohn, who also run Stowe’s Brass Lantern Inn. We can’t wait to see how your vision adds to this incredible culinary enterprise.

We also extend our best wishes to former owners Laura and Michael Kloeti as they embark on an exciting next chapter!

In the news:

• “Michael’s on the Hill in Waterbury Center Sold to New Owners,” by Melissa Pasanen, Seven Days
• “Michael’s on the Hill restaurant purchased,” by Aaron Calvin, Stowe Reporter
• “To Our Dear Friends, After many incredible years of serving our community, we have made the heartfelt decision to pass the torch to new owners...” (Michael’s on the Hill Facebook page) 

•••

5-star Google review from Laura Kloeti:

“We recently sold our business with Hickey & Foster Real Estate. There were many moving parts to this sale, and Steve Foster was really wonderful. He was very knowledgeable, with a clear understanding about what we might expect throughout the process and he was extremely helpful assisting us in navigating through the complicated issues. We always felt that we had an ally in him and would recommend him any time!

When we had to deal with a fire inspection issue with our staircase, requiring an immediate professional opinion, Mike Hickey, who has a builder background, came right over to check things out for us.

Steve also has a calming spirit which is something that we truly appreciated. The sale of a business can often become personal and very stressful. He kept things clear, acted as an excellent liaison between us, the sellers and other parties, was always available to us, and did it all in a kind, respectful manner that we appreciated very much. In the end, we left feeling that we not only sold our beloved business, but made some new friends at Hickey & Foster!”

We’re celebrating today! KW Vermont is ranked No. 1 in the state for Units Sold YTD!

We’re so proud of our fellow agents, team leaders and support staff for their rock-star dedication and hard work that contributed to this amazing ranking!
 

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This incredible achievement is a testament to our agents unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to their clients. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing agents, without whom this achievement would not be possible.

Here’s why KW Vermont agents are the top choice for all your real estate needs:

• Expertise: Our agents are industry experts, with an in-depth knowledge of the local market, providing you with the best advice.

• Exceptional Service: We take pride in delivering top-notch customer service, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for every client. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we go above and beyond to meet your unique needs.

• Proven Results: We consistently close deals efficiently and effectively, helping our clients achieve their real estate goals.

• Integrity: Trust and honesty are at the core of our values, ensuring you receive transparent and ethical service.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in real estate, choose KW Vermont. Experience the difference for yourself and let us help you turn your real estate dreams into reality.

As the lingering piles of snow on the mountain continue to shrink, I’m looking ahead to summer and feeling gratitude about the endless activities that our beautiful area has to offer when the sun is shining. This is the time of year when we tend to have lots of family and friends visiting, so here are some of my favorite things to do to make our time feel special (and show off our great state!).

For Thrill Seekers

We’ve got some of the best mountain biking trails in the state within an hour of Stowe. My wife and I love to do a quick lap at Cady Hill after work - and if we have people visiting, it is easy for them to rent a bike at Ranch Camp so they can join us. Adams Camp is for the days when we really want to work for it! Another network that I really love is at Little River State Park - we can do a great mountain bike ride and then take a snack down to the Waterbury Reservoir to enjoy the sun and views!

For Outdoor Enthusiasts

There are basically an unlimited number of hiking trails in the area, and Stowe is renowned for its scenic trails. Some popular options include Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, which offers breathtaking views from its summit. The Sterling Pond Trail, Smugglers' Notch, and the Long Trail are also excellent choices for hikers. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, the Stowe Recreation Path is a picturesque 5.3-mile paved trail meanders through Stowe's scenic landscapes, including fields, forests, and the West Branch River. It's perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading.

For Foodies

Every Sunday, the Stowe Farmers' Market offers a delightful array of fresh produce, local crafts, artisanal products, and delicious food. It's a great place to explore and support local businesses. When folks are visiting, another go-to for us is the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Waterbury. Besides the guided tour, you also get ice cream samples and free rein of the beautiful grounds, which include the famous Flavor Graveyard full of hilarious epitaphs. Of course, any perfect day ends at a brewery, which I have already professed my love for in a few of these articles.

For Art & Culture Enthusiasts

The Trapp Family Lodge, established by the famous von Trapp family from "The Sound of Music," hosts outdoor concerts during the summer. Enjoy live music performances in a stunning alpine setting...bring cheese and wine for optimal viewing pleasure! The Stowe Arts Festival happens every August and showcases the work of local and regional artists. Here you can explore a wide range of art mediums, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and more.

There is never a dull moment in Stowe in the summer, no matter your style. I hope to see many of you in the coming months as the weather warms. And if you’re ever looking for something to do, reach out and I would be happy to give suggestions on more of my favorite things.

Burlington is a picturesque city located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. With its vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, and natural beauty, it is no wonder that this city consistently ranks high on “best places to live” lists. Here are some reasons why Burlington is a great place to live, work, and play:

Burlington has a small-town feel with big-city amenities. With a population of around 45,000, it’s easy to get around and feel part of a close-knit community. It has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums. The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue that attracts nationally renowned performers, while the Burlington City Arts Center is a hub for local artists.

Outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home in Burlington. The city sits on the shores of Lake Champlain, which offers numerous opportunities for water sports such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. The Burlington Bike Path is a popular trail that stretches for eight miles along the lakefront. It’s a great place for biking, walking, or running. In the winter, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at nearby resorts.

Burlington is home to the University of Vermont, a top-ranked public university that attracts students from all over the world. The city also has excellent public schools, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and outdoor education. The Burlington School District has received numerous accolades for its innovative programs and high graduation rates.

Burlington’s economy is diverse, with a mix of large employers and small businesses. It has a thriving tech industry, with companies such as Dealer.com, Burton Snowboards, MyWebGrocer, and Logic Supply all calling the city home. The University of Vermont Medical Center is the largest employer in the state, providing thousands of jobs in healthcare. Burlington also has a vibrant tourism industry, with visitors coming to experience the city’s natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural offerings.

Burlington is a foodie’s paradise, with a thriving farm-to-table scene. One of the most popular is The Farmhouse Tap and Grill on Bank Street just off Church Street. Church Street Marketplace is an “open air walking mall” disguised as a city marketplace, featuring national and local vendors and dozens of bars and restaurants. Truly one of the most popular attractions in the city for tourists. The city is located in the heart of Vermont’s agricultural region, and many restaurants and breweries source their ingredients from local farms. There are numerous craft breweries and cideries in the area, including the iconic Burlington Beer Company, Citizen Cider, Zero Gravity, and Foam Brewers. Foam is extremely popular in the summer with the outdoor patio overlooking Lake Champlain, it’s a great place for live music and a place to gather before dinner downtown. The Burlington Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with more than 90 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other locally made products.

Burlington, Vermont, is a unique and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, and strong sense of community make it a great place to live, work, and play. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture buff, Burlington has something to offer. If you’re considering a move to Vermont, put Burlington at the top of your list.

Check out these Burlington, VT home listings! Want to know more? Contact us today!

Eden is a small town located in northern Vermont, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It's a great place to live, visit, and play, with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the main draws of Eden is its stunning natural scenery. The town is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. In the fall, the foliage in the area is especially breathtaking, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow painting the landscape.

Eden is also home to several recreational areas, including Lake Eden and the Green River Reservoir. These bodies of water offer opportunities for swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing, and are popular spots for picnicking and relaxing in the sun. The town also has several parks and trails, including the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, a scenic path that runs through the heart of town and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Johnson, which is home to the Vermont Studio Center, a renowned artist residency program, and the Johnson State College Performing Arts Center, which hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other cultural events throughout the year.

As you know, I always try to talk about my favorite local beers, too. While there aren't any breweries located directly in Eden, VT, there are several great options located within a short drive from town. Here are a few of the local breweries that I’ve already highlighted:

1. Lost Nation Brewing - located in nearby Morrisville, VT, Lost Nation Brewing is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. They specialize in Belgian-style ales and lagers, and have a rotating selection of beers on tap. The brewery also has a restaurant on-site, serving up tasty pub fare.

2. Rock Art Brewery - located in nearby Morrisville, VT, Rock Art Brewery is a family-owned and operated brewery that has been producing craft beer since 1997. They offer a wide range of styles, from IPAs to stouts, and have a spacious taproom where visitors can sample their brews.

3. The Alchemist Brewery - located in nearby Stowe, VT, The Alchemist Brewery is known for its award-winning IPAs, including the famous Heady Topper. 

4. Idletyme Brewing Company - also located in Stowe, VT, Idletyme Brewing Company is a brewery and restaurant that offers a range of craft beers and delicious food. Their outdoor beer garden is a popular spot in the summer months, with plenty of seating and a relaxed atmosphere.

Overall, Eden, VT is a charming and welcoming town that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors and residents alike. Whether you're looking to soak up some natural beauty, enjoy some outdoor recreation, or explore the area's rich history and culture, there's something for everyone in this picturesque Vermont town.

Check out some listings in Eden or click here to chat with an agent!

The town of Morrisville is one of Vermont’s most diverse towns in terms of real estate. Morrisville has inventory spanning from downtown apartments to modest capes, all the way up to multi-million dollar estates with sweeping views of the mountains. 

The town has done an amazing job renovating and revitalizing their downtown with restaurants, a great coffee shop, convenience stores, and boutiques. Downtown Morrisville is now a destination for people in all of the surrounding areas.

One of my favorite things about Morrisville is the town’s high school, Peoples Academy. That may sound odd, but I think that the Academy is one of the most picturesque schools in all of Vermont - like something out of a movie! The great, traditional high school is the centerpiece for a campus that contains all of the town’s school buildings from elementary school on. From the architecture to the athletic fields, this quaint campus really conveys a sense of community that is prevalent throughout the town.

If you’ve read my previous articles, you know that one of my favorite subjects to discuss is beer. I’m a big time beer enthusiast and love trying out all of the options that our great state has to offer…and I can confidently say that Morrisville doesn’t disappoint. Two of the oldest breweries in Vermont, Rock Art and Lost Nation, have roots here. Rock Art has been around since 1997 and has a great facility right off of Route 100. Lost Nation Brewery is actually home to one of my all time favorite beers: Mosaic. For you beer enthusiasts, Mosaic is brewed using only mosaic hops, which are my favorite. People have tried to replicate this beer, but I’ve never tasted one that topped the original. If you like food while you sip, Lost Nation also has a seasonal barbecue-style restaurant where the chef does a great job pairing beers with the food options.

If you’re looking for a location for a ski house, Morrisville is a great fit. It’s about a half hour from three major ski resorts: Stowe, Smuggler’s Notch, and Jay Peak. Smuggler’s Notch was just rated (again!) as one of the top family resorts in the country! Speaking of recreation, Morrisville has an extensive and well-maintained rail trail for bike enthusiasts, which currently stretches from Hardwick to Swanton. Sections are still in development, but it will eventually be extended all the way to St. Johnsbury! Far from simply a bike trail, it serves as a casual recreation path in all seasons and can even be snowmobiled in the winter! Whether you’re looking for convenience, adventure, or community, Morrisville has the ingredients that make it an excellent hometown.

Click here to see properties for sale in Morrisville!

When I’m working with buyers in Lamoille County, I hear them say over and over again that they are dead set on living in Stowe. For many people who aren’t familiar with the area, that might be because they don’t know about some of the other great options nearby. If people tell me that they want to be close to the mountains and enjoy the benefits of a cute downtown, I always tell them to check out Waterbury.

Waterbury’s historic downtown area has developed a lot in recent years to include some A-grade food and beverage options. My family and I love to go to The Blackback Pub, which is right in the heart of downtown. They have an outstanding beer list and some surprising and innovative pub food options. Always and without fail we get the nachos, which come with a special ingredient… maple syrup. Sounds unusual, but the maple on the nachos is an amazing combination. 

And speaking of beer, this town has a great beer culture - it was the first location of The Alchemist, after all. You can go to an intimate taproom like Free Folk Bier, a lively pub like Blackback or The Reservoir, or take the foodie route at Prohibition Pig, where you can choose between their brewery or full service barbecue restaurant.

Sticking with the beer theme, Waterbury is always a destination for those on a Beercation. Waterbury has several options for purchasing the local brews, and the two that I always stop at are the Beer Cellar, and the Waterbury Village Market. Both have a great selection of local craft beers and the Beer Cellar has beer from all over the world. The Waterbury Village Market is a great little grocery store (my wife Kelly tells me the meat department is fantastic); their beer selection is just as fantastic and the local beers represents every corner of Vermont and beyond.  

Not to get too hung up on the food scene, Waterbury is also arguably a world-class destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the town’s slogans is “Recreational Crossroads of Vermont” because of its unbeatable access to the outdoors. Stowe, Sugarbush, and Bolton Ski Resorts are all a half hour or less from downtown. The town is home to the Green Mountain Club Visitors Center, which is the state’s information hub for hikers. The Long Trail is just one of the hiking options right in the town. If mountain biking is more your style (it sure is mine!), there are two beautiful networks in town with terrain at all skill levels.

To round it all out, Waterbury’s awe-inspiring Little River Reservoir is one of the prettiest natural areas in the state, and a great place to bring the family for camping, swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, boating… you name it. 

Check out our current listings in Waterbury… and contact us if you want to learn more about this spectacular town!

Whether you’re a multigenerational Vermonter or a recent transplant to the area, Vermont’s cold winters are well known for being long, cold, messy, and a whole lot of fun. With so many activities to enjoy in Vermont all year long, I recommend taking a page out of the Boy Scouts of America handbook and living by their motto “Be Prepared.”

Those with wood-burning stoves and fireplaces know this lifestyle all too well, as ideally the wood used for this upcoming winter has been split, stacked, and seasoned for at least 3 to 12 months. Only seasoned hardwoods like maple, oak, birch, and ash should be used in a wood stove or fireplace. Softwoods like pine and fir and unseasoned or “green” wood contain more sap and moisture and increase the amount of creosote buildup in your chimney, potentially leading to a chimney fire.

Regardless of the type of wood that you choose to burn each season, it is recommended that homeowners get their chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a licensed professional. Wood stoves are central to the Vermont aesthetic that so many homeowners are looking for, as well as offering an incredibly cozy way to defrost after a day of exploring our own winter wonderland. Kingdom Woodstoves out of Craftsbury, Vermont is a locally owned business that specializes in refurbishing these beautiful and practical centerpieces. Check them out at https://www.facebook.com/kingdomwoodstoves.

If you are interested in environment-friendly heating options as well as receiving rebates from the state, ask us about Efficiency Vermont’s services and products.

Kathleen James
Realtor®