Pioneer Lakeshore Café is a charming gem located in Colchester, Vermont, which has quickly garnered praise from locals and visitors alike. Nestled along the picturesque Lakeshore Drive, this inviting café is known for its warm atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu that celebrates both classic and unique flavors. Patrons rave about the Applewood Smoked Pork Sandwich and BBQ Brisket Melt, both of which have become crowd favorites. The former features house-smoked pulled pork adorned with maple and black pepper BBQ, while the latter showcases slow-smoked brisket with melted Vermont cheese—both served on toasted Kaiser rolls. And don’t miss out on arguably the best fries in town! In addition to mouthwatering sandwiches, the breakfast offerings like the fried chicken sandwich and the beloved hash browns have sparked numerous accolades. Reviewers also highlight local favorites such as the Lobster Roll and Clam Roll, cementing the café's commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. With its engaging atmosphere and personable owners, Pioneer Lakeshore Café isn't just a place to grab a meal—it's a delightful dining experience that beckons you to return. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast or a wholesome lunch, the café promises satisfaction with each bite, making it a must-visit destination in the area.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Payments
Accepts cheques
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Pioneer Lakeshore Café
Kevin Lumpkin
May 17,2025
This is truly a hidden gem! An incredible menu, amazing atmosphere, and the kindest most personable owner you can imagine! Don't sleep on the milkshakes!
Alex
Apr 6,2025
A hidden gem that we discovered while driving around the lake. Cute little place that seemed popular amongst the local. The fried shrimp sandwich was so delicious (shrimps were well cooked and fried). The HASHBROWN IS AMAZING (get it !!!). A great stop for lunch or dinner ! Already saved for a must-visit for my next trip.
Sarah Williams
Mar 26,2025
Stopped in for dinner tonight. Holy wow, the food was amazing! Great atmosphere and excellent service! Highly recommend checking it out!
Pam Koerper
Mar 5,2025
Pioneer is our default pick up place. Fantastic food (best fries in town) and wonderful friendly service. I get the chicken sandwich, hubby gets the pulled pork and we love the dirty fries. Perfect local place!
Mieko A Ozeki
Mar 2,2025
I love stopping by Pioneer Lakeshore Cafe for breakfast and lunch as I pass through Mallets Bay. I like their waffles and breakfast burrito. In particular I really like the hashbrown. The fried chicken sandwich and BBQ brisket melt are so melt in your mouth good plus the truffle fries. They use fresh ingredients and are attentive to detail. You order at the counter and they bring the food your table promptly. The staff are friendly and the owners are delight to chat with. Worth dining there as it is filling and a delight to support this local business.
Megan Do
Feb 28,2025
Pioneer Lakeshore Cafe is fantastic in every way! I've been here 2-3x a week since they opened early June and leave very full and happy every single time. It's the perfect spot for a delicious, fresh breakfast or lunch. You can tell that a lot of love and care goes into every dish. Their breakfast always hits the spot, my favorites include the build-your-own breakfast sandwich and breakfast burrito. Always get a side of their homemade hash brown! Lunch menu is also a win, offering a variety of reimagined classics. My go-tos are the Crispy Chicken Sandwich, BBQ Brisket Melt, Fishwich and Smashburger. Besides the food, the owners, Jean-Luc and Lindsay, are so kind! They greet every customer with a smile and take time to get to know you. This place is a gem! Come try it out and see for yourself!
Carmen George Weddings
Feb 17,2025
Great little lunch spot. Good food for a reasonsble price. Plenty of parking.
Kristina Dahl
Feb 5,2025
Delicious & lovely experience. The cheeseburgers were juicy and flavorful, a basket of fresh fries on the side to share. The lavender lemon spritz was tasty. The best mozzarella sticks, such a treat!
Reviews For Pioneer Lakeshore Café