If you’re a fan of smoky meats, cold craft brews, and bold flavors, you’re going to want to make room in your itinerary for Black Ember Grill in West Dover. This wood-fired BBQ joint brings serious flavor to southern Vermont, combining expertly smoked meats with a casual, lively atmosphere that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups looking to unwind after a day of adventure.
Just minutes from Valley View Villa and Mount Snow, Black Ember Grill delivers a menu packed with barbecue classics, house-made sauces, and a killer tap list – all served in a space that blends rustic charm with modern Vermont vibes.
Come for the BBQ, Stay for the Sauces
The heart of Black Ember’s menu is their wood-fired meats, smoked low and slow to perfection. Brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, ribs – you’ll find all the classics here, cooked over Vermont hardwood and served up with traditional and creative sides like cornbread, smoked mac & cheese, slaw, and baked beans.
But what really sets Black Ember apart is their lineup of house-made BBQ sauces. You’ll want to sample them all:
- Maple Bourbon – A sweet, rich sauce with just a touch of smoky depth. A nod to Vermont’s favorite export.
- Carolina Gold – Tangy, mustard-based, and perfect on pulled pork or chicken.
- Sweet & Sticky – Great for kids and BBQ beginners, with a brown sugar molasses vibe.
- Spicy Chipotle – For heat lovers. Smoky, bold, and with a slow-building kick.
- Classic Tomato-Based BBQ – The one that never goes out of style. Balanced and crowd-pleasing.
Pro tip: ask for a side of each and have your own sauce flight. It’s part of the experience.
Menu Highlights and Pricing
Smoked meat plates run $16–$28, depending on the cut and whether you go single or combo. The brisket plate is the move if you’re only ordering one thing – tender, smoky, with a bark that actually crunches. Pulled pork sandwiches come in around $14–$16 and are piled high.
Rib racks are priced by the half or full rack, typically $22–$34. Sides are $5–$8 each, and the smoked mac & cheese and cornbread are the ones to get. The loaded baked potato is solid too.
🍺 Draft beers are $7–$9 for local Vermont brews (look for Lawson’s, Frost, or Von Trapp on the rotation). Domestic options run $5–$6. They also carry a selection of bourbons and whiskeys that pair well with the food.
Kids’ meals are $8–$12, which typically include a smaller portion of pulled pork or chicken tenders with a side and a drink.
Craft Beer and a Relaxed Vibe
To go with all that BBQ, Black Ember offers a rotating tap list featuring local Vermont craft beers, along with domestic favorites and seasonal picks. You’ll find IPAs, stouts, lagers, and ciders – plenty of options for unwinding after a day of skiing or kicking off a long summer night.
The bar area is a great spot for a casual dinner or a drink while you wait for your table, and the staff is always happy to recommend a beer pairing based on what you’re eating.
Great for Families and Groups
Despite the smoky, grown-up flavors, Black Ember Grill is super family-friendly. There’s a kid’s menu, high chairs, and laid-back service that makes it easy to bring the whole crew. Takeout is also available – perfect if you want to bring dinner back to Valley View Villa and enjoy it around the fire pit or on the porch with a view.
Practical Details
📍 Route 100, West Dover, VT – just a few minutes from Valley View Villa
🕐 Wed–Sat 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m., closed Mon–Tue
📞 Call ahead for large groups or peak-season weekends
🅿️ Decent-sized parking lot. You shouldn’t have trouble finding a spot.
💳 Cards accepted. No need to bring cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a reservation at Black Ember?
A: Walk-ins are fine most of the time. On peak ski weekends and holiday weeks, it’s smart to call ahead, especially for groups of 6 or more.
Q: What’s the best dish to order?
A: The brisket plate with smoked mac & cheese. If you’re feeling ambitious, the combo plate lets you try brisket and pulled pork together. Ask for the full sauce lineup on the side.
Q: Is there anything for non-BBQ eaters?
A: Yes – they have salads, grilled chicken options, and a few non-meat items. It’s a BBQ-first menu, but nobody in your group will go hungry.
Q: Can I order takeout?
A: Definitely. Call in your order and pick it up. It travels well – bring it back to the villa and eat on the porch. We’ve done it more than once.
Q: Is it loud inside?
A: It has a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Not a quiet date-night spot, but great for groups and families who want energy and good food.
A Flavor-Packed Stop Near Mount Snow
If you’re skiing, hiking, biking, or just relaxing at the villa, Black Ember Grill is a must-try spot for BBQ lovers. With wood-smoked meats, five house-made sauces, and a cold Vermont beer in hand, it’s hard to beat the flavor and atmosphere.
This is the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer – just don’t forget to grab extra napkins.
🗺️ More to Explore Near Mount Snow
- Best Restaurants Near Mount Snow — Our guide to the best local dining
- Maple Leaf Tavern: Rustic Tavern Dining & Craft Brews in Wilmington, VT — Great dining near Mount Snow
- 1846 Tavern & Restaurant at West Dover Inn: Classic Vermont Pub Fare Near Mount Snow — Great dining near Mount Snow
- Top Things to Do Near Mount Snow — Top activities and attractions in the area
