Ondis Restaurant in Montpelier to Close Permanently This Fall
Ondis, an upscale new American restaurant in Montpelier, Vermont, will close permanently in November 2026 as owner Emma Sanford declines to renew the Barre Street establishment’s lease. The closure follows a turbulent two-month period that saw the departure of James Beard-nominated chef Max Vogel in August 2026.
Lease Expiration and Community Farewell on Barre Street
The upscale dining destination opened its doors on Barre Street in December 2023, quickly establishing a prominent footprint in the local culinary scene. Owner Emma Sanford announced the upcoming closure through a public statement, confirming that the restaurant will not renew its lease when it officially expires in November 2026.
Reflecting on the three-year run, Sanford shared gratitude for the community where she grew up. “The last 3 years have exceeded my wildest expectations. Bringing [a] piece of me and what I love to the community that I grew up in has been truly special,” Sanford wrote, adding that “the love and pride I have for this place is deep, but sometimes loving something means knowing when to let it go and it feels like that time has come.”
The Departure of James Beard Nominee Max Vogel
The closure arrives less than two months after significant operational shifts inside the kitchen. Chef Max Vogel, who led the culinary program at Ondis, left the restaurant in August 2026 for a new professional position.
Following Vogel’s departure, Sanford pivoted the business model by scaling back the food menu. The restaurant shifted its primary focus toward wine, mixed drinks, snacks, and frequent pop-up events featuring unique menus. Despite these adjustments, the upcoming lease expiration in November marks the end of the road for the Barre Street location. Sanford noted that the restaurant will continue hosting events through the fall until the final closure.
Local Economic and Hospitality Impact
The permanent shuttering of Ondis removes a notable anchor from Montpelier's dining scene, which features new American cuisine paired with specialized wine and cocktail offerings.