As you head to Hanover from Burlington, there are a couple of don’t-miss options. In Quechee, VT, visit the restaurant at Simon Pearce (and explore the glass factory downstairs and the glass showroom on the same level as the restaurant). Lovely setting overlooking the river, a dam, and a covered bridge. Outstanding food, excellent beverage program (wine and beer). They always have a beer on tap from Hill Farmstead, a cult favorite that is otherwise hard to find. They don’t take reservations for lunch, but do for dinner. At dinner the roasted cod with crispy leeks is a favorite.
Just down the road near the I89/I91 interchage is Thyme (formerly nown as Tip Top Cafe) in White River Junction. In the old Tip Top Bakery building that also houses a number of artists studies that are worth exploring. Get the frites! Nearby just off the main square is Vermont Salvage, a huge wharehouse full of reclaimed architectural gems. Fun to poke around even if you are shopping.
King Arthur Flour is a baking mecca, in Norwich, VT just across the river from Hanover, NH. If you are there on a Friday or Saturday, get the Hazelnut Loaf, a light yeasty bread that you will finish before you make it to the car.
Also in Norwich is the Montshire Science Museum, an absolute gem. Though not large, every thing is “just so”, very well maintained and staffed. Be sure to check the “water park” and trails adjacent to the museum.
In Hanover, Morano Gelato makes authentic gelato. They use an Italian machine to get the right amount of air mixed in for the correct mouth feel; everything is made daily, and as a result they can run out of popular flavors by late afternoon. (They recently opened a branch in Chetsnut Hill, MA).
Molly’s in Hanover on Main Street (close to Morano Gelato) is a reliable and fun stop, eclectic menu, decent cocktails and beer selection. (The $3 Margarita is not bad). The butter served with warm bread is addictive - I think it may be spiked with a bit of honey.
A bit of a detour, but if you are in to spices, visit Claremont (NH) Spice and Dry Goods. Spices are ground in small batches so they are always fresh and pungent. They also carry an excellent selection of meats from North Country Smokehouse - grab a smoked duck breast.
Revolution Cantina a few doors down from the spice store, overlooking the main square, makes excellent burritos. And Margarita’s.