Greetings fellow foodies, we are back again this week with another episode of Dining Halls, Domino’s and Dives Burlington edition!

We met up with recent 2017 graduate Sam Damphousse to see what he’s been up to and…of course discuss his favorite local eats.

When he’s not biking, skiing or working, Sam is eating. His go to spot in Burlington is The Farmhouse Tap & Grill located on Bank Street across from another local hot spot Henry’s Diner.

A little history of The Farmhouse Tap & Grill

The Farmhouse first appeared in the Burlington restaurant scene in 2010 and since has expanded to include a summer Beer Garden, and a downstairs hang out called The Parlor. This low key bar is located below the main restaurant, and offers an intimate setting always good for getting together with a few friends for drinks and some appetizers.

Sam, what makes The Farmhouse your go to spot in Burlington?

“I like the farmhouse because of the food and the vibe, especially in the basement. The burgers are always super tasty, fries are great and they have some awesome appetizers.”

What did we order? Take a look, the photos will not disappoint!

The special burger of the day included bacon, Jasper Hill Farm cheese, mixed greens and caramelized onions.

The special sandwich of the day offered roasted turkey with pears, cheese, pickled red onions, mixed greens and chipotle mayo. To top it off, those famous fries Sam loves.

The classic LaPlatte River Angus Farm Beef Burger with bacon, cheddar, mixed greens, pickled red onions and a fried egg.

While enjoying this feast we chatted with Sam a little more to see what he was up to.

How have your first couple months out of college been so far?

They have been a bit of a whirlwind! I’ve been feverishly chasing down my dream job in California while also sending out other job applications like crazy. I started a local graphic internship at Four Nine Design, and freelancing in between to pay the bills.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Biggest challenge for me has been the lack of social interaction with many people. When I freelance I work from my desk in my room, which is a great set up but I tend to become a little hobbit who never leaves. Not having co-workers or even just seeing friends on campus while walking around anymore is a big change for me.

How are you working on overcoming it?

I’ve applied to some retail jobs part time to have some coworkers and get out of the house, working at coffee shops a lot and meeting new people. Starting the internship at Four Nine has also helped a lot because I have folks around me that I can collaborate with and learn from.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?

Probably how to be patient. A lot of companies I’ve dealt with so far take the hiring process pretty slow which can get to me a bit because my mind always races. I’ve had to learn to sometime just deal with the radio silence and wait it out.

Any advice for your classmates?

Work hard to be in the place that you want to. I want to be working as an in-house designer at either a studio or a product designer at a bicycle company. Because of that I spent months prepping applications and my portfolio and things are starting to come together. But it wouldn’t happen at all without hard work.

 

If you’re a fan of The Farmhouse or any of their various sister restaurants and want to join us for lunch one day, recommend a place for us to eat!

Stay tuned, but until then, stay hungry my friends.