"Great place for patient, open-minded people who enjoy dining experiences. If you’re big on substitutions, hunting for “a good deal,” or need a quick meal, this probably isn’t your spot. The food is thoughtful — they seem to care about the tiny details, like a little chili crisp on a kimchee deviled egg for texture or the pickled veg and cilantro to balance the richness of the oxtail grilled cheese (so good). The duck-fat-washed bourbon, the fry on the mushrooms in the bao bun, the carefully placed basil on the top of my drink that I smell as I take my first sip, the almost savory sesame cookie on the dessert — everything is so intentionally done. Even when there’s something I wouldn’t normally order, it somehow works. Like, I’d never order that sesame cookie on its own, but with the rest of the dessert? Genius. Same with the “burnt toast” complaint someone mentioned… the char on mine actually balanced the crab dip perfectly. And if something doesn’t land, I'd just ask my server as everyone has been super nice. We’ve seen many of the same staff for almost a year now, which says a lot. We keep coming back to see what new combos they come up with. So far, zero disappointments. Current favorite menu item is the Scallop and Pork Belly dish."

"New restaurant in Woodstock Vermont! Great atmosphere, delicious food. Caesar salad, beef tenderloin and gnocchi amazing! Ended with coconut crème brûlée. Will absolutely return and highly recommend!"

"Food was great- took forever to come out though (like 45+ mins). Service was solid. I'd skip the mocktails- good wine list though."

"Oakes & Evelyn isn’t just dinner — it’s a full dining experience. The bartender is like a mad scientist in the best way, always experimenting and elevating even the classics with incredible flavor. The food is thoughtful and beautifully plated. The Branzino is hands-down the best thing I’ve eaten in Vermont since moving here — crispy, flavorful, and balanced perfectly with bright pickled veggies and that ginger chimichurri (I could drink it). This is one of those rare spots where the care behind every cocktail and dish really shines. It's not fast or cheap, but if you're after creativity, flavor, and a night that feels a little special, it's absolutely worth it. Casual vibe, top-tier experience."

"Aug 2025: This was our second visit and we didn't enjoy it as much. We both had the crispy octopus, too spicy for my tastes. I had the steak. The meat was a proper medium rare but it was topped with a pasta that was covered in a cheesy sauce that didn't go well with meat. The soft shell crab bao is terrific. My steak was good but it was cooked a little beyond the medium rare that I ordered. They have outdoor dining but they won't reserve an outdoor table however they will put a note on your reservation that says you want it."