Partridge In A Pantry

Breakfast Review:
This place ROCKS! So many choices of breakfast sandwiches and all of them are awesome. Two of us were there 2 days in a row, ordered different sandwiches both days, all 4 were great. Feels like an unlimited number of choices — and all for breakfast! They have organic egg whites and lots of interesting ingredients that you can mix and match, and plenty of ready-​made sandwich «designs» to choose from.
My most memorable was a make-​your-​own version of the «Farmer’s Daughter», and the Southwest (ham, cheese, peppers and onions, egg and spicy cherry purée on an everything-​bagel-​styled ciabatta bread) was delish! Solid coffee selections. I wish my time at Stratton were longer so I could have tried more of their breakfast sandwiches. Not too many seats available, so try to get there on an off-​hour. Don’t hesitate — go there immediately!

Partridge was a staple 20 or so years ago, then went down hill when it was purchased by the mountain 10 – 15 years ago. I haven’t been in about 5 years, but can officially say it is back in full force. Their sandwiches are simply incredible. The Sinatra was my favorite growing up, but was removed from the menu when the store was sold. It’s back. I was all set to order it, but my eyes gravitated to the Drunkin Cow: Long Trail Ale braised short ribs, carmalized onion, VT cheddar, sweet stout mustard, served panini style. This sandwich was cruelly good. Just ridiculous.
It’s still a struggle to find a seat during peak lunch, so I recommend coming at 1:30 like a real skier. Who wants to head in at noon when the lines die down anyway? Amateurs, that’s who. Nothing amateur about Partridge.

They have a monopoly in Stratton. $ 7 for a half gallon of milk. Hit the 7 Eleven at the base of the access road and stock up there.

Last day of the season. Snow’s melting, it’s 62 degrees and sunny. The crowds are watching water seeking thrill-​mongers attempt to skim across the man made pond. Crowds are cheering from Grizzlies pub watching as the boarders and skiers shoot for glory, hoping to make it across the short expanse of the Stratton Mountain «Skimming» pond. The snow is slop, slushy and grainy. All the skiers seem to make it, all the boarders seem to crash. Coincidence? Maybe.
Walk around the corner and into the Partridge in a Pantry Deli. The only grocery store on the mountain and today it’s empty. They’re closing in ten minutes due to bear season for the next month. Empty both of provisions and customers. This is the shortest I’ve ever had to wait, usually there’s a line of wanting customers hoping to place their orders and desiring to get a coveted seat at which to enjoy their sandwiches.
Non-​perishables are still plentiful but the fresh food section of the store is non-​existent. I am informed that they are out of roast beef so I can’t order «The Sinatra,» usually made with roast beef, cheddar, onions, tomato and horseradish sauce.
«Sorry, we’re closing in like ten minutes.»
«Oh.»
Thinking, thinking, thoughtless.
«Can I get «The Vito?» (Fresh French baguette, house made meatballs and zesty fresh marinara sauce with provolone.)
«Sure, that I can do.»
It’s delicious, remarkable. Despite selling everything to the bone, the meatballs are flavorful, the baguette is crispy, the cheese is soft and the marinara is obviously fresh and sweet with hints of oregano, garlic and onions. The meatball meat is tender and well formed and they do not fall apart. Tender and well flavored they are.
The «Italian,» equally delicious with a combination of cappicola and salami. Sprinkled with Italian seasoning and doused in olive oil, the crisp greens are a nice offset to the fiery hot chili pepper spread. A solid sandwich.
Deuce times «The Happy Goat.» BBBBAAAAAHHHHHH. BBAAHHH. Didn’t taste it but apparently sweet. Fresh Vermont Goat cheese, apple slices, figs, arugula and olive oil. The lady and gentleman enjoyed.
Overall, been here several times and enjoyed each visit. Despite knowing this was the last day, they managed to serve up some solid food. Sun and cool breeze at the unusually empty tables out side only added to the experience. Given the limited selection in the Village, Partridge has managed to consistently serve up some delicious sandwiches.
PS, they serve beer and wine too.