The Raven ’ s Den
Willoughby ’ s Depot Eatery
GOING TO THE DOGS
The owners of Manchester ’ s most dog-friendly businesses share their love for their canine companions
Manchester is a dog-lover ’ s paradise . From the recently-upgraded dog park at Dana L . Thompson Memorial Park to the multiple dog-friendly cafés and inns lining the streets , visitors , locals , and their furry friends can always find a warm welcome . We spoke with the owners of The Wilburton Inn , The Raven ’ s Den , Willoughby ’ s Donuts , and Charlie ’ s Coffee House about their “ pawsome ” friends , how they celebrate them through their businesses , and their favorite things about Manchester ’ s canine culture .
The Raven ’ s Den
1844 Depot St , Manchester Center , VT 05255 ; ravensdensteakhouse . com
For Award-winning chef Edward St . Onge and his wife Nancy , The Raven ’ s Den Steakhouse & Taproom represents a dream realized through decades of culinary dedication . Their restaurant is well-known as a fantastic Manchester dining destination with tasty steaks , nicely-balanced entree delicacies , and fresh salads , and its name is a heartfelt tribute to man ’ s best friend . According to Nancy , the inspiration behind The Raven ’ s Den came from their beloved Great Dane , Raven . With her jet-black fur and remarkable intelligence , Raven wasn ’ t just a beloved dog ; she was a cherished member of the family . “’ Raven ’ s Den ’ reflects the cozy and welcoming atmosphere that dogs bring into our lives ,” says Nancy . “ After all , dogs live in dens , and Raven ’ s Den embodies that same sense of comfort .”
Beyond the sentimental connection , — the name captures the essence of Raven ’ s powerful presence , which is manifested throughout The Raven ’ s Den . From the décor to the ambiance , Raven ’ s spirit infuses every aspect of the restaurant , creating a space that feels like home . Though Raven passed away in 2022 , her legacy lives on in every corner of The Raven ’ s Den . As patrons gather to enjoy a delicious meal and raise a toast to friendship , they celebrate the spirit of Raven , the gentle giant who touched many lives .
Willoughby ’ s Depot Eatery
374 Depot St ., Manchester ; 802-362-1874 ; willoughbysdepoteatery . com
In the heart of Manchester , Willoughby ’ s Depot Eatery beckons visitors and locals with the sweet and savory temptation of homemade donuts and sandwiches and the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee . Courtney Callo , owner and founder of Willoughby ’ s , has built a business where dogs and their owners are an integral part of the experience .
Many of the sandwiches on the Willoughby ’ s menu are named after the beloved dogs in Callo ’ s life , both past and present . The “ Schultz Von Mutz ,” made on a pretzel roll with mustard , was named in honor of a furry friend that drew his name from Callo ’ s German lineage and maiden name . Famished vegetarians will certainly savor a bite of the “ Winnifred ,” with avocado , egg , spinach , and cheese , and fans of Southern food will adore the tasty goodness of the “ Delilah ” sandwich . Additional house favorites , including the “ Beverly ” sandwich and the classically-simple “ Ellsworth ” sandwich round out the menu .
Among the framed photographs adorning the walls of Willoughby ’ s , one captures the playful spirit of Callo ’ s favorite canine companion ( and the café ’ s namesake ), Willoughby . “ Willoughby was my best buddy ,” says Callo . “ He was the Depot wanderer , always exploring the streets of downtown Manchester .” To honor Willoughby ’ s memory , Callo created a signature sandwich : a donut shell filled with eggs , cheddar cheese , and a drizzle of maple syrup .
Recently , Willoughby ’ s menu has expanded to include a sandwich that pays tribute to a regularly-visiting dog : the “ Canelita Burrito .” Callo elaborates : “ Canelita is a friendly beagle mix who comes in with her owner all the time . We got a special request for the burrito , and we decided it to name it in her honor . We love dogs here , and we want them to feel just as welcome as their owners .”
50 manchester life | manchesterlifemagazine . com