Pangaea: A Beloved North Bennington Dining Destination Reopens for a New Era of Vermont Hospitality

By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.

In the heart of Vermont’s most charming little village, there’s a restaurant where community connection, creative food, and summer nights on the deck come together like nowhere else — welcome to Pangaea in North Bennington.

Now, after months of thoughtful renovations and an exciting rebrand, co-owners Lani DePonte-Disorda and Nick Disorda are ready to welcome locals and visitors alike into a refreshed, reimagined Pangaea — one that stays true to its roots while offering a whole new way to experience Vermont dining.

A New Chapter, Built on Community Love

Originally founded by Bill Scully in 2002, Pangaea has always been more than just a restaurant. It’s been a gathering place, a North Bennington landmark, and a proud collaborator with Bennington College, local farmers, artists, and countless community partners. Lani and Nick met at Bennington College and live in the Village of North Bennington with their two children and three cats. When they purchased the business, their vision was clear: honor Pangaea’s legacy while opening its doors even wider.

“We like to call it ‘Nice Dining’ now,” Lani says with a smile, “not Fine Dining like before. It’s casual when you want it to be, but can feel special too.”

Pangaea’s new space reflects that vision beautifully. The former Prospect Coffee House has been fully reimagined as Pangaea Café — an all-day hub for breakfast, lunch, casual dinners, and community gatherings. In the evening, the restaurant side provides a warm, welcoming dining experience where Vermont-sourced ingredients meet global inspiration, while the café remains open for diners to pick up takeout, or sit and eat in a more casual atmosphere if there isn’t space in the restaurant. 

Where Vermont Flavor Meets Village Charm

For summer visitors, Pangaea is exactly the kind of place that makes small-town Vermont so unforgettable. Their outdoor deck, a longtime favorite for al fresco dining, remains one of the best spots in Bennington County to enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by flowers, music, and the gentle buzz of the stream nearby.

From maple-glazed pork chops to creative vegetarian plates, the menu leans into fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. Expect a thoughtful selection of Vermont beers, natural wines, and craft cocktails, too.

An Invitation to Slow Down and Stay Awhile

More than just a meal, Pangaea offers a Vermont experience rooted in hospitality, creativity, and connection. The Café side has become a gathering place for art shows, music nights, and readings for writing residencies. The restaurant side provides both a casual setting for regulars from the village but also that intimate, elevated dining feel—perfect for a date night or a celebratory meal—without feeling stuffy or exclusive.

“We want people to feel like they can just come as they are,” says Nick. “Whether you’re here in hiking boots or dressed up for an anniversary, you’re welcome.”

For those planning a summer trip to Vermont, North Bennington is a village worth wandering. Grab a coffee and pastry in the morning, stroll the nearby trail or explore the sculptures scattered throughout the village. Then settle in at Pangaea for dinner on the deck, soaking in that perfect mix of casual and classy that defines this new chapter.

Pangaea Café is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and casual take out dinners, while the restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are encouraged for dinner but walk-ins are always welcome.

This is Vermont dining at its best: locally inspired, deeply personal, and always welcoming.