Firefighters-Turned-Chefs Serve Up Vermont's Best Fish and Chips

Ladder 1 Grill transforms a historic firehouse into a seafood sanctuary in downtown Barre.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Behind the iconic red doors of a former Barre, Vermont firehouse, Ladder 1 Grill is serving up fish and chips so perfectly executed, you'll swear the Atlantic Ocean relocated to central Vermont. This repurposed firefighting headquarters celebrates its history while elevating classic comfort food to an art form, with a menu that pays tribute to local first responders.

Why it matters

Ladder 1 Grill is a shining example of how historic buildings can be thoughtfully preserved and reimagined to serve a new purpose, all while honoring the past. In a city known for its granite heritage, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience that connects visitors to Barre's vibrant community.

The details

The kitchen at Ladder 1 Grill has mastered the art of fish and chips, serving up fresh haddock in a crisp, beer-infused batter that shatters with each bite to reveal moist, flaky white meat. The hand-cut fries are double-fried to perfection, while the house-made tartar sauce and coleslaw provide the perfect accompaniments. The menu also features a selection of elevated comfort food classics, each named after local firefighters to pay tribute to the building's storied past.

  • Ladder 1 Grill opened in the historic firehouse in 2020.
  • The restaurant hosts special holiday menus and events throughout the year, including a popular New Year's Eve prix fixe menu.

The players

Ladder 1 Grill

A restaurant located in a repurposed Barre, Vermont firehouse that serves exceptional fish and chips and other comfort food classics.

Fred Dessereau

A retired Barre City firefighter, whose name is featured on the restaurant's 'Fred's Fish and Chips' menu item.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The restaurant will host its annual holiday menu and New Year's Eve celebration in the coming months, offering visitors a unique dining experience in a historic setting.

The takeaway

Ladder 1 Grill is a testament to the power of preserving and repurposing historic buildings, transforming a former firehouse into a beloved community hub that serves up some of Vermont's most exceptional comfort food. This restaurant's commitment to honoring its past while embracing the present makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors alike.