Leunig’s Bistro Expands to South Burlington’s City Center

Leunig’s Bistro will open a second location, Leunig’s on Market, in South Burlington’s City Center. The 5,300-sq-ft corner unit at 268 Market Street will feature indoor and outdoor seating, a signature bar, and private-event space. Construction begins summer 2026; opening is slated for winter 2026. The venue will serve breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, offering both existing menu items and new dishes.

WPTZ - Plattsburgh NewsWCAX3Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

Amy Bernhardt purchased Leunig’s Bistro in August 2024. While location remains on Church Street Marketplace, she noted declining downtown traffic and guests opting for nearer dining. In early 2026 chose not to renew its Petit Bijou kiosk lease, citing staffing shortages, competition and a “struggling” downtown market. South Burlington’s City Center, a partnership of Snyder Braverman Development and University of Vermont, houses vendors like Scale Poké Bar, Bliss Bee, Judi’s Ice Cream.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

Key participants are Amy Bernhardt (co-owner), Snyder Braverman Development (developer), the University of Vermont (partner), and Leunig’s on Market. The center hosts Scale Poké Bar, Bliss Bee and Judi’s Ice Cream.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• August 2024 – Bernhardt acquires Leunig’s Bistro.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• June 29 2026 – Expansion announced.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• Summer 2026 – Construction of Leunig’s on Market begins.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• Winter 2026 – Planned opening of the new location.

WCAX3

Leunig’s on Market will occupy a 5,300-sq-ft corner unit at 268 Market Street, with indoor and outdoor seating, a signature bar, and daily breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

The project reflects a shift toward neighborhood-based dining, with many Burlington residents preferring options nearer home. Situated in a hub serving UVM affiliates and other local eateries, Leunig’s on Market aims to boost South Burlington’s economy and diversify food offerings.

WCAX3

Bernhardt said the South Burlington residential-retail mix “can support strong year-round business while serving this growing community.” Snyder Braverman and University of Vermont highlighted partnership’s aim to create a multi-use environment blending housing, offices and dining.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

Bernhardt said the lease decision reflected staffing shortages, heightened competition and a “struggling” downtown market, raising concerns about Burlington’s central dining district viability.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• “As a resident of South Burlington, I think it would be a great place to have a second location,” — Amy Bernhardt, Co-owner, Leunig’s Bistro

WCAX3

• “Over the past few years, I have run into many longtime previous guests outside of Burlington [who] have told me they no longer visit downtown [and] stay closer to home.” — Amy Bernhardt, Co-owner, Leunig’s Bistro

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• “I believe Market Street can support strong year-round business while serving this growing community,” — Amy Bernhardt, Co-owner, Leunig’s Bistro

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

• “The menu will feature dishes from Leunig’s current lineup and ones unique to South Burlington.” — Leunig’s on Market press release

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center

Construction will continue through summer 2026, with interior build-out and sidewalk-café installation. After the winter 2026 opening, Leunig’s on Market will host private events and monitor community response to guide any future expansion.

Leunig’s Bistro to Expand to South Burlington’s City Center