By James Kent
Soup Dog, a cozy seasonal eatery nestled behind Domenic’s Pizzeria near the Killington ski resort, has been warming up the slopes for three winters now, and its kettles are ready to fill bellies with soup for its fourth season. Run by Matt Buck, a former commercial photographer turned soup artisan, Soup Dog offers a unique blend of flavorful soups, hot dogs, and a creative community atmosphere.
From commercial photographer to Killington’s soup master
Matt Buck’s journey to Killington started as a weekend skier from Rhode Island. During the pandemic, a shift in his career as a commercial photographer—and his wife Marianne’s transition to remote work—gave them the flexibility to spend more time in the area. Falling in love with the mountain lifestyle, Buck pivoted from photography to a lifelong dream: creating Soup Dog.
“My background in art helped me become a soup guy,” Buck explained. “I’m a terrible baker. Baking is too precise; you have to be so exact. With soup, there’s a lot of like, let’s see what works, and I enjoy that.”
A hidden gem with a personal touch
Tucked behind Domenic’s Pizzeria, Soup Dog thrives on its intimate “clubhouse” atmosphere. The space is adorned with Buck’s landscape photography, which showcases Vermont’s snowy peaks and autumnal beauty.
“One thing I enjoy is talking to my customers,” Buck said. “The moment you realize people like what you do and see them enjoy the food in front of you, it becomes something special. It’s almost better than making the soup.”
While its location might pose visibility challenges, Buck viewed it as an advantage. Being off the main road lets him focus on quality and interaction. “If we were on the main road, we might be potentially busier, but I might lose that connected feeling to the customers.”
The art of soup—and community
Soup Dog’s menu has evolved into a rotation of about 25 core recipes, with occasional new additions. From buffalo chicken soup with a side of ranch or blue cheese to split pea soup in the freezer for diehard fans, each offering reflects Buck’s meticulous attention to detail.
“Every soup comes with focaccia bread from Heather at the Wild Fern and carefully chosen toppings. I want customers to experience them the way I enjoy them,” Buck explained.
Beyond soups, Buck curates snacks like maple kettle corn and trail mixes from places he frequented before starting Soup Dog. “If it’s here at Soup Dog, it’s because I like it.”
Creativity beyond the bowl
Buck’s artistic roots are evident in his food and photographs that line Soup Dog’s walls. His work has been featured locally at Liquid Art Coffeehouse and Domenic’s Pizzeria, and he still takes on custom photography projects for customers who connect with his aesthetic.
“I’ve always loved design and photography. From t-shirts to pint glasses, if I can do it myself, I will,” Buck said with a smile.
Looking Ahead
As Soup Dog enters its fourth season, Buck remains committed to fostering growth while preserving its unique qualities. “Every year has been better than the last. I’m looking forward to another positive season,” he said.
With its creative flair, dedication to quality, and sense of community, Soup Dog continues to be a hidden gem worth seeking out—whether for a steaming bowl of soup, a hot dog, a snack, a conversation with its passionate owner, or a glimpse of the artistry that defines it.
