23 South Main Street, Waterbury, 802-244-4120
Come for the local food and creative cocktails, but stay for one of the largest craft-beer selections in New England — including brews from Hill Farmstead and the Alchemist.
7 Woodward Drive, Mendon, 802-775-2290
The dining room at this romantic country inn serves dishes such as steak with roasted-garlic-oxtail ravioli. The relaxed tavern offers roasted-corn-and-mushroom risotto. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
176 College Street, Burlington, 802-860-9401
This authentic pub serves up a full menu and live music every weekend, including Irish tunes on Sunday. There are high-def TVs for sporting events and Pub Quiz every Tuesday night. An adjacent whiskey room has 150 regular and rare blends, as well as unusual wines and craft brews on tap.
100 Main Street, Newport, 802-487-9147
This upscale eatery has stunning views of Lake Memphremagog and impressive dishes to match. NECI-trained chef Jason Marcoux puts a creative spin on tapas as well as plates of fish and local meats. Once a week, he rolls up the only sushi to be had in these parts. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
95 Main St., Newport, 802-334-8222
Ready for chef-owned fine Mediterranean dining on the shores of Lake Memphremagog? Options include grilled flatbread pizzas, frutti di mare and a 16-ounce rib eye stuffed with Gorgonzola. The wine list sports bottles ranging in price from $10 to $200. Closed Sunday.
147 North Winooski Avenue, Burlington, 802-540-3093
The exotic soups and juicy kebabs are hits at this homestyle Persian eatery. Save room for baklava or rum cake. Buffet each Wednesday and Thursday evening. Closed Sunday.
1160 Williston Rd., South Burlington, 802-862-1211
Looking for quick homemade food? This casual eatery specializes in rotisserie chicken, homemade tenders, baby-back ribs, wings, sandwiches and made-to-order salads.
10 North Winooski Avenue, Burlington, 802-660-9346
A theatrical ambiance enhances this international-street-food spot — open until 1 a.m. on weekends. Expect dishes from majadra to chalupas, chicken and waffles to tostones.
52 State St., Montpelier, 802-223-8646
Find cuisine with a conscience at Kismet, where carefully sourced local and sustainable food is on the menu. Anything can be made vegetarian and plenty of gluten-free meals are available, including desserts. Try the Dandelion Latte. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
150 Cherry Street, Burlington, 802-383-1505
A warm interior and awesome chandelier lend this breakfast-and-lunch spot a funky elegance. Munch on housemade sandwiches, salads and baked goods. Or build your own, drawing from more than 60 ingredients. Full espresso bar, too. Closed Saturdays.