Mad River Valley/Waterbury (8)
Hen of the Wood (Waterbury)
92 Stowe St., Waterbury, 802-244-7300
Upscale dining takes a rustic turn in a former grist mill. Creative use of local meats, greens and cheeses has earned chef-owner Eric Warnstedt several James Beard Award nominations.
Hyde Away Inn and Restaurant
1428 Route 17, Waitsfield, 802-496-2322
Classic comfort food gets a boost from local ingredients — think bacon-wrapped meatloaf and cider-braised pork osso bucco.
Lawson’s Finest Liquids
155 Carroll Rd., Waitsfield, 802-496-4677
Friendly bartenders pour glasses of brewer Sean Lawson’s hop-driven IPAs, along with stouts, pilsners and other styles. Cheese plates keep the hunger at bay.
McGillicuddy’s Irish Pub
3 S. Main St., Waterbury, 802-882-8596
TV sports entertain diners as they nosh on burgers or corned beef and cabbage. Draft beers and top-shelf whiskeys keep ’em happy no matter who’s winning the game.
Michael’s on the Hill
4182 Waterbury-Stowe Rd., Waterbury Center, 802-244-7476
Elegant, ever-changing plates such as vegetable gnocchi and poached Maine lobster make the most of New England ingredients and the chef-owner’s European roots.
Prohibition Pig
23 S. Main St., Waterbury, 802-244-4120
Barbecue and comfort food meet “proper” cocktails and one of New England’s largest craft beer selections. In the adjacent brewery, pair a pint with tacos or ramen.
Sage Restaurant
8 Route 17, Waitsfield, 802-496-7243
Cuisine inspired by Spain, Italy, France and the Middle East transports diners to the Mediterranean coast. Choose from paella, pasta and seafood dishes, then finish with baklava from a family recipe.
The Reservoir Restaurant & Tap Room
1 S. Main St., Waterbury, 802-244-7827
Beer fans hit up “the Rez” for its locally famous draft list and locavore pub snacks: chorizo tacos, fried chicken and big-time burgers.
