Looking for lively food and a livelier atmosphere? The Purple Moon Pub (Rte. 100 and Rte. 17, Waitsfield, 802/496-3422, www.purplemoonpub.com/food.html, 4–11 p.m. Mon.–Sat. and 4–9 p.m. Sun., $6–15) also serves a tasty pub menu of crispy fish wraps, Vermont-goat-cheese fondues, and maple flan.

When you feel the need to get down to business with a seriously sophisticated meal in a romantic setting, head to Restaurant at 1824 House Inn (2150 Main St., Waitsfield, 802/496-7555, www.1824house.com, 5:30–8 p.m. Thurs.–Mon., $23–31). The dinner menu changes regularly, but may include the likes of phyllo-wrapped salmon with roasted-tomato coulis.

Arguably the Ben & Jerry’s of the pizza world,
American Flatbread (48 Lareau Rd., Waitsfield, 802/496-8856, www.americanflatbread.com, 5–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat., $7–16) just about has its own cult, and deservedly so. Every Friday and Saturday night, the unassuming farmhouse setting turns into a party, swarmed by lovers of the organic menu of wholesome and gourmet pies, salads, and desserts made entirely of sustainable, farm-fresh Vermont ingredients. Reservations aren’t accepted, but do as the locals do and show up at 5 p.m. to put your name on the waitlist. You can request a specific time to come back, or just wait by the bonfire with a pint until your name is called.

Upscale and meticulously run, the restaurant at
The Dining Room at The Pitcher Inn (275 Main St., Warren, 802/496-6350, www.pitcherinn.com, 5–10 p.m. Wed.–Sun., $28–35) boasts a superlative and hefty international wine list, and an impressive menu to match. Global in its influences but local in most of its ingredients, the kitchen emphasizes organic seasonal produce and fresh game such as grilled Vermont-raised lamb. Want to raise the romance bar even further? Reserve for a private dinner for two in the restaurant’s wine cellar.

Find everything from cornmeal-crusted salmon with braised leeks to simple crab cakes on the menu at the relaxed and comfy The Common Man (3209 German Flats Rd., Warren, 802/583-2800, www.commonmanrestaurant.com, 4:30–9 p.m. Tues.–Sat., $16–29). The restaurant’s airy building is 150 years old and outfitted with crystal chandeliers, candlelight, and a gargantuan fireplace.