(Published in 7 Nights 2007-08)

Trying to convert lead into gold never worked out too well for anybody. But turning hops and barley into golden liquid brings hordes to The Alchemist Pub & Brewery in Waterbury, where the serious task of brewing is served with a side of fun. Just try the Holy Cow I.P.A, Type O Positive or Knuckle Dragger. Good thing the mosaic-tiled bar — made by local artist Heather Glenn — is long enough to accommodate lots of ale aficionados.

(Published in 7 Nights 2007-08)

(Published in 7 Nights 2005-06)

The elegant Kitchen Table Bistro is a bit of a misnomer. And the fact that the Richmond restaurant used to be a bar-food joint doesn't simplify the PR challenge. Fact is, Lara and Steve Atkins have transformed the Route 2 farmhouse formerly known as Chequers into a fine-dining establishment with black-clad waiters, white linen table cloths and a menu featuring local seasonal meats, cheeses and produce.

(Published in 7 Nights 2008-09)

Towns don't get much more Vermont-y than Fairfield, tucked in the state's northwest corner a few miles from St. Albans. The village is dotted with dairy farms, corn and hay fields, and maple groves. It's also the site of Chester Alan Arthur's historic home. Don't remember Arthur? He was the more talkative of Vermont's two U.S. presidents. Fairfield's sole eatery —Chester's Bakery — bears his name.

(Published in 7 Nights 2007-08)

(Published in 7 NIghts 2006-07)

You hear a lot about famiglia in connection with eating Italian, but one Burlington ristorante really begs for a baby-sitter. Even without the beaded votive candle holders and white linen, L'Amante, which translates as "The Lover," may be Burlington's most romantic dining destination. Its creamy walls, green banquettes and dark wood furniture exude an elegant intimacy.

(Published in 7 Nights 2007-08)

The bustling corner of South Winooski and Pearl looks like prime restaurant real estate. But it's a tough spot. A tapas bar faded away, and before that a string of pizza and sandwich places came and went. All of which makes it even more noteworthy that Asiana House, a hip, hot resto for college students and professionals, has been successfully serving up super-fresh sushi and sashimi for three years.

(Published in 7 Nights 2004-05)