Bistro de Margot
126 College St., Burlington, bistrodemargot.com
Setting the scene for an after-dinner kiss? Go French — cuisine-wise, that is. Bistro de Margot’s elegant white-tablecloth vibe has wow factor, as do the plates coming out of the kitchen. A fresh, cherry-rich glass of Burgundy pinot noir plays nicely with the twice-breaded oxtail croustillant — or perhaps you’d prefer the pan-seared duck magret. Even on the busiest nights, chef-owner Hervé Mahé circles the dining room. “Do you like everything?” he’ll ask earnestly. “Are you enjoying that wine?” Chances are, your answer will be a resounding yes.
A Single Pebble
133 Bank St., Burlington, asinglepebble.com
Traditional preparation and presentation distinguish Chinese dishes such as mock eel — a fave of the Food Network’s Alton Brown. Lunch date? Try the tasting menu.
Butch + Babe’s
258 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, butchandbabes.com
A fun and relaxed vibe has made this Old North End joint a hit since the day it opened. The food — from General Tso’s cauliflower to Chicago-style hot dogs — is approachable and crafted with care.
Misery Loves Co.
46 Main St., Winooski, miserylovescovt.com
Need a conversation starter? Talk about the open kitchen’s seriously imaginative food — think scallop crudo and bacon beignets. The fare has twice nabbed the chef-owners James Beard Award nominations.
Monarch & the Milkweed
111 St. Paul St., Burlington, monarchandthemilkweed.com
Pastry shop, “fine diner” and cocktail bar in one, Monarch dishes out fun, upscale twists on American classics — and desserts worthy of love letters.
Pascolo Ristorante
83 Church St., Burlington, pascolovt.com
Share a bowl of handmade pasta with your sweetheart. The stellar wine list and low-lit dining room beg for a romantic spaghetti kiss, à la Lady and the Tramp.
Pizzeria Verità
156 St. Paul St., Burlington, pizzeriaverita.com
The thin-crust pies fired up here recall Naples, the lights are low and the cocktails are strong enough to ease you through even an awkward first date.
This article appears in What’s Good 2018.
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