Hen of the Wood — Good chefs cost money. And locavore products don’t come cheap. But a delicious dinner at Burlington’s hottest new restaurant is worth the price, especially when someone else is picking up the check.

Other Finalists (Inside Chittenden County)

• A Single Pebble
• Guild Tavern
• Leunig’s Bistro & Café
• Trattoria Delia

Michael's on the Hill — This romantic, farm-to-table fine-dining restaurant has alpine roots. Swiss-trained chef-owner Michael Kloeti runs the kitchen. The menu changes regularly, but homemade gnocchi and chocolate fondue are perennials.

Other Finalists (Outside Chittenden County)

• Blue Paddle Bistro
• Kismet