• Oliver Parini
• Bistro de Margot

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

• Matthew Thorsen
• Pascolo Ristorante

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.