Drifter's

156 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, driftersvt.com

It took a while for Queen City residents to discover Drifter's, which opened in the Old North End in June 2016. But word slowly got out about chef-partner Andrew Ryan's inexpensive, religiously local fare. From the kimchi ramen bowls made with duck broth and house-smoked bacon to the barbecue pulled-pork sliders, everything is top quality and made from scratch. The fun, laid-back vibe — not to mention the $5 cans of Citizen Cider — will make Drifter's your new favorite neighborhood hang.

August First Bakery & Café

149 S. Champlain St., Burlington, augustfirstvt.com

Laptops and tablets are off-limits at this screen-free café — so you'll actually have to strike up a conversation with someone over a delicious mocha and fresh-made pastry.

Barrio Bakery & Café / Pizza Barrio

197 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington, barriobakeryvt.com

By day, the friendly Old North End bakery turns out breads, pastries, soups and sandwiches. By night — Tuesday through Saturday, anyway — it's all about the handmade pizzas.

Handy's Lunch

74 Maple St., Burlington, handyslunch.wordpress.com

Three generations of Handys have served diner fare on the cheap — often with a side of political chatter — at this friendly South End lunch counter. (Meet owner Earl Handy on page 26.) Whatever you order, get it with tots!

Henry's Diner

155 Bank St., Burlington, 862-9010

Breakfast all day and home-cooked dishes in a cozy, old-school atmosphere? No wonder downtown's favorite diner is a local landmark. Try the Greek specialties.

Nunyuns Bakery & Café

139 N. Champlain St., Burlington, nunyuns.com

This bright Old North End café pairs a living-room vibe with egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos and buttery French toast.

St. Paul Street Gastrogrub

205 St. Paul St., Burlington, stpaulstgastrogrub.com

Belly up to a round of Connect Four at this pint-size South End pub — or snack on $2 corn dogs until the doors close at 2 a.m.