2 Best Restaurants in Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire

The refined yet relaxed restaurant in the historic Inn at Pleasant Lake makes a splendid destination for a special occasion dinner, or simply to savor a delicious brunch in the window-lined dining room or out on the patio—both areas have views of the lake in the near distance. The kitchen here turns out artfully plated contemporary fare, such as grilled octopus with Spanish chorizo and a smoked-paprika vinaigrette, and sea scallops with a ginger-citrus chimichurri.

This convivial, easygoing gastropub in historic Lyme's rambling Dowd's Country Inn—which also has pleasant guest accommodations—features an impressive list of New England craft beers as well as an enticing selection of reasonably priced comfort fare. Favorites include the half-pound house burger topped with bacon and a beer–smoked gouda fondue, and the confit-pork poutine with a chipotle-cider barbecue sauce.