When it comes to a good meal, Vermonters value a hearty dish, fresh ingredients and friendly service.  Only in Vermont has put together a restaurant road trip in Vermont that will take you to amazing breakfasts, lunches and dinners in a driving loop throughout Southern and Central Vermont; you'll conquer 299 miles and 7 hours driving time.  While on your road trip, check out some of the unique and interesting places we've talked about in other Only In Vermont posts - Have you joined our Facebook Page yet?

*Please note that a couple of the restaurants in the graphic below have closed and have been removed from the list.

1. The Porch Too - 648 Putney Road, Brattleboro (Breakfast)

If you like to taste the local ingredients that go into your meal, you're in luck. At the Porch Too, you'll find a great selection of coffees, teas, and chai. Add to that a killer breakfast menu including delicious scones and other goodies and top it off with friendly staff and great music... That's what we call a winning recipe!

2. The Elm Street Market - 251 Elm Street, Bennington (Lunch)

After checking out the town of Bennington, stop into the Elm Street Market for a great deli sandwich. This is both a small grocery store and deli where you'll find out-of-this-world sandwiches. Pictured is the Roast beef London broil with caramelized onions and honey horseradish on a pretzel roll.

3. Silver Fork - 4201 Main Street, Manchester (Dinner)

Spend the night in Manchester at one of the most delicious, intimate restaurants in Vermont. Be sure to call ahead as the Silver Fork has a large, eclectic menu but only six tables. Pictured is the lobster risotto wit veal jus. Pair it with their amazing wine list and it's a meal fit for a king.

4. Stone Soup Restaurant - 7 Brook Road, Strafford (Dinner)

This hard to find gem is worth the hunt. No sign. No advertising. Simply impeccably prepared dishes using local ingredients. The vegetables that accompany your dish will change the way you look at side dishes forever.

5. King Arthur Flour - 135 US Rt. 5 S, Norwich (Breakfast)

If you're looking where to eat in Vermont for fresh and baked-to-perfection croissants, look no further than the king of all flour factories - King Arthur Flour! It's a cafe, school and store all rolled into one, so don't plan on rushing in and out. There is plenty to do and see here to kick off a great day!

6. Mon Vert Cafe - 67 Central Street, Woodstock (Lunch)

Woodstock is a great place to stroll around and check out the local shops and historic village. A perfect place to grab a fresh and healthy lunch is the Mon Vert Cafe with its friendly and helpful service, high quality local ingredients, and overall a excellent place! You'll also enjoy the cool coffeehouse vibe.

7. The Downtown Grocery - 41 S Depot Street, Ludlow (Dinner)

Get ready for some explosively delicious meals at the Downtown Grocery. You can find Prosciutto Crudo di Parma and other Italian specialties as they import directly form the old country, as well as local products from VT. The cheese served with the Mesclun Salad is delicious, the Catfish served over Cheddar Grits is to die for and the homemade mint ice cream is actually made with real mint that you could not only taste but see.

For a more detailed map and directions of this restaurant road trip in Vermont, click here to view in Google Maps.  Bon appetite and bon voyage!

Which places do you think have the best local restaurants in Vermont? We are curious to hear from you. Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below. For more Vermont dining topics, check out this list of the 12 best BBQ sandwiches in Vermont.