The Brass Pineapple Restaurant,

302 Spring Street (Route 12 west off Route 140), Winchendon, (978) 297-0312 or (888) BRASS12.

If we gave stars, the Brass Pineapple would get them all, thanks to chef Paul Wilson's creative, gourmet fare, the restaurant's enthusiastic and friendly waitstaff, and the comfortable and rustic setting. Best bets: New Zealand venison, Thai curried pork tenderloin, and braised lamb shank served with root vegetables and white beans (and, if you deserve it, the pineapple cherry cobbler).

Full review.

Price Range: $6 - $18.