New England has its own cuisine and some recipes that date back to the Founding Fathers and the pilgrims. Most are based on what is plentiful–seafood, farm raised vegetables and much more. Eating a tasty boiled lobster is an art in itself, but don’t miss a typical clam bake if you have the opportunity. A hole is dug on the beach where the fire is covered with seaweed and clams, lobster and other shell fish are steamed. Boston Baked Beans, Indian Pudding, Clam Chowder, raw clams and oysters, cranberry sauce, maple syrup and cornbread are just a few of many regional treats.

• UNION OYSTER HOUSE, Boston, Massachusetts. If you love history and raw oysters, this is the place for you! Indulge to your hearts’ content at the raw bar or dine on cooked seafood or steak in the oldest restaurant in the USA. 42 Union St., Tel: (617)227 2750.
• FRANKLIN CAFE, Boston, Massachusetts. Reserve a booth where you can enjoy each other as you try tasty, familiar dishes. This is where local cognoscenti go to enjoy a meal in a relaxed atmosphere. 278 Shawmut Avenue, Tel: (617) 350 0010.
• LOCKE OBER, Boston, Massachusetts. A tried and true New England classic for fine dining. Soft lights and dark paneling create a romantic setting for haute New England cuisine. 3 Winter Place., Tel: (617) 542 1340.
• JEAN LOUIS RESTAURANT, Greenwich, Connecticut. You’ll want to make a night of it and dress up to enjoy the prize winning cuisine. 61 Lewis St., Tel: (203) 622 8450.
• GEORGE WASHINGTON TAVERN, Washington, Connecticut. George Washington memorabilia and a cozy fireplace make this a popular place to relax, soak up history and enjoy reasonably priced comfort food such as meatloaf and chicken pot pie. 20 Bee Brook Road, Washington Depot, Tel: (860) 868 6633.
• MES AMIS, Stowe, Vermont. Soft candlelight adds to the romantic ambience of this friendly, reasonably priced bistro. 311 Mountain Road, Tel: (802) 253 8669.
• THE DUNAWAY, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Nestled on a riverbank, this renowned restaurant serves up a rustic, candlelit romantic ambience with superb cuisine. You’ll want to make an evening of it. 66 Marcy St., Tel: (603) 373 6112.
• PAN E VINO, Providence, Rhode Island. Candlelight makes this place on Federal Hill, the city’s famous Little Italy, even more romantic. Hearty Neapolitan dishes and good wines make you feel like lingering longer to share a gelato and coffee. 35 Atwells Avenue, Tel: (401) 223 2230.