The most elegant dining experience in Waterville Valley can be found at the William Tell (726-3618; $$–$$$) on Rte. 49 just down the valley from the resort. The William Tell has a strong Swiss-German accent with excellent wines.

On Saturday nights, take a 30-minute snowcat ride up the slopes to the Schwendi Hutte (236-8311, ext. 3000). The food is some of the best in the valley, as is the ambiance. Reservations are required, and the snowcat ride and meal cost $65/person.

The Wild Coyote Grill (236-4919; $–$$) in the White Mountain Athletic Club, offers nouveau cuisine with a Southwestern flair, and the calamari is a specialty. For moderately priced family fare, head to the new Italian restaurant Aglio (236-3676; $-$$) or call Olde Waterville Valley Pizza Co. (236-3663; $). Diamond Edge North (236-2006; $$), also in Town Square, offers classier meals with nicer presentations.

The Schwendi Hutte, at the top of the White Peak Express Quad, has the best lunch on the mountain. Here you can slip off your boots and warm your tootsies in the slippers provided. On sunny spring days, head for barbecue on the deck of Sunnyside Up on Valley Run. The base area has a cafeteria, pizza corner and T-Bars. The food at T-Bars is nothing to write home about, but the ski memorabilia lining the walls is interesting.

For breakfast, pick up coffee and pastries at the Waterville Coffee Emporium (236-4021; $) or the Jugtown Sandwich Shop (236-3669; $). The Coffee Emporium also cooks omelets, eggs, French toast and waffles. Both are in Town Square.

Dining Legend: $$$$–Entrees $30+; $$$–$20–$30; $$–$10–$20; $–less than $10.