By Perrin Martin 

Former shoe designer Perrin Martin spent part of her childhood enjoying the spoils of Millbrook. For the past 12 years she and her husband Greg, and their two daughters have made this their home. Perrin loves everything about the area, especially the rich cultural life, the natural beauty, the Millbrook Hunt and, of course, its fantastic restaurants. 

 Perrin shares her favorites.

• After a day of skiing at Hunter Mountain there is no better place to go with the kids than Last Chance Cheese and Antiques Cafe in Tannersville, NY. Think cheese fondue and s’mores over your own fire sterno. Then top off the night with live music next door at the Last Chance Tavern. If you want an adult luxury meal try Prospect at Scribner’s. This hipster restaurant has fabulous service, food, and drinks. Highly recommended is the squash carbonara topped with crispy prosciutto.
• After a day of skiing at Catamount nothing beats an early dinner at The Old Mill in South Egremont, MA. It’s child-friendly, the service is impeccable and the food is outstanding. No kids? Head to the rustic and cozy tavern bar. 
• Old Drovers Inn in Dover, NY, is a Hudson Valley icon that has been restored to life after a devastating fire. The charming Tap Room offers great winter meals and their signature enormous Martinis. Make sure to ask for the table in front of the fire and order their deviled eggs, cheddar cheese soup, and farmhouse burger topped with garlic aioli. 
• Champêtre in Pine Plains, NY, is chef Michael Jean’s latest endeavor. Long-time fans will fondly remember dining at his restaurant Provence in Soho or at the Stissing House (also in Pine Plains). The menu may be small but when one can dine on his duck confit or bouillabaisse, who needs anything more? This winter you can enjoy fondue every Sunday from 4-7 pm. It is great to have him back!
• The Bird Dog Cafe at Orvis Sandanona in Millbrook is open seven days a week. While they don’t serve alcoholic drinks, you can bring your own bottle of wine (no corkage fee!). Of course, that’s not the only reason to visit. The 400 acre property, which is open to the public, also offers some of the best wing and clay shooting in the state. 
• Les Baux in the heart of Millbrook never disappoints. Chef Herve Bochard’s award-winning winter favorites include French onion soup, escargot, lamb burger, and croque-madame.
• Serevan in Amenia offers Mediterranean fare with an Armenian/Persian twist. My favorites include the warm squid salad and the trout. For heartier appetites, try the Moroccan-style chicken bastilla or the rack of lamb. Not only is chef/owner Serge Madikians a pilot who makes weekly flights to source his ingredients, he is also one of the best hosts and raconteurs in the area.
• There is no place like Tamarack Preserve on a cold wintery day with the fireplace roaring in the bar. This private club has one of the best restaurants in Millbrook. My favorites are the steak tartare, roasted foie gras on grilled brioche, and the Hudson Valley duck confit.