In West Chester, Gilmore’s (133 E. Gay St., 610/431-2800, www.gilmoresrestaurant.com, Tues.–Sat.) is a popular upscale French BYOB in the heart of town. There are just two seatings at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.; be sure to make reservations, as it is one of the area’s most acclaimed restaurants.

Or you can head off the main drag just a short drive on a quiet road to Four Dogs Tavern (1300 W. Strasburg Rd., Rte. 162, 610/692-4367, Mon.–Wed. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Thurs.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.) for a more casual atmosphere for reasonably priced salads, burgers, and dinner entrées in an upbeat atmosphere. The bar stays open until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends, and there is usually live entertainment on Thursday and Sunday nights. Nab a seat on the outdoor patio when the weather is warm.

Another star in West Chester dining is Simon Pearce (1333 Lenape Rd., Rte. 52 N., 610/793-0948, Mon.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.). A destination restaurant, it offers modern, upscale cuisine in a beautiful setting on the Brandywine River. Sunday brunch features live classical music, and while you’re there, you can visit the handmade glass and pottery workshop and home retail store.