Gourmet magazine reviewed Vernon's Kuntry Katfish in 1999 and the place has maintained its local fame ever since. Go for classic Southern soul food: catfish prepared every way imaginable and the Good Pie made with cream cheese, layers of banana and pineapple, and a willowy lop of whipped cream, chocolate and pecans.

[Photo: Albert Moyer Jr.]

This friend- and family-owned craft brewery opened last summer on six densely wooded acres, just off 105. Brewmasters Chad and Bret Daniel infuse casks with roasted coconut to create a mosaic-hopped Wheat IPA for the summer. There are also plenty of pilsners, seasonal brews, stouts, and a rye saison — depending on your tastes. Ping-pong tables, weekend food trucks, fire pits and picnic tables complete the vacation vibe.

[Photo: Courtesy B-52]

This Italian deli is slightly hidden in a small strip center across from the April Sound gated community on 105. Make that U-turn, and your pesto game will never be the same. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., owner Tony Nicoletta has been cooking for over 30 years and has owned 15 restaurants. He believed moving to Texas might afford him the time to relax and open a small eatery. But with a menu spanning authentic deli sandwiches, fresh-baked focaccia, muffalettas, deli salads, soups, cannoli, Italian wedding cookies, groceries, and Banza breads stuffed with homemade sausage, Nicoletta isn't getting the respite he might have hoped for.

[Photo: Facebook]

This relative newcomer to the lake offers a change of pace from all the barbecue and chain restaurants nearby. Skip the "Chinese Dinner" section of the menu and order from the lengthy sushi options.

Place, City. [Photo: Yelp]

This woodsy respite has a gazebo-style deck, and slightly more upmarket offerings than your average Lake Conroe joint. Think panini, salads and "regional classics" like chicken enchiladas and kielbasa with red beans and rice. Go for weekday lunch and your glass of cabernet is just $5.

[Photo: Yelp]