The next time you enjoy an amazing dining-out experience, give some thought to the genius behind the cuisine.  We are referring, of course, to the talented top chefs who create culinary magic at the hottest restaurants around town.

Some of the chefs – like Lexington Square Café Pastry Chef Dominique Baptiste, have been in the area for years; others, like Crabtree’s Kittle House Chef Mark Lippman, are brand new to the local scene.  But, with their delectable creations, they all inspire us to dine out more often.

Here’s our list of the top chefs in town. Care to offer a different opinion? Comment below!

Pastry Chef Dominique Baptiste, Lexington Square Café (510 Lexington Avenue, Mount Kisco).  Baptiste told us that during his past seven years as head pastry chef at Lexington Square, he has had only one complaint, and we think his nearly perfect record is well-deserved.  Baptiste’s cakes – particularly the red velvet – are simply divine.

Peter Devito, Restaurant 121 (2 Dingle Road, North Salem).  As both owner and executive chef, Devito delivers delicious American fare including an adventurous variety of wood-fired pizzas, unique takes on seafood, and the perfect burger.

Jeremy McMillan, Bedford Post Inn (954 Old Post Road, Bedford).  In September 2010, McMillan left A Voce in Manhattan to become head chef at the Bedford Post Inn’s Farmhouse and Barn restaurants. Ever since McMillan took on his new role, he has been delighting his guests with fresh, local, seasonal American fare.

Freddy Aguero, Tuscan Oven (360 North Bedford Road, Mount Kisco).  As head chef since September 2009, Aguero has won the hearts and stomachs of his customers with his distinctly authentic Italian cuisine.

Morgan Vondle, Village Social Kitchen & Bar (251 East Main Street, Mount Kisco).  Vondle became Village Social’s head chef in September 2010, and.  Although new to the scene, he has made his mark by creating a menu of interesting and appealing appetizers.

Mark Lippman, Crabtree’s Kittle House (11 Kittle Rd, Chappaqua).  This past April, even with only 1 month under his belt as the new chef of Crabtree’s Kittle House,  Lippman’s creations   were a hit with the local foodies during Restaurant Week.

Ethan Kostbar, Modern Barn (430 Bedford Road, Armonk).   Kostbar, who has been at Modern Barn since June 2010, and has gained notice for his fresh, local cuisine and abundant use of vegetables that accompany every dish, as well as his delivery of sinfully satisfying desserts.