Communal dining restos, which encourage patrons to share dining space, don’t offer much privacy. But making friends is very, very easy. Here’s where to go, and who you’ll meet.
Oddfellows
This narrow resto, boasting décor by local heavyweights Castor Design,offers hearty French-influenced Canadian fare, like the venison burger and lamb stew for two. Sit beside: arty hipster and marketing types who aspire to be arty hipsters. Mains, $13 – $39. 936 Queen St. W.,(416) 534-5244.
Le Pain Quotidien (above)
Focusing on organic, artisanal breads, a selection of Mediterranean offerings, and killer omelettes (try the parmesan and pesto), this Belgian café is anything but quotidian. Sit beside: rich and skinny MILFs taking a break from shopping. Mains, $8 – $14. 18 Yorkville Ave., (416) 926-7555; 508 Eglinton Ave. W.,(416) 485-3000 .
The Dakota Tavern
This subterranean bluegrass bar features food as down-home as the live music, from grilled cheese to slow cooked ribs meant for sharing. Sit beside: country-style babes wearing Wrangler jeans and flannel shirts. Mains, $5 – $22. 249 Ossington Ave.,(416) 850-4579.
Pizzeria Libretto
Offering authentic Neapolitan pizza and southern Italian antipasti, bruschette and salumi e formaggi, this new spot is decidedly old world. Sit beside: Terroni ex-pats and new-arrival condo dwellers. Mains, $10 – $16. 221 Ossington Ave.,(416) 532-8000.
Salad King
This sleek Thai spot offers fiery curries and savoury noodle dishes that are fresh, fast and affordable. Sit beside: hot and bothered Ryerson fashion students complaining about the rising cost of fabric. Mains, $7 – $9. 335 Yonge St., (416) 971-7041.
