Avec means “with” in French, which fits here because you’re likely to end up dining with complete strangers at one of the communal tables. But you won’t mind, because the restaurant’s Euro-Mediterranean fare and surprisingly reasonable prices put you in such a good mood that you’re happy to talk with your neighbors about the amazing food in front of you. Co-owned by chef Paul Kahan—who’s better known for Blackbird, Avec’s sister restaurant next door—Avec offers delicious fare such as the popular chorizo-stuffed madjool dates wrapped in smoked bacon and topped with a piquillo pepper-tomato sauce, and the crispy focaccia with taleggio cheese, truffle oil and fresh herbs. The menu, which is divided into large and small plates, is always changing, which means this restaurant is worth a trip every time you’re in town. The small room looks almost sauna-like with its fully paneled cedar walls and ceiling, and its back display of glass wine bottles is both colorful and whimsical. Speaking of bottles, Avec offers some 125 wines from France, Italy, Spain and Portugal; we recommend buying a bottle to share with the newfound friends you’ll undoubtedly meet at your table.

Avec Information:

• Contemporary American, Mediterranean menu. Dinner.