http://seattle.citysearch.com/roundup/43036 It's the latest trend in restaurant design: communal seating. While breaking bread at a table of strangers may bring back not-so-fond memories of school lunchrooms for some, it can take culinary adventures to new levels for those brave enough to try it. Head straight to the shared tables at these local hot spots where you're guaranteed to enjoy both the cuisine and the camaraderie of fellow foodies. en Copyright 2008 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 http://images.citysearch.com/roundup/bf/75/43036r1.jpg http://seattle.citysearch.com/roundup/43036 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Feast on Chef Matt Dillon's award-winning fare, such as the fiddle head fern salad or roasted whole bronzino, at this Eastlake hole-in-the-wall. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/41940946/seattle_wa/sitka_spruce.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Start with one house margarita; add plantain chips and guacamole, then top with the crispy perfection of entomatadas or the rich velvety mole. The festive food, margaritas and communal seating make for one delicious fiesta. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/40843074/seattle_wa/la_carta_de_oaxaca.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles This Linda Derschang-run rustic pub is complete with antlers on the walls, a jukebox and two 10-foot communal tables for meeting new friends over chef Tyler Palagi's lauded pork shank. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/45579094/seattle_wa/smith.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Discover the place foodies all over Seattle are raving about for its simple, creative menu--but go early: Elemental only has 14 (communal) seats. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/41780274/seattle_wa/elemental.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Order the special and delight in the art of cured meats as you sit elbow-to elbow with newfound friends in this family-run Sodo sandwich shack. Famed New York chef Mario Batali, son of the owner, is known to drop by when he's in town. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/10776741/seattle_wa/salumi.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Octopus salad and house-made gnocchi are the favorites at this Belltown hot spot, which also boasts the longest (hand-carved) communal table in town. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/44694519/seattle_wa/tavolata.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Nestle into this friendly neighborhood enclave for a dinner of small plates paired with wines from their voluminous list. Seattle, WA http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/41544767/seattle_wa/pair.html Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:53:37 -0700