Locale Profile: Table – You’ll Definitely Want a Seat at This One

Last week I headed to Barrington to profile the new restaurant Crepelicious. To my dismay (and a product of my clear lack of preparation), Crepelicious is nothing more than a “coming soon” sign and a partially empty building. Disappointed, I drove through the town in search of some good eats. As I passed the fairly new Coastal Commons Plaza, I spotted a sign that read Table. Was this a store selling expensive sporks and holiday linens, or a new dining option in the East Bay? As we pulled into the parking lot I noticed some outdoor seating. Now this looked promising.

From the moment we walked in the door, I knew I stumbled upon something special. The restaurant is quite small, giving it the feeling that you’re eating in someone’s home. In the center of the room is a large table that seats about 10, which is used for either large parties, or smaller parties that don’t mind getting friendly. Around the perimeter is some bench seating, along with a couple of four-tops. Like I said, this place is small.  

The décor is rustic-modern with lots of reclaimed wood and retro light fixtures – very homey and comfortable. Our server handed us the lunch menu, which had a handful of thoughtful items. Following the farm to table trend, this restaurant offers only fresh, local ingredients. The menu, therefore, changes often to accommodate the flavors of the seasons and the chef’s whim. We lucked out and got the end of summer menu.  

After commenting on the attractiveness of the waiter no less than five times, my dining companion ordered the open-faced chicken salad with cranberries and walnuts on multi-grain bread. I opted for the burger: pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes and greens served on a buttery brioche bun with pomme frittes and homemade ketchup. This was no ordinary lunch. Every item was spectacularly delicious. The burger, though messy, was juicy and flavorful; not at all overshadowed by its condiments. The chicken salad was fresh and delicious, as was the locally made multi-grain bread. For dessert we tried the coconut blueberry pot de crème.  If you’re in the mood for something sweet, this probably isn’t be the best choice, as the flavors are subtle. I, however, can’t resist anything with coconut and loved every bite.  

After lunch we chatted with the restaurant’s friendly proprietor, Claude Lochet. Table opened for business almost a year ago and is developing quite a local following (evidenced by the lunch crowd, all of whom seemed to know Claude by name). In addition to serving lunch and dinner, the restaurant occasionally hosts wine dinners and private events. As we perused the full menu, he urged us to return and give dinner a try. I looked around this wonderful place and thought to myself, “Fantastic food, cozy, inviting ambience, and some decent eye candy? Of course I’ll be back!” The unique dining experience that Table offers makes the drive to Barrington worthwhile, even for a Rhode Island native. 

Table is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Dinner reservations are highly recommended so make sure to call ahead, especially on the weekends. 8 Anoka Ave., Barrington.