#community-dining

#community-dining

In Markham, Ontario, about 20 miles north of Toronto, you could book a table for lobster risotto at a modern Italian restaurant or for a marbled ribeye at a classic steakhouse. Or, you could reserve a seat inside the warm, welcoming home of a local family.

"The goal," says Gomes, "is to create a space where everyone feels welcome, but where we're prioritizing our neighbors."

Gusts of wind blow through the Bryant Street alley in San Francisco's Mission District, sending tablecloths flapping uncontrollably until they are secured to the high-top tables with heavy plates of Acme seed bread, house-made cultured butter, duck liver pate and bottles of chenin blanc.

"I tell people, we only do it one day a week because it's kind of for the local community. It's nice to have for them when they want something new to eat."