Dining “experiences” are trending here on the Shoreline, and I think it’s a very good thing. As soon as we heard about The Table in Madison, we rushed right over. Renowned Shoreline chef, Paul Barron, has moved into sweet quarters on Boston Post Road in Madison.  You’ll find a small, spic and span, fireplaced open kitchen and dining room featuring a family heirloom table seating twelve. That’s it.

The fare here is straightforward, ample, and delicious. A starter of a charcuterie plate included my favorite Marcona almonds, freshly baked crisp bread, hunks of Parmigiano, and super spicy sausage, a sweet/salty/crunchy/spicy flavor bonanza that fired up our taste buds for what was to come. I loved that the menu was current without being too tricky: the first course of house-made sausage stuffed calamari with Harissa sauce was an unusual and interesting app. Blood orange and beet salad followed, then a tender hunk of skirt steak (one of my favorite cuts) in luscious green peppercorn Bordelaise, served with frites. For dessert: a creme brulee so ridiculously creamy I practically licked the ramequin. The Table is not a small plate event; you’ll have PLENTY to eat.

For those of us who occasionally prefer strangers over friends, the communal seating is a blast. I loved my table mates…and by the end of the two-hour plus dinner, we were happily exchanging emails. Chef Paul and his wife Caroline are lovely hosts. They’ll explain the courses and ingredients, but they don’t belabor it. And of course, you can watch the meal prep from your seat.

Good to know: Paul is available for catering and private parties at your home or at The Table.

Check the website for upcoming menus: www.chefpaulbarron.com/the-table.html

837 Boston Post Road, Madison