Dining solo can and should be quite enjoyable. However, when you’re having some alone time in a social bar or restaurant, folks seem to look upon you with pity. Luckily, the “oh you poor lonely thing” looks are absent at Brownstone Tavern & Grill, where you can easily cozy up to the bar and grab a seat for one. As far as taverns go, this is a lovely spot that’s softly lit by stained-glass chandeliers, candles and shaded lamps atop the dark mahogany bar. The several flatscreen TVs fall short of turning the bar into a typical beer-soaked floor sports (thank goodness).

The dining selections go beyond average tavern fare, including toasted ravioli and crispy Reuben roll appetizers and several fresh and flavorful salads. Deliciously prepared sandwiches include tilapia filet with with Chef Jim Hoban’s own Cajun seasoning and Boursin cheese on a freshly baked Challah bun; Australian lamb chops and seared tuna are top-notch entrees. Plan on brining a drinking buddy for nightly specials like 32-ounce pitchers of berry sangria for $12 on Sundays, Cuervo margarita pitches ($12) on Wednesdays and Amstel Light and Heineken buckets ($10 for 5 bottles).

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Wennig