A Dining Trend

Thanks to Michelle Huneven for spotlighting a good-news trend for solos that is mushrooming across the country (“The Food’s Secondary at Ciao Bella,” July 30).

But, contrary to Huneven’s belief, Ciao Bella’s cheek-by-jowl, long-table community dining is a comfortable way for shy and not-so-shy solos to blend into a restaurant--and a terrific opportunity for folks to enjoy “a side of company” along with a plate of pasta.

Ciao Bella’s recipe is but one variation of community dining. Maison Magnolia (Los Angeles), the Ritz-Carlton (Phoenix) and Embassy Row’s Lucie Restaurant (Washington) also offer community dining that attracts couples and solos alike. But their seating provides plenty of air space and is by reservation only.

MARYA CHARLES

ALEXANDER

South Pasadena