It’s always nice to get some food before a show or night out downtown, and what could be better than sitting under mood lighting and sharing a succulent plate of cheese and meat? Bar Bricco has Italian-sourced salumi and formaggi, and house-made Porchetta and ricotta.The Prosciutto di Parma is aged 18 months and the Finocchiona is a palate pleaser. A quick bite to start the night doesn’t have to mean street food. Go to Bar Bricco for some food variety and good conversation (mainly about the food itself). – C.S.
10347 Jasper Ave., 780-424-5588, barbricco.com
There is a wide variety of sausages on Otto’s à la carte menu, from spicy pork offerings, to lamb and beef merguez to beef brats to vegetarian options. But who wants to try just one sausage? Order a few different varieties, served on a large wooden platter, along with some pickles and sauerkraut. Divvy them up and enjoy them with the family-size sides. The garlic oil makes the fries just pop, and the smoked mac and cheese is a meal on its own. – S.S.
11405 95 St., 780-477-6244, ottofoodanddrink.com
Guru has vegetable and chicken shooters on its menu, which might be one of the best sharing items on any menu in the city. Generously spiced bits of chicken or vegetarian goodness are sealed in tiny pastry cups. Pop one in your mouth and it explodes. We know that Indian food is wonderful for sharing — even the entrées. And look, we all love butter chicken — it’s everyone’s default order. But try the lamb curry, with a wonderful tomato sauce that you’ll want to soak up with all of the fresh-out-of-the-oven naan you can eat. Fruity, inventive cocktails and non-alcoholic concoctions will make the time with friends go by all the better. – S.S.
17021 100 Ave., 780-484-4300, gururestaurant.com
