Small Town Food Co. is the latest high–low spot to grace Parkdale's bustling dining strip. On cold nights, condensation blankets the windows, hiding the interior from prying eyes. Inside, things may get a touch rowdy — after all, the menu is made for sharing, with offerings including trendy cauliflower, throwback Oysters Rockefeller and boast-worthy Scotch eggs (a serious egg researcher told us they're the city's best).

The cocktail menu is just as exciting, with libations ranging from the namesake Small Town Sour to our pick, the Madame Harrison ($16). This beverage puts the booze first, starring some incredibly smooth El Dorado 12 year old rum. It's joined by Cynar — a bitter Italian liqueur packed with artichoke and herbs — and is sweetened up a touch by the apple flavour of Calvados brandy, and both rhubarb syrup and some bitters. The result? A drink that starts out strong but mellows out by the end of each sip.

As for the inspiration behind the cocktail's moniker? "Madame Harrison was our super hot French teacher in high school," explains co-owner Stephen McKeon. "Our very own Veronica Vaughn, if you will." And there you have it.

Small Town Food Co., 1263 Queen St. W., 416-538-7695