It seems to be one of those mysteries of life when restaurant owners decide to give their new place a seemingly irrelevant numerical title. Think Café 688 in Toronto, or Eight in Calgary. How is the common patron supposed to know that C5 at the ROM is so titled because it is located in the top of the fifth crystal? One wouldn't normally stand outside of the Michael Lee-Chin composition counting the apexes and prismatic structures for clarity before they go in to wine and dine. However, a destination with a utilitarian name is concise and to the point, à la Bar 244. (This also means there is little chance of forgetting the address).

The space at 244 Adelaide St. West has been home to numerous dives. But since Chris White took over in December, it has gradually transformed into a polished, modern space. The former owner of the White Bros. Fish Co. (a fish and chip place in the Beaches, sold in 2006), was eager to get back into the food and bar scene with something bigger. In an interesting move from battering halibut in the East end of the city, White has established a bar in the core of the Toronto nightlife district.

Looking for something to do which didn't leave him smelling like the lake, White leapt at the opportunity to create his vision of a cool bar/lounge space and restaurant. The result is a sleek dark wood bar and table seating for food service on the upper level. An additional bar and late night dance area highlights the lower level.

Adam Calzonetti, previously of Politica, creates refined bar food done tapas style, which is great for being able to nibble at a few different types of thing so that, "you are not just stuck with a burger and fries for the night," says White. Plus it's all under 10 bucks. Bar 244 will find fans for their choice of high quality and clean ingredients in their uncomplicated menu. Pick from such bar favourites as Mango Chili Ribs ($9) (braised baby back ribs tossed in a mango chili lime sauce), Crispy Free Range Chicken Wings with a variety of sauces and dips ($8), or a 3oz Angus Beef Burgers ($3), in addition to several types of flat bread pizzas (all $9).