ToST

Open since the winter of 2002, ToST made its name by serving free mini-pizzas during happy hour and booking a colorful and eclectic mix of performers and DJs. The free pizzas are, well, toast, but nightly shows still feature far-reaching styles and sounds. You might encounter a songwriter on mandolin one evening, an Arabic percussionist the next, and then a funk band after that. Throw in a spoken-word performance or two, some indie rock, and a downtempo DJ; it’s all in a week’s work. Every Thursday, ToST, in conjunction with Buddhaful House, presents Marmalade featuring Piece of Jumbalaya, members of Phat Sidy Smokehouse and NuSol Tribe, and DJ Shapeshifter. In between shows and performers, ToST is a great place for drinks, dinner, and relaxed conversation. 513 N. 36th St., Space E, 206-547-0240, www.tostlounge.com.