I've been to National a few times. I've eaten food/consumed beer inside, outside and have also attended a private event.
I have mixed feelings about the community seats. As other reviewers have said, don't try to have a private conversation. Because people will be listening. It is one thing being a pair at one end of the table with another pair at the end. But when 3 or more try to join your table...well I'm not sure how I feel about that.
The beer selection is pretty great. Something for everyone and then some. The wine selection is fairly ample for a pub too, although I haven't tried it to know the quality.
Which brings us to the food. Burgers (beef as well as the turkey) are great although on both occasions the bun has fallen apart before I was halfway through. They have great flavour and are cooked really well. I also like that you have the option of a healthy side green salad or fries, depending on how calorie conscious you are being. I've had a few of their appies as well...good but nothing stand out.
Service...pretty attentive but not overly friendly. They seem really rushed all the time, like they are short staffed.
I do like the wrap around patio although 17th Ave traffic can sometimes drown out conversation. With all the windows, it can get quite warm on the inside on a sunny day (even in the cooler weather).