Moving to a new city has its ups and downs. One of the weird things about living in a new city is that sometimes you feel like an outsider. Take for example Fourth of July weekend. Now if I had spent it in Cleveland I would have known exactly what we were doing. I know who hosts the annual cook outs. I know where the fireworks go off and how to avoid traffic. I probably would have made a theme appropriate side dish and spent the night following my mom to a party and then just sipping on something outside with Joe and Mom as the night wore down. But this Fourth of July we were like the new kids in school who didn't know where to sit during lunch. Nonetheless we had an amazing Fourth of July weekend, but that is a moot point. There is something to knowing what is happening in your city and where you fit into that, that is part of the feeling of belonging when you are "home."
Anyway we have been frequenting two fine establishments since we both arrived: Vesper Lounge for Tuesday Quiz Night and Attivo for any and every occasion. Vesper Lounge is a a sort of kitschy, wood walled bar with Greek bar fare. The inside is darker, but they have some nice garage windows that are always open to the patio that has little fire pits and is definitely a pleasant place to languish. Attivo is an Italian place with clean lines, an open kitchen, seriously good food and it is usually quiet which suits us most nights of the week. What both of these places have in common is friendly bartenders. We have come to know each others names and we share more than pleasantries. They are quick to fill your glass and just really make every visit enjoyable and more fun.
Being a regular creates a sense of belonging. I think people need to feel like they belong to something, even if it is only for an hour at your local bar.
Shout out to all the bartenders who know my name and a huge hug to those who know my drink of choice (cough cough Ivan)!
ttfn.
No comments:
Post a Comment