A meal out is a great way to enjoy friendship. But competing for it in a shouting match isn't. A few too many such experiences prompted an inventory of memories. Unfurling friendship on bar stools began in earnest in the mid-1970s, right after college graduation. A benchmark restaurant for me was Clyde's in Washington, where music and the sound of pinstriped bonhomie never snuffed a conversation.
Diners have plenty of choices on where to go.
Operators should take responsibility to protect conversation and prevent hearing loss. Louder music, when appropriate, creates energy. But technology is useless if you aren't consistently aware and mindful of guests.