Shut Up!

When did restaurants get so damn noisy?

Hotel living for a couple of months while my wife is treated at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance means lots of visits to local restaurants.  I'm seriously thinking of publishing a guide for joints all the way from Pike Place Market to as far north as University Village for anyone planning a trip to this seriously damp and cold corner of the country.  The food, especially the seafood, is excellent, the wait staff almost always friendly but the NOISE IS LOUD.  I know this phenomenon isn't exclusive to the Northwest; I've long noted it in Southern California and, of course, New York City.  What I can't figure out is why.  What memo went out to restaurateurs requiring that all ceilings be raised, beams and duct work exposed and music cranked up to "can you hear me now?"  It's nuts.

Think about it.  Can you name a single dining establishment in your neck of the woods that currently features low lights, a low ceiling and is quiet enough to allow for intimate non shouted conversation? If so, make sure you order something from the bar to insure they don't go out of business.   

I suppose, as so often is the case, this ambiance, like spiked hair, will be looked upon with laughter and derision in a few years. At least I hope so.  It's no fun to yell in order to rise above the din and the crappy music.  Isn't dining out supposed to be a relaxing break from the grind of the rest of the day, or am I mistaken?  I'm almost certain that any entrepreneur willing to open an eatery that is lit like a 1940's film noir feature and is as quiet as a library could make some serious bank from those of us seeking sustenance and a sea of calm.

In the meantime, check please.