Think Outside of the Box, Sit at the Bar

"Sometimes you want to go

Where everybody knows your name,

And they are always glad you came. 

You want to be where you can see

Our troubles are all the same;

You want to be where everybody knows your name."

These lyrics are associated with the 1980's television show, Cheers. We remember the interactions of actors based on the main focal point; the bar. 

(source)

This past weekend my husband and I had business in a distant city. While the sales team was busy, we slipped out for a quick lunch. We could not be gone long and an employee suggested a local "hot spot" restaurant. 

We thought this sounded like a wonderful idea. However, when we reached the hostess, we were informed that it would be a twenty minute wait. After reading this article posted by David Chang, The Best Seat in a Restaurant Is Closest to the Liquor, I asked the waitress if we could possibly sit at the bar? She pointed and said, "Sure, go ahead." Instantly we had a seat. 

David shares his advice for sitting at the bar

• It is best to sit at the bar if they have two or more bartenders- one making drinks, and one dedicated to the bar
• Sit in the middle, the best position for one-on-one with the bartender
• If the bar has one, the optimum place to sit is at any right angle
• When you want to eat alone

When to avoid sitting at the bar

• If there are more than 4 in your party 
• Avoid sitting at the ends of the bars
• Also, avoid the service station, you have a great chance of being bumped

David states that,

"When everyone's so close, it changes the dining experience. You meet great people that way—you're part of this band of outsiders within the restaurant."

And bring a date

"The bar is built for dates, especially first ones. You're right next to each other—much closer than you'd be at a table."

Think out side of the box, sit at the bar.

The next time you are out at a restaurant and haven't made a reservation or can not wait in line, ask to sit at the bar. You will never know who you might meet.

You want to be where you can see
Our troubles are all the same.

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