Last night we met friends for dinner at what could easily become our ‘Other Place’ — you know, that third most important space in our lives after home and work places. There are specific criteria that a space must meet in order to be considered a proper Other Place.  Actually, according to sociologist Ray Oldenberg, the eight characteristics for one’s other place are:  free or inexpensive; food and drink, while not essential, are important; highly accessible; proximate for many (walking distance); involve regulars – those who habitually congregate there; welcoming and comfortable; both new friends and old should be found there.

Our meeting place checked out on all the above except, of course, the proximate part. (It probably goes without saying that Oysterville really isn’t within walking distance of very much. Not for me, anyway.) However, it should be noted that several other scholars have restated Oldenberg’s eight precepts and one of those is what why last night’s venue is only an almost. “Conversation is the Main Activity” was the sticking point. That was only true until the music began.

Simple/ Sophisticated

There was food and it was superb, well-priced, a delight to eye and palate. The service was excellent, people we knew nodded and smiled, and the view was hands-down the best on the Peninsula. I could happily spend my entire food-entertainment-r&r allowance right there. Besides that, we know and admire the owners and support their impressive and on-going dedication to the community.

But when the music began, the four of us turned down dessert, asked for our checks and beat a hasty retreat – all accomplished more-or-less in sign language, there being no communication alternative. I’d fess up that it was an age-related prejudice to very loud electronic music in a very small venue, but our companions (who were equally put off) are a generation younger than we. Plus we actually saw people deliberately bypass tables in a quieter section to sit near the ‘entertainment’ – diners who were gray-headed just like us.

Fries To Die For!

On our way out, I was hailed by other friends who were hunkered over something delicious at the table farthest from the music and closest to the exit. They said they’d had to move away from the loud. I felt a little less guilt-ridden to note that they are both Water Music board members and, again, younger than I by a good many years.

All I can say is “wrong night” for us because all other sensory input registered A+ on my personal Other Place criteria list. Will we go again? You betcha! We’ll just be a little more diligent in scoping out the ‘other’ offerings of the Other Place! Maybe we’ll see you there!