Shane and Mel, in particular have been really into tea lately, perhaps because of the changing weather (and terrible wind). And I have been enjoying a few different flavors as well. We recently discovered St. Mark's Coffeehouse within walking distance of our new place (5 blocks!) that has many different flavors of tea. The only problem is, it is a place where people sit in silence, with their computers and ipods, and no community.
When we walked there the other night in search of delicious tea and a change of scenery, there was not one empty table (and about 35 people with their laptops). And if there had been one table in the midst of that scene, we would have felt like we were disturbing the peace. Shane then told us about how in certain coffee shops, they are blocking outlets to bring in more income, but also to create more of a social environment. Can you imagine a place that doesn't serve alcohol where people gather to drink coffee and socialize? Can you imagine a coffee shop where you don't feel like you need to whisper your order to the barista as to not disturb those sitting in silence around you?
But I can see both sides of the argument. I just wish that people could sit in a place like St. Marks and talk with their neighbors and their friends and read their books and observe the world around them.
Until then, we sit at the bar next door instead and enjoy our time together and our tea.
totally agreed. at the same time, i like to be able to go to a coffee shop and blog or be on my computer. i do think that they should be about community and socializing though...much more fun.
ReplyDeleteI go to a coffee shop down the street that designates certain tables as "laptops allowed" and others as "no laptops allowed" They are also very good about asking people to move to the appropriate table (namely the rude people who try to sit at "no laptop tables" and pull out their laptops) They're good about doing this without being too abrasive/accusatory. On weekends, there are even fewer "laptop allowed" tables so that people feel free to come be social. I think you suggest this to St. Marks. :) Also...way to be quite the blogger this week. I like it.
ReplyDeleteYou should head to the Starbucks in Cherry Creek sometimes. There is a great mixture - some working, some socializing. :)
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