Really, what is better than strolling into a comfy place, to smiling faces, and a great glass of vino, maybe a good cheese board, and good conversation? If the people running the show are doing it right, you are going to love being there. (*Disclaimer: Even if you are not a wino, they usually have beer and maybe other spirits to sustain you.)
I am blessed to have a "fun" second job...seriously! Most people dread the idea of anything above and beyond the typical "9-5", but I get excited when I know I will be clocking in and talking to folks I have grown to know, even love some, and call my friends. Amazing people own it, a friendly and accepting crowd frequents it, and maybe the most important part, I have made friends that quite frankly, I never imagined would have been friends. Score! (Plus, I get to drink some yummy wines often...so double score!)
When I first started, I was a little gun-shy, having had a not-so-great experience at another wine bar. But immediately, the owners and the staff took me under their wings and the rest is history. I have had a blast, and while I equally enjoy my 50-60 work week at my "day" job, I will hang onto this gig as long as they will have me.
Wine bars in the south are a recent (think decade recent) thing, but I have traveled pretty extensively throughout my career and visited some nifty ones, most often in northern or midwestern states. One of my favorites is POPS for Champagne in Chicago. I love the idea of champs any day of the week, and this bar never disappointed. Plus they had an excellent wine and tapas menu.
Another that I remember fondly is in NYC, tucked away on one of those streets you wander down trying to get away from the hustle and bustle. I cannot recall the name, but I managed to find it everyday for a few week-long business trips for a happy hour drink before business dinners and such.
See, the way I see it, if your wine bar has the four following elements, you are bound to attract folks and be successful:
1. Atmosphere
No one wants a "stuffy" atmosphere. We are not all seeking cultural insight when we just want a yummy glass of vino. Sometimes, walking into a cozy place, tucked away, is just the ticket. Decor adds to this, along with a few candles and maybe dimmer lighting, or natural light until dark.
2. Welcoming staff (and owners)
If I walk into the wine bar and you do not acknowledge me, chances are, I am walking out. Call it my southern nature or whatever, but say "hello" and even "how are you" to everyone. It goes a long way. And it goes without mentioning, smile.
3. Simple by-the-glass offerings
Don't try to get my attention with a $15 glass of your favorite zinfandel, please. Offer me that $7 or $8 glass of yummy and if I bite, chances are I may get the bottle. Don't get too deep with the by-the-glass offerings. Just tell me what you like and why, I can share some thoughts, and we can come to a conclusion together.
4. The Crowd
I know you cannot help who comes and goes, and there will always be an exception. But for the most part, regulars can make or break your business. I know it sounds silly, but it is true, they contibute to the "vibe." Where I work, the regulars welcome the newbies, who usually become regulars themselves. It is a thing of beauty.
Bottom line, I love wine and I love to talk to people about wine, and encourage them to try new things. If you have never visited a wine bar and are eager to venture out of your comfort zone, or just find something different than what you usually pour, take a chance and visit your nearest wine bar. And if you are in my neck of the woods (LA- read: Lower Alabama) come see the amazing little gem that I like to hang out, Le Bouchon. You will not be disappointed...and I am sure you will soon become a regular yourself!
Cheers!
Nikole
No comments:
Post a Comment