The Great Discussion
Let’s Hear Your Voice in the Blogosphere

As faithful readers can attest, I always hold open the Blogosphere gates to all and sundry, inviting hospitality industry regulars — folks who typically disperse opinions left and right (not always in the politically correct sense) at the drop of a hat — to get into the swing of things. We intend to engage in spirited dialogue about industry matters that, well, matter. So, after a recent brainwave struck, I said to myself, “Self, why not invite our readers, industry players, and the public at large to send their ideas, opinions, factoids and gripes to my e-mail address, In the subject line, type “BLOG COLUMN.” A decent smattering of whatever the online tides bring in will be noted and, if called for, responded to with cheerful readiness. Your other option, of course, remains to e-mail your thoughts to Editor Tad Wilkes at In the subject line, type “FOR NCB BLOG COLUMN.”There, I ’m glad we got that off our chest.

In Search of New Areas
One never knows what to expect from the online world, does one? Last month we noted that I had heard from a cherished friend in Dublin. This seemed to inspire comment from other compatriots traveling in Italy, under the nom de plum (ah, the satisfaction from remaining anonymous) “Five Characters in Search of a Web Site,” a take-off on Luigi Pirandello’s amusing title of his play, “Five Characters in Search of an Author.” My views on nightlife happenings in NOLITA were solicited. I assured them this newly popular enclave, a stone’s throw away, neighboring Manhattan’s storied Little I taly, was in full swing. They allowed as how they intend to spend their holiday in that cuisine-rich district this year. As it happens, I laid heavy tracks in the Meatpacking District and surrounding territories, including NOLITA , over the past decade, prompting the establishment of new eateries, nightclubs and bars. In my view, you can hardly go wrong there or anywhere your wanderings take you in the Big Apple.

Post-Show Vibrations
The still echoing buzz from Las Vegas, wouldn’t you agree, is pure and simple vindication of the extraordinary virtuosity exhibited by participants, the result of a well-planned and well-executed International Hospitality Week. Long before the first arrivals, we felt the aura of the excitement to come. There is something magical in the business of satisfying the tastes and anticipating the lifestyle preferences of entrepreneurs looking to find the perfect place — be it nightclub, bar or lounge — to meet the expectations of their future patrons. The camaraderie in Vegas, among industry comrades in arms, was clear and palpable, as is the spirit they spawn and share in their business lives that revolved around bringing joy to others. Specific topics making waves in the industry, for this and subsequent columns, have to include the nation’s economy. Concerns rise even in so-called recessionproof Manhattan, and change will occur. But from an industry vantage point, we hold onto the conviction that people will always harbor expectations and feel the need to go out for an evening for relaxation and to enjoy a good meal or a refreshing drink. That proved true even in the Great Depression.