It ticks me a bit when I hear people dogging out newly opened bar and restaurant establishments because their service wasn't "perfect," or the food was a little off. Let me be the FIRST to say that I don't think the people of Oakland should have to settle for anything less than first class service and quality, on all fronts. However, can they spare the harsh destructive criticism, especially at these beginning stages? Are they trying to help or hurt?
First people complain that there's nothing to do in Oakland. Then they say that San Francisco is too cold, too far and too vanilla in comparison. Then they complain about how "people" have the wrong impression of Oakland -- that it's not as bad as the media portrays it. They then rattle on about how ineffective Mayor Dellums is, and how there aren't any major department stores in Oakland. Blah, blah blah...
Finally, after years of complaining, and due to a number of financial factors and city planning decisions leaning in Oakland's direction, Oakland gets some love, as developers and bold entrepreneurs descend upon the city with a vigor unseen in many years, if ever. As a result the Oakland faithful are experiencing what some call a renaissance...while a recession has flowed in and through the country for 2 years!
So what's my beef? My beef is that I can't believe that the same folks that have been complaining for so many years are so quick to criticize a new establishment when their first time experience isn't at the 4 or 5 star level. I've heard a lot of positive comments and constructive criticism about the new kids on the block (here and here) as well. But, I've also heard more than a few naysayers rip apart an establishment that's been open for less than a month, or even a week! Ridiculous.
Personally, I cringe every time I hear about a business that didn't make it, to the exclusion of those that didn't have any respect for their customers, or those that continued to deliver an inferior product after repeated customer complaints. I would like to think those are in the minority. I shuddered last night when I drove by a recently opened restaurant, to find it e-m-p-t-y (as in zero, nada, zilch) at 10pm on Saturday. Can you imagine what the owner is going through?
Do they understand the investment and risks involved in opening any business, much more so among all the resistance from the Oakland doubters (and haters), especially during this economic climate? We should support the new businesses in any way possible, rewarding them for their courage and savvy. I'm not saying that we should ignore their unintended mistakes, but gently pulling a manager aside is a far better remedy than a scorching review on Yelp, accompanied by a promise to tell all of your friends to boycott. Sure, business owners get their reward through our patronage, but we can also sink their ship by premature judgment, harsh criticism, and unrelenting word of mouth. Is that really our intent? Don't we really want them to survive, and thrive, and deliver quality by learning from their early missteps, not suffer a premature death because of them. Tolerance does have its limits, but here I'm talking about the hopelessly and unreasonably intolerant consumer.
Are you part of the problem, or the solution?
P.S. I dined at Bocanova (new in JLS) last night (party of 6). All agreed that the meal and service were exemplary!
As always, thanks for reading - Michael D
Michael D is also editor of VIPLineup, a diverse and discerning online listing of selected top pick
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The new business climate in Oakland is up and coming, and the renaissance is very exciting. Many of the new establishments are taking advantage of the current economy and getting their foot in the door while its wide open. I hope East Bay residents as well as those who live across the bay continue to support Oakland businesses.
It was a step in the right direction for the Oakland City Council to move the parking meter payment time period back to 6pm (from 8pm). Nothing will discourage a consumer/spender from patronizing a business or doing business in a city more than a $45 parking ticket. IMHO many cities rely too heavily on parking fines as a revenue stream for the city's budget. Check out a city like Palo Alto - businesses & restaurants full of patrons, lots of pedestrian traffic - and plenty of free (f-r-e-e) 2 hour parking during day & unlimited free parking after hours, in parking lots maintained by the city. It's a major plus for the city's businesses, and a major draw for patrons who know they'll have a safe, clean, free place to park while they spend $. Something to think about when discussing ways to keep Oakland's businesses in business.
Posted by: Equanimous Jones | Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 10:29 PM
Can I get an Amen... Amen! Yup, I've been pretty supportive of the new emerging Oakland out of sheer excitement! I don't even think about going to dinner in the city. Naturally, I've experienced moments of service/food disappoints; however, I did in fact opt for the high road and spoke directly with management. What's happening in Oakland is awesome - so can all the hater's exercise a little less hate? If they don't make it, we'll be schlepping back to the city soon enough, expending more money on gas, more time finding a parking space, and God forbid... enduring Bay Bridge traffic!
I'm watching you... lb
Posted by: Lynell Bevels | Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 07:08 PM
well said Michael D!
I am so excited about all the new businesses in Oakland. I like that I only have to drive 5 minutes to party, eat, and hang out with friends!
I am slightly critical of establishments, but always give them the benefit of the doubt.
Oakland is WAY better than was it was 5 years ago. None of it would be possible without small businesses taking a chance on redevelopment. I want to continue to support and promote Oakland businesses as much as possible.
Posted by: Samara Rivers | Monday, October 12, 2009 at 09:02 PM