For the last 4 or 5 months, every Tuesday night I go to a locally owned restaurant/pub/grill, within walking distance of home. They know what I want, and bring it to me without my having to order. They know I need a table near a power outlet, so that I can plug in my laptop, and keep one open for me. They know I like to work undisturbed, and they leave me to work, come over to chat for a few minutes while I’m eating, and bring me the bill when I’m ready to go. They don’t try to upsell, supersize, or tell me about the special of the day. They remember that I like cheese fries, and that I like a lemon in my coke.

So what’s the point of all of this? Well, it’s just this. Find your local establishment, where people actually care about good service, and about their customers, and go there regularly. Support locally-owned, locally-operated stores, restaurants, and service businesses. They are a dying breed, and they are the only thing that makes your local neighborhood any different from a million other neighborhoods in the country. Sure, it might cost a little bit more, but you’re supporting your neighbor, rather than someone that lives in Washington or New York.

And, of course, the food is better, the atmosphere is better, and folks remember that you like the garden salad rather than the greek salad. And they say “How was your camping trip? We missed you last week.” when you arrive and “See you next Tuesday!” when you leave.