Ever wonder why restaurants make such a big to-do with peppermills? Obviously many people like freshly ground pepper but it goes beyond that. It’s a grand gesture that suggests hospitality and attention to details. Diners often reason that if a restaurant will bother with fresh pepper it must bring the same degree of attention to [...]
Entries from July 2008
July 17, 2008
Joel’s bohemian refreshery
Looking at this 1910-ish postcard of Joel Rinaldo’s place on West 41st Street in New York City, you might be misled into thinking it was an elegant after-theatre spot. It was near Broadway and attracted all kinds of visitors but it was famous as a hangout for artists, writers, heavy drinkers, “hop-heads,” and Mexican revolutionaries. [...]
We eat in restaurants several times a week and yet know very little about their history. I plan to dip into my archive of research and images every so often to present a little tidbit that highlights aspects of our American restaurant culture. Let me know your thoughts.
