Aug 16, 2007

• Springfield Republican: Eat, drink and ... what did you say? - "While a noisy ambiance in a public space can sometimes create a sense of vitality and fun, such an environment too often detracts from the dining experience. Not only does it make it difficult for those eating to converse, but it also impedes communication between and among servers, staff and customers."
• SFGate.com: Is noise hazardous to your health? - "I like a lively atmosphere in restaurants, and I'm pretty tolerant of four bell or even bomb ambiance. However, the din is becoming so deafening at some new restaurants I'm beginning to think we need to add a double bomb designation."

Hmm, I sense a pattern...

Noisy restaurants aren't anything new; I've written about this topic before, but sadly things don't seem to be improving. I suppose restaurant owners could be raising the volume to increase customer turnover, but I really think that owners just don't know any better.

I don't think that Mr. Bauer is too far off when he wonders about possible lawsuits. I've measured sound levels in restaurants and bars and found very high sound levels - high enough that the employees should be using hearing protection. I suspect that a lawsuit or two might wake up restaurant operators.

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