This week's column is about what makes a bar successful. I think it's especially pertinent in downtown Columbus, where nightlife venues are all for the most part using the same draws (local bands, cheap drinks, danceable music) to cater to the same demographic (the 25-40 crowd).
Here, I think the average party goer heads downtown with no specific destination in mind, and in the end opts for the venue that merely looks most popular. Not because of its promotions, not because of its entertainment, but simply because people are there.
In light of that fact, I think there's even more pressure on local bars to emphasize the importance of service. Some bars already have strong reputations anchored by their bartenders...not entirely for eye candy purposes, but because their servers genuinely interact with the crowd. And seem to enjoy their jobs. Imagine that.
Others, however, are less lucky...and seem to exude apathy on even the most hopping Saturday night.
What are your impressions of Columbus' nightlife service industry? Who are your favorite bartenders? Any tales of service horror?
