One of my favorite neighborhood restaurants recently hosted a riverboat dinner cruise. They rented an old school steamboat and we travelled a few miles up the river, then turned around and headed back to enjoy a night view of the city skyline. They served delicious food (macaroni and cheese, spicy potato salad, steamed shrimp, oysters, black bean salad, an amazing s’mores inspired dessert, etc.). Along with some of their most popular cocktails and some summery wine and beer. There was also dancing.
As good food, drink and music are meant to do, it brought people together. Neighbors I wave at in passing on the street, or say a quick hello to at the restaurant, were there. Instead of rushing past each other as we headed to our next obligation, there was no agenda and we had long, lovely conversations. Apparently sometimes you have to get on a boat and cruise several miles out of the city to hang out with your neighbors. Life is full of delicious little ironies, isn’t it?
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