Brooklyn Heights Blog

Comment from Anonymous
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:07 pm

Yes, please come! I had hope Taza would be a good place to linger, but they allow no computers/no wifi, and it’s freakin’ expensive too!

Comment from DB
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:07 pm

YES! YES! YES! Anything that offers additional options to the dismal Heights nightlife is welcome. Ever since Magnetic Fields closed there has been no where in the nabe to see music. Granted the jazz-centric Tea Lounge artists will be decidedly more staid than those that appeared that The Fields. But a nice jazz club is certainly a step in the right direction.

My only question. Is there some law that says any restaurant opening in the heights has to be “Kid friendly”? It would be nice if there was some where to go have brunch that wasn’t overflowing with kiddies.

Comment from Anonymous
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:17 pm

YES! That is exactly what we need and the space is perfect. And couldn’t be more convenient for me. Agree about the kid-friendly — maybe that could be a separate part of the place?

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:31 pm

hi, this is jonathan the owner of Tea Lounge. I glad to see some responses already.

as far as the music (2-3 times/week), it wont be limited to jazz, i’m looking for a wide variety of acts.

also, as far as kid friendly, the place is big enough for everyone. there will be storytelling, after school cartoons/movies. and movies at night for the adults.

after doing my ressearch in the hood, i’m looking for feedback on the night time business. Not just for the bar but for the entire place.

lots of yummy food and baked goods, the best fair trade organic coffee around and over 70 loose teas (and yes, fresh chai. not mixes or concentrates).

the way i see the place is as a community lounge with lots to offer. i would love to hear any feedback. if you’re curious check out my location at 837 union st. in park slope.

i look forward to your comments and serving your community.

Comment from Publius
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:38 pm

Jonathan:

I’ve seen attempts at each of the components you’re thinking about putting together under one roof.

If you do it right and make it a coffee/tea house, bar, music venue with a separate (and I can’t stress that enough) separate area for kids (and I love kids), I think it would work. If it had the right vibe.

Comment from jd
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:38 pm

is this the space where Palmira’s use to be?

Comment from ts
Time: March 2, 2009, 4:54 pm

sounds like a good plan, though the idea of another kid-friendly place makes me cringe. the little bastards already have their own spa…

Comment from Qfwfq
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:02 pm

I think it’s a good location, but I never felt that the building was open enough to the street for a business there, if that makes any sense. It always seemed too closed off, and you could never tell what was going on in there. I dunno

That said, I would love a nice, comfy local coffee/tea house, preferably open late, in the neighborhood. Tazza is great, but sometimes not so comfy. I imagine it would go over well with the students in the area, particularly the WiFi.

And hey, live BHB Radio remotes would be an option…

Comment from Andrew
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:06 pm

Hell yes. I think that’s a great fit for the space (assuming that this is the old Palmira’s space, yes?)

And live jazz (and other music) here in the ‘hood is long overdue.

Comment from Andrew
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:08 pm

er, I read good. Or not. Sarah not only noted that it’s in fact the old Palmira’s space, but did that with a link.

Comment from cv
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:13 pm

I would be there in a heartbeat, and I would be there very, very often — sometimes with my kid, doing mom things, and sometimes without my kid, doing child-free, grownup things. I believe that we in the Heights would support this in all ways; it would be welcome, and quite transformative for our neighborhood.

Comment from Anonymous
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:17 pm

It also needs to a stripper pole and should be pet friendly. After all I want to bring my pet rattlesnake with me while enjoying my tea.

Comment from another jen
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:20 pm

YES we need more life in the hood. at the risk of sounding insensitive to the stroller-chained — it would be nice when you’re planning the space to keep in mind the mommy groups and writing groups etc that tend to take over fairly central spots and are hard to step over when you’re looking for a seat.

Comment from DB
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:23 pm

How’s the liquor license coming? Seems like the CB has had those on lock-down in the hood recently. So annoying! Some of our neighbors need to get past the idea that bar = bad.

Comment from GHB
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:28 pm

Jonathan, this sounds like just what the North Heights needs. We have too many retail spaces sitting vacant. Just don’t make it a bar for the college kids living upstairs! Please…

Comment from Carol Gardens
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:34 pm

I’m in your Court Street location often. I agree that the Moms with kids contingent often takes the place over, so a special kid-friendly area would be great in a bigger space. The only other thing I don’t like is that your furniture is soft and smushy, old, and super deep, which is really awful for anyone with a bad back, like me!

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:34 pm

it will not be a college bar nor will it be for kids only.

when i say kid friendly, i want people to feel comfortable bringing their kids without hassle.

grab a beer or coffee if you have the kids.

we will offer special events. a room for private parties/gatherings. and whatever the community needs within reason.

thansk again for the comments. keep em coming

Comment from Mike
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:41 pm

100% Yes!!!

Bring it!

Comment from melanie hope greenberg
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:43 pm

Yes! It’s right down the road. How lovely. I usually go to Dumbo or Manhattan for music. This would make a nice addition.

Comment from ABC
Time: March 2, 2009, 5:47 pm

I’m all for kid-friendly. College kids, moms and court house employees keep these places alive. 4,000 sq ft is plenty of room for kids — and the kid-free alike. Don’t the kid-free go to work during the day anyway?

PS, if anyone did make a bar for the college crowd, I’d be for that too. I think it’s depressing that the college kids seem to have no place to go… ever.

Comment from Lindsey
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:01 pm

I think this sounds like a great addition. My husband and I would love somewhere close by to hear good live music. We usually head into Manhattan for that, so it would be a welcome addition. Also, I work from home, so to bring my laptop, grab a coffee and something to eat and get out of the house to work every now and then would be fantastic.

Comment from mhon
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:05 pm

I think having a place that serves food & drinks with live music would be fantastic for the neighborhood. We really need a cool spot to hangout and chill.

Comment from Jazz
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:20 pm

Live music? Awesome. Can’t wait for the BHA to start complaining about the “noise”.

Comment from north heights res
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:22 pm

Oh, Jazz, you beat me to it. I love the idea of this in theory, but as someone who lives near the corner of Clark & Hicks, I don’t relish the idea of crowds standing outside smoking/talking into the wee hours.

It sounds like a place that I’d love to hang out in, but not have drifting in my bedroom.

Comment from Jazz
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:23 pm

NHR that’s what Scarsdale is for and it’s a quick train ride to Manhattan!

Comment from AEB
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:29 pm

Jonathan, yes, oui, si, da and…well, go here:

http://www.elite.net/~runner/jennifers/yes.htm#A

The point is to pump some (new) blood into BH, which desperately needs it.

Can you open tomorrow? Tonight?

Comment from henry & state
Time: March 2, 2009, 6:49 pm

Good Luck and I hope you get here soon! It sounds like something we need here desperately!! 100+% YES.

Comment from Jesse
Time: March 2, 2009, 7:05 pm

Jonathan,

Sounds like a nice idea! Tea Lounge has got a bit of a bad rap around Brooklyn, but I think that’s mainly because of your militant-stroller-mom clientele in Park Slope. As long as you can avoid attracting those people here, you could do well. In any case, I doubt I will have much to do with it, however, just because, given the location, it seems directed mainly towards catering coffee and study-space needs of the college students living in the dorm, and not towards serving local residents. And I’m guessing that’s kind of the point, no? It would be great for you if both groups would go there, but if it becomes a hangout for college kids, you’re going to have a hard time getting locals in there.

Here’s a suggestion: move into one of those huge storefronts on the corner of Front and Washington Streets in DUMBO (where they’re doing the indoor Bklyn Flea). There’s much more tourist traffic there, and you’d get all the local residents too, because we avoid the Starbucks like plague.

Comment from Adam G
Time: March 2, 2009, 7:17 pm

YES PLEASE! Tea Lounge is one of the things I miss most from when I lived in Cobble Hill.

Comment from hoppy
Time: March 2, 2009, 8:15 pm

Have at least one Sixpoint tap. Thank You.

Comment from Bee Heights
Time: March 2, 2009, 8:16 pm

Hey J: Don’t do it…plain and simple. Forget about what people WANT…this neighborhood does not support local places that well. Add in the recession, soon to be depression and you’ll be packing your bags in 24 months with a deep hole in your pocket. Your concept is sound, it’s just the space. It’s awful. I have lived in Brooklyn Heights for over 7 years and NOTHING survives that terrible space. I wish you the best but just don’t make risky business decisions in this economy. The disposable income is drying up by the day. Sorry to sound like a spoilsport!

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 2, 2009, 8:17 pm

the place will have something for everyone. from free wi-fi to chairs that are good for backs to separate areas for kids to play around. remember this is a community lounge. it’s for all of you guys posting out there. thanks again for the feedback. i’d love to hear more.

Comment from Teddy
Time: March 2, 2009, 8:53 pm

College students & stroller moms usually don’t mix well. One group will irritate the other. If you can keep those groups effectively separate from each other with a wall, then you’re in business. However, I don’t believe that location is good for the long-term. I’m sorry if it sounds like I’m raining on your parade, but I grew up here & know how fickle Heights residents are when it comes to supporting local businesses.

Good luck.

Comment from Val
Time: March 2, 2009, 9:09 pm

I would love it!

Comment from Chester
Time: March 2, 2009, 9:30 pm

Jesse, Bee: STFU.

Comment from PJL
Time: March 2, 2009, 9:37 pm

North Heights could really use some nightlife. Bar and Live Music would be welcome (and people shouldn’t start the NIMBY nonsense, as that space has had a liquor license for as long as I can remember).

Comment from Melissa
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:00 pm

When there’s a business worth supporting (quality food & service), people support it. Don’t expect customers to patronize a business with crap products and nasty staff. That was the case with a lot of failed establishments here.

Comment from Andrew
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:44 pm

An open mic night would also be pretty cool…

Comment from Monty
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:46 pm

I can’t believe people are trying to tell a guy who is opening the third location for a very successful business what to do. I’m sure he knows better already. My only advice is don’t double dip credit cards and defraud your investors (see Chef, Busy). I, for one, wish him the best and sincerely hope the business is a success. I will bring my stroller on day 1 and try not to bother the college kids :)

Comment from lovebug
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:48 pm

I think this is a great idea! I would totally go to hear live music at night, watch movies, eat dessert, whatever the activity! This neighborhood is sorely lacking in nighttime places, besides the Ale House and that pub on Montague. I’d love a place that wasn’t solely a bar, but more of a cultural haven.

Comment from lynette
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:49 pm

please come!

Comment from my2cents
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:50 pm

Sweet! I am all for it, and i like a lot of peoples’ suggestions! Not a huge fan of the whole “children” thing, but hey I think it’ll be just fine for everyone. I must say that if you made it friendly to the college students down the block to study there you’d probably do very good business. But I think there is also a need for an adult “hang out” in the North heights as well. My biggest piece of advice is in decor: please make it fun and inviting, but kind of cool…basically do the opposite of what those busy chef people did! I strongly suggest a visit to the Roebling tea room in Williamsburg. The service is mediocre there but the vibe is really comfortable, cozy, but hip without being sceney or pretentious. That place is always packed. I also love the decor at Floyd, as far as creating a real atmosphere.

Comment from Yes Please!
Time: March 2, 2009, 10:52 pm

Brooklyn Heights NEEDS this - there is NOWHERE to go late-night, for food or a beer (unless you count Floyd), and nowhere that plays decent music and welcomes a younger crowd (and by younger, I’m talking 20s - 30s). And IMHO, there is no delicious coffee and tea in the neighborhood. Starbucks does not count, at all. Bring it, Jonathan! =)

Comment from Senor Salsa
Time: March 2, 2009, 11:02 pm

Jonathan,

I live on the block and you have my full support. It almost seems too good to be true.
But please DON’T come if you are planning on just laundering some money and closing up abruptly. It would break our hearts.
DON’T come unless you have a firm plan to resist an infestation by wannabe gangster college kids with their Coors-lite fights and high-pitched squealing.
PLEASE come if you can truly offer a hangout for intellectually curious people (of all ages) who like live music, microbrews, GOOD coffee and inspired conversation.
PLEASE come if you can offer delicous, wholesome food (that isn’t stale).
PLEASE come if your employees are warm, friendly and do not display a ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude. This last point is paramount if you want my business. Good luck and welcome in advance.

Comment from Publius
Time: March 2, 2009, 11:42 pm

That location has been the kiss of death for businesses as long as I’ve been in the Heights (since ‘88). Though that doesn’t mean it couldn’t be successful if the rent was lower than low.

I believe the landlord is the St. George co-op. My advice would be to negotiate the lowest rent possible, then walk away and come back in 1-2 months and get a further 25% reduction.

In reality they will never rent that space anytime soon. I believe a bank was looking at it a year or two ago, but we all know what’s happening to banks.

So, you’re in the driver’s seat. I’m sure the co-op board wants to stop their loss from that space being empty. I bet if you just covered their costs, they’d rather stop the $$$ bleeding that must be made up by the co-op owners.

Good luck with it. But don’t end up working for the landlord.

Comment from Adam
Time: March 3, 2009, 12:29 am

Finally my girlfriend and I will have somewhere to go on the weekends. Don’t forget there are hundreds of law students in Brooklyn Heights that do actually go out (believe it or not) and would love a laid back place to go to.

Comment from Peter
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:42 am

Jonathan-

A variety of responses:

1. I’m 90% sure this is the most comments any entry on the BHB has *EVER* received. Homer? Verification?

2. There is a VERY strong need for a place like this. I’m late 30’s work for myself from home (one of those annoying laptop people — no cell phone use though) and would definitely be there a minimum of 3 times a month. If it I fell in with a crowd there or I fell into a routine I could be there 15x a month.

3. The only competition is Tazza — they’re great — a real testament to the need for this, but they don’t accommodate the kids well or the lingering.

4. That location has been the kiss of death — there are a few more nearby potential patrons now (dorms, witness building conversions) but come up with *something* to make the space feel connected to the street — right now it’s just too easy to breeze by and not have a clue that there’s life inside.

5. Having eaten at Palmira’s just once — the night they opened, I recall the space as being cavernous. I’d look for a way to make it a little cozier — not just your signature sofas and chairs, but somehow lower the ceiling in spaces — maybe draped cloth?

All in all, with the combo of parents/kids, college kids, 30-somethings with nowhere to go for a drink… I think you have a real shot — just the world’s lowest rent. Tehy’ve got to be flexible — it’s been empty most of the decade.

Peter Steinberg
http://www.FlashlightWorthyBooks.com
Recommending books so good, they’ll keep you up past your bedtime. ;)

Comment from peppermint
Time: March 3, 2009, 9:03 am

i think that our neighborhood could really use a place like this. i was a big fan of the park slope location when i lived there. i am a little hesitant about the space however. i’ve lived on henry and clark for 6 years and i agree with the other commenter who said that it’s hard to tell what’s going on in that place. it’s a strange space. both in location and layout. jonathan, if you do decide to go ahead with the new lounge i wish you the best of luck and will come often. what’s going on with the St. George space on the corner of pineapple and henry? that seems like a better location and it’s been vacant in my six years here. just throwing it out there.

Comment from hickster
Time: March 3, 2009, 9:13 am

Hi Jonathan, I live on that corner. While I love the idea, I just want to make sure this venue will be soundproofed.

Comment from Sarah on Pineapple
Time: March 3, 2009, 9:19 am

Yes! I like what you’re saying about a community gathering place. Business that get involved are much appreciated and I can see myself relaxing with some tea on one of your comfy seats. I don’t go see live music much, but if there were jazz i would come.

Comment from BB
Time: March 3, 2009, 9:32 am

I have always wondered how WiFi java places survive when their space is taken up by laptop users who sit with the same stale cup of java for 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes they don’t even “buy” — they just log in, kick off the shoes and treat the space like a second living room. It baffles me.

Starbucks is the exception. They bring in cash because they are usually located on the beaten path and is generally a “take-out”. But how do ma and pop WiFi java huts survive when seating is limited?

Comment from Emily
Time: March 3, 2009, 10:18 am

YES!! Please!! I spend about 4 days a week at the Tea Lounge in Cobble Hill, and if one moved into Brooklyn Heights, I would spend pretty much every waking minute between the two. I’m a student, and there are no good places to study in the Heights–in fact, the Tea Lounge in C.H. is the only place even relatively close. Several qualities make the C.H. location great–good food, good musical selection at the right volume, I can always find a seat, usually next to an outlet. It’s a nice mix of families and people working–and there are lots of students in the St. George, so I think there would be a good population to draw from–and again, there are no nice “lounge” places in the neighborhood–this would be a HUGE boon.

Comment from ABC
Time: March 3, 2009, 10:24 am

I think the recipe you guys have going elsewhere would be a big hit in this location. You can’t listen to some guys here — they’re anti-kids, anti-old white rich people, anti-moms, anti-college kids, and anti-courthouse employees. Kind of makes you wonder why they live in the Heights!?

Comment from Bee Heights
Time: March 3, 2009, 10:30 am

It’s your money J so do what you want but seriously think about the space…..awful is an understatement. If all these people on this board are so behind you, sell shares in the business to the locals. Then you’ll see how many “supporters” you really have….all you will hear is crickets. If you do pull it off I will be the first to admit I was wrong and you had the guts when all I did was see the negative. In this economy and the fact that BH residents are so damn finicky we shall see. Good luck my friend you got guts opening anything these days!

Comment from Jazz
Time: March 3, 2009, 10:46 am

Bee - with a name like that I’d assume you’d be all sunshine and flowers.

Jonathan: why not the busy chef/oven on Henry? I agree with the other assessment of the St. George space as well. However, since you’re a known entity and I’m sure this blog will help promote a BH Tea Lounge anywhere you open will be a success.

Comment from lcd
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:17 am

do it! live jazz! i’ll be there.

Comment from HDEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:50 am

Sounds great! In-house childcare would be a draw for parents. Sort of like the in-house Ikea childcare in a more fun location.
Hope you do come to the hood.

Comment from DB
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:59 am

I think the thing that is going to set you apart and help you succeed is that you’ll have basically two sets of clientele. Daytime folks (parents, kids, students, professionals) that come for tea, coffee, snacks and wifi. Nighttime folks (college kids, and adults) that come for drinks, food, dessert and music. I fall into the later crowd, so while I am one that is a bit scared of “kid-friendly” spots, I assume they will not be playing in the middle of the jazz sets.

Don’t be too disheartened by the nay-sayers. I’ve lived here ten years and can’t remember a business like yours launchingin the nabe. Why did so many others fail in this space and other surrounding spaces? Don’t blame the residents. Blame poor (sometimes fraudulent) service, mediocre food and a complete lack of imagination. The location has it’s challenges, but if you offer something different, exciting and welcoming, I think you will succeed.

Best of luck.

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 12:16 pm

I’m with you ABC. I too am baffled by the anti-child backlash. I can’t imagine living here without kids. We moved here BECAUSE of the child-centered nature of the neighborhood.

If these guys get it right, this could be amazing. Palmira’s failed because it was terrible - food, service, ambiance etc. We tried it many times and it never got better.

My kids are older now, but I would have loved to have had a great place to hang out. I also love a night out with friends or a place to have a drink with my husband before we head out to dinner. There is no good place to go, so we go to Smith Street or Manhattan.

How about Sunday brunch with family movies? Great food is the key to the success. It doesn’t need to be complicated either. Small plates would be great. Keep it simple, but high quality. Give us a reason to stay in the nabe instead of going into Manhattan or Smith St.

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 3, 2009, 12:39 pm

to all the moms out there, what about the fact that there are stairs to get into the space? To build a ramp is nearly impossible, does it really matter? I’d love your feedback.

Comment from DB
Time: March 3, 2009, 12:49 pm

To BHer and ABC, I moved to the heights 10 years ago. The nabe at that time was decidedly un-hip, filled mostly with aging wall streeters. I moved here because the proximity to lower Manhattan, the quiet streets, the low scale architecture and the prices. I am 40, married and child-free. Just wanted to point out that there were reasons to live in this nabe that go beyond children. Those of us without kids have just as much at stake in the neighborhood as the newly relocated families. It seems to me that Jonathon is trying to design a place that can appeal to all of us, and I like that.

Comment from Homer Fink
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:10 pm

Peter - this is close to the most commented story on BHB — some Busy Chef posts were active but not this active — from my preliminary research the most commented story ever (and there might be others) is Nightmare on Court Street:
http://brooklynheightsblog.com/archives/2103

Comment from Andrew
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:11 pm

If what I remember about this space, it is probably better suited for Tea Lounge than the Busy Chef/Oven spaces, because it is labyrinthian. Having different rooms makes it possible for the laptop crowd to gather in one area, with a bit of separation from the stroller set. Live music doesn’t necessarily dominate the entire room for late night law student studyers.

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:11 pm

DB - I like that too, but you’ve got to be realistic about where you live, and I think managing expectations is important. I too have been here for 10 years and am 40, but with two kids, 9 and 5. This neighborhood is a destination for families with kids, particularly because of the success of PS8. People used to flee when their kids were school aged, but now that the school is great, it gives more people options for education and affords them the ability to stay here longer.

Trust me, when I am out without my kids, the last thing I want is to be surrounded by children. It is important to recognize though that during the daytime, especially in the morning hours and after school, there are going to be a lot of kids around! I have had very unpleasant run ins at Starbucks on Montague at 3:30 when I am with my kids. There are people there that feel like it is their office, and we are interrupting them.

If the Tea Lounge can accommodate everyone in separate areas, they will definitely be on to something.

Comment from travy
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:13 pm

keep the kids out of the bar. that is all.

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:24 pm

No one hates children. Well, relatively few do.

What people object to is the sense of entitlement that stroller moms (and others with children) sometimes exhibit.

When I was growing up, almost (yikes!) fifty years ago, even middle-class parents had “help”–domestics and/or nannies. Child and adult “spheres” were more exclusively defined. One imagines the horror that would have have ensued then at the sight of a mother breast-feeding an infant in public, which thing I’ve seen several times recently.

The point is, parents with children should respect the rights of those without not to have to participate in the kids rearing or even caretaking in certain places at certain times.

And the “childless” should recognize that children are children and will act that way in public.

But–or and–each side should have its places free of the other. And these should include, for adults, any spots devoted to…well, adult pleasures. Which would include after-dark dining of any kind.

Comment from nabeguy
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:26 pm

Might as well chime in…this sounds like a much-needed and highly desired addition to the area. I agree that the lPalmira ocation is something of a death spot, but it’s not like there was anything ever in that space that struck a defining chord in it’s audience (even though I liked the brunch at Stubs). Too bad the space at Pineapple and Henry is so barren and has no kitchen, …I think that would be a better fit, as it’s literally got an underground feeling to it (and solves the ramp problem) plus it’s on the commercial side of the
St George.

Comment from DB
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:31 pm

BHer, I think we are on the same page actually (take a look at my previous posts). I think jonathon is trying to carve out spaces for everyone, which would be great.

But I still resent the notion that is somehow odd or impractical for child-free adults to live in this neighborhood. The majority of the 18 units in our Co-Op have no children living in them. Are we supposed to be relegated to lower Manhattan just because we chose a life without children? You seem to be saying that just because I live in a certain hood, I have expect every business to be child centric. The great thing about urban settings is that they can accomodate a variety of lifestyles. That said, the one thing that is certainly missing in this nabe (since the closure of Magnetic Fields), is a music venue. I look forward to it’s arrival and hope that, while Tea Lounge will hopefully have areas for kids to cavort, we can all agree that a bar with jazz at night is not an appropriate setting for children.

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:34 pm

AEB, I agree with what you have said, but if you choose to live in the Heights, regardless of when you moved here, you’ve got to embrace the notion that there are a lot of kids in this neighborhood and have to expect that if you choose to patronize local establishments at certain hours, there are going to be kids present.

The last place my husband I go for dinner alone is Noodle Pudding. We love it and go with the kids often (at 6:00), but I know better that to go there when I want a kid-free evening.

What do you mean by “sense of entitlement”?

Comment from anon
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:35 pm

Don’t forget to add Brownstoner’s comments (17 as of this writing) in your Tea Lounge comment log: http://www.brownstoner.com/brownstoner/archives/2009/03/tea_lounge_comi.php

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:42 pm

DB - Not child-centric, but if you live here, you have to expect kids to be around. That is what this neighborhood has become, like it or not. I would be very interested to know what percentage of households in the Heights have kids. There are 4 schools in the neighborhood that house several thousand kids. I bet it is pretty high. This is a very small geographic community that is sought out by families. I think it just needs to be embraced and one’s expectations need to go along with that notion.

I certainly don’t always like to be around kids either, so I avoid places where I know kids will be when I am not with my own.

Comment from travy
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:54 pm

and to add, families with children who choose to live in nyc should expect that childless drinkers with foul mouths and sharp elbows live here as well and perhaps choose their destinations accordingly…

Comment from Grown Up
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:55 pm

AEB, sorry to break it to you, but if you grew up 50 years ago with a nanny/”domestic”, you weren’t middle class. And guess what, society has come a long way since the days when “that thing I’ve seen several times recently” (breastfeeding) was something to be ashamed of.

It sounds to me like you’re sharing the never-grow-up mentality, not an “adult” viewpoint.

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:56 pm

Bher, by entitlement I mean the sense that one parent with one child (let’s say) trumps one or two (or more) adults without.

This often applies to traffic issues, let’s call them. Recently a mother (I believe) pushing a child in a stroller was coming toward me on a fairly narrow sidewalk. She saw me, yet continued to barrel ahead.

I planned to step aside in any case, but her forthright approach made it clear that she had no intention of ceding the “right to pass” to me anyway. This has happened before.

Other “blocking” situations include parents parking strollers in such a way as to inhibit or prevent easy access into or out of a space. I realize strollers with children are a handful, but in that case, why not let adults without both to pass–to get out of the way–first?

I would also take issue with you’re going to “adult” restaurants with kids at 6:00. That means you’ll still be dining at 7:00 or later…see where I’m going with this?

Comment from DB
Time: March 3, 2009, 1:57 pm

BHer,

Kids around, fine with me. Kids in bars, not fine with me. Seems pretty simple.

I don’t go hang out at dimples, the baby gym, or that kiddie place on Atlantic. I don’t expect kids to be hanging out in restaurants late-night or bars anytime. For the most part I find this to be true in this neighborhood. And again, it sounds like Jonathon is trying to provide space for everyone. I just hope that parents will understand that the bar is not the place for their kids to play.

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:00 pm

Grown Up, I suggest your comment, above, is just as parochial as you claim mine to be.

I’m not sure that feeling free to breast-feed in public is a giant step for mankind. Ooops: womankind.

Think about it.

Please.

Comment from etc
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:02 pm

Hells yeah! We’ll definitely be there - it’ll save us from having to drag ourselves to the East Village all the time.

DB- Thanks for your comments. I am one of several people I know who moved to the neighborhood, not because it is “family friendly,” but because of other factors. As another childless (by choice) person in their 40s, and as a fan and frequenter of jazz and other live music venues I am thrilled at the idea of having good live music available in the neighborhood. I am also wary of mixing live music performances with children’s play spaces. I would like to be able to make the assumption that parents would not bring young children to bar with live music after about 9pm or so, or would encourage them to be quiet if they did, but unfortunately my experience has been the opposite. I’ve had far too many evenings ruined by parents who take their young children to evening music events (either so the parents can get out or can expose their kids to the music) and then completely fail to supervise them. For example, we went to see Van Morrison the other night and the kids in the family next to us spent the whole time talking, snapping gum and texting.

This is not an “anti-child backlash”; I’d just like to find a way for those with children and those who choose not to have children to co-exist while recognizing each group’s desire to not have their leisure time activities ruined by the other groups’ feelings of entitlement. For example, although I am under no obligation to do so, I make an effort to restrain my behavior and speech when I am in an area where kids congregate, so that parents and their children will be comfortable there. I would expect parents to similarly respect my right to enjoy live music or other adult activities without being subject to kids running around, shouting, crying, etc. Just because families with children may seek out the neighborhood, doesn’t mean the rest of aren’t entitled to enjoy it too. My partner has lived in Brooklyn Heights for 38 years. Is he supposed to yield to children on every issue because there are more of them now?

Comment from ABC
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:02 pm

I moved here more than 10 years ago. Lots of kids then too. I’m in the “room for everyone” camp and only bring it up since this thread started out with people objecting to the idea of a kid-friendly place.

AEB, LOL! If seeing a mom breastfeeding a baby is a shock to you, I’m afraid the world has passed you by. Is that part of the entitlement you’re talking about? The good news is you may be entering the old age crank stage of life — and Brooklyn Heights is a perfect place for that!

Jonathon, stairs are an issue. People complain that the “entitled stroller moms” have taken the area over, but the truth is lots of restaurants here are either up a flight of stairs or down and aren’t all that kid-friendly (thus making those on grade level more crowded than kids than usual). Still, if you build it, they will come — even if they have to carry their stroller..

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:11 pm

AEB - I wouldn’t blame the fact that these rude people are pushing strollers is what’s making them rude, I think it is the people to begin with.

Comment from ABC
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:15 pm

AEB, the restaurants in this area are having a hard time as it is. And now you can’t bring kids at 6? SIX? LOL. I’ve lived in this area with kids and without. Been out many nights at 8, 9, 10, 11pm for dinner and never had a problem with kids. But 6? SIX PM? C’mon. 7PM is dangerously close to early bird special territory, my cranky friend.

Comment from zb
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:16 pm

Tea Lounge sounds great for the nabe. We need a lively venue where people can gather. But please keep the kids separate in the evening. People (parents included) need a place to gather without ill-behaved screaming tots running around. Parents that think its OK to bring a kid to a bar are those that don’t teach their children how to behave in public. Lets hope there are less of them in BH than in Park Slope.

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:18 pm

A good point, Bher. But it’s happened often enough for me to concoct a cause-effect scenario.

But I will try to be less strollophobic.

Comment from sue
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:19 pm

I think the venue sounds great — I was a fan of Kevin’s Corner (which lasted a pretty long time at that location) and this sounds like a vast improvement. I agree that accommodating parents and families in the daytime is a great idea, and agree with DB that a bar with jazz at night would not be an appropriate setting for children (but very appropriate for me!) Having lived here for 43 years, I can’t recall any other site with such a wide array of offerings. Good luck, Jonathan!

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:24 pm

ABC, congrats on being as free as a bird.

In any case, a little crankiness now and then is relished by the wisest…people.

I could “retaliate” by claiming ageism, but I won’t. ‘Cause that’s the kind of guy I’m.

Comment from Clarksy
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:41 pm

I’d appreciate a music venue coming to the neighborhood, and I’ll definitely check it out once it’s open. Living on Clark Street, however, I’m selfishly a bit wary about the extra noise that such a business inevitably brings. But it sounds like this place is going to be pretty low-key, which I love.

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 3, 2009, 2:50 pm

i want to assure all of you, while it will be kid friendly i’m not anticipating interference with your enjoyment.

Comment from nabeguy
Time: March 3, 2009, 3:05 pm

johnathan, all you’ve got to do is build a go-go cage for the bar crowd and a padded cage for the kids. Joking aside, you definitely seem to be headed in the right direction, so don’t let the bickering on this site deter you….it’s what we do.

Comment from FeiFei
Time: March 3, 2009, 3:06 pm

AEB - your comment about breastfeeding in public is so funny. I completely disagree with you, but to envision your face and reaction as you see a woman breastfeed her child is really amusing.

Jonathan - Can you improve the coffee that you use at Tea Lounge? I understand you use organic and free trade coffee but it doesn’t taste very good. We didn’t like the coffee served at Tea Lounge on 9th St. and 7th Ave so we took our business elsewhere. Red Horse served Barrington coffee (and sold bags of it) and had baristas who knew what they were doing so that was our favorite place. Someone said that [BH] locals do not go to Starbucks, but as a local, I go to Starbucks three times a week because their coffee tastes better than the coffee sold at the A/C subway stand, Tazza, Cranberry’s and the now closed Busy Chef.

As for the live music, my partner and I wouldn’t go because we’re not into that, but I welcome the addition to the neighborhood and wish you luck!

Comment from BHer
Time: March 3, 2009, 3:19 pm

Totally agree with the coffee issue! I’ve never been to Tea Lounge, Starbucks is the only place in the Heights to get a good, strong cup. I would love to take my business elsewhere! Even Tazza isn’t great. There really isn’t anywhere near Clark St. to get a great cup.

Comment from HG718
Time: March 3, 2009, 3:40 pm

How exciting! My husband is often saying that he’d love it if there was a jazz club in the area. We would definitely love another place to go out at night, since the area is very much lacking that. But we are also hoping that we are lucky enough to have a baby soon - so this concept would fulfill that need too. You’ve got my vote!

Comment from AEB
Time: March 3, 2009, 3:51 pm

Oh, FeiFei, if I can just stop dribbling onto my computer keys while trying to get my one good, non-palsied hand to help the other tap this out….

…how dare you be so smug, so condescending?

I’m encouraged that I’ve helped stimulate your imagination, but you have absolutely no idea who I am.

The truth is, in the puritanism bakeoff, I’m a no-show. And to prove it, I invite you (assuming you’re female, or even if you’re not) to breastfeed in any public square of which I’m a part.

Will you take the challenge?

The gantlet is thrown down.

Comment from Peter
Time: March 3, 2009, 4:18 pm

Jonathan, my girlfriend and I frequent your establishment on Court (by the movie theatre) often, and we LOVE it: by far our favorite place to unwind, read and talk over some fantastic coffee and pastries. If you replicate this vibe in my own backyard, I can at least assure you that she and I will be there OFTEN.

Comment from Anonymous
Time: March 3, 2009, 4:24 pm

Jonathan — what’s the soonest you are aiming to get Tea Lounge here? Are we talking a year from now?

Comment from FeiFei
Time: March 3, 2009, 5:57 pm

Aww, AEB, I didn’t mean to sound smug at all. Did I misread your comment? “One imagines the horror that would have have ensued then at the sight of a mother breast-feeding an infant in public, *which thing I’ve seen several times recently.*” This makes it sound like you’re surprised to see breast feeding in public and that you’re just as horrified? Or maybe it was the way you phrased it? “one imagines the horror”, “which thing I’ve seen several times..” It sounds like you’ve seen something unexpected and unmentionable. It reminds me of the emoticons with the surprised look on their face.

Comment from anon
Time: March 3, 2009, 6:43 pm

Yes!!!!! When I lived in the slope, I was ALWAYS at Tea Lounge. BH doesn’t have anything that compares day or night and, as I see it, is really in need of such a place. I head to floyd or smith st late at night and during the day I stop in to Tazza, but I would stay and order more if there were a nearby Tea Lounge!!!

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 3, 2009, 7:28 pm

to fei fei - we have the best coffee in Ny. Rated by Zagats and other reputable purbeyors. sorry your taste buds like brown water compared to a micro roasted delicious blend.
And if you do drink starbucks, there’s nothing anyone can do for you. maybe try some juan valdez at your local supermarket

Comment from hickster
Time: March 3, 2009, 7:31 pm

Will there be room for people who don’t roost liek pigeons all day with laptops? recently, a friend and I couldnt have a cup of coffee and a pastry in Ct Muffin nor Starbucks bc the same people with the same tired crumbled cup of coffee had been monopolizing the place since sun-up.

As far as breastfeeding, I am a woman and do not want to see this in public. That fits into a long list of things I would rather not see in public that involve other people’s private parts…what is so wrong with that? i don’t think you become a holy being after giving birth that is entitled to dispense with all sense of decency and respect for people around you.

Comment from PJL
Time: March 3, 2009, 7:41 pm

When do you plan to open?

Comment from kd
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:14 pm

I have two immediate reactions to this:

1) FABULOUS

Comment from Daryl Hannah
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:14 pm

I think the main problem with the neighborhood is not a lack of bars, but that it’s over-run with sanctimonious, middle-aged cranks who rail against the “self-entitled” folks who dare to raise children in the city while at the same time blathering on about their precious dogs as if they were more important than kids.

Comment from Bklyn Dawg
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:26 pm

Oh Dear, someone’s a hater.

Comment from Nancy
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:55 pm

Jonathan:
I live in the building since the 1980’s. they used to have the real Heights Cafe with a fabulous all you can drink champagne brunch :). Then there was Kevins Corner. All were good. Palmira’s was a rip off. You can make this a great spot.
Please DO NOT make this into a college kid hang out!! They have already driven me out of the Eastern Athletic. Let them drink in their rooms and use their Wi-Fi there! All you will have are hanger-ons sitting with one cup of coffee. We, the people in the area need a place to sit and drink coffee, or wine, and have a place to meet our friends. Have good coffee with good pastry that isn’t a rip off (ie Tazza), and I will love you forever!!! welcome to the building!!

Comment from kd
Time: March 3, 2009, 11:58 pm

Woops… let me finish that thought.

1) FABULOUS. I live on the corner of Clark & Henry, and I LOVE the idea of having somewhere to go — a default, if you will — for any occasion. I’ve lived in the neighborhood for almost a year now, and I have yet to find that place that’s comfortable, relaxed and fun. I will almost certainly frequent the Tea Lounge for snacking, caffeinating, drinking, meeting, reading, brunching, etc. I couldn’t be happier with this idea.

2) IDENTITY CRISIS. I fear that this space will suffer an identity crisis — one that will potentially confuse and drive away patrons (myself included). If there’s one golden rule in marketing, it’s: Have ONE message, and stick to it. There are too many “messages” surrounding your vision for this space, and it’s somewhat off-putting. I’m in my late 20s, and I try to find places in Brooklyn that are hip, chill, and unpretentious. The last thing I want is to sip a martini, grab dinner, or enjoy live music with a chalkboard-paint wall backdrop. So, do you want a tea lounge or a bar/restaurant? Do you want a community center or an arts space? A fun play area for kids or a smart leisure spot for adults? Forgive me for being skeptical, but I don’t think it can be all these things and be successful. And I can’t see myself — or college kids — seriously hanging in a space for long that doesn’t have it figured out.

So, my conclusion to all this? Yes, please bring on the Tea Lounge. But, please bring it on right!

Comment from another jen
Time: March 4, 2009, 8:36 am

whoa, bad taste in my mouth at the snarkiness up there from jonathan. yes, anonymous commenters will say all sorts of things (women shouldn’t breastfeed in public, WHAT?) but if you’re a business owner it’s wiser to rise above it.

the divisiveness is a little hilarious, we need a good crime spree to unite us as a community.

Comment from nabeguy
Time: March 4, 2009, 11:03 am

Well, Homer, this thread has now officially broken the length record…actually I think it’s broken a few things other than that.

Comment from Jazz
Time: March 4, 2009, 11:22 am

I believe this settles the breast feeding controversy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp6wpmqVMsk

Comment from nabeguy
Time: March 4, 2009, 11:30 am

Take that, Angelina Jolie!!

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 4, 2009, 12:53 pm

KD - come by the union st. location and you will see how these things can work under one roof.

thanks for your feedback

i’d love to hear more

Comment from Jesse
Time: March 4, 2009, 1:22 pm

This is a fun thread! I especially like the part where the prospective business owner basically tells a local that she’s an idiot with an ignorant palate, and then goes on to alienate anybody who’s ever had such poor judgement as to patronize a, God forbid, Starbucks.

So it’s confession time. Once when I was in Grand Central Station, I wanted to get a coffee, and Starbucks is basically your only option, so I bought one. I guess there’s nothing Jonathan can do for me…

Nice, Jon. Really classy. I think you should follow up by calling the Heights a backwater of posh NIMBY pinheads, then say that Pace students are just kids who couldn’t get into Fordham, and then slap a breast-feeding mother on opening day and tell her that her crotch-fruit isn’t welcome.

Welcome to the neighborhood!

Comment from nabeguy
Time: March 4, 2009, 1:34 pm

Wow, how the mighty have fallen…apparently mouth-first onto their foot.

Comment from Jazz
Time: March 4, 2009, 1:45 pm

Jesse - STFUA.

Comment from FeiFei
Time: March 4, 2009, 2:12 pm

Ouch, Jonathan, I thought you were open to some constructive comments. Perhaps I should have chosen my words more carefully, how about “What brand of coffee do you serve and will that stay the same? I didn’t like the coffee served at Tea Lounge on 9th St, and 7th Ave.” When I do a quick google search of “best coffee in NY”, the various lists always have Gimme!, Joe’s, Gorilla, 9th St., - I don’t see much mention of Tea Lounge coffee. Tea Lounge is a great place to enjoy coffee, but the coffee itself is highly rated? Have you tried the coffee at Tazza, Busy Chef, Cranberry’s or the subway stand by the A/C train? I go to Starbucks because that is the best tasting coffee in the neighborhood. When I run out of Joe’s beans, and I want a hot cup of coffee, where do you suggest I go? Hop on a subway to Tea Lounge? Sorry, but that is inconvenient which is why I was rooting for you that your coffee will taste better than Starbucks. I’ve never tried Juan Valdez coffee, but if they had a shop in BH, I would give it a try and compare it fairly against the others. Barrington coffee is hardly swamp water. No hard feelings, I still wish you luck.

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 4, 2009, 3:18 pm

Fei Fei - i apologize, it is not my intention to alienate anyone. I took a bad mood out on you. everyone is entitled to their opinion. i hope u can forgive.

And Jesse, you know that’s not what i meant, i would choose BH if i didn’t love the hood or the residents.

my apologies again. It was stupid of me.

Comment from jonathan
Time: March 4, 2009, 3:21 pm

i meant WOULDN’T choose the hood if i didn’t…

Comment from Red Baron
Time: March 4, 2009, 3:51 pm

I would be absolutely delighted to have a Tea Lounge in Brooklyn Heights, and I’d be there all the time with my husband. I’ve been to the Park Slope/Union Street location and really appreciate the variety of drinks/food as well as the general relaxed vibe. (I do agree about the uncomfortable pillows, though… but that wouldn’t stop me from going!) My only concern would be the proximity to Tazza–while I agree that they are expensive and the no-laptop rule is frustrating, I would hate to see them lose customers. I like having them around!

Comment from Luke C
Time: March 4, 2009, 5:13 pm

Hooray! I’d love to have the Tea Lounge in our nabe!

Comment from k
Time: March 4, 2009, 5:54 pm

It would be great to have a Tea Lounge in BH. A suggestion would be to hire a feng shui expert to eradicate the weirdly dead energy in that particular location, and some boho types with smudge sticks to reinforce the positive energy. And just forget about the coffee, anyway–it’s a tea lounge, and tea rules way over coffee in every way, shape and form!
; - )

Comment from jiker
Time: March 4, 2009, 10:13 pm

Yes!!! Exactly what we need in the nabe. I really hope it happens

Comment from Lisa Witter
Time: March 5, 2009, 6:48 am

I really hope this comes through! We need this in then neighborhood. Great news indeed.

Comment from C.
Time: March 5, 2009, 9:23 am

-FeiFei

Go away.

About this idea. Eh. Could be cool late at night but I would avoid it like the plague during the day time as it will probably be smothered with stroller moms and kiddies. I just think the location is pretty horrible. That corner doesn’t get a lot of foot traffic and you really have to go out of your way to get to it. It’s also not very inviting from the outside and is hard to tell if whatever establishment is there is even open. I think moving a block to Henry would benefit you much better. And I mean MUCH better.

Comment from jared
Time: March 6, 2009, 1:44 am

tea lounge is over priced and the owner is rude

Comment from kayla
Time: March 7, 2009, 3:48 am

ive used togo to both slope tea lounges since they opened. i hate that owner. that Jonathan is a rude miserable sourpuss. He kicked out my best friend(who WAS a regular customer) because she was eating a sandwich from another place, OUTSIDE the store on 7th ave!!! He cursed at her, and embarressed her. He is a total ass. I would never frequent any of his establishments. Baristas have attitudes just like that dick owner. Go to the redhorse or tazza, or even starbucks and connecticuit muffin are better.

Comment from pater
Time: March 7, 2009, 3:51 am

well, i wasn’t going to say anything, until I read the comments about the owner. He really is a dick. I met him last year when i was playing music there on union street. A total meany. always pissed, never nice. i must admit, i agree about that guy. the place is pretty cool, but who wants to be surrounded by a jerk all the time.

Comment from Joey Zazza
Time: March 7, 2009, 4:55 am

J 8 - check your e-mail now.

Comment from Mom
Time: March 7, 2009, 7:43 am

This is a great idea. Jonathon should know that there are some real crabs on this site at times. Ive lived in Heights 10years. 6 without kids and the last 4 with kids. Inever had any problem with moms/strollers before and noaltercations since. Rude people are rude; with or without kids. I think moms and kids will be a great source of income for you during the day and accomadating them is important. The stairs will be an issue but if you have staff that will be there to help up the stairs and a decent area at the top to corral the stollers that would be super. and I look forward to coming without my children in the evening.

Comment from Chester
Time: March 7, 2009, 9:38 am

Mom, there are some real crabs in this neighborhood who happen to comment on this site. Homer and is staff are not crabs.

Comment from lucy
Time: March 8, 2009, 3:55 am

owner is an ass…..

Comment from heightsmom
Time: March 9, 2009, 11:44 am

I agree with Mom(with many of her comments) on the stroller issue a place to put them is very important we all figure out the stairs. Also, having delivery would be great. Lots of us with kids don’t get out much at night and there are few places that deliver to and in the North Heights.

Comment from frank
Time: March 9, 2009, 9:34 pm

this would be a most welcome addition to the neighborhood! i usually eat/ drink at home, but i would go out of my way to buy a cup of joe and lunch to support a new tea lounge in the hood with a community minded owner. also, the idea of private party rooms is very appealing. i don’t like tazza- i have found the service lacking.

Comment from Disappointed
Time: March 13, 2009, 10:12 am

A sign posted in the lobby of the St. George Tower states that the Tea Lounge is just one of the possibilities for that space and that the tower’s board is in the early stages of negotiating with other potential tenants, as well. Given their track record, I wouldn’t expect to see anything in that space in 2009. They’ve already let it sit empty for over 2 years; I guess the rent isn’t that important to them … must be nice!

Comment from Renato
Time: March 14, 2009, 12:27 pm

Yes, we would definitely welcome you to the heights. No nighttime music venues whatoever - Henry St. Ale House is great but its the only game in town.

Comment from Renato
Time: March 14, 2009, 12:34 pm

We do support local busninesses if they are any good. Build it and they will come.

Comment from Logan
Time: April 29, 2009, 1:54 pm

Yes!! I live a block away and would LIVE at the brooklyn heights tea lounge. Brooklyn Heights is dying for this kind of spot.

Comment from abbie
Time: May 7, 2009, 6:38 am

Yes, we would love a place like this in Brooklyn Heights!!!! We totally support it!

Comment from XYZ
Time: July 21, 2009, 9:10 pm

They might have gotten the lease. There is a sign in the door referring to the tea lounge.

Comment from annoyying
Time: July 25, 2009, 10:08 am

The kid friendly stuff is total red herring and a distraction from the real issue. I could care less if the place hosted kid parties all day long ! The problem with this plan is noisy drunks that will clutter the block with thier SMOKING at 2 am. Noisy women quacking into cell phones while smoking and other menacing. One of the biggest benefits of this neighborhood is that you dont have to step over too many quarts of puke splat on your way to work or be woken up by by drunks outside. Its a bad idea. Try Court Street ..

Comment from Stan
Time: July 25, 2009, 11:27 am

Annoying… yes you are. Perhaps its time you allowed your family the privilege of moving you into that assisted living facility.

Comment from annoyying
Time: July 25, 2009, 3:33 pm

I suspect you dont live anywhere near the place. This explains your response.

Comment from Hicks & Clark
Time: July 29, 2009, 10:11 pm

When will “last-call” be at this new place? As a neighbor, I’m also more than a bit concerned about boisterous outside yakking at 2am on weekday evenings.
Jonathan, did you mention whether the interior will be soundproofed? I might have missed a reply to that query.

Comment from The Where
Time: July 30, 2009, 7:25 am

Annoying, yes you are. I live very close to the location and welcome it with open arms.

Comment from nancy
Time: July 30, 2009, 8:51 am

Well I live there and nothing is more annoying NOW then the students congregating on the sidewalk, smoking and “quacking” into their cell phones. After all, no young men use cell phones screaming “Dude, when are we meeting up?, where’ the party” Nah, only us women “quackers.”

Comment from Simon
Time: July 30, 2009, 9:10 am

I find coeds on their cell phones in the summer quite easy on the eyes.

Comment from plain jane
Time: July 30, 2009, 9:15 am

yes, those awful SMOKERS with their QUACKING and MENACING! i know every time i pass a smoker, quacking and menacing into their cell phone, i reach for my pepper spray. and my god, YOUNG PEOPLE! even worse! can’t we just do away with all those pesky schools of higher education in the neighborhood? not in my backyard, i say! now that i think about it…PEOPLE. can we make sure no more PEOPLE come to this neighborhood?

/sarcasm off/

i live above a restaurant where people tend to congregate and smoke at night. if it bothers me, i shut the windows. problem solved. really, the solutions are just so simple sometimes!

Comment from harold tribbler
Time: August 11, 2009, 3:51 am

i recently spent a morning at tea lounge in park slope.
disaster.
filthy.
rude staff.
loud.
uncomfortable.
average coffee. below average baked goods.
filthy.
asked for extra milk on the side, worker told me owner doesnt allow extra without money.but he didnt know how much to charge. nightmare!!!
nice idea, very bad execution.
cant last long!!!