Upon observation of the restaurant, I can take note of the initial features one notices when entering the front door. There are several things I have in mind: the smell of the food, the dim and calming lights, or the wide open windows during the daytime, or the spread out patio with the waterfall in the back. I know I will find these things for obvious reasons; but in any case they are expected at a public place. These features are expected because it is common in public spaces to create a warm, friendly, and inviting atmosphere in which most people would feel welcomed and comfortable.
I consider myself a part of the target audience. The restaurant targets people of all ages, statuses, and communities. I do work there so I am usually on the opposite end, but every now and then I meet my parents or friends up there for happy hour or dinner just to relax and catch up.
The fact that I work there may have a strong influence on the things I notice while there. For instance, the smell of the food may not really affect me or the feeling of being there may make me tired and despondent because I am usually running around like crazy there and stressed and worn out so when I associate with work, I feel irritated and distant. I can overcome these observations by going up there with a cup of coffee (which always helps me in many ways) and in normal clothes so I'll feel clean and set aside from the chaos and busy work.
Nick-
ReplyDeleteI think that Blue Mesa is a great restaurant and a very good topic for you paper. I think that easily the hardest part of you paper will be viewing the restaurant from the eyes of an observer. Because you work there it is going to be hard to see the restaurant from the customer's point of view. Hopefully everything works out and I look forward to reading it.
Tripp
Blue Mesa sounds like a challenging but good idea for you. Is it possible for you to go during a shift where you won't know the server so that you are a 'true' customer? I'm interested to find out what new things you will observe while you are working on your paper. Hopefully you can disconnect yourself enough. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteNick great post.
ReplyDeleteMmmmm come to think of it I think you have served me once when I came in with my roommates. Not sure though. I love the chips they serve what kind are they anyway?... great variety. Any who there are a few people picking restaurants as their public places in our class. I think it is a good idea but at the same time it all really varies depending on atmosphere. It’s not like a Starbucks or Target where every single store or location usually portrays the same ideas and specifications. You know? You'll have to be careful not to generalize with the entire "food industry" audience with blue mesa audience specifically. I agree with Tripp and Erin in that you might find it challenging putting yourself in the buyers eyes. But I am certain you will figure out how to take this challenge and move forward. Good luck I look forward to reading more.
Nick,
ReplyDeleteI apologize for my late response, but it seems like you have a great idea for a public space analysis here. Blue Mesa is a favored stop in the community, which I think may add value as you begin to extend your analysis to the larger culture. Excellent choice.
AI