Streetalk: Is the mood better this holiday season better than last?

Chelsea:  What people are saying at the bar are that times aren’t getting better, but the duration of time that people are spending here and the frequency that they’re coming in leads me to think maybe times aren’t quite as bad as they seem.  Last year at this time people were upset. They were coming in and having two beers. This year more like four or five. Businesswise we seem to be doing well. So even if they can’t buy as much for Christmas, people are spending more time together and that lifts their spirits a little bit if nothing else.

Paul:  I don’t think the economy is actually better, but the mindset is better.  Last year, really dim. People were drinking but they were drinking cheap.  Nobody was happy. This season I don’t see as much as that. They’re drinking a little better, back to the regular stuff. I’m not making any more money, but the mindset is better.  I worked Thanksgiving and people were happier, having more fun, not so much head down drinking.  A year ago they were drinking from the well or PBR, now they’re drinking better vodka,  better liquor, better whiskey.  They’re not buying the cheapest stuff available.

Jenn:  This year people are ordering a drink, but they’re not coming in and ordering drink after drink after drink.  They’re spending less money so they’re not tipping as well, but in the Highlands the tips are good. But downtown with all the businessmen the tips are lower.  Last year people were complaining about things. This year they’re not complaining as much and more friendlier really. They’re in good spirits and a good mood, but they’re drinking one beer and then leaving.  Last year we had more beer sales and liquor, but more grumpier customers and people being pissed off.