April 16, 2021. Madison, Mississippi. Noise.

I do not like loud noise. Once upon a time, Ken and I left a Redskins football game at half time because the stadium was too noisy. On Wisconsin Avenue just abve Bradley Boulevard there was a wonderful restaurant. The food was wonderful and the place was small and cosy and quiet. We loved it. In order to allow for more tables, the ownere reconfigured the space. Unfortunately, they also allowed the space to be noisy. The quiet elegance disappeared and in its place the restaurant was sleek and bright and noisy. The place continued to be crowded but not with us. Evidently, most people do not mind noise in a restaurant. In fact, customers probably prefer the noise. Last Sunday we ate brunch at Fine & Dandy, a place we have dined many times. We always order a milkshake for an appitizer, a pattern set by Ken. Usually when we arrive for 11:15 the place is mainly empty. But this Sunday the place was packed both inside and out. And inside it was noisy. The restaurant had made changes. They started a brunch menu that opens at 10:00. The brunch includes Bloddy Mary or Simosas. And you can order more than one drink. So by the time we arrived, the decibel level was high. You could not even think let alone speak. My hearing is excellent but in order to hear Christina I was forced to lean way into the table. The noise was remarkably loud. As we were walking to the cars, we all decided that the next time we come, we will request a table outside, where the seats are comfortable and the airwaves are silent. I do not enjoy dining in a noise restaurant. I guess I am getting old!!