The Regulars

 

In the age-old debate between trying lots of different things and sticking with what you know, I am usually squarely in the former camp rather than the latter. Sure, I have my go-to's, whether it is a running shoe brand I'm comfortable or the fact that I like going to our cherished vacation places in Florida every year. But, if given the choice of going back to something I've experienced before or intentionally avoiding that in order to branch out, almost always I'll choose to break new ground.

Indeed, during COVID, it felt important to break free from our usual takeout haunts and sample the vast diversity of food offerings in our neighborhood. So, we upped our frequency from once a month to once a week, and we vowed to not repeat places for as long as we could find a new spot. I lost track around 70 to 80, that's how many options we have within a 15-minute walk of our home. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the diversity of our community and support local businesses in the process.

But, I do understand the allure of having a go-to spot. For some, it's a matter of sticking with what works for you rather than risking a bad experience. But for me, it's a matter of approaching that wonderful existence known as being a "regular." 

Growing up, "Cheers" popularized the ditty, "where everybody knows your name." But, even better than being greeted on a first-name basis (and, in fact, many places where regulars go, no one knows anyone's names, even if everyone knows everyone) is the sense that you are recognized, appreciated, and treated with honor.

I can't say we're approaching that yet with a couple of local haunts, but it is nice to go back with some frequency to the Mexican restaurant on our block and the Arab-run smoothie shop up the street. It helps these places offer delicious things at affordable prices. But way more valuable to me is the sense that I am in a familiar and welcoming place, and that I have a real relationship with the workers and owners. 

I still like trying new things. But I also value what comes with being a "regular." It's a good feeling to want to keep coming back to over and over again.