Gunshots in the Tenderloin - we still had drinks

So last night, around 9:30 PM, C. and I roll into the city. Our plans were to hit the Olive Bar on Larkin, perhaps have two rounds of drinks and a snack or two. Then we'd take a cab to Cafe du Nord where we would see the Lovemakers show. In general, a good roommate bonding plan.

The night started out with us on top. We found a great parking spot on Eddy and Larkin, which is only 2 blocks from the bar. Now on foot, we turned onto Larkin. In a matter of seconds, we heard some racket behind us, like firecrackers maybe. Then we noticed that the local contingent of homeless folks was hauling ass out of the way and people were running in the street down where the noises seemed to be coming from. Could it be? Could someone REALLY be firing a gun down there? At least 10 shots went off from what I could recall.

Despite the growing sense of chaos on Larkin, I remained cynical that our personal safety, and the general public safety, was being threatened. I explain my position by pointing to a profound sense of urban malaise within the Tenderloin - there's not much I can do about what is going on down there, therefore, I won't get all carried away and start dodging bullets unless they actually graze my pant legs. Yes, I do realize that sounds terrible coming from a person in city planning.

Don't get me wrong, I do know that there are CBOs and other parties working to make the Tenderloin a better place for all. But for now, the place is kind of a mess. However, seeing that I am hanging out there on a Friday night, I admit I must be attracted to that mess for some reason or another.

I recommend the Olive Bar. The bar staff is attentive. Prices are heading out of my range, but I have no qualms about paying $8 for a decent glass of wine. There is a meathead muscle guy that shakes the martinis there; he has enormous biceps. He didn't look to be incredibly sharp, but he has the martini shaking down pretty good and appears to be proud of his skills.

The Lovemakers show left me happy I made it into the city tonight. Sadly, the opening band was kind of terrible (they were called BoyJazz...go figure). As for the Lovemakers, they are playing again next Friday at the same venue and I recommend it, but only go for the opener if you're familiar.