There is a spot in Southwest Portland that promotes dating in a very unique and somewhat revolutionary way. It has been nicknamed (at least by my sister), “Social Safeway.”
This Safeway amid the busy college and business life in downtown Portland provides a very sustainable dating arena. I find this somewhat smart as young, out-of-college-ers are not only interested in eating and to some extent working (because of the much needed money to provide for the eating) but young, out-of-college-ers are also interested in dating.
Although there are many places for people to meet, especially in the downtown metropolitan area, there is a certain mentality that accompanies these social “hot spots” that does not promote long-term dating. I mean, come on, how seriously can a girl really take a guy when he’s grinding up against her to the tune of “Get Low” in the lovely stylings of Lil Jon?
Social Safeway is a brilliant idea. A friendly and safe atmosphere is provided with soft background music setting the mood for a casual “shopping” experience. Conversation starters are endless (though I would avoid chitchat in the feminine hygiene aisle) and one can guess a person’s lifestyle, financial status, and relative age judging by items selected for purchase.
Worried about legal-age issues? Hang out in the liquor section. Looking for that special someone with a similar digestive lifestyle? Just hang out around your favorite foods that you’d like your soon-to-be partner to include in his/her diet. Vegetarians can seek out other vegetarians. Organic conscious can seek other pro-organics. And even if one wanted to put up a facade by sneaking in items into his/her basket, it would be an expensive one to fake, especially after many trips to Social Safeway.
But faking a certain “look” when it comes down to food is not a very convincing lie to make. Eating is a necessary part of life that you really can’t hide. After all, you are what you eat.