Blue Palms 4th Anniversary Party

Brian- I think everyone here appreciates the effort you put into these events. We have no idea what it takes to land a keg of Ivan the Terrible; it's hard enough just getting a bottle. Griping is common on this site as well as the whole Internet as it's hard to be appreciative or even polite to a computer screen. I feel the big attendance at Sunday's event reflects Zhiguli's sentiments- happy that Blue Palms has been around 4 years.

 

Overall I think everyone that has posted enjoyed themselves and had a good time. Just because a few negatives were mentioned about the event I don't think people are necessarily complaining, but just explaining to others how the event was (at least this is the case for me). I would love to go to the event again, but living in SD that is hard to make it all the way up there. Plus the big factor for me is whether my wife is interested in going as a non-drinker. Which is what I meant by mixed feelings (meant to/should of said mixed feelings on if I will go again).

As I said above the food given was an amazing bonus Thank You! I think the others mentioning vegetarian options are not complaining, just suggesting. They also sound understanding that there was no vegi options since it was a gift. The beer was great. No complaints there. Sure some tasted a little different than other times I had them, but that is nothing on you guys.

Cannot fault you on the heat, I think everyone is just pointing out that it was very hot. I felt bad for the staff inside, I cannot imagine how tired and hot they were.

The only suggestions I would have (as a non-business/bar owner interwebz expert ) are put out self serve water stations. Either igloo coolers, 5 gallon pales with spigots, or the PET bottles with spigots. This should help cut down on people bothering your staff, and keep down on the water bottle cost (thank you for providing those!).

The other thing is it seemed under staffed inside. The bar seemed to be handling things well (though getting water for people probably slowed things a lot). The food was coming out in great time so hats off to them for keeping up. The table servers seemed stretched thin. IIRC one mentioned something about being short a couple of table runners. If that is the case, then there is nothing you can do about people not showing up. Though the servers were ultra busy and service was slow, you could tell they were working hard and doing their best. They deserve praise for that and I hope people were not jerks and stiffing them on tips (I did hear one lady get all bitchy to a server and she was very polite and calm about it).

Hopefully I can come next year, but it may be hard getting the wife on board or bumming a ride there and back. Until then, I might see you when I pop in the next time I am in the Hollywood area.

 

Comments and constructive criticism/suggestions are all a part of the service business. People are going to voice their opinions, positive or negative, when given the opportunity (via forums, etc). When respectfully expressed, those opinions are very valuable to the success of a business. Of course, no establishment can completely please everyone, but it says a lot about a place when it can handle the wide array of opinions without getting too defensive.

I like Blue Palms and think it's a great spot for craft beer. I'm sure they work hard to provide great times and great beer to their customers, and their dedication is appreciated.

 

even the heat couldn't beat our merry group down, here's my post to prove it:

http://hopbreak.blogspot.com/2012/08/blue-palms-4th-anniversary.html

happy anniversary blue palms & thank you for hosting a great event, cheers!

 

AHHHHHH!! That was so epic!!!! Great job on the link . I'm right behind you with saying I had as much a blast as the 2nd anniversary.

THANKS BRIAN!

 

Ha! In the second pic down I am the "happy customer" on the right (my proof).

 

i just noticed I can see myself in the last picture outside. That small speck of a back of a head is me... now you all know what i look like

 

You are the truest craft pub in LA! Myself and my group were COMPLETELY satisfied and are thankful for all that you personally and your staff are accomplishing for the craft community AND still pulling off the event for so CHEAP!! I continue to make the drive from lancaster (as I have since finding you three months after opening) to support, learn, and enjoy the amazing environment you have put together.

Thank you,

Loyal beer geek