Anxiety Propriety, from the Watt's notes.

Chasing down a late drop-in frontside. 47th Street break, 7/2/2020.

"I cannot rest, I cannot stay, 
I cannot linger anywhere." 
- J. Marley

   Fake news. The media and the internet are full of it. Checking the surf report...near flat conditions. Feeling disappointed and expecting to spend more time wading around than surfing, Target surprised me as he announce that there was plenty of surf with a somewhat crowded lineup. For the second session in a row, the surf conditions were opposite of what the online surf report was saying. The Weather Channel did not do much better, reporting percent humidity into the mid-80's. The evening started out pretty humid. But upon arriving at the beach, the southeast winds made the shore conditions much more bearable. Water was firmly planted in the mid-70's as waves were crashing about 25 - 30 yards offshore with a nice thigh to waist high point break to 'em.  Paddling out, the lineup had a few rippin' it, about a half dozen or so. As soon as I got into position I was on my first waist high right-hander. What a way to take away the anxieties of the day.With about a ten minute lull between sets, waves were coming in two and three at a time. Still feeling the rust of a late start, I caught a few, missed a few. Regardless, the whole scene made for a stoked surf day. Proof of the fact was the sun beginning it's drop towards the horizon as we saddled up to head out towards the evening's grub hub.
   Speaking of fake news and the anxieties of the day, it has become an exercise in social behavior (and distancing - yes, pun) as to the effect that today's media has had on us all. It seems as if they dictate the propriety concerning what is and what is not safe. Nowhere has this become more apparent than how we, the Crew, must carefully discuss and choose our next foodie destination. And, the anxiety in making this choice is palpable.

Avoiding eating anywhere inside, making sure the exterior dining area is clean, that the establishment emphasizes the use of masks as necessary, getting in and out quickly while still enjoying the experience, and of course, the distancing aspect. Respect is key, regardless of how we may personally feel about the restrictions. Safety is in the knowing, and this evening we chose a previously visited locale that we knew had outdoor seating with a view, Ropewalk on 82nd and bayside. Upon entrance, masks were required until we were seated...and to quite a view as the sun was disappearing across the bay. This was definitely a highlight of the night. Cell phones were out clicking away as we ordered our drinks and attempted double duty in assembling our order.

 The first and most unusual that caught our attention, the Crab Cake Egg Rolls, crispy egg rolls stuffed with crab and chili aioli. Next, the house Hickory Smoked BBQ Wings, followed by the Reda Rockfish Tacos- beer battered Rockfish with shredded cheese and lettuce, tomatoes, and a chipotle horseradish sauce. As my beer was served, the Target found out that his standard Miller Lite was not available. Miller Lite! Not available! Not that one "settles" for a  Stella, but it just wasn't his first choice. As a matter of fact, their beer selection was quite limited due to the reduced seating capacity. And i know we were on sand, but plastic cups never win points with us.

However, our waitress did a nice job. The food was very prompt in being served...an indication of the push for fast turns of clientele. Our wings were the best of the three, but only warm as they were probably waiting for the others. The tacos had small portions of Rockfish "sticks," making the tacos more filler than fish. The biggest letdown was the egg rolls. Very fishy taste denoting old, frozen, and/or artificial crabmeat. Great idea, poor execution. Questionable food quality was a concerning sign of limited supply, and a careless kitchen staff. Then our bill came. I take back what I said earlier about the eggrolls. The Biggest letdown- our biggest anxiety, was the tab. Prices like that deserve stellar food. Ropewalk did not match. Sorry, but regardless of the current viral climate, the propriety of a restaurant is to provide good food in a safe dining environment. No one aspect should suffer as a result of the other. Ropewalk was established in Baltimore, in 1995. They know better. Our Quest continues...

THE RATINGS-

Beer: C-

Crab Cake Egg Roll: C

Hickory Smoked BBQ Wings: B-

Reda Rockfish Tacos: C

Atmosphere: B

Value: D+ (the + was for service)
Overall Score = 2.13