We’ve all heard the sayings “third time is a charm,” “three strike and you’re out,” but what about third place?
Sociologist Ray Oldenburg explains this phenomenon in his book, “The Great Good Place.” It’s that sports bar you love watching football at every week, or that coffee shop where all the baristas know your name because you’re a dedicated patron. Or perhaps, it’s that one park you love to go to — away from the bustling city and retrieve into your own world. Whatever it is, we want to know, but we’ll go first in a second (no pun intended). These places are important for many reasons, but particularly for promoting social vitality + a sense of community.
City Editor Kellina’s pick
City Editor Kellina loves The Remedy in the West End. The cozy spot is the place she’s likely to run into someone she knows. And did we mention their flatbread and wine selections are the perfect pair for a fun night out with friends? She also loves serving meals with her church community group at the Bethesda Center at least once a month.
WStoday readers picks
Here’s what some of our readers + Instagram followers said:
“Chads Chai! I love the cozy atmosphere, the drinks are phenomenal, and it’s really close to where I live making it so easy to stop in.” — Jess W.
“Be Kind coffee shop, clemmons. staff is so friendly,social causes are promoted , great place to be outside ( if and when it ever warms up!)” — Judy S.
“easytalk at Walnut & Broad Because I love the welcoming environment when I want to meet friends, catch up on work, try out the new cocktail or mocktail they introduced that week, begin or end our weekend, or have fun at a Sunday school class.” — Lisa F.
“Chad’s Chai is my go to for their off the chart quality tea concoctions and friendly atmosphere. It’s my cozy escape when I need to get out of the house and feel the vibe of this great city I now call home.” — Amy W.
“West End Cafe” — Annie J.
“Lot 63" — Lia S.
“Pulliam’s Hotdogs and BBQ! Friendly place, Mark knows you by name” — David K.
“Workhouse Fitness and Synergy!!” — Leigh H.
“Reynolda Gardens” — Mary R.
“Mixxer Community Makerspace! Can make really cool stuff while hanging out with cool people.” WStoday reader
"@fiddlinfishbrewing best place for beer and community” — @emerysnow27
"@dose.ws Monthly Monday shows!!! Bailey Park strolls & all their additional walking trails!! Love a @synergywsnc class + cocktails @easytalkws” — @roadswithria
Now, your turn. Where is your third place in Winston-Salem? Think public, informal gathering spaces that you frequent most like coffee shops, parks, libraries, churches, breweries, bookstores, salons... etc. Leave your answer in the comments section below.