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- Subscribe - Contact Us - Rate Card - Place an Ad Valley&State Backpage O&E Sports Archives Classifieds Faith&Beliefs Obituaries Revels July 13, 2004 Outside dining, especially along the creek, is a big part of the city's charm By Emily Morris Tidings Correspondent With summer in full swing, the restaurants along Calle Guanajuato are doing a brisk business, and picnickers in the park are again dining creekside. Ashland's Shad Willingham (center) enjoys lunch with friends Kelly Knox of Penn. (left) and Anne Williamson of San Jose, Calif. along Guanajuato Way on Sunday. Satsuki Doi | The Associated Press From the shaded lawns of Lithia Park, the creek flows along Calle Guanajuato, where delis, micro-pubs and fine-dining have seating on the bank. But whether drinking a microbrew, fine wine or a soft drink, people come for the water flowing beneath them, chatting lazily while smiling servers shuttle food and drink from inside the restaurants to outdoor tables. "It is essential Ashland," said Louie's co-owner Melissa Jensen. "The creek and dining are all part of the magic." Something seems magical about the creek; people walk slower in the shade, pausing under the Greenleaf water misters to enjoy a cool moment before continuing on in the hot sun. Greenleaf server Hailey Reed said people want to sit outside year-round - the deck is open regardless of the season - but the summer months are special for the view, great weather and happier customers. "It's more fun outside, it's summertime, so everyone's in a good mood," said Louie's server Tia McLean. "It's so nice getting to listen to the creek and watch the sunset when closing." "I remember coming here 26 years ago. The natural beauty sticks in your mind," said Martha Wall, visiting from Marin County in California. "It is the special thing about Ashland, the mix of human and natural art." Wall missed the 1997 New Year's flood, when the creek raged through downtown, destroying the walkway and outside seating behind the Plaza. The eyesore sat for 18 months before the city began restoration of the popular lane. One strictly outdoor business missed the flood. The Water Street Cafe, then known as the Ashland Outdoor Espresso Bar & Grill, operates seasonally, ending after the Festival of Light celebration in November. "It's an outdoor business. People are more fun, and in a better mood. In the wintertime people want to go inside," said Nathan Ruff, owner and manager of the Water Street Cafe. "Here they sit and watch the traffic, I don't know any other place like it." Residents and tourists seem to agree that there is something special about Ashland's downtown, and the creek is part of it. Running through the center of town, it is the main thoroughfare for those looking to escape. "We particularly sought a place where we could eat outside," said Gwen Knaebel of Redding, Calif. "We always make it a point to stop here in Ashland for a bite to eat." Offering views of the riparian area, the bustling decks make a stark contrast to the comparatively slow inside seating areas. "It is absolutely a huge draw, primarily with the tourists. Ironically, more often than not the locals sit inside," Jensen said. Diners visit the restaurants for the food and ambiance. "There is just fresh air and more to look at," said former resident Jimmy Maize. "I live in New York now, and we take space for granted here - it is nice to enjoy." Maize's dining partner, Medford resident Kim Munro, says the creek enhances conversation, as it is non-intrusive but beautiful for listening. "It's peaceful, it has a certain je ne sais quoi. Of course, it depends on where you're at by the creek. The park is the place to go unless you prefer a restaurant, but water is an important part of any town," said Ashlander Mike Tysoe. Some think maybe there's more to it than cooler temperatures and pleasant sounds. "They say when babies cry to put them in water. We are mostly water. I think there is something very visceral there," Wall said. Whatever the reason, it is a drawing point. "It's a good place to take girls, down by the creek," added Tysoe. DailyTidings.com Home Page Valley&State | Backpage | O&E | Sports | Archives | Weather | Classifieds Columnists | Faith&Beliefs | Obituaries | Revels | Subscribe | Contact Us Copyright 2004 Ashland Daily Tidings and Ottaway Newspapers All Rights Reserved Click Here Site Search: .:Advertisements:. RESOURCES - Mail Tribune News - ODOT Road Cams