Why are NYC restaurants louder than ever? An architectural detail is to blame.

Neat piece by Adam Platt in New York Magazine's Grub Street blog: restaurants in New York City are louder than ever because of the trend towards bigger and bouncier bars; but in part, because that trend means more exposed wooden slats, which effectively amplify and radiate sound. It's getting so bad, restaurant staff in many establishments are now increasingly at risk for hearing loss. (HT: @mikenizza)