So who is that dapper fellow who holds court at the Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant every Saturday morning? He is ready at the gates before they open. Decked out in a wardrobe that ranges from pastel madras to yachting attire, he prepares his table (always the second table from the end). First the blue Provencal table cloth is spread out. The vase of flowers is placed in one corner. Next he carefully arranges three white plates. Ripe red strawberries are strewn amongst wedges of ripe cheeses. The next platter is for charcuterie. Then a plate for dessert. Are those cookies or petit fours? The plates are placed in a three tiered silver plate holder. Now he orders his bottle of wine. Last week it was a rose. By noon there are four other people sharing his table. Are these friends? Or other customers of the Wine Merchant. And what does the Wine Merchant think about a customer who sets up camp all day? I guess if he buys enough wine, who cares? Can you bring your own food into a wine shop if they don't serve food? Does anyone know what is going on here? Please let us know.
