By Neela Greene

*The Long Wait is a letter series celebrating our favorite gathering places, in support of raising proceeds for the 86Fund.*

Created by Fyrn in San Francisco.

Photos by the artist: Leah Rosenberg

March 29, 2021

Already, I am super hyped to be out to dinner at 9 p.m. but it’s going to get even better! When I walk into The Progress, it’s love at first sight. High ceilings, epic balconies, and those gold, glittery DOORS! Dinner is delicious, but the Bathroom. Is. Amazing. I didn’t expect my friend's kindergarten graduation to be this spectacular, but I was happy! A private balcony was fun, and there weren't many people: that just meant more time to play!

The gold doors with glittery spots are incredible, but as I walk in, it gets better. The walls are stripey, rainbow colors and the stall doors are gold. As the night goes on, this bathroom is never gonna get enough of these two kids, because it’s like heaven in here. I mean, what bathroom is glittery, fun and colorful? None other than The Progress would provide such a stunning experience! I mean, the bathroom is usually the worst part. And the bathroom isn’t even the end of it!

After asking to go back to the bathroom for the hundred-millionth time, the answer is no, but only for a good reason! When that lobster arrived I was skeptical, but I should NOT have been. I mean, who does not like lobster?  The moment that meat touched my tongue, I just wanted more of that juicy, salty, deliciousness! I think that I might have overdone it on the lobster that night, but whatever--it was still SO, SO, SO good!

Do you know that feeling when you are tired, but are so happy that you can't relax? That's how I felt as we drove home across the bridge. I wished I was still there. I wanted to be back on the balcony enjoying the view of people eating downstairs while being up high. I felt like royalty, and that I was lucky to be able to come. That night, I was happy. When we got home, I told my mom Every. Little. Thing. She enjoyed hearing what I had to say, even though it was midnight. I wish she could have been there, then she would have known how I’d felt.

Neela Greene loves animals

Neela Greene is an animal lover, skateboarder, reader and baker who is 10 years old from Berkeley, California

If this letter stirred memories of an experience you've had at The Progress, share it with us in the comments.

The Progress is set to reopen in September of 2021! Pay them a visit when they do. Or consider purchasing a gift card to The Progress, or visiting a sister restaurant.

Or contribute to the 86Fund which is providing grants to bridge restaurants through this period.

Email [email protected] if you'd like to submit a letter for consideration to be included in The Long Wait