From this perspective, the notion of digital platforms like TikTok refactoring basic elements of city life, such as eating in restaurants, seems less ridiculous, however unappealing certain manifestations of it may be. As digital channels continue to absorb cities’ traditional functions, cities’ role as generators of symbolism and narrative—which those channels in turn amplify and monetize—will continue to grow, supported by an ecosystem of brick-and-mortar business that reciprocally benefits from a wide array of digital activity. The Grub Street piece illustrates one strange facet of this shift.