Originally Posted by
JumboJ
Actually I think I'm trending the other way. The whole pomp and process of "fine dining" seems progressively more silly to me as over and over again I find that my palate is much more stimulated by "down at the heels" ethnic food than most haute cuisine. Not that I won't take the lady out for the high end experience from time to time, but truth be told that experience is less about the food and more about the intangibles.. as my mouth alone would generally be more stimulated by some Indian or Thai, both of which are seldom particularly expensive or fancy. Also of these are cuisines that I'd not be able to prepare reasonably myself. I am however, perfectly adept at searing a scallop or grilling a steak. Generally I like very, very spicy food. I don't find much haute cuisine fitting this description.
I agree to a large extent. In my 20s I was all about the Michelin stars or this rating and that rating and I did my fair share of those kinds of places. Now in my 30s I find that I am tiring of the fussy pretentious places that are ridiculously expensive but lack the value proposition. I now prefer holes in the wall or simpler place which offer a nice ambiance, a reasonable if not inexpensive menu using quality ingredients in a simple way.
I still enjoy a fine dining meal from time to time but I also tailor my expectations to the quality, and price, point of the restaurant I am going to.