On Friday, September 28, 2018 at 5:47:39 PM UTC-4, wrote:
> I have to say, I don't care much. The point of learning to cook well is so you don't feel the NEED to go to restaurants.
>
> https://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddri...ignout#image=1
>
>
> Lenona.

That article and your comment are both pretty sad IMO, in that the
focus is only on the cost of rather prosaic meals.

I go to restaurants for any or all of the following reasons:

1) I can get something I really like that is a pain in the butt
to make at home but is as easy as waving a credit card at a restaurant.

(Prosaic) example: Fish and chips.

2) I discover new treatments of dishes I already like.

Example: Flavored (in interesting ways) creme brule.

3) I discover stuff I've never experienced before and am willing
to take a chance on.

Example: Haggis (don't laugh until you've tried some good ones.)

4) "Ethnic"

Example: I fell in love with Korean cuisine by adventuring into
it at Korean restaurants with Korean friends. Now I do good Korean
stuff at home too.

5) Family/friends/house guests/celebrations: Does not need an
explanation. Just do it.

6) Homey - Your local breakfast/lunch spot, does a fine job on
bacon, eggs, pancakes, whatever. Good gathering spot for that day's
group activity.

Say hello to people you haven't seen in months or years, talk
local politics.

7) Luxe
You know what? I can afford it once in a while. Money is just
a tool.

8) I travel. Whether on business (their nickel) or vacation
(my nickel), I'll be damned if I restrict myself to the
cheapest eats I can find or bother myself with "how much they're
ripping me off." Sheesh.

--
Silvar Beitel