Reflections on the Most Expensive Dishes in My Memory

When reflecting on memorable dining experiences, there are a few dishes and restaurants that stand out, each with a story linked to more than just the price on the menu. These stories often remind us that extravagance doesn’t always equal quality, and that caution can be a wise virtue, especially when dealing with financial investments and career prospects.

The Stone Barns at Blue Hills and Nobu

Among the most lavish dining experiences was a meal at The Stone Barns at Blue Hills on what was once a Rockefeller estate. This restaurant, though undoubtedly extravagant, did not live up to the price tag or the myth surrounding its opulent setting. While the ambiance and atmosphere were certainly impressive, the food, in my opinion, was not extraordinary. I’ve had similar or even better meals elsewhere, making me wonder why such a renowned setting couldn’t deliver a genuinely stupendous meal.

Another memorable encounter was at a Japanese restaurant in Manhattan, possibly near Times Square. The tasting menu here was unequivocally exquisite, surpassing even the highly-regarded Nobu in taste and quality. Though I can't pinpoint the exact name, the restaurant provided a memorable culinary experience that left a lasting impression. This place, with its remarkable food and possibly famous chef, unfortunately seems to have disappeared from the city.

The Rich and the Rest of Us

During my days as a manager at a leading dialysis chain, we often enjoyed extravagant meals during company meetings and trips. However, there were times when we were taken to what were perceived as exclusive “rich people restaurants.” While initially excited by the prospect, the culinary offerings at these establishments were, in my opinion, inferior to more down-to-earth meals. The food was unappealing and portions were far too small, leading me to conclude that such experiences were not worth the pomp and unnecessary expense.

My preference is for straightforward, hearty meals like a well-cooked steak with a generous side of roasted potatoes and a variety of accompaniments. These days, I opt for quality without sacrificing taste or content, rather than indulging in pretension and expense. The rich can continue to dine as they please; I’ll stick to more practical and satisfying meals.

Arturo's Coq Au Van: A United Memory and a Cautionary Tale

In 1982, I shared an evening with my husband at Arturo's Coq Au Van on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago. This elegant and romantic setting was a stark contrast to the more modest meals we typically enjoyed. As we perused the menu, my eyes landed on the Linguine Fra Diavlo, described as a mix of house-made pasta, whole lobster tail and claws in a spicy red sauce. The dish was market value priced at 30.30 – a significant sum in those days. The mere mention of the dish sent a jolt of excitement through me, and in an impulsive moment, I ordered it.

Little did I know that this luxurious meal would be our last extravagant indulgence. Just days later, the airline endeavor that had lured my husband away from his banking job fell into a financial scandal, leaving us in a precarious situation. The investment firm we had trusted also vanished without a trace. In the aftermath, I was left to reflect on the lessons of that expensive pasta dish: always to be cautious and to consider the potential risks before taking drastic actions.

Over the years, I've occasionally seen Linguine Fra Diavlo on menus in upscale restaurants, but I've never dared to order it again. Sometimes, the best things are left best left as distant memories, especially when they lesson us about the perils of imprudence.

In conclusion, the most expensive dishes often serve as a reminder that financial prudence and careful thought are essential. Dishes that come with a hefty price tag may not always translate into memorable or satisfying experiences, and sometimes the worst lessons are learned from the most extravagant meals.

A Key Takeaway

Always exercise caution and consider the long-term impacts of your decisions, especially when it comes to financial investments and career choices, just as I learned the hard way with that expensive pasta dish at Arturo's Coq Au Van.