A great dining experience does not completely centre around the taste of the food.
So much of it is to do with factors that could easily be taken for granted.
For me, going to a restaurant is a delight because - if I choose the right one - I leave feeling pampered, and there's nothing I enjoy more.
What I want is to open the doors to an interesting ballet, 'The Dance of the Dining Servitors'.
One greets me with such a friendly welcome that I feel compelled to have him join me at my table.
But that waiter pirouette's away to be replaced by the next, who seats me and hands me a list of dishes that sound so tasty, I wish to sing them aloud.
Then another dances over to me and takes my beverage order and so on.
My mood is affected by the gleeful nymphs addressing me, by the rich smells that surround me, by the happy voices chattering at tables nearby.
Even the lighting, the music and the art on the walls play a part.
The Perfect Bite
And all of that in anticipation of that first perfect bite, the beginning of a sort of tantric pleasure that will end with an absolutely sinful, sweet dessert bringing a tear to my eye.
The dance is over. I pay, but I am happy to pay.
In fact, for what I've received, I've paid far too little. So I tip big, then exit the stage.
I walk along the river to help digestion, but also to think back on the last hour like one does in a first love's encounter.
Is there anything as lovely as the restaurant experience, when it's the right restaurant? I'm sure there is, but a great dining experience definitely rates in the top ten.
Happy Eating!
