While I would not say I was particularly born with a silver spoon in my mouth, I was fortunate to eat in some of New York City’s five star restauants. One that comes to mind was called The Brasserie. I do not recall too much about it, but you got very dressed up to go there.
There were famous not-five-star places like Nedicks http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nedick%27s, and who could forget the Automat? They featured Horn and Hardardt products; my favorite was a custard that to this day still brings a wistful sigh and sparkle to my eye when I think of it. To read about The Automat and these products, click this link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horn_%26_Hardart.
My palate always went to the more sophisticated fare. I was never a peanut butter and jelly fan. While my friends were trading their sandwiches back and forth with the different flavored jellies, everyone left me alone to eat my cream cheese and olive sandwiches. And that was back in 2nd grade!
Over the years I have honed my penchants as an emerging bon vivant; a trip to France to celebrate my mother’s 70th birthday rather sealed this predilection for the finer things. My parents encouraged experiences rather than material objects, and to that end, fine dining and theatre were often the order of the day.
Santa Barbara, with its inimitably eclectic characteristics, has a satisfying assortment of restaurants for all tastes and pocketbooks.
We recommend you spluge at least once while you are here. And we will continue to keep you updated on the many choices this oh so fair city has to offer in gastronomic delights.
