Michelin grouch

Back to the so-called gourmet dinner. I am not vegetarian so why serve me a vegetarian meal, relieved only by a minute sliver of salmonete - with more boring vegetables - as a final touch?

I would love to have been able to say, "Excuse me, are there any fish or meat dishes on the menu?", but when one is invited there are certain courtesies to be observed. At least, that is, until the waiter starts telling you what you can or cannot eat.

Asking for some bread, I was courteously informed that it would be served "with a later course". I wonder what would have been the reaction had I asked for salt or pepper.

The wines were undeniably noteworthy, as in, "If the wines being served are new to you, just shut up and drink them."

A unique and hopefully non-repeatable experience.