I'll have what she's having

I grew up thinking Olive Garden was the cream of the crop. Last night my team members went out to eat at a true fine dining establishment called La Belle Vie to celebrate the last days of work for a few of my colleagues. I certainly have a lot to learn before I can appreciate high-priced food and wine, though it was easier appreciating the company-paid meal last night. I can't say I could ever justify the $10 splash of wine, $5 plate of chips, $15 plate of three tiny pasta shells, $36 beef tenderloin, and $10 candy bar.

On the flip side, the downtown Minneapolis location was great and the restaurant building was a great old structure with white molding on warm colored walls. To my surprise the walls contained no artwork...an intentional decision that helped direct attention to the natural beauty of the building and woodwork of the interior.

And although I had to ask the waitress what absolutely everything on the menu was--French and English words--my brother-in-law-to-be (Alex, is that what you'll be?) would have been proud that I made it through without spilling my wine, using the wrong fork...or insulting the chef!