More and more these days when I eat out I am disappointed. I suppose a lot of that comes from having a mother who was a wonderful cook and being spoiled food wise growing up. Then, of course, going to culinary school and having been a chef, I always think I could do a better job.

I'm not trying to be smug but it does seem unless you go to a restaurant owned/supervised by the likes of Mario Batali, Charlie Trotter, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Patrick O'Connell or Thomas Keller it just isn't worth it. Before you blast me - yes, there are a lot of other very good chefs out there whose restaurant I would love to eat at but the list would be too long.

I'd even be happy to find a mediocre restaurant that was always mediocre. A lot of the places I have had a good meal at I go back too and it isn't as good the second time. The one thing my first chef always preached to me, other than hurry the **** up, was to be consistent. People like to know what they are going to get and the expect it.

Tonight, I will be cooking at home and enjoying my dinner.