What is it about expectations that make or break an experience? Case in point: My regular lauding of Philadelphia's Vetri. On this very site, I have waxed enthusiastically about the restaurant's Honey-Wheat Crespelle Stuffed with Radicchio, and Guinea Hen Breast Stuffed with Foie Gras and Proscuitto served with Mushrooms - calling it "the best restaurant I've ever been to."
Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Last weekend I visited the City of Brotherly Love to take my Mom to Vetri for a knockout b-day dinner.
Sadly, we weren't knocked out.
The Golden Sweet Onion Crepe with White Truffle Fondue was excellent as always. The warm Asparagus Flan with Shaved Parmesan, oozing sunny egg yolk when I cut inside, was lovely.
And, yet...
The pastas were tasty, albiet a bit on the buttery side. The main dishes were satisfying - but nothing to write home (or on my blog) about.
The price tag: Exorbitant.
Will I return? I really can't say.
Was it just a fluke off-night? Or had it fallen victim to my own hype? Had I forced the restaurant to fall from its culinary pedestal?
I won't know unless I go back...
And, with Philadelphia restaurant's like Southwark and Gayle offering intense flavors, ingenius cuisine and friendly service - at a much friendlier pricetag, I think it'll be a while before I pay a return visit to Vetri.
Pedestals. They're tricky suckers. Best be careful before erecting one.
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