In the world today, there are too many behaviours that are trending with one objective which is to get views. Similarly, in the 'Foodie" world, the eating experience has to have Umami or any other of the 5 tastes. I can't believe the number of Adjectives used to describe food in these times.
Sometimes, and I maybe dating myself here, we just want good tasting grub.
Should I be calling it 'Comfort Food'? Depends on your definition. For example, food that provides consolation or a feeling of well-being, typically any with a high sugar or other carbohydrate content and associated with childhood (nostalgic or sentimental value) or home cooking.
For the record, I grew up in England in the 60's & 70's. Beef drippings on Toast, full English Breakfast with fried (in bacon fat) bread & of course the ubiquitous 'Beans on Toast".
To make a long review longer, I was in the Westgate mall/Carling Ave area recently for one of those visits to the Civic that require fasting as of the previous midnight. After my discharge, around NOON 30, I found myself in the parking lot of the Mall and noticed the Marque for Rockin Johnny's Diner. How could I resist. Especially since I was starving.
No expectations or previous experience in this establishment to reference. But I was looking for some nostalgic Diner food.
Once I received the menu, I found the Liver and Onions. Tender baby beef liver grilled and topped with sauteed onions, bacon & their famous gravy. I chose the fries as a side with corn. One can choose onion rings (why?), mashed potatoes or seasoned rice. I am very picky when it comes to my mash so, generally speaking, I only eat at home. Oh boy was it good. Everything reminded me of my earlier days. The liver was just the way I like it - not burnt but with a crispy sear on it. The bacon (at least 4 strips) covered the whole protein, it was accompanied with the right amount of onions and topped with a rich gravy. Two more items that are paramount - a warm plate so the meal stays hot til you're done and more than a few dabs of HP sauce were provided. Everything was marvelous. Like having an out-of-body experience. The only thing missing was a dinner roll or slice of bread & butter.
I paired my meal with a coffee as tea in restaurants is never hot enough. Times have changed as the beverage was almost $4 but it was a bottomless cup. Final bill was a bit pricey for everyday but every once in-a-while a nice treat. read more