When Ben was but a wee tad (maybe 4?) and he was just starting to put words together, we went out for a nice dinner on my birthday. Ben correctly deduced from the Old Corner’s elegant ambience and cloth napkins, that this was fine dining, and he wanted to order without my help (I sometimes have to interpret for the Ben impaired). I don’t remember them having a children’s menu, but I read several entrees to him that I thought he would like. When the waiter came to take our order, Ben made a chopping motion on his own arm, and politely requested “chicken arms”. The waiter didn’t miss a beat. “Very well, sir. Chicken fingers for the young gentleman. Excellent choice.”
This was something of a great awakening for Ben. All I have to do is name a food I love and after a little while, someone will bring it to me! Magic! (And when it comes down to it, chicken arms make as much sense as chicken fingers.) It was also a great awakening for us, the parents. Even if it isn’t on the menu, it never hurts to ask!
Ben’s interests have not strayed much. The young gentleman requested chicken arms for this week’s Ben’s Day Wednesday dinner, though now he calls them “Chicken Tinkers,” splitting the difference between tenders and fingers. I didn’t really have it in me to gussy things up with a white tablecloth atmosphere, but we still enjoyed our millionth meal together in our little corner of lockdown.
I finally identified who Ben reminds me of when cooking. Anyone remember the Muppet’s Swedish Chef?
Looks wonderful! The Swedish chef looks familiar.
My grandkids would definitely come to Chef Ben’s kitchen/restaurant. I love how Ben presents his meals, especially with his smile. ❤️
He does love food!