Hello:

I have been reading and hearing about the NYC restaurant, Masa, for five years--starting with the first review in the New York Times, chapters in Messrs. Bourdain and Ruhlman's books, and watching on TV a philosophical discussion with Mr. Bourdain and others in a culinary think-tank about whether or not it is wrong to spend $1,800 for dinner at Masa. I never thought I would ever experience this allegedly magnificent restaurant because of the heavy-duty cost--$400 for the prix fixe meal, not includiing beverages, a service charge, gratuity and tax. Then, my sister and brother surprised me for my 50th birthday with a gift certificate. I wept when I saw the certificate. On August 17, I went to Masa for dinner by myself and sat at the famous sushi bar made of Japanese cypress wood. I am saddened to say that the dinner I had was not worth the money. It was not excellent, orgasmic, rapturous or heavenly. It was definitely not the best dinner or sushi I have ever had. It was raw fish and vegetables prepared creatively on artistic dishware for $400+. Oh! And while I was eating the waiter offered additional beef dishes for $120. Obviously, a single mother who works for a non-profit organization is not Masa's target audience. There is still elitism in the NYC restaurants. What a surprise. Yet the philosophical question still remains: Is a meal worth $400 even if one of your most favorite chefs and TV icons recommends the restaurant?