sweetblue

To clarify about the condition of the outside of the pan, unfortunately it's not gooped-up fat from years of use... it's more like damage - crusty, flaky, bubbled-up, etc. Believe me, if it was just buildup from overuse and love, I'd keep it like it is. Dave, that was my concern about reseasoning just for the sake of the outside - that it would take away from the now-much-loved inside. But I'll probably go the steel brush/wool route unless anyone can suggest something better. I plan to pass this sucker down to my grandkids...

I have a twist on this question: I inherited a 12" cast-iron frying pan that's at least two generations old, and I nursed it back to health. The surface is well on its way to being like I want it. The question is, the OUTSIDE of the pan is all cracked and bubbly. I did what I could, but it's still kind of nasty. In order to try and rehab the outside, should I steel-wool it and then try to season it so it matches the look of the rest of the pan? Or is there a better way to do this?

When I waited tables: Asked the question only when I didn't have time to count the money being offered. Would never do this if the amount offered obviously did not include tip (i.e. C-note for $65 tab, etc.) Now that I don't wait tables: Doesn't really bother me, but again, if the difference between bill and amount offered is obviously not the tip, to me it implies one of two things about the server: (a) presumptuous or (b) clueless. Either option diminishes the chance of me leaving a little something extra. In the end, it's all part of the dance. But unless you're in a really nice place, nothing to get too wound up about. A somewhat related pet peeve: When you belly up to the bar, order a $4 drink (no, I don't live in NYC - there are actually $4 drinks where I live), and let's say you pay with a five. Bartender brings $1 change back and sets it in front of you. Several minutes pass. Bartender comes along, grabs bill, stuffs in tip jar. Couple of points: I'm going to leave the $1 anyway unless the bartender is a complete jerk. But no way should s/he pick up the bill unless I've left, or otherwise indicated they're to keep the change. If the bartender is really, really busy, it's no big deal (lord knows I have a lot of huge-tip bartender karma to pay off), but when it's only moderately busy, it bugs me. One of those irritating situations where it's not worth the trouble to make a big deal about it, especially if you like the place or you're with friends. Just something that gets under my skin. Thanks for the opportunity to rant. :)