2004 was a very good year for me. The city I live in had a number of great places open, and there are always a few standbys that I can go to for oysters or other local favorites. There was one weekend, however that stands out on both ends of the "spectrum". A few weeks ago, I helped my sister-in-law move from Northern-Virginia to St. Joe's U in Philly. After having run a 5 mile race in the morning, then moving her stuff up to Philly, we were famished. We went to a place called Larry's Cheesesteaks for lunch, and I had a my-way, which is a mishmash of pepperoni, cheeses, steak, peppers, onions, and other stuff. After burning so many calories that morning, it was heaven. Later that evening, we had late reservations for Morimotos. Morimotos. Morimotos. After the cocktails, my friend and I ordered one of the more "pricey" tasting menus. Alchemich tofu appetizer, pan seared scallops, caviar, truffles, Kobe beef, foie grais, oysters, sushi and sashimi, and dessert, loaded with plenty of Sake. We even got to meet the man, and I've got a picture to prove it. It was a great night, but I'll be saving up for a few mor months before we can do it again. Next time I'm in Philly, I'll have to settle for the cheesesteak for a while! Happy new year from a new eGullet member. Krup