Where do I want to eat?

For Matt who chooses places by the buzz
And Jen the class of those who phone ahead,
For Lil her eccentric interest in the food
And you the sense of ambiance instead.

For nephews searching menus up and down
For burgers -- don't fret, we'll find a winner,
And for the niece who can take or leave it,
We'll joke about each facet of our dinner.

But please don't hit me with all the questions,
Whether
al fresco or jacket required.
I don't care a fig for zagat's rated,
And counting stars just gets me good and tired!

And if asked again you best prepare to hear
My plans for the room just off our kitchen,
One with an inlaid table just for two,
Where we might enjoy a cutlet of chicken.

Ah, yes, a simple breaded chicken cutlet,
With potatoes mashed and a bit of spice
In a light-filled room by a picture hung,
And let's add string beans and a lemon slice.

In the mind's eye how simple it can seem,
And, yes, I would simplicity name our task.
An easy meal can be easy taken -- still
I'm learning slowly it's the world I ask.
Selected Poems of A.T.Aimonte