Sometimes we know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. As a financial advisor I see that happening all the time but I am not writing this about financial matters, just about ethnic food.
Living in Toronto, we are extremely fortunate to get good ethnic restaurant and take-out food (Goan, Indian-Pakistani, Chinese, Sri Lankan, Afghani, Ethiopian, Arabic) at decent prices but people moan all the time about the rising costs. If you think about it, this is uncalled for. A substantial plate of mutton or veal Biryani sells from between $6 to 10. Outside of Toronto a less tastier version goes for 20. Non-Indians are slowly getting used to eating Indian food because it is cheap and the quantity is substantial. I don’t know how much of this demand is actually due to their palate. That will be tested when a plate of Biryani or Mutton Korma costs the same as a plate of Italian or French food. Do we expect Indian food to be cheaper because we know what it costs in India or because of the lack of hygiene and presentation. If the presentation and service is as high quality as that in an Italian restaurant, would be be willing to pay Italian restaurant prices? These are arguments I like to put to friends when they moan and complain about the Goan or Indian food. They give me funny looks because of this. I look forward to your thoughts. Roland. Toronto.
