I have a ticket to watch a performance at the Royal Opera House in London.

A few weeks ago, the Royal Opera House in London emailed me to ask if I want to eat at one of their dining establishments before the show. No, I thought, that’s not something I do. Mostly because of the whole dairy allergy thing. But then I noticed that all of their menus are posted on line, of course, so I took a look, just in case. So it also turns out that there are many vegan or dairy-free options available (of course). So I changed my mind.

First I had to decide on what establishment I wanted to patronize. There’s, like, 6, ranging from super casual, to super fancy. I made my decision based purely on… one fancy place had a set, three course menu that looked like too much food, and the other fancy place I could order whatever I wanted. It’s also in a super fine cavern upstairs at the opera house.

So I made my reservation, and the Royal Opera House in London emailed back immediately asking me to pre-order my meal which delights me to no end. A) I don’t have to decide what I want to eat on the day, when I might be hangry. B) I can’t remember what I paid.

So I’m here right now! Here is my first plate (which is a starter but I’m treating as a main)

And here is my first dessert, which I’m treating as my first dessert…

That’s all that’s happened so far. I’ve eaten all of the above and I have time to go buy trinkets in the gift shop. I’ll be back at the interval, to the same table, and I’m even allowed to leave my jacket here.