Daily writing prompt

What’s the most money you’ve ever spent on a meal? Was it worth it?

View all responses

Hello dear friends,
I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood.

Today’s writing prompt question is fascinating:
“What’s the most money you’ve ever spent on a meal? Was it worth it?”

Initially, it seems like a simple question. However, after reflecting on it, I realized it reveals something deeper—how we perceive value, what makes an experience memorable, and most importantly, how some meals offer more than just flavor.

They leave us with stories that last a lifetime.

Let me take you back to a special day in Udaipur, Rajasthan—where one unexpected meal became a moment of pure magic.

The Palace by the Lake

It was the winter of 2016. My wife and I were exploring Udaipur, the city of lakes, as part of our post-retirement travel dream. We were drawn to its royal charm—grand palaces, intricate havelis, and serene lakes that shimmered under the golden sun.

On the final evening of our trip, we decided to treat ourselves to a dinner at a well-known heritage hotel situated right on the banks of Lake Pichola.

It was something we hadn’t planned for—it was expensive, and our budget was tight. But something about the calm lake, the setting sun, and the soft music playing from the courtyard convinced us to walk in.

We were seated on a jharokha-style balcony that opened up to the lake. Across the water, the City Palace glowed under the evening lights, and boats drifted lazily by.

The Royal Thali Experience

We chose the Mewar royal thali—a grand spread of local delicacies, prepared with recipes passed down generations. There were dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, laal maas, ker sangri, and fragrant rice. Every dish was a small world of flavor, crafted with care.

A turbaned server explained each item, their origins, and how they were once served to kings and queens of Mewar.

As we ate, a pair of musicians began playing the sarangi and tabla. The music, the food, the moonlight on the lake—everything felt surreal.

When the bill came, it was ₹9,500 for two. For us, a retired couple traveling modestly, it was quite a surprise. We looked at each other and smiled—not in regret, but in quiet agreement.

Was It Worth It?

Absolutely.

Because that night wasn’t just a meal—it was an experience.
It was about celebrating life, our journey together, and the freedom of this beautiful phase after decades of hard work.

We still talk about that dinner today—not because of the price, but because of the joy it brought us. It reminded us that sometimes, we don’t just spend money on food—we invest in memories.

Meals that Touch the Heart

Of course, not all special meals come with a heavy bill.

I still remember the time a kind tribal woman in Odisha offered us pakhala bhaat with mustard greens while we were passing through a remote village. She refused to take any money.

That humble meal, served with warmth and dignity, felt like a royal feast. It cost nothing, but nourished us more than any restaurant could.

There’s also the simple khichdi my wife makes when I fall sick. It carries the same taste every time—comfort, love, and care.

What Truly Makes a Meal Worth It?

In India, food is more than sustenance—it’s emotion. From street-side chaat in Delhi to idli-sambar served on banana leaves in Tamil Nadu, it’s the people, the culture, and the stories that bring food to life.

So when I think about the most I’ve spent on a meal, yes, it was that moonlit dinner in Udaipur.

But when I think about value, I recall dozens of smaller, simpler meals that left an everlasting imprint on my soul.

A Final Thought

Value isn’t always tied to money. A meal becomes priceless when it is served with affection, when it becomes a bridge between hearts, or a celebration of togetherness.

So dear friends, I leave you with a question:
What’s the most meaningful meal you’ve had? Was it about the money—or was it about something more?

Share your story with me in the comments. Let’s celebrate not just food—but the emotions it stirs.

Until next time,
Stay grateful, stay joyful—and savor every bite of life.

Warm regards,
Vijay Verma
 www.retiredkalam.com

Categories: infotainment

Tags: #Family, #Travel, asia, daily-prompt, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-2022, featured, food