Well, around here it's more a situation of good restaurants blandizing (is that a word???) otherwise flavorful food in order to sell it in greater quantity, as the average mid-westerner apparently can't tolerate good food. Can't blame the restaurants - sales are survival - but still. However, I love the looks of delight on the owners'/chefs' faces when I ask them to make it for me like they would make it for themselves.
TPBM will go out to eat tonight to make up for their last not-so-spectacular restaurant visit.