Food for Thought

The Scene: Karen’s On Astor

Can I try the chili, I ask?
Red or black, replies the counter man.
Are they both vegetarian?
Yes. Black is spicy, red is mild.
I’ll try the black.
You like it black?
Slight smirk. No response.
I mean, you like it spicy?
Smiling, I do.
Or not. Moments later, quasi-choking, consumed by a coughing fit, I learn that I’m not all that spice tolerant afterall. I order the red and dine on food for thought.