Do I look unsophisticated?

A few days ago, I went to a small and simple café with my friend. I ordered a Japanese iced coffee, while my friend got a latte. For food, we both ordered dory katsu with sambal matah (a traditional Indonesian chili relish made with chili, shallots, and spices, mixed with hot oil).

To me, the menu seemed pretty normal, but I noticed that my friend was so excited and thought it was all very "special." At that moment, I caught myself thinking, "Wow, they seem a bit unsophisticated to be so excited over something so ordinary."

Then I started reflecting, "What if someone has thought the same about me before?"

That made me realize that my judgment of my friend was a bit harsh because I’m sure there have been times when I’ve probably looked “unsophisticated” to others in experiences I’ve had with them.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this experience of mine.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

dancingtongue · 80-89, M

Has nothing to do with sophistication. It is what you have grown up with, what you are familiar with and feels common to you but not everyone has had the same experiences particularly if they are from different cultures. If you came to the US I could take you to some spots with wonderful food & customs that you might think very special and different, but other portions of America would write off as unsophisticated. That's why living in a diverse urban setting is so delightful. You get exposed to so many different cuisines and cultural traditions, if you don't build walls around yourself.