Sliman wasn’t quite as regular an NCM attendee I was but we were both at the 2012 meeting in Venice (I guess that was one he didn’t care to miss). At some point talked me into going Harry’s Bar which had never heard of. assumed it a hole-in-the-wall dive maybe with funk band playing corner. My suspicions aroused when realized waiters (all male) wearing white tuxes. horrified looking menu (for reason rather less concerned). We shared black squid ink pasta probably something else and couple drinks got bill for like $200. point announced he’d forgotten his wallet – could cover it? Having no choice did tried remind him of event frequently afterward. Looking now on Wikipedia see Anthony Bourdain quoted "you get pretty good plate food—and Bellinis are just fine. They cost fuck lot.” No wonder liked it.