Growing up, my dad always had one rule when it came to new food: "Try it once; if you don't like it, I won't bug you about it again." That's coming from a guy who will order wild boar or ostrich from a restaurant if the chance presents itself. My mom was also apt to present new and sometimes terrifying items on the dinner table. Nevertheless I found myself at a very young age trying so many different kinds of food from every category: meats, seafood, vegetables, you name it! As a result I eat almost everything.

I understand that some foods do take time to get used to, like the consistency of mussels or scallops, the smell of salmon, or the bland flavour of broccoli... but just like a fine wine, it doesn't mean they're not worth the wait.

What many people don't realize is the value that comes with enjoying new and exciting food. Not only do you avoid insulting your friend's mom by refusing to eat the dinner she prepared, but you have so many more options when it comes to eating out! Think about how many social situations occur in restaurants: business lunches, dates, family events, birthday parties, etc. I do understand that most restaurants have something for everyone, but it's nice to be able to dine in a new cultural venue.

Have you ever had a friend or significant other who always wants to go to a restaurant and order the same thing every time? I just don't understand. Maybe it's a comfort thing or the fact that you know exactly what you're getting, but where's the adventure? Coming to a new school or a new city is the perfect opportunity to explore what your new home has to offer in terms of local restaurants and food culture. You can find a Kelsey's, Jack Astor's or Boston Pizza in so many cities across Canada. But, how many Aromas, Fellini Koolinis or O"Zens are there? Don't get me wrong, going for comfort and familiarity once in a while isn't a bad thing, but supporting local food and businesses has so much more value.

Like everyone I'll admit there are some foods I still can't handle, but only a few come to mind — liver, Brussels sprouts and extremely spicy foods. Hmm, the weirdest thing I've ever eaten: duck tongue... but honestly it tasted like chicken. You don't have to like everything, but where's the harm in trying?

Editorial opinions or comments expressed in this online edition of Interrobang newspaper reflect the views of the writer and are not those of the Interrobang or the Fanshawe Student Union. The Interrobang is published weekly by the Fanshawe Student Union at 1001 Fanshawe College Blvd., P.O. Box 7005, London, Ontario, N5Y 5R6 and distributed through the Fanshawe College community. Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters are subject to editing and should be emailed. All letters must be accompanied by contact information. Letters can also be submitted online by clicking here.