Indeed, one of my favorite meals was at a favorite place of mine (and countless others) in Madison Square Park. Yes, right in the park. It's called the Shake Shack and for those of you who like burgers and fries, these are some of the best you will find. I found myself sitting at a dirty and dented little metal table on a chair that didn't quite balance right. And I wished I had more than a sports jacket as it was darn cold when I stopped by in the middle of the afternoon this past weekend. 

I waited in line for a short 20 minutes -- at least that's short by Shack standards. Then another 5 or 10 (it felt like an eternity given the temperature) for my order to be delivered at the window. But it was worth it. It may not have been fine French cuisine. Or even haute bistro fare. But it was one of the most pleasurable meals of my trip.

Why? Because fine dining is what you define it to be. And that definition may vary based on the time, temperature, your mood, and who knows what else. Never let anyone else tell you what is or isn't fine dining. Here at Cork & Knife, we want to share the ideas that each of us have as individuals for fine food at home and in a restaurant. But ultimately it's your palate and your wallet that you must satisfy.