Ursiform wrote:aschie30 wrote:Almost 10 months into 2008, I hope it's not premature to start this thread:
My first nominee:
Kobe Beef Hot Dogs.
In general, I agree with this, but when Doug Sohn is selling them for $5.00 with Skyline Chili and some cheddar on top, I'm not going to say no.

I think you have hit on a good point here. I view anyone doing Pan-Asian or Fusion cuisine with great doubt, but in the hands of a master, it can be wonderful. Strangely, while I recognize the hazard of molecular cuisine is even greater, the recognition of this seems to lead chefs dabbling in these techniques to (usually) focus their efforts on recreating very familiar flavors in astonishing ways, so the risks are actually less. It also helps, I think, that the technology itself requires an investment, so fewer are dabbling in it.
Anyway, pan-asian and fusion are my nominees with an honorable mention to molecular in suburban malls, even if these trends predate 2008.
But I agree that the bacon thing is actually the worst fad - I have yet to enjoy a bacon confection. It is just a stupid way to abuse a wonderful food.
d
Feeling (south) loopy