Seven Layer Chocolate Cake

Several years ago, Cristina and I were in New York, staying at the Hotel Pennsylvania on Seventh Avenue opposite Penn Station.  One day we decided to have dinner at Gallaghers Steak House, 228 West 52nd Street, without a reservation.  As we had no other plans for the night, we took a chance.

Cristina and I walked the 19 blocks north with some difficulty.  The sidewalks were mobbed with pedestrians, including many Brazilians celebrating Brazil Day in New York (Sunday before Labor Day).  On occasion, I had to hold Cristina's hand and literally fight our way through the crowd.  

Finally, Cristina and I arrived at a crowded Gallaghers.  We chose one of the only two tables available, which were near the entrance.  

I thought it peculiar that our waiter did not write down our order, insisting he had a good memory.  He didn't.  Cristina and I asked for a 14 ounce filet mignon (to be shared), with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.  The waiter at first brought us the wrong meat.  Eventually, he got it right.  

We ate everything on our plates, plus bread and butter.  The food was great and I was very satisfied.  

However, our waiter then asked if we wanted dessert.  I didn't really want one, but agreed to see the menu.  

There it was.  An irresistible temptation.  A seven layer chocolate cake (with chocolate frosting).  I ordered a piece.  

When the cake arrived, it looked exactly as I imagined.  Delicious.  I should have taken it to go.  But, I ate all the seven layer chocolate cake right away as Cristina sat looking at me, incredulous.  Big mistake.

When I finished the seven layer chocolate cake, I felt uncomfortable.  All the way back to the Hotel Pennsylvania, I felt uncomfortable.  During the rest of the evening, I felt uncomfortable.  Never more.  I learned my lesson.