Smoke: Via A&LD, a thoughtful, measured take on the NYC smoking ban. New York Times food writer William Grimes says the ban helps him enjoy dining more, but he's uncomfortable with the means.

Chefs can send out food from the kitchen knowing that it will be enjoyed in a smokeless atmosphere. Waiters can lean forward to serve their customers without getting a cloud of Camel right in the face. And sensitive palates like mine can operate at peak efficiency, picking up nuances of herb and spice without interference. It's the dawn of a bright new day. But to usher it in, the government has had to declare shade illegal.

Fair enough.