It's a given that food quality is the most essential aspect of dining out, but I have always been in the school of thought that the atmosphere and overall interior decor of an eating establishment can make or break the dining experience.

At Bentwood Tavern in New Buffalo, Michigan, I experienced ribs that had more fat than meat, fries that were too salty, coleslaw with cilantro (!?), and lemonade that was diluted with ice.  Yet, this disappointing meal was countered by the pleasingly elegant, yet simple modern interior of the restaurant (pictured above), which in turn made my meal significantly more enjoyable.