What’s up with Oscar galas in Boston? Last time I checked the Oscars were on the West coast, Damon and Affleck were our only claim to fame and floor-length gowns were not rational snow-storm attire.

We all like a little five-star treatment once in a while and it doesn’t take much to achieve it. I kicked off my Oscar Sunday at L’espalier’s Fantasy Tea along with Boston food writer, Bianca Garcia.

After being escorted up an elevator to our table by the window – we were presented with three courses of finger sandwiches, a cheese plate and of course the essential swan-shaped pastries - yes, even the chef knew that Portman would win for Black Swan.

Our waiter explained each item – and even went into the history of French cheese. (Perhaps because we leaked Bianca’s identity)

Ahhh catching up with a friend, sipping Earl Grey, dressed in nothing better than black sweats – while being treated like royalty.

Because luxury and pretension are two very different things.