Latkes
Doris dated Bennie several times, but she always evaded
talking about her family. She realized that he would have
to meet her mother sometime if their relationship was to
last. Finally she arranged a luncheon at a restaurant for
Bennie to meet Mom in neutral territory.
"Mom has a few quirks." said Doris "Please humor her, Steer
the conversation away from eating. Avoid being invited to
dine at our house at all cost, and please, please, never
mention latkes".
Bennie was puzzled, but Doris' mom was very pleasant and
the luncheon conversation was flowing smoothly. Mom was
interested in Bennie's family (what else?), their
occupations, interests, etc. Beanie's tongue was loosened
by a second glass of wine. He forgot himself and started
raving about his aunt Rifka's cooking.
"So what did she make?" prodded mom.
"Oh the best borsht in Brooklyn"
Doris saw it coming and rolled her eyes and put her finger
across her lips but it was too late. Bennie was carried
away and forgot what Doris had told him.
"...and her blintzes were so fluffy and lat--"
Bennie saw that Doris had turned completely pale.
"Latkes! yes he likes latkes!" shouted mom. Doris was now
choking. "Bennie, you've just have to come for
latkes...I've got trunks full."