In "Friends, Lovers, Chocolate," Alexander McCall Smith humorously suggests the idea of philosophers serving customers in Edinburgh's delicatessens, comparable to the presence of psychoanalysts in Buenos Aires restaurants. This observation reflects on how intellectuals might engage with everyday life, bringing their philosophical ponderings into the realm of mundane interactions.

The quote provokes thought about the expectations we have of professionals in societal contexts. It raises questions about whether our desires, such as a simple meal of braised beef, can be affected by the intellectual surroundings we find ourselves in, adding depth to our experiences with food and conversation.