The murals in restaurants are on par with the food in museums.

This witty quote by Peter De Vries uses sharp humor to comment on the sometimes underwhelming quality of both restaurant décor and museum cafés. When he says, “The murals in restaurants are on par with the food in museums,” he is making a clever comparison, suggesting that the artwork on restaurant walls is often just as uninspired as the meals typically served in museums. The quote relies on irony, highlighting the mismatch between the setting and the substance in both places.

At its core, the quote is a critique of style over substance. Many restaurants may invest in dramatic or clichéd murals to enhance the dining atmosphere, but those efforts might not be matched by the quality of the food. Likewise, museums, which house some of the world’s greatest artistic masterpieces, are often ironically known for having bland, forgettable cafeteria food. De Vries uses this parallel to poke fun at how appearances can be deceiving in both artistic and culinary spaces.

The origin of this quote lies in the work of Peter De Vries, an American editor, novelist, and humorist known for his sharp satire and clever wordplay. He wrote extensively for The New Yorker and was celebrated for his ability to blend cultural commentary with dry wit. This particular quote is consistent with his signature style—taking everyday observations and turning them into biting yet humorous social critiques.

Ultimately, De Vries’s quote invites us to look past surface-level charm and pay closer attention to quality and authenticity. It's a humorous reminder that impressive surroundings don’t always guarantee a worthwhile experience, and that true excellence—whether in art or food—requires more than just a pretty backdrop.