Friendship is Magic: The Seventh Element

by Master Mr B

"When the sixth element is revealed, a special element can appear that is a combination of the other six. It serves as the controller that bounds the power if the six elements together. But nobody, not even the royal sisters, have ever uncovered this...Seventh Element..." Follow my OC as he takes part in the adventures of FiM. And possibly win the heart of Twilight Sparkle...

135. Spice Up Your Life

Spice Up Your Life

Pony's Log Number 612: Time to teach these Canterlot elites what real cuisine is suppose to look and taste like...

The Mane nine, along with Spike and Diamond Tiara had gathered around the main throne room. Twilight and Mario had a very important announcement.

"As you've all probably noticed," said Twilight with Starlight standing beside her, Spike poking the cutie map, and the others sitting comfortably on their thrones, "it's been quite some time since the map has sent us on a mission of friendship."

"Yeah! Ever since Starlight messed with it to go back in time and try to change history!" Spike said aloud. Starlight just smiled apologetically as Twilight, Mario, and Diamond Tiara glared at him sternly.

"Yes. Since then," said Twilight bluntly.

"Like we need you bringing that up again," Mario remarked irritably.

"Nevermind honey," said Twilight and then perked up again, "But, as part of her studies, Starlight's been assisting me and my husband. And together, we think we've come up with a spell that can get it working again!" The other ponies cheered.

"Even with the cutie map being inactive lately," said Mario, "we have had enough lessons of friendship that I was able to round up these!" Mario then lifted his fore-hooves into the air to show the group a total of ten Flower Sprites. Everypony oohed and awed.

"These, along with the spell my wife and sis have come up with," said Mario, "we should be able to get the cutie map back up and running."

"Ooh, well done!" said Pinkie as the others cheered. Twilight then used her magic to pull Spike off the table.

"Now without further ado," said Twilight. Then she and Starlight made their horn glow as the magic shivered and spiraled high into the air. It was then an orb appeared above them that fired off color beams of each element. Each beam shined into the element markings of each throne. Then another beam splashed into the center of the table. It was then Mario flicked his fore-legs so the ten Flower Sprites he had been holding onto entered the shining light of the cutie map. Once the ten Flower Sprites had entered the map, there was a brief flicker and then the cutie map came into view.

(cue "Odyssey or Cutie Map Powered Up" Fanfare)

The Cutie Map had been restored!

The others oohed and awed in amazement. Then Shenran felt something tingling on his flank.

"Huh?" Shenran exclaimed and then gasped. His cutie mark was glowing! He watched as an after image of his cutie mark appeared and floated around him before it imprinted itself on the top of his throne, firing its own beam of magic into the cutie map itself. Then a projection appeared in the middle of the map.

"Does this mean...?" said Shenran excitedly as Fluttershy smiled as well.

"I believe so, buddy," said Mario, "You can now be summoned for Friendship missions."

(Cue same fanfare a second time)

The others cheered.

"Sweet!" said Shenran happily as Fluttershy clapped happily. She was hoping this day would come.

Current Flower Sprites: 40

(Cue favorite "world select" music)

"Fluttershy and Twilight in Appleloosa!" said Pinkie as she saw Fluttershy and Twilight's cutie marks appear above the area. Then the cutie marks disappeared and Rainbow and Pinkie's appeared next.

"No, me and Rainbow Dash in Las Pegasus!" said Pinkie then they disappeared as Mario and Shenran's cutie marks appeared.

"No, Mario and Shenran in Horse-a-lulu!" said Pinkie. Mario and Shenran smiled excitedly.

"Friendship in tropical paradise man!" Mario and Shenran together in poorly done Caribbean accents, but then their cutie marks disappeared, "Aww...!" Twilight and Fluttershy just rolled their eyes at them, but still smirked. It was then Rainbow and Twilight's cutie marks appeared.

"No, Rainbow Dash and Twilight in Yakyakistan!" said Pinkie but then Twilight's cutie mark...appeared twice.

"No, Twilight and Twilight in Twilight's castle!" said Pinkie as Mario looked rather puzzled.

"Uh, guess that spell didn't iron out all the bugs," said Mario to Starlight and Twilight.

"Eh..." Twilight and Starlight said dismissive, not feeling too worried about it. Then Pinkie's cutie mark appeared again along with Rarity, but this time they were just floating about the map.

"Oh, me! Me! Oh, me...and Rarity! said Pinkie excitedly as she watched the cutie marks float about. Then Mario and Shenran's cutie marks appeared above them. The two stallion's cutie marks then combined and started shuffling back and forth like a roulette.

"Come on! Come on! Pick me! Pick me!" Shenran called out at the shuffling cutie mark. Soon the cutie marks stopped shuffling, flickering four times...to show Mario's cutie mark.

"Aww..." Shenran groaned as he gave Mario a glare. Mario just smiled and shrugged his shoulders. Mario's cutie mark then brought Rarity and Pinkie's cutie marks together as they continued to float about the map in a cluster.

"Ooh! I hope, it's some faraway place that nopony has gone before!" said Pinkie and smiled excitedly.

"Well, maybe not too faraway," said Rarity with a nervous chuckle, "An adventure somewhere that has modern conveniences would be preferable."

"I'll agree on that," said Mario, "Twinsie, I love you, but I don't enjoy carrying thirty bags of gear for a two day camping trip in a rather rustic location."

"Oh, don't exaggerate, Mario," said Rarity annoyingly, "Last time was only twenty bags." Mario rolled his eyes when he noticed that the three cutie marks had descended right above Canterlot. Rarity gasped excitedly.

"Canterlot!" Rarity exclaimed happily, "This is wonderful! I can check our boutique! Perhaps there'll be some sort of events that we can attend!" Rarity then gasped again, "I'll have to pack extra outfits! What will I wear?!" As Rarity gushed, Fluttershy and Mario had a sheepish smiles on their faces. Rainbow, Shenran, and Diamond Tiara had annoyed looks on their faces. Twilight and Applejack had skeptical looks on their faces. And Starlight and Spike just looked outright bored.

"Y'know some ponies get excited about the silliest things," Pinkie remarked as Mario chuckled to himself.

(Main Theme)

It wasn't long before Mario, Rarity, and Pinkie were outside of the Castle with the rest of the Mane nine, Diamond Tiara, and Spike right behind them.

"So what's the big surprise you wanted to show us, darling?" Rarity asked once they were outside.

"That!" Mario pointed. Just a few yards away was a what looked like a crystal tree trunk that had a metal pole stick out from the center with an old fashioned whistle was on the right side. The tree truck was surrounded by a platform that had a guardrail surrounding it with two bulges sticking out of what looked like the back of the contraption. There was also a door near what appeared to be the front to enter inside of the tree trunk with a globe located at the right side of the outer platform. The group slowly approached the contraption as Mario hopped onto the platform.

"Um...so what is this thing exactly?" Applejack asked curiously. Mario chuckled.

"Something I've been working on for some now," said Mario, "I figured that we needed to have our own personal airship for friendship missions. And here it is. The SS Harmony!" There just a long silence.

"Uhh...yeah..." said Rainbow bluntly, "I'm not seeing what's so exciting about this."

"It just looks like a fat tree stump with a platform on it," said Shenran.

"And a pole sticking out from the top," Diamond Tiara added, "No offense, master, but I'm not seeing the cool factor about this...airship if yours." Mario just smirked.

"Well, let's see what you think when we get her into the sky," said Mario, "Pinkie, Rarity, all aboard!" The two ponies just shared worried looks before heading into the platform. Mario then pointed toward the blue globe.

"That globe is magically connected the Flower Sprites and the Cutie Map," said Mario, "Now if I use my magic to open the map and select our destination." Mario then made his horn glow pink to make a smaller replica of the cutie map appear from the globe. Then he used his fore-leg to tap Canterlot. making it glow pick to select it as their destination.

(Cue "The Odyssey (Or the Harmony in this case) takes off" music)

The globe started to glow, then additional curvy poles started to appear around the tall pole to create eight sail panels that filled with the colors of each element of harmony, with a green panel to represent Spike. At the same time, the ground rumbled and cracked. Rarity and Pinkie held Mario fearfully. Mario just smirked with determination. The rest of the group backed away nervously. Then the ground surrounding the SS Harmony broke as the airship rose into the air, revealing some gears that were magically powering the ship from below. The two bulges in the back were actually vented propellers. Pinkie and Rarity soon were amazed as was the rest of the group. The SS Harmony was now hovering high in the air.

"Okay, now that is awesome!" said Rainbow impressively.

"I'll say!" said Starlight in agreement as Diamond Tiara nodded. Pinkie and Rarity let Mario go as they headed over to the edge of balcony railing.

"Wow!" said Pinkie.

"This is absolutely fabulous!" said Rarity. Mario then leaned over the railing to where the others were still standing.

"See ya guys when we get back!" said Mario as he waved with a fore-leg. The others waved goodbye as Mario he then backed up and swapped his beret for a white captain's hat.

"Ready ladies?" Mario asked as Pinkie and Rarity gave him big smiles to say yes.

"To Canterlot!" Mario called out. With a TOOT of the airship's whistle, the back propellers made the SS Harmony, or Harmony for short. head off on its way, leaving a sparkly trail as he headed into the horizon.

As a train was seen heading to Canterlot from below as the Harmony was making its own way toward the capital city. Since it was powered by the Cutie Map, the airship was flying on its own without the need for any steering or manual controls at the moment. Pinkie took notice as she, Mario, and Rarity were sitting inside the tree trunk part of the airship, which was actually a comfy longue area with long sofa seats on the outside with four cushy longue chairs and a table that had some cups of tea in the center.

"While I love the unexplained as much as the next pony," said Pinkie as she looked out the window and bounced back into her longue chair where Mario and Rarity were sitting comfortably, "but how is this airship able to go to Canterlot without anypony driving it? In fact, there's no steering wheel..." Mario smiled.

"Oh, the steering wheel is tucked away should I have to manually steer the Harmony," said Mario, "but for the most part, the Flower Sprites are the ones doing the driving themselves. Once I set the course, they charter the quickest and safest path to our destination. If anything comes up, my love magic will let us know."

"Well, that's relief," said Rarity, "and I must say Twinsie, the decor in here is luxurious! I can't believe we get to travel so comfortably for friendship missions from now on!"

"I thought we all deserved something better than just a simple balloon," said Mario as he used his magic to hold his tea cup, "Now we can travel in style."

"Indeed, thanks to you," said Rarity as she used her magic to hold her own tea cup as the two ponies shared a toast.

"That is so true," said Pinkie, "Now for my Super Mario Odyssey parody!"

"Super what?!" Mario and Rarity said stunned.

"Since we have some time to kill, let's review some useful skills!" said Pinkie as she pulled out another brochure, "Travel Tip: Ground Pound. To smash blocks or enemies above you. Nothing beats a Ground Pound. Jump into the air and then slam the ground with your flank! Well, that's it. If you want to review some more, just check the Action Guide!" Mario and Rarity's eyes just shifted to looking at Pinkie and then each other a few times. They had no idea what Pinkie was talking about.

"Um...okay?" said Mario sheepishly.

"Whatever..you say, darling?" Rarity added in the same tone.

"Great!" said Pinkie as she put the brochure away and slurped her tea. Mario and Rarity were still looking rather stunned and confused.

"Since when do I have an...Odyssey?" Mario asked Rarity in a whispered.

"Don't question it, Twinsie," said Rarity in the same tone, "You're head will thank you later." Outside, the Harmony was nearing Canterlot. Once it reached the landing dock, the airship came into for a landing and automatically extended a small step stool for the three ponies to get off.

"Well, that was a smooth ride," said Rarity as she, Mario, and Pinkie got off the airship.

"Yeah," said Pinkie, "thanks for the amazing ride, big brother." She gave Mario a hug.

"Anytime, baby sis," said Mario, "I'm glad the Harmony was a success." A few minutes, later, the group was walking down the streets of Canterlot.

"Now then," said Rarity with a sigh, "as far as finding a friendship problem, I suggest we start at the castle and begin to question the proper-"

"Oh, Rarity, you don't find a friendship problem," Pinkie interrupted, "It finds you. We just need to go with the flow, and eventually, kablam! We get friendship problem'd right between the eyes."

"That is true..." said Mario as he tapped his chin with a fore-hoof.

"Well, this is a team effort," said Rarity, "so if you feel we should go with the flow, then with the flow we shall go."

"Works for me," said Mario in agreement.

"But where's the flow saying we should go?" Rarity asked curiously.

"You and Mario know Canterlot," said Rarity, "What do you think we should do?"

"Hm," said Rarity with a proud smile on her face, "Take your pick: Culture, Couture, and Cuisine!"

"You forgot something," said Mario.

"Really?" said Rarity surprised, "What did I miss?"

"Castle," said Mario, "I...was hoping we could at least pay Mom a visit while we're here." Mario smiled sheepishly as Rarity giggled.

"I'm sure we can make a little time too-"

GRUMBLE-GRUMBLE

Rarity was then interrupted once again as Pinkie' stomach started to rumble. The pink pony just smiled sheepishly.

"Oh, my," said Rarity, "Well, it sounds like your stomach is saying we should flow towards some lunch?"

"If Mom's at the castle, maybe she'll let us join her for lunch," said Mario.

"Might as well find out," said Rarity, "If not, I know just where to go." It wasn't long before they arrived at the Castle. Sadly, Princess Celestia was away so lunch with her was out of the question. it wasn't much longer after that Rarity lead the group to a street that was lined up with various restaurants on both sides. Mario just had a rather skeptical look on his face.

"Restaurant Row," said Rarity, "the absolute best place for fine dining in all of Equestria!"

"Pft!" Mario huffed indignantly under his breath.

"Ooh, so many choices!" Pinkie excitedly, "Where should we go? This one? That one? Those ones?" Pinkie then pointed to three different locations, even appearing on view upside down to point at the third location.

"Any establishments that have this," said Rarity as she pointed up to a sign that had three horseshoes on it, "the three-hoof rating."

"Um, whose hooves?" Pinkie asked as Mario had a blunt look on his face.

"Why, Zesty Gourmand, the Queen of Cuisine," Rarity answered, "When it comes to food, she is the ultimate authority in Canterlot and thus all Equestria. She judges a restaurant on cuisine, decor, and presentation. Without her approval, the restaurant simply cannot survive."

"You got that right," Mario muttered bitterly. Rarity and Pinkie just looked at Mario curiously.

"What's so important about her approval?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"Zesty grew up around fine dining," said Rarity, "and everypony hangs on her every word when it comes to cuisine."

"Maybe too much," Mario muttered with an eye roll. Rarity sighed.

"I know that tone," said Rarity plainly, "That's the tone of a pony who knows who she is and she either bullied or look down upon you?"

"More the latter," Mario replied sadly, "You see...a couple of years after my accident and I was at least healthy but not yet at top speed, I graduated from the Canterlot culinary institute at the top of my class. An iron chef to be precise." A black and white flashback was shown of Teenage Mario standing on stage with an iron chef's hat and uniform with a his diploma in his magic grip.

"Spitfire decided that maybe opening a restaurant would be a good way to help rebuild my reputation," said Mario as the flashback showed Teenage Spitfire showed him an empty building on restaurant's row, "We decided in a retro style diner and had a big grand opening too. The restaurant was actually a partnership." The flashback showed both Teenage Mario and Teenage Spitfire cut the ribbon as several ponies behind them cheered.

"Really?" said Rarity in surprise.

"Yeah, Spitfire loved to cook as much as I did," said Mario as the flashback showed them taking turns cooking and serving customers, "She learned more from traveling rather than taking classes like I did. She figured that if things didn't work out with the Wonderbolts, the restaurant was something she could fall back on and I was feeling better being able to share another talent with the Canterlot ponies, even the old Canterlot group. Even Twilight came to eat there, but she was always too busy to talk. But, she always gave me a large tip. So at least I knew she enjoyed the food." The flashback showed Teenage Mario and Teenage Spitfire serving and cooking alternatively. The Teenage Mario served the Canterlot group, who all smiled excitedly. Later, Teenage Twilight was at a booth reading when Mario served her. Teenage Twilight waved to say she was good as Teenage Mario walked away, feeling a little ignored. Later when Teenage Twilight had left, he found a huge stack of bits on the table with a little note, which Teenage Mario read and got pink hearts in his eyes. Teenage Spitfire, who was wiping the front counter, just rolled her eyes at him playfully.

"After a few weeks," said Mario, "The diner was huge success. But then one day, Zesty Gourmand showed up." It was then a tall grey unicorn with white mane wearing a large overcoat appeared with a very snooty demeanor on her face.

"She wasted no time putting down the diner and that the ponies of Canterlot deserved something far superior than what I had to offer," Mario continued. The flashback showed Zesty Gourmand snootily speaking as Mario looked dejected and Spitfire glared.

"She didn't even try any of the food," said Mario, "Deeming it inferior and not even worth tasting. She even said she wouldn't even set foot in a place like this ever again. To make matters worse, all my regular customers turned on me and all walked out of the diner. Many of them without even paying for their meals. Even the Canterlot group refused to come back, saying they didn't want to be looked down upon for eating at a place disapproved by the Queen of Cuisine." The flashback showed several ponies just staring blankly for a moment before snootily walking out of the diner. Mario just watched them leave but wasn't able to say anything and looked down sadly.

"Business went downhill after that," said Mario, "Even with Mom coming to eat once and a while and Twilight's parents coming everyday to show true support, nopony else would show up. Within two weeks, we were forced out of business by a pony who was approved by Zesty Gourmand." The flashback showed the diner now being empty with only one booth that Twilight Velvet and Night Light were sitting at. Next Teenage Spitfire and Teenage Mario, along with Twilight Velvet and Night Light were outside the building as a rather snootily unicorn put up his rating over the banner and their crew started destroying all the interior work. Teenage Spitfire snared until Teenage Mario covered his face with his fore-hooves an started to cry. Twilight Velvet held him close as Spitfire just gave him a sympathetic look and patted his back with her fore-hoof. The flashback ended with Mario still looking rather bitter.

"After that, I pretty much shelved my cooking talents and just went back to my studies with Twilight," said Mario, "Spitfire went to become Captain of the Wonderbolts. Even when the Wonderbolts are in Canterlot, the team pretty much knows Spitfire hates setting hoof anywhere near here. Twilight knows I feel the same way. If it wasn't for Pinkie over here, I never would have tried refining my cooking skills again."

"Well, that was years ago," said Rarity, "I'm sure Zesty's opinions wouldn't hold much value if they had remained the same. Even in cuisine, one has to change with the times."

"True," said Mario, "Guess we could see what is considered culinary chic right now."

"Wow! If the food is chic!" said Pinkie excitedly, "Then the food here must be amazing! Lead the way, partners! Whee!" Rarity then lead the two ponies into one of the restaurants.

Soon, the three ponies were seated. Rarity and Mario were sitting together on one side. Pinkie was sitting alone on the opposite side. The interior itself was rather mono-chrome with some greyish blue curtains, light gray booths, and some drapes with a single wall painting at the back wall of each other. Even the lamps were square and placed between each booth.

"Hmm, I'm a fan or decor with lots of symmetry," said Mario, "but it feels so...so...stuck up."

"Oh, don't be silly darling," said Rarity, "This is what high class dining is supposed to look like." Mario huffed.

"It's also supposed to be welcoming to those who dine here," said Mario, "Not make you feel inferior."

"Oh, now you're just nitpicking," said Rarity, "I'm sure you're feelings will change once our food arrives." Just as Rarity finished speaking a rather snooty waiter arrived with a serving dish with a dome on top of it. He then removed the dome to show three rectangular plates that had the same three very, very, very tiny morsels of food on them. Rarity gasped impressively.

"Oh, my! Such presentation," said Rarity as her plate was placed before her. Mario looked at his own plate with his mouth slightly open.

"Please tell me this is the appetizer," Mario asked wearily.

"It's the main course," said Rarity as Mario's eyes nearly popped out. Pinkie just eyeballed her plate curiously.

"You gotta be kidding me," said Mario, "I understand the importance of quality over quantity, but this is taking it a little too extreme!"

"I'm sure its tastes delicious," said Rarity as she took one of the morsels and ate it. Mario took noticed that Rarity made a face as she ate it.

"Mm, Oh," Rarity muttered as she smacked her lips, "Ah, yes, very nice..." Rarity smiled sheepishly. Mario then grabbed one of the morsels and ate one himself. He pondered professionally as he ate it and swallowed.

"The flavors blend together perfectly," said Mario before adding bluntly, "Too perfectly! It's like there was no flavor at all. It's so balanced that is almost...bland. There's nothing about it that makes me want to come back and order it again!" Rarity just gave him a skeptical look. Pinkie then face-planted her plate and ate all three morsels at once.

"Nom-nom-nom," Pinkie munched as she gulped and made a face, "Maybe I'm not in the mood for-" Pinkie lowered her voice, "-whatever this is."

"I don't think it's your mood, baby sis," said Mario, implying he agreed with her.

"Can we try someplace else?" Pinkie asked.

"Fine by me," said Mario, ignoring the fact the waiter was glaring at them.

The next restaurant they went to was no better. In fact, the decor was exactly the same except the colors were monotone shades of grey and purple. The main course was the same three morsels of food. While Rarity "claimed" they were different. Mario sampled a morsel.

"Even if there are any differences," said Mario, "the flavors blend in so well that it's just as bland and unexciting as the food at the last restaurant."

"Nom-nom," Pinkie munched and then made a face, "Ugh. Maybe one more stop?"

"Sure," said Mario, "But if it's like the last three hooves restaurant, I'm not expecting much better." Once again, the waiter glared at the group.

Mario was right on the money, The decor was the same as he expected except the monotone colors were grey and dark green. And the wall paintings were triangles instead of circles.

"Yeah, nothing special here," said Mario flatly.

"Bleh!" Pinkie exclaimed loudly, "Nope." Rarity just looked away and face-hooved herself.

"This is ridiculous," said Mario as they excited the last restaurant, "I don't know what makes these restaurants worth having that stupid three hoof rating. The food is tasteless. The decor intimidating. And the same can be said for every other restaurant here!"

"I prefer to call it refined and sophisticated," said Rarity snootily.

"Rarity, I didn't spend several years of my life studying and training at the finest culinary school in Equestria and not know what refined and sophisticated cuisine is supposed to look and taste like!" Mario retorted, "Not to mention that with all these restaurants being the same and serving the same food, no restaurant has a competitive advantage. There's nothing attracting to me to one restaurant over the other. That's just bad business policy! I don't know if this is supposed to be a commercial street or a utopian society!"

"I was wondering if I was the only pony getting that "Starlight's village" vibe," said Pinkie.

"Plus a good meal is supposed to leave you feeling satisfied," said Mario, "Three "entrees" later, I still feel hungry!"

"Me too!" said Pinkie. Rarity scoffed and mumbled to herself.

"Can you seriously tell me you're full right now with just your one entry, Rares?" Mario asked sternly. Rarity glared.

"I feel perfectly satisfied," said Rarity indignantly.

GROWL!

Rarity' stomach then growled loudly, making the marshmallow pony blush and feel most annoyed.

"I hate you stomach," Rarity groaned to herself.

"Maybe instead of trusting somepony else's hooves, I should pick the next place?" Pinkie suggested.

"Ugh! Very well," Rarity conceded...hastily.

"Fine by me," said Mario, "If you can pick a place with real food around here." Pinkie began to sniff about and then hopped forward toward one building, sniffled again, then hopped toward the foreground. It was then an appealing aroma caught her nose. She then gasped and dashed off to the left.

"Wait up, baby sis!" Mario called out as he went after her with Rarity right behind her. Pinkie made her way down a rather thin street. At the end of it was a rather exotic looking restaurant. Mario walked up with Rarity right behind him.

"Oooh! Now this place looks promising," said Mario as he noticed the front door was also open.

"The Tasty Treat," said Rarity aloud, "it's very...rustic." She then added in a whisper to Pinkie and Mario, "It looks like it hasn't even been rated."

"Thank goodness! Hee-hee!" Pinkie chuckled.

"That's the best news I've heard all day," said Mario happily as he and Pinkie happily walked inside. As some Middle Eastern music began to play in the background, Rarity just followed after them with weary look on her face as she closed the door. The marshmallow mare nervously looked around at the interior decor as Pinkie and Mario waved at her from the table they were sitting at. Surprisingly, they were the only ponies there as Rarity nervously took a seat. Mario took notice.

"Will you stop acting like our lives will be ruined if somepony sees you, or us for that matter?" Mario retorted.

"Need I remind you that we have a very successful boutique here?" Rarity replied sternly, "If the wrong pony sees us eating at an unrated restaurant..."

"Then anypony who believes that doesn't deserve any of our couture," said Mario firmly, "There's plenty of ponies that can take their place." Rarity blinked.

"Not if they're one of the more important ponies!" Rarity protested worriedly, "they'll drive us out of business!"

"Let them!" said Mario with a rather angry smirk on their faces, "Maybe that's just the universe's way of saying Canterlot isn't good enough for our couture. There are plenty of other cities who will be more than happy with a boutique from us! We don't need no approval from the stupid elite to be successful!" Rarity blinked as she saw the fire in Mario's eyes, unsure of what to think or say.

"Are we sure they're open?" Rarity asked, hoping to change the subject. Pinkie then took a deep sniff.

"Mmm, it smells open," said Pinkie. The three ponies were then startled when a loud clang was heard from another room that could be presumed was the kitchen. It was then a orange unicorn with dark brown poofy mane and tail with a gold headband in her mane, thick gold earrings, wearing an orange top with a yellow beaded handkerchief appeared.

"Oh! Are you here for lunch?" the orange pony asked with a Middle Eastern accent.

"Yes, indeedy!" said Pinkie.

"Absolutely," said Mario. Rarity just looked in a little uncomfortable and said nothing.

"I'm Saffron Masala," said the orange pony, "The chef here at The Tasty Treat, the most exotic cuisine in Canterlot. Would you like to hear about the specials?"

"We're actually in a bit of a hur-" Rarity tried to say, but Mario put a fore-hoof in her mouth.

"Yes, please!" said Pinkie.

"And take your time," said Mario before shooting discreet glare at Rarity, "we're in no rush." Rarity glared and tapped her teeth on his fore-hoof. Mario yelped as he pulled his fore-hoof away and waved it about before setting it on the table. Then shot Rarity another glare.

"We have a curried oat cake," said Saffron.

"We'll take one!" said Pinkie.

"Uh-huh!" Mario said in agreement.

"Uh, and a grass sandwich that has been marinated overnight in a mustard Dijon dressing," Saffron suggested next.

"How can you say no to that?" said Pinkie.

"Make that two!" Mario replied.

"A-And for you?" Saffron asked Rarity.

"Oh, me?" said Rarity, trying to be polite, "Oh, I'm fine. Thank you." Rarity waited for Saffron to walk away before leaning into toward Mario and Pinkie.

"No rating," Rarity sing-sang.

"Who cares?" Mario retorted in a hushed but also sing-sang tone. Rarity looked indignant.

"I don't get how you even graduated culinary school," Rarity muttered, "You clearly don't understand the true meaning of fine cuisine."

"All because I don't agree with Zesty Gourmand's opinions?" Mario replied, clearly offended, "Just because she says this is what fine cuisine is supposed to be like doesn't mean that I have to automatically assume she is in the right. Unlike the other high class ponies in this city, I have a brain and I have a right to make my own opinions and decisions about what I like and what I think is fine cuisine! And those scrapes they served at those other restaurants are not what I consider high quality cuisine! So excuse me if standing up for my opinions embarrasses you so much!" Mario then took a long deep breath to calm himself down. Rarity was taken aback.

"It's not that I'm embarassed," Rarity tried to explain, but couldn't even make eye contact, "It's just..." Rarity's train of thought was interrupted when a tan colored stallion with brown mane and tail wearing a faded orange shirt and a mustache on his face appeared. He sighed and grumbled to himself in Hindi at he started putting some nearby chairs upside down on the table.

"Hiya!" said Pinkie cheerfully, "What's your name?"

"Coriander Cumin," said the stallion sternly.

"Are you a chef here too?" Pinkie asked.

"My daughter cooks," said Coriander, "I host."

"Then why are you stacking chairs?" Pinkie continued.

"Without customers, I have nopony to host for," said Coriander, "So I stack!" Mario was about to speak up with Saffron appeared with their food. Pinkie and Mario looked at the food hungrily while Rarity still looked rather uneasy.

"Father, stop it!" Saffron said sternly as she set the food on the table, "Don't close up the restaurant around our guests. Can't you see one of them is the Prince of Friendship?"

"Good to know someponies actually recognize me for once," Mario remarked.

"What does it matter?!" Coriander retorted angrily, "When they leave, nopony else will be coming in!"

"Well, your attitude isn't going to bring anyone in!" Saffron shot back, "Can't at least pretend to be positive?" Meanwhile, Mario quickly used his magic to grab one of the grass sandwiches just as Pinkie face-planted the plate to eat the rest.

"So good!" Pinkie slurped.

"Indeed," said Mario as he finished bite, "Now this is quality Southern Equestrian cuisine." Rarity just rolled her eyes and said nothing.

"You are doing enough pretending for the both of us," said Coriander angrily, "Nopony here wants to try anything new!"

"The Prince of Friendship clearly wants to!" Saffron snapped, "If he can help spread word, then there's still hope."

"I know enough that Equestria's alicorn Prince's word has no value here in Canterlot," Coriander pointed out, not noticing that Mario cringed and looked deeply hurt, "I know when to throw in the towel!"

"Um, Pinkie, perhaps we should excuse ourselves," Rarity suggested before adding, "Mario's not looking so great." Pinkie looked up and noticed that Rarity was right. Coriander's words seemed to have hit a nerve. Mario looked very sad and looked ready to cry.

"Hey, remember that there are a good number ponies who love you and are very proud of you," said Pinkie gently, "You're word does have value here in Canterlot." Mario smiled, feeling a little better as he went to eat some more of the food.

"Oh, Rarity, try this!" said Pinkie, her voice muffled since her mouth was full as she handed her a sandwich half. Rarity nibbled it slightly.

"Ooh!" Rarity munched, clearly enjoying the flavor.

"Told ya we knew good cuisine," said Mario to Rarity, who just smiled as she finished the sandwich half.

"Maybe if you would listen to my ideas for once..." Saffron shouted as Coriander walked across the foreground.

"I know that feeling..." Mario muttered to himself.

"Oh, yes!" Coriander retorted sarcastically as he turned around to face her, "I did not move halfway across Equestria for my daughter that I never listen to!" An exclamation appeared above Mario's head as he perked up and Pinkie gave a quick spit in realization.

"Rarity, I think that friendship problem just kablammed us right between the eyes," said Pinkie right in the eyes.

"I think you're right, Pinks," said Mario, "I think we've found our mission."

"These two?" said Rarity, "Oh, I don't know, darling. The food is excellent, but I'm not sure there's much you, Mario, and I can do to help them."

"Well, that's just stinkin' thinking," said Mario.

"What would you have me do?" Coriander scoffed, "We can't even get Zesty Gourmand to come to our restaurant. She took one look at how empty it was and said it wasn't even worth rating." Mario snorted.

"Zesty's just as shallow then as she is now," said Mario, "Talk about judging a book by its cover."

"I know right?" said Pinkie, "You can't just judge a restaurant by how full it is, you gotta at least give the food and service a try..."

"That's it!" Rarity interrupted with a huge smile on her face.

"Yes!" Pinkie shouted as well with her fore-hooves in the air, but then looked puzzled, "Uh, what's it?"

"The flow has led us here!" said Rarity, "This is our mission!" She then walked up to Saffron and Coriander.

"We are going to get you that three-hoof rating and save your restaurant!" said Rarity, "I can get Zesty Gourmand here!"

"And together we'll show her that being different and having food with flavors is worth a three hooves rating!" said Mario, not noticing that Rarity had cringed, "Right, Twinsie?"

"Yes...yes of course, Twinsie," said Rarity wearily with a light eye roll. Pinkie then gasped.

"And I can pack this place with ponies!" Pinkie replied.

"Hmph," Coriander snorted, "and how do you intend to do such a thing?"

"Just leave it to us!" said Pinkie, Rarity, and Mario at once. Saffron smiled excitedly and hopefully while Coriander still had a pessimistic look on his face.

Later that day while Rarity was out, Saffron was speaking to Mario with Pinkie standing beside him.

"I apologize for my father's rude remarks about your opinions not having any value, your majesty," said Saffron, "and also for our behavior. The stress is just getting the better of us."

"I understand and just call me Mario," said Mario, "If my opinion has any value to you, just know that I found your restaurant to be a very welcoming and pleasant and the food was absolutely exquisite. I don't know how Zesty Gourmand got her reputation for being the Queen of Cuisine. Her narrow minded ideals of what fine cuisine is has made every rated restaurant stuffy and lacking any individuality."

"And the food was terrible," said Pinkie.

"We plan to use The Tasty Treat to set a new trend," said Mario, "a trend where high quality cuisine comes from being unique and true to yourself, not from what she says is fine cuisine."

"Right!" said Pinkie as she and Mario shared a high-hoof together. Saffron smiled hopefully. It was a few minutes later as she was pacing back and forth in the foreground. Pinkie was just licking a plate as Mario watched her. Then Saffron saw Coriander putting items into some cardboard boxes.

"Father will you please stop packing things?!" Saffron snapped.

"When lovely pony comes back and says she couldn't convince Zesty Gourmand to come visit us," Coriander replied, "we will need to pack all this up. I am just getting a head start."

"You really don't know Rarity," said Pinkie as she put her plate down.

"Besides," said Mario, "Even if Rarity can't get Zesty Gourmand to show up, we can still make this place a success. Just leave it to us! But that's just a backup plan. Rarity will come through." Coriander just snorted.

"I've done it!" Rarity sing-sang.

"See?" said Pinkie.

"Told ya," Mario added.

"It took all of my charm and cajoling," said Rarity, "But I was able to convince Zesty Gourmand to try and taste the food!"

"What is the catch?" Coriander asked.

"Ah, yes," Rarity continued sheepishly, "Well, um, there is a bit of a challenge. The only time she could make herself available is tonight, there is quite a bit of work that needs to get done."

"Well, we've done tighter deadlines before, Twinsie," said Mario, "I'm sure we can get everything ready in time. Just a few minor adjustments need to be done."

"Pfft. Oh, yeah, right," said Coriander as he stomped away.

"What is it?" Saffron asked Rarity and Mario.

"Zesty rates a restaurant on cuisine, decor, and presentation," Rarity explained.

"So she claims," Mario muttered bitterly as Rarity jabbed his side with a fore-knee.

"And she has very specific tastes," Rarity continued, giving Mario a glare, "if she's coming tonight, there is quite a bit of work that needs to get done."

"Like what?" Pinkie asked.

"Oh, a tweak here, a tuck there, some slight modifications to the menu," said Rarity.

"I'm sure if we put our heads together, we can create the ideal decor and cuisine," said Mario, "one that doesn't sacrifice the authenticity and integrity of their culinary point of view while giving it that high society touch to make it appealing to ponies of all social standings. This place will stand out above the rest, right Twinsie?"

"Right...of course, Mario," said Rarity with a nervous chuckle, "we just need the place to feel more cosmopolitan."

"Pfft," Coriander snorted.

"Father, after Rarity and Prince Mario went to all of this trouble for us, can't we at least try?" Saffron scolded.

"Why don't I stay behind with Coriander to get the restaurant ready for Zesty's arrival?" said Rarity and then looked at Pinkie, "You can Saffron can try and drum up some business."

"One packed restaurant, come right up!" Pinkie saluted.

"Um, am I helping with the decor then?" said Mario. Rarity winced and then quickly chuckled and recomposed herself.

"Actually, Mario," said Rarity, "You are an iron chef. Maybe you can gather the ingredients needed for tonight's dinner rush, helping them...ehhh...perfect their recipes for the specials. Yes, help perfect the recipes." Mario gave her a suspicious glare as Rarity just smiled widely at him.

"Rarity, one of the golden rules of cuisine is that it is a forbidden crime to tamper with a family recipe," Mario said firmly, "when something works, you don't fix..."

"Actually, Prince Mario," said Saffron as she used her magic to give Mario their family cookbook, "I was going to ask if you could look at some of my recipes. I feel like there could be a few improvements with them." Saffron smiled hopefully and then saw Rarity was just smiling and battling her eyelashes at him. Mario sighed.

"Fine," said Mario as he tucked the book into his magic saddle bag, "guess I'll head to the market to gather the ingredients. I also going to see if some local friends will stop by to offer their support. You got a good grasp on our decor idea there, Rares?"

"Yes, yes, of course," said Rarity quickly, "Classy, but rustic, unique, but still sophisticated. Got it." Mario looked at her skeptically and then smiled.

"I knew we would see eye to eye about this," said Mario. He gave Rarity a hug and then headed out of the door, "I'll be back as soon as I can." Rarity waved him goodbye. She watched him disappear and then turned to the others. Rarity then walked up to the still sulking stallion.

"We better get started," said Rarity to Pinkie. Pinkie just nodded as she and Saffron headed out.

"Coriander, I understand your trepidation," said Rarity, "But I promise you, we will get hooves by making this place feel just like all of the other restaurants on Restaurant Row!"

Outside, Saffron was looking very worried as she closed the door of the Tasty Treat.

"I hope my father doesn't drive Rarity crazy," Saffron sighed.

"It'll be fine," said Pinkie, "Rarity's gonna make sure that The Tasty Treat is the most unique and beautiful restaurant in Canterlot! Just like Mario said it would! Not like all of those stuffy places on Restaurant Row." It was then some middle eastern style music started to play.

It was time for another song!

[Rarity - she walked across the fore-ground and then took a seat next to Coriander. She then showed him several pictures of the decor, cuisine, and presentation of the other restaurants.]

Here's what I know
If you want to succeed
You must follow the trends, that's the key

[Rarity - She then sang to Coriander and then opened a door as several unicorns wearing overalls and caps appeared to renovate the decor.]

If you want to show
That you're got what it takes
You must be what they want you to be

[Pinkie Pie - She was now wearing a top and handkerchief just like Saffron's.]

Here's what I know
Your food is so good
The flavor's so fancy and free

[Pinkie Pie - She gave Saffron a stack of advertisement flyers and then held a green arrow advertisement and spun it about to get the other ponies' attention.]

You just need to show
That unique sense of taste
Go on, be yourself, let them see

[Mario - Headed into the market and looked around at the various venders.]

Time for a change
Show ponies what it means
What real cuisine truly is

[Mario - He then sampled some spices from one vender. Purchased a few different vegetables from another. Then put the purchased items into his saddle bags and stood on his hind legs to sing loud and proud.]

Find the right spice
Some of this one and that
Food with flavor isn't a crime

[Pinkie Pie and Rarity - The screen split in two with Rarity on the left and Pinkie on the right. They extend a hoof to Coriander and Saffron respectively. (The former had a deadpan face while the later smiled.) Then Rarity and Pinkie walked behind them, mirroring each other. Rarity's cards then floated across the screen as she removed the fabrics hanging on the ceiling of The Tasty Treat. Pinkie was still twirling her green sign as Saffron showed the flyers to passing ponies. Pinkie then caught the attention of a passing mare and her foal.]

It's gonna work
I know it's gonna work
It's gonna work out just fine, trust me
It's gonna work
I swear it's gonna work
It's gonna work out just fine, you'll see!

[Rarity - She held a card showing the proper attire Coriander should wear and grabbed a suit just like it. She then made a curtain come down over him. When it was lifted, Coriander was now wearing the fancy uniform.]

You need to change
If you want to compete
But fear not, for I know what to do

[Rarity - She then took the plate of food Saffron had made and replaced it with a plate of the three morsels of food that the other restaurants served. Coriander just tasted it and pondered to himself.]

I know it feels strange
But trust me, when we're done
We'll make sure that you're a hit, too

[Pinkie Pie - She bounced away from Saffron, then came back bouncing on her flank wearing a pig's nose. As she sang, she then showed waiters that all dressed and looked the same holding a serving plate with a dinner dome on top of it.]

Don't ever change
Being different is good
Don't let what others do be your cue

[Pinkie Pie]

Never rearrange
'Cause somepony said you should
Just trust your heart, it will know what to do

[Mario - He then found a newspaper with Zesty Gourmand on the front page. She was standing outside another three hooves restaurant.]

It can be hard
To follow your own path
Going against those common trends

[Mario - He then crumpled up the newspaper, tossed it into a nearby trash can. He walked away with a confident and determined smirk on his face.]

Got to take risks
Give it all you can do
The reward is worth your efforts

[Pinkie Pie and Rarity - The screen split with Rarity on the left and Pinkie on the right. They took the fore-hoof of Coriander and Saffron respectively. then walked behind them. As the screen parted, Pinkie stood on a wooden crate rotating her sign. Saffron kept showing the flyers to passing ponies, but they continued to walk away snootily and disinterested. Rarity and Coriander watched as the working crew disassembled the exterior.]

It's gonna work
I know it's gonna work
It gonna work out just fine, trust me
It's gonna work
I swear it's gonna work
It's gonna work out just fine, you'll see!

[Pinkie Pie]

Be unique

[Mario]

Break the trend

[Rarity]

Just be the same

[Pinkie Pie]

Trust your heart

[Mario]

Take a risk

[Rarity - pointed at a sign with three hooves rating.]

You'll make your name

[Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Mario - The screen split horizontally in three ways with Rarity and Coriander on top, Mario in the middle, and Pinkie and Saffron at the bottom. Rarity then pointed at another sign that had three hooves on it. Pinkie pointed to The Tasty Treat's original sign. Mario just trotted along the street while looking at their family cook and adding a couple of sticky notes to it.]

We'll help you every step of the way
Because we know what you need to do
and you should know it too

[Pinkie Pie and Rarity - Once again, the screen was split in half with Rarity on the left and Pinkie on the right. They took the fore-hooves of Coriander and Saffron respectively and then walked behind them. Rarity and Coriander watch the design crew leave the restaurant. Pinkie and Saffron continued to advertise. Rarity then set up some plates with very tiny morsel of food that looked exactly the same. Saffron kept showing the flyers, but ponies kept showing no interest.]

It's gonna work
I know it's gonna work
It's gonna work out just fine, trust me
It's gonna work
I swear it's gonna work
It's gonna work out just fine, you'll see!

Later that afternoon, Mario had found the Canterlot group and wasted no time explaining to them the situation with The Tasty Treat. He was also surprised and also offended when he saw they were rather hesitant to offer their help. He hadn't known that Twinkleshine, Minuette, and Lemon Hearts had been walking down Restaurant Row and had openly snubbed Saffron and Pinkie's promotion of the place.

"Come on, girls!" said Mario sternly, "The Tasty Treat deserves to stay open in Canterlot, but they need customers!"

"But...but they're not even rated," said Twinkleshine timidly.

"Yeah...no pony with common sense would eat at a non-rated restaurant," said Lemon Hearts, but then winced when she saw the dark look on Mario's face, "of...of course I'm not saying you don't have any common sense. I mean if you like eating at non-rated restaurants then all the power to you. I mean you never really followed the trends anyway. Oop! I didn't mean that in a bad way I just...well...somepony please make me stop talking!"

"What Lemon Hearts is trying to say is," said Minuette nervously, "is that other ponies wouldn't eat at an unrated restaurant and if Zesty Gourmand refuses to rate them..."

"...You do what Zesty thinks is best," said Mario in a angry and sarcastic tone, "because she has the right and authority to tell you where to dine and how to eat! Because nopony other than her has the brains to decide for themselves what they like. Is that it?" The three mares said nothing and neither of them could look at him. Even Moon dancer was just sitting quietly and hadn't said a word.

"You ponies rely way too much on Zesty when it comes to fine dining," said Mario, "You take the word of a critic who just shows up and openly condemns a restaurant without even properly rating it over a pony who studies cuisine and fine dining!"

"Hey, we said we were sorry for abandoning your diner all those years ago," Twinkleshine retorted, "I'm sure there are reasons that restaurant isn't rated."

"The only thing I found was being different," said Mario, "and the food was delicious. The three-hooves restaurants were so bland and boring that I would never set foot in them. And that needs to change and I need your help doing that, starting with The Tasty Treat. So who's with me?" Mario looked at the group and found them still looking uneasy. Moon Dancer was still remaining silent. Mario snorted.

"Fine," said Mario, "but it's really nice to know that you'd rather give into peer pressure than help a friend!" Mario then stomped away with a huff. All but Moon Dancer shared sad and ashamed looks with each other. Moon Dancer then snorted before taking off.

"Mario! Mario! Wait!" Moon Dancer called out. Mario stopped walking and looked back to see the butter colored pony approach him.

"I'm sorry I didn't speak up before," said Moon Dancer, "I was just as shocked as you are. You're right. Zesty Gourmand is entitled to her opinions, but can't make ponies decide what to eat. Even I know you've better culinary sense than her. Unlike last time, I'm not too shy to speak up. So where's this Tasty Treat you're talking about. I'll try anything once." Mario smiled and gave the pony a hug.

As the sun was setting, Saffron noticed that their advertising efforts hadn't produced much results.

"The day is almost over," Saffron gasped, "and we haven't found any ponies! What will we do?"

"Try harder!" Pinkie replied as she held her arrow sign, "Fillies and gentlecolts! Check out the super stupendous and amazing cuisine at the Tasty Treat! Grand re-opening tonight!" It was then two ponies walked up to them.

"How many hooves does it have?" one pony named Citrus Blush asked.

"No hooves yet, but hopefully soon!" Saffron replied optimistically.

"Well, when it gets rated, let us know," said Cayenne as she and Citrus Blush walked away.

"Rrrgh! Stupid hooves!" Pinkie growled.

"Seesh, it's like Starlight used her old equality magic around here!" said a familiar voice.

"I know right," said a second familiar voice, "And they call this the best cuisine in Equestria!"

"Maybe if you're a stuck up snob with a stomach the size of a marble and no taste buds," said the first familiar voice and they both chuckled.

"Mario? Moon Dancer?" Pinkie exclaimed when she saw the two ponies approaching.

"Hey, Pinks," said Mario, "I got the ingredients needed for tonight and I got Moon Dancer to come try the place."

"That's wonderful, Prince Mario," Saffron replied happily.

"What about the others?" Pinkie asked.

"Couldn't make it," said Mario quickly, "how did the advertising go?" Pinkie growled.

"Stupid Hooves!" Pinkie snapped again as she slammed her arrow down on the street, sending it flying into the air and landing before a pair of tourists named Chargrill Breadwinner and Orange Slice.

"Oh, look at this, hun!" said Chargrill Breadwinner.

"Oh, The Tasty Treat!" said Orange Slice, "Do you think that's a restaurant, sugar?"

"Yes! Yes, it is!" said Pinkie as she, Saffron, Mario, and Moon Dancer walked up to the tourists.

"We came to Canterlot from Whinnyapolis to be adventurous," said Chargrill Breadwinner, "but so far, the food in all these hoity-toity places taste like somepony cooked up nothin' with a side of nothin'."

"I feel your pain my good sir," said Mario.

"Oh my stars! It's Prince Mario!" said Orange Slice, "So you've eating at the Tasty Treat?"

"Indeed I have," said Mario, "if you're looking for flavor, The Tasty Treat is the place to go!"

"Then we definitely should check it out, right hun?" said Chargrill Breadwinner as Orange Slice nodded in agreement.

"Well, please, come try the Tasty Treat," said Saffron, "I think it's going to be exactly what you're looking for." The tourist couple followed as Pinkie, Saffron, and Mario shared a three way high-hoof with each other.

Back at the Tasty Treat, Rarity was cleaning one of the windows when she heard the others approaching outside.

"I hope Rarity made sure to keep the place unique and special," said Pinkie.

"Pinks, when it comes to decor, Rarity and I think so much like as if we've got the same mind," said Mario, "Plus she told me she understood what I wanted to do. If anything I'm sure she found some sort of middle ground that will make the place sophisticated as well as authentic." Rarity chuckled.

"Oh, you could call it "middle ground"," Rarity said to herself confidently as Pinkie, Saffron, and Mario entered the restaurant.

"Father," Saffron called out, "we're ba-" Pinkie and Saffron gasped dramatically.

"Noooooooooooooooooo!" Mario cried out in a mixture of devastation and anger. Even Moon Dancer was surprised but remained silent as she peeked in from behind the three ponies.

"Rarity, what did you do?" Pinkie asked. The whole interior had been redone to look just like the other restaurants. Coriander was even wearing the same stuffy waiters uniform.

"Welcome to The Tasty Treat," said Coriander in a very unenthusiastic tone, "You can eat here if you want. Or not? Who cares?" Pinkie, Saffron, and Mario cringed. Mario was the first to recover and gave Rarity a very, very angry look. Rarity, who hadn't noticed Mario's look of rage, just had a proud smile on her face.

"I know," said Rarity, "Isn't it perfect? Zesty is sure to love it."

"You can this perfection?" Mario exclaimed angrily.

"I thought we were trying to make this the most unique and beautiful restaurant in Canterlot!" Pinkie protested, "Not make it exactly like every other restaurant!" Rarity gave a haughty laugh.

"We want to help our friends by getting them three hooves," said Rarity, "That will only happen if this is like every other restaurant."

"Rarity, I thought we agreed that it was time to change to trends and show the Tasty Treat can get three hooves by being true its own style and cuisine!" said Mario. It was then Coriander approached the group with a plate that had the three morsels of food on it.

"Father, what is this?!" Saffron exclaimed in horror. Mario gasped dramatically.

"Not that!" Pinkie flinched dramatically, "Anything but that!" Even Mood Dancer was stunned.

"What is that? An appetizer?" Moon Dancer asked in utter disbelief.

"Believe it or not, that's what they call the main entree," said Mario. Moon Dancer blinked.

"That's ridiculous!" Moon Dancer exclaimed.

"Ridiculous or not," said Coriander, "This is what we must cook if we want to succeed here!"

"This isn't what I wanted!" Saffron protested, "I wanted Canterlot to like us for us!"

"That's what Pinkie and I wanted as well," said Mario before they both glared at Rarity, "Until somepony went behind both our backs and decided to do everything her way!" Mario didn't hesitate raising his voice to show how angry and betrayed he was feeling. Rarity just smiled smugly, feeling she was still in the right.

"Rarity, how could you ruin this restaurant?!" Pinkie snapped as she got into the marshmallow mare's face.

"I can't believe you lied to me and disregarded everything I said about how to create the decor and food around here!" Mario added sternly, "I should've known there was reason you wanted me out of the restaurant so badly. Pinkie's right, you ruined everything!"

"Oh, pff. Kch. Ts!" Rarity said simply, "We helped save the restaurant. Now, where are the other guests? I see Mario brought a guest. How many other ponies are coming?" Pinkie and Saffron looked at each other.

"Two," they both said bluntly.

"Just two?!" Rarity said in shock, "But with Moon Dancer here that only makes three ponies! I thought you said you could pack the place with ponies no matter what!"

"You said you would make the restaurant better..." Pinkie retorted, getting into Rarity's face again. Rarity then gasped as Pinkie realized something, "...so I guess we both didn't know what we were talking about!"

"And what am I supposed to do with all these ingredients I purchased for Saffron? Huh?!" said Mario angrily, "You won't be needing any of them if you're gonna make those bland scrapes you call food!"

"We'll gladly compensate you for-" Saffron replied.

"No, Saffron!" said Mario sternly, "If anypony is gonna pay for all the stuff I purchased, it's gonna be Rarity!"

"Excuse me!?" Rarity snapped, "I didn't tell you to purchase so many ingredients."

"But you did pretend to agree with my ideas and then sent me away so you could do the decor your way!" Mario yelled, "We clearly don't see eye to eye on what the true definition of fine dining is!"

"Obviously," said Rarity, "But I still think I have a better grasp on the standards of high society!"

"You're expertise is fashion, Rares," Mario retorted, "Fine dining is MINE!" The two stared each other down until they heard some knocking on the front door.

"Zesty Gourmand!" Rarity gasped, "Everypony, places!"

"Mario, come with me!" said Saffron frantically. Mario then turned to Moon Dancer as Coriander took his position as host.

"Just find a seat and hope this doesn't blow up on all of us," said Mario, "And I'm sorry about all this."

"It's alright," said Moon Dancer, "I'll be cheering you on from the side lines."

"Get moving!" Rarity snapped impatiently as she pushed Mario and Moon Dancer apart.

"Don't tell me what to do!" Mario shot back, "And we're still gonna talk about this later!" Mario then stomped off as Moon Dancer took a seat nearby. It was then the door opened to reveal Zesty Gourmand herself, looking as snooty as ever. Chargrill Breadwinner and Orange Slice were right behind her. Rarity gulped as Pinkie put on a nervous smile on her face. Zesty's stern look softened a bit once she saw the decor. It didn't take long before Zesty had removed her coat and had taken a seat at a one of the booths as the two tourist ponies sat at a booth to the right of the food critic pony.

"Welcome to The Tasty Treat," said Coriander in his unenthusiastic tone, "What can I get you this evening?"

"I hardly think it matters," said Zesty snootily, "but by all means, try your best to impress."

"Well, we'll both try the special this evening," said Orange Slice, "Maybe with a little kick to it, eh? Yeah, we've been craving some food with actual taste." Zesty just looked indignant.

"Make that the same for me," said Moon Dancer before muttering to herself, "At least I can trust Mario to make me some real food." Coriander just smiled sheepishly and quickly rushed into the kitchen. Pinkie and Rarity were right behind him when he froze in shock.

"Saffron Masala, Prince Mario Star, what are you doing?!" Coriander exclaimed. He saw that both Saffron and Mario were sternly adding spices and other ingredients into a pot with their magic.

"I trying to save our reputations!" said Saffron, "and Mario is the only pony who is willing to do things my way!" She then sipped the soup, "I've given it at least a little flavor." Mario sipped it as well.

"Hmm, might need a little touch of garlic," said Mario, "To balance the spiciness while enhancing the flavor."

"Yes, that will do nicely," Saffron said in agreement.

"No-no-n-n-no, but that's not what Zesty wants!" Rarity protested as she rushed up to the two ponies.

"Precisely," said Mario with a rather angry smile on his face, "Surprise Zesty with something she wasn't expecting. Then she will be amazed at just how good fine cuisine can taste when it has actual flavor!"

"He's got a point," said Pinkie, "What kind of food expert doesn't want flavor?! That's insane!"

"I agree," said Mario, "Serve the soup Pinkie!" Pinkie then put some soup into a bowl and set the bowl on her mane.

"I'm taking this out there!" said Pinkie boldly. Rarity tried to rush after her, but Mario got in her way and raised his fore-legs to block her from getting to the pink pony. Rarity then grunted before she tackled Mario onto his back and rushed over to Pinkie.

"No!" Rarity protested frantically, "Zesty will hate it! You are going to ruin this for them!"

"No, I'm trying to fix it after you ruined it!" Pinkie retorted and walked around the marshmallow mare. Rarity then did something rash for the second time that night. She stomped her fore-hooves hard on Pinkie's tail. Pinkie recoiled and sent the bowl of soup flying into the air.

"Noooooo!" Pinkie, Mario, and Rarity screamed.

SPLAT!

The soup ended up landing right on Zesty Gourmand's head. Some of the soup splashed the two tourists as well. Zesty just looked annoyed.

"I think we're done here," Zesty said bluntly as she put her coat on and started to leave. Mario rolled his eyes.

"She didn't even try the food," said Mario to himself, "Some ponies never change."

"Zesty! Please wait! Allow me to explain!" Rarity pleaded as she rushed up to the food critic pony.

"Rarity, when it comes to fashion, you, and even that so-called Prince Mario, are adequate," said Zesty, but did use a sarcastic tone when describing Mario, "but take some advice from a friend-"

"A friend she says?" Mario remarked indignantly to himself.

"-both of you keep your opinions out of restaurants," Zesty continued arrogantly, "especially for Prince Mario, who has no business calling himself a certified chef when most of us know the only reason he graduated was because of his connections with Celestia!" Mario gritted his teeth furiously as Pinkie and Moon Dancer glared at Zesty.

"Substandard food, laughable service, and I would think even you could recognize that the decor here is trying desperately while desperately failing," Zesty continued but spoke directly to Rarity, "Recommending such a disreputable place such as this could do serious damage to your social standing. Actually, the fact you affiliate with such a disgrace of a chef already has."

"Hey, if you got a problem with me, Zesty," said Mario furiously, "then you say it to my face! Just because I don't agree with your culinary point of view doesn't give you the reason to degrade my own point of view and tastes! I worked very hard to my culinary degree and graduated as an iron chef!"

"Yes, and you wasted it on creating such a lowlife and barbaric decor and cuisine!" said Zesty, "That's why I shut you down before you ruined the true meaning of what fine cuisine is supposed to be!"

"Disreputable?! Barbaric?" Pinkie retorted angrily, "You mean a place with food that actually tastes good?"

"Anypony can throw ingredients together and create an obvious taste that uncultured ponies like those two can register," Zesty said snootily.

"Hey!" Chargrill Breadwinner retorted, clearly insulted as Orange Slice glared as well.

"But it takes a true culinary artist to create a subtle taste, the barest hint of sensation," said Zesty, "That's what I bring to Canterlot. That's art."

"While food is meant to have some artistic value," said Mario, "Not all food has to have a subtle taste. The food you recommend doesn't have any taste at all! Your food might be pretty to look at, but its lacks any real flavor. Something that gives the consumer something to savor and ponder. A flavor that will pursue them to visit that restaurant again and again. After all, a restaurant is supposed to be a competitive business! Not an utopian art museum!" Zesty just had a blunt look on her face and snorted indignantly.

"As I said before," said Zesty to Rarity, "Affiliating with him is going to do serious damage to your social standing. I suggest you break ties with him before it's too late."

"You really think you can drive Canterlot Carousel out business?!" Mario challenged before Rarity could retort, "You have no business telling ponies where to buy their couture, but fine. Tell everypony not to come shop at our boutique. If we survive, then your opinion doesn't hold as much value as you think. If we go out of business, that just says Canterlot doesn't deserve anything Rarity and I have to offer and we'll take our business elsewhere. We don't need the support of any stuck up elite to be successful!" Rarity's jaw was just hanging open and the pupils of her eyes were shrunk. She couldn't believe Mario had said that to Zesty Gourmand of all ponies.

"Ah...ah...ah," Rarity strained, unable to speak. Zesty just huffed and then walked backwards out of the restaurant and shut the door. Mario just sighed loudly as he sat down. Rarity, Pinkie, Coriander, and Saffron looked just as upset. Moon Dancer, who had seen and heard everything, walked up to Mario.

"Hey, it's okay," said Moon Dancer gently, "I agree with you. Zesty Gourmand can't just rate a restaurant based on her own bias alone. That's not how you rate a restaurant and it's not how you rate anything for that matter. I'm proud of you, Mario. You stood up to her when she could do nothing but disrespect you." Mario began to cry.

"Still doesn't change anything," Mario sobbed, "for me or for how fine cuisine is defined around here." Moon Dancer just hugged Mario close as he cried quietly on her shoulder. Rarity just watched quietly for a moment as a small tear left her eye. She knew she was to blame for why Mario was feeling so upset.

A little later, the two tourists had left and Mario, Rarity, and Pinkie were sitting at a table with Coriander. Moon Dancer had to leave for a moment, but she would be back. When Mario asked where she was going, all Moon Dancer said was for him to trust her. For the moment, Mario had stopped crying, but did not really say much to Rarity or Pinkie.

"I'm so embarassed," said Pinkie sadly.

"I don't know that there are words to adequately express how truly sorry we are," added Rarity.

"Does that include Mario too?" Pinkie asked with some anger in her tone. The floodgates opened as Rarity let her tears fall. She then looked at Mario, who was just looking rather glum, noticed that Rarity was crying.

"Rares..." Mario said slowly to the crying pony, "does my opinion..."

"This has nothing to do with whether your opinion is valuable or not," Rarity sobbed, "Your opinion is valuable Mario. I just thought...acceptance comes from fitting in rather than standing out. I was afraid to take the risk of breaking the trends this time. That's why I disregarded your ideas. I'm so sorry."

"It's not your fault, Rares," said Mario, "But you did see firsthand that Zesty Gourmand is a very narrow minded pony. I'm sure you saw that she didn't even give this place a fair chance at all."

"I did," said Rarity, "An honest accident shouldn't be the reason The Tasty Treat goes unrated. She didn't even give the place a fair chance. If she had least tasted the food and rejected it...but she didn't... I honestly agree with you now. It's like fashion. You can make a really fabulous couture with high artistic merit, but if it's uncomfortable to wear...it really isn't that valuable. Just like comfort is just as important to design in fashion, taste and flavor also are just as important as visual presentation for fine cuisine. Can you forgive me?" Mario just smiled.

"I already have," said Mario as he pulled her into a hug and kissed her fore-head, "I just hate that I still let the harsh words of these...stuck up snobs tear me down. Sigh...letting go of the past is so hard..."

"We understand," said Pinkie, "those wounds run deep, but that doesn't mean you won't get past them."

"The day will come when their harsh words won't affect you even in the slightest," said Rarity, "And you don't need to feel rushed to recover either. Remember, Mario, we're gonna help you no matter how long it takes. Because we love you."

"I love you guys too," said Mario as they shared a group hug, "but it still doesn't change the fact we've failed."

"Yeah...it doesn't," said Pinkie sadly. Coriander, who had just been listening, gave a calm sigh.

"The worst has happened," said Coriander, "No use crying over split food now." It was then Saffron appeared with a cheerful look on her face.

"Here," said Saffron gently, "This always cheered me up when I was younger." For the first time since arriving at the Tasty Treat, Coriander has an excitedly smile on his face.

"My spicy flat-noodle soup!" He exclaimed as the four ponies took a taste.

"Fantastico," said Mario, "A great blend of flavors with just the right about of kick to it."

"Oh, my! This is truly delightful!" said Rarity.

"Mmm, this is the best thing you've made so far!" said Pinkie, "And I thought the food before was the best!"

"That's all I've ever wanted to do, father!" said Saffron, "Make food for the ponies at Canterlot like the food we made together when I was younger!"

"It has been so long since we cooked together," said Coriander with a nostalgic smile on his face, "Heh. Remember how you use to hide the ingredients you did not like?" Coriander and Saffron laughed. Mario, Rarity, and Pinkie shared looks with each other.

"Twinsie, are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Rarity asked.

"Umm...not sure since we haven't been seeing eye to eye today," said Mario honestly.

"How about I speak your thoughts aloud than," said Rarity, "You know what? Who cares what some stuffy unicorn thinks of the food here? It's exquisite."

"That's true," said Pinkie.

"That...is exactly what I was thinking," said Mario, feeling more cheerful as he and Rarity shared another hug.

"And you don't need three silly hooves in your window to prove it," said Rarity.

"That's double true," said Pinkie.

"You took the words right out of my mouth Twinsie," Mario added in agreement.

"You just need ponies in here to give it a chance!" said Rarity, "Ponies that will tell everypony else in Canterlot that The Tasty Treat has the best food in the city!"

"That's true times three!" said Pinkie.

"I can honestly say that I am loving this new plan," said Mario.

"But without Zesty's approval, nopony will even try our food!" Saffron protested.

"Ohhh, yes, they will," said Rarity with a determined look on her face, "Pinkie, Mario, we are the perfect tem for this! We were just doing the wrong jobs! And by we, I mean Pinkie and myself."

"Huh?" said Mario puzzled.

"I will go out and bring the crowd!" said Rarity and then turned to Pinkie, "You stay here and make sure this place is every bit as unique and rustic as it was the moment we walked in!"

"And? What about us?" Coriander asked curiously.

"You two?" said Rarity, "You are going to cook! Make whatever you want, and make lots of it! Mario will be here to assist you with any refinements if necessary."

"Now hold on a-" Mario tried to protested.

"Mario, I know the last time we worked separately I made a terrible mistake," said Rarity, "But I honestly do believe you helping Coriander and Saffron perfect their recipes is where you're meant to be. Pinkie and I can handle the rest." Mario pondered.

"We would like your professional opinion, your majesty," said Coriander, "I apologize for my earlier remark. I had already given up. That is why I said your opinion wouldn't have mattered. I know of your culinary expertise and would like to see if you can help me, help us, refine our recipes." Mario blinked and then smiled.

"Very well, Coriander," said Mario, "but from this point forward, I would rather you address me as either Chef or Chef Mario." Mario then made a curtain appeared from above. When it disappeared, he was now wearing a light blue iron chef shirt and hat, "The Iron Chef had returned!"

"Thank goodness!" said a voice. The group faced the front door. There was Moon Dancer and the rest of the Canterlot group.

"What...what are you girls doing here?" said Mario.

"Moon Dancer filled us in on what happened," said Twinkleshine.

"And you're right, just because a restaurant isn't rated doesn't mean that it's not worth giving a try," said Minuette.

"So we've come to help out," said Lemon Hearts, "If you want our help..." Mario's reply was pulling the four girls into a group hug.

"Okay, so here's the plan, everypony," said Mario as the others gathered around them, "Twinkleshine, you were the one who encouraged me to enter culinary school. You can help me perfect their family recipes."

"Yes, chef!" said Twinkleshine.

"Lemon Hearts, you've got some influence with your party planning at the castle," said Mario, "You can help Rarity bring in a crowd."

"Yes, chef!" Lemon Hearts saluted.

"Minuette and Moon Dancer can help Pinkie restore the decor," said Mario.

"Yes, chef!" said Minuette and Moon Dancer, the former giggling excitedly. Then Mario extended a fore-hoof to the center of the group, the others did the same.

"Alright everypony!" said Mario, "Let's do this!"

"Yeah!" they all cheered as they threw a fore-leg into the air.

"Then let's get to it everypony," said Rarity as Lemon Hearts stood beside her, "We intend to bring in a crowd!"

As an instrumental to "It's Gonna Work" played in the background, Rarity grabbed four arrow advertisements and placed one pair on her back while Lemon Hearts put on the second pair.

"Would the owner of one of the premier boutiques in Canterlot put a stamp of approval on something that wasn't fabulous?" said Rarity as some of the ponies at the restaurants actually got up and followed them.

"Would the head cater and planner of social events at the Castle put her stamp of approval anything that wasn't worthy of royalty?" Lemon Hearts said, trying to be as charming as Rarity. Even more ponies started to follow them. Rarity and Lemon Hearts smirked to each other and shared a hoof-bump with each other. Back at The Tasty Treat, Pinkie, Minuette, and Moon Dancer were hard at work removing the stuffy decor items Rarity had put out. Pinkie had also gotten back the working crew so they could bring back the original items. Then the three ponies, with help from the working crew, started reassembling the original decor while adding a few more authentic improvements as well. Pinkie then hung up a picture of an elephant and smiled in approval.

Back in the kitchen, Coriander and Saffron were busy working together in the kitchen. Twinkleshine and Mario were there to taste and sample while giving their constructive opinions while asking the two ponies what kind of flavor they wanted to present to their customer. The two ponies then tasted another soup. Coriander or Saffron would explain their ideas. Mario and Twinkleshine pondered before Mario got an idea and grabbed a little shaker that had a spice in it and added it to the soup. Coriander then tasted the soup with the additional ingredient. A small tear appeared in his left eye as he smiled excitedly. Saffron then took a taste and smiled in approval.

"Perfect!" he exclaimed as the four ponies shared a hoof-bump together.

Soon the decor was completed and restored as Rarity, Pinkie, and Mario smiled at they looked around the area.

"Great job girls," said Mario to the Canterlot group, "I can't thank you enough for all the help."

"Anytime," said Moon Dancer, "We're always here for you."

"And we won't let peer pressure stop us from doing so either," said Minuette. Mario and the four girls shared a group hug before he walked up to Rarity.

"It's almost time!" said Rarity, "Is everypony ready for the grand re-re-opening?" Everypony nodded except for Coriander and Saffron. But that was because they had something to say.

"Before we open, my father and I just wanted to say...thank you for all of your help," said Saffron, "We've both been so stressed about the restaurant succeeding that we forgot what it was we loved about it in the first place."

"Cooking is something we used to love to do together," added Coriander with a smile, "No matter what happens next, thank you for reminding us of that." Coriander then gave his daughter a loving nuzzle.

"Oh, you guys!" said Pinkie, "Group hug!" Pinkie, Rarity, Coriander, and Saffron group hugged as Pinkie and Coriander chuckled.

"Ready..." said Pinkie as they pulled away and jumped to the side.

"...Yeah!" said Mario as he mirrored the pink pony, shared a high-hoof.

"Show time!" they shouted and then did a pose on their hind legs. The Canterlot group cheered.

"Now come on!" said Pinkie, "We've got a party to throw!" Mario nodded as he opened the door and the ponies waiting inside started piling in.

"Welcome to The Tasty Treat!" said Coriander in a very cheerful and enthusiastic tone with Saffron at his side, "Make yourself comfortable." Mario then told the Canterlot group to grab themselves a seat and that he'd cover their meal for the night. (And they quickly turned him down...for paying for their meal that is.) It wasn't long before The Tasty Treat was full of hungry and excited ponies. Mario, still in his Iron chef uniform, and Coriander began serving the customers. Rarity then tied a napkin around a stallion's neck so he would be ready for his own meal. As the smell of the food cooking and simmering began to stream from the building, a certain snooty food critic pony was walking past.

"Please feel free to sample the food!" said Saffron as she handed some soup for them to try. The Canterlot group was already enjoying their meal.

"This is the best thing I've ever tasted!" Minuette said excitedly.

"Yeah!" said Twinkleshine in agreement.

"Totally!" added Lemon Hearts.

"Thanks for recommending the place, Mario!" said Moon Dancer, "I know for sure I'll be coming back here again." Mario smiled gratefully. It was then he heard a whistle. Mario turned to the direction the whistle came from and gasped excitedly. There was Night Light and Twilight Velvet, sitting at a nearby booth. The latter waved to get his attention.

"Mother, Father," said Mario to his in laws, "I didn't know Rarity told you about this place."

"Actually, it was Moon Dancer who told us about what you and your friends were trying to do," said Twilight Velvet, "As an adventurer at heart, there was just no way I was gonna pass up a place like this, especially if it means I can cheer on my son-in-law." Mario smiled as he put a fore-hoof to his heart. Just then the front door banged open and there was Zesty Gourmand and she looked very angry.

"What's this?!" Zesty Gourmand said furiously, "What is everypony doing here?! This place has no hooves. It is not keeping with the level of cuisine that I have set for Canterlot! Nopony told you this place was acceptable!" Mario glared. Twilight Velvet and Night Light did as well. Just then Mario's blinked and a flashback was shown of his old diner!

"What's this?!" Zesty Gourmand said furiously as she stomped into the diner, "What is everypony doing here?! This place has no hooves. It is not keeping with the level of cuisine that I have set for Canterlot! Nopony told you this place was acceptable!" Teenage Mario was in the verge of tears as Teenage Spitfire growled at her.

Back in the present, Mario was looking very determined.

You destroyed my restaurant years ago, Zesty, Mario thought to himself, You're not going to destroy The Tasty Treat!

"Uh, Rarity, Prince Mario, Lemon Hearts, and their friends said it was good?" said Sweet Biscuit timidly, "They told us!"

"They told you?" Zesty Gourmand retorted, "And who are they to tell you anything? Rarity can tell you what hat to wear with which skirts. Lemon Hearts can tell you about the latest social gatherings with Princess Celestia. Rarity's friend can tell you how to maintain a tragic look for a fizzy mane. The others aren't even worth acknowledging! Prince Mario...HA!...his word has no value in anything, especially when it comes to fine cuisine. Why else do you think I save all those misguided ponies when he tried to enter Restaurant Row with that pathetic Pegasus friend and miserable excuse for a restaurant of his all those years ago! The only reason he graduated with honors at the Canterlot culinary institute is because Celestia told them to! At the end of the day, they can't tell you what food you can eat!" By now, Rarity, Pinkie, Mario, the Canterlot group, and even Twilight Velvet and Night Light were furious. It was a moment later Rarity, Pinkie, and Mario all stood before the food critic pony with stern looking faces.

"No, we can't," said Rarity, "and neither can you! Nopony has the right to tell these ponies what to think! You have no right to condemn a restaurant before even trying to rate it properly. Or at least actually taste the food."

"If a restaurant isn't worth my time..." Zesty tried to reply.

"If a restaurant wasn't worth your time," Mario interrupted angrily, "then you shouldn't even care if ponies are dining here or not. You're not trying to save them from what you think is bad cuisine! You're just trying to drive away that restaurant's business simply because they made a conscious choice to make their cuisine and decor that is different from what you want. You only give ratings to restaurants who want to do things your way, not because you think others would enjoy eating there!"

"Mario's right," said Rarity, "Zesty, you have very...specific..."

"And very strange!" said Pinkie.

"Yes, and very strange opinions about food," Rarity continued, "and that's your right. But just because you like your food a certain way, there is no reason to tell ponies that they need to do the same!"

"Rarity is right, so is Prince Mario," said a pony named Burly Unicorn, "I for one think the food here is delicious! I own The Smoked Oat on Restaurant Row; I hate the food we make! From now on, it's all smoked, basted, and grilled!"

"The food is an inspiration!" said Matronly Pony, "I own the The Bake Stop. I'm going to bake my mother's bunt cake the way she made it - full of flavor!" The other ponies cheered excitedly in agreement.

"It is one thing to be raised around dining, Zesty Gourmand," said Mario, "Even I can make a claim to that. Princess Celestia took make all over Equestria when I was a foal, showing me the culture and cuisine that existed all over the country. Clearly my culinary opinions differ from yours, but I don't go telling others whose opinions are different from my own that their culinary point of views are wrong. True food critics are open minded to different types of cuisine and they rate restaurants on how well those flavor combinations are executed. While decor and presentation are also important, a true food critic rates in the same manner. Unlike your critiques, they aren't supposed to be biased to our own personal opinions! You can't just walk in here like you did this evening and openly condemn a restaurant when you haven't even made any effort to follow your own critique standards and guidelines!" The other ponies started murmuring in agreement as Zesty bit her lower lip and avoid losing her temper.

"At the end of the day, any food critic with any standards can only express and share their personal opinions and recommendations to other ponies," Mario added firmly, "but you've crossed the line thinking you have the right to boss and bully ponies into making the same culinary choices as you! No food critic can force others ponies to agree with their opinions. No matter how much influence or expertise they claim to have! Nor do you have any business telling ponies how to cook and prepare their cuisine. And most importantly, you have no right to drive any pony who disagrees with you out of business!" Zesty Gourmand face contorted angrily as the rest of the ponies in the restaurant cheered and applauded him.

"That's telling her Mario!" Twilight Velvet shouted.

"Yeah!" Pinkie added excitedly.

"Mario's right," said another restaurant owner, "You don't have any right in telling us how to run our restaurants. You're only meant to rate the quality of our food and decor!"

"And you have no right telling us where to eat!" said Lemon Hearts, "I can't tell you how many restaurants that I enjoyed dining in were forced to close up because you had to march in and destroy everything they had worked so hard to build!"

"Yeah!" said another pony, "Mario's diner was one of Restaurant's Rows busiest restaurants until you told everypony not to go there!"

"Many of us were inspired by him to open restaurants in Restaurant Row," said a rather snooty looking restaurant owner, "The only thing we regret is listening to you over him!" The rest of the ponies all chattered in agreement.

"We've had our differences with Mario over the years," said a familiar snooty stallion. Mario turned and there at a table was Jet Set and Upper Crust!

"We even we can admit that when it comes to cuisine, Mario is a genius in his own right," said Upper Crust in her snooty demeanor, "His culinary opinions have far more value that yours ever will Zesty Gourmand!" Mario felt a warm smile appear on his face and tears pricking his eyes. Two of his greatest bullies had actually swallowed their pride and defended him! He wouldn't say they accepted him, but the fact they praised his culinary skills was a step in the right direction. Zesty just snorted indignantly.

"Zesty, are you sure you wouldn't like to try the food?" said Rarity, "Ignoring a unique and fresh establishment such as this could do serious damage to your social standing."

"Maybe it's time you opened your mind and your palette to something new?" Mario suggested, "Try actually rating a restaurant based on what you've tasted rather than just judging a book by its cover?"

"Hmph!" was all Zesty Gourmand could say before she stomped out of the restaurant importantly. The ponies all stared and then cheered. Rarity and Pinkie shared a hoof-bump with each other and then Mario got in between them as the three shared a hearty group hug together.

"That was amazing, big brother," said Pinkie.

"You stood up to that Zesty and told her exactly what she needed to hear," said Rarity, "I don't think your culinary opinions are going to be considered worthless anymore."

"That's my son-in-law!" said Twilight Velvet as she rushed in to give Mario a warm hug, "Way to show Zesty whose boss!" The rest of the Canterlot mares gave him hugs as well.

"Thank you so much!" said Saffron as she and her father approached Rarity, Pinkie, and Mario. Twilight Velvet, Night Light, and the Canterlot group just stood in the background with smiles on their faces.

"You three are all truly amazing," said Coriander, "To express our gratitude for your help, I believe these belong to you!" Coriander then reached into his shirt pocket...

...and showed them three Flower Sprites!

The Flowers Sprites hovered above in the air. Pinkie, Rarity, and Mario smiled as they jumped up to collect them.

(Cue "You got a Flower Sprite" fanfare)

Each Flower Sprite floated down before each pony, then that pony grabbed it, twirled on their hind legs and held it above their heads.

"Fabulous!" Pinkie, Rarity, and Mario shouted together as the Flower Sprites then entered Mario's body for safe keeping. It was then their cutie marks started to glow, showing that another friendship mission had been completed.

"Nothing can stop the dynamic trio of Pinkie, Rarity, and the greatest chef and best friend of Equestria, Mario!" said Pinkie. Mario chuckled as the three held each other in another hug. The rest of the ponies just chattered happily around him.

A few weeks later, Mario, Rarity, and Pinkie were take a break together at Sugarcube Corner when Diamond Tiara came bursting in.

"Master!" she called out excitedly as she rushed up to their table.

"What's up Di?" Mario asked as the tiara-wearing filly reached into her saddle bags and pulled out today's newspaper.

"You're on the front page!" said Diamond Tiara excitedly. Mario was rather surprised as he looked at the front page. It wasn't Mario in person, but rather a newly made statue of himself wearing his iron chef attire. Sitting in the heart of Restaurant Row.

"Prince Mario: the new leader of fine cuisine!" said Rarity aloud as she used her magic to put on her reading glasses, "Ever since ponies experienced the marvelous cuisine offered at the Tasty Treat, a whole new renovation of Canterlot Cuisine has occurred. Restaurants are now unique with their decor and their food is not only visually appealing but also full of flavor! Tourists from all over Equestria are coming to sample the newest trends and flavors found at Restaurant Row! Canterlot has truly become one of Equestria's greatest locations for ponies seeking the finest cuisine! Equestria now has a new "King of Cuisine" and that is Prince Mario Star!"

"And that's not all," said Pinkie as she snatched the newspaper to continue reading, "Zesty Gourmand, now the "former" Queen of Cuisine, has expressed her distaste for the changes to Restaurant Row, even revoking all her three hoof ratings. But ponies can agree that Zesty Gourmand's opinions and ratings regarding fine cuisine are dull, bland, and most importantly, outdated. Mario Star's new "M" rating system had become far superior and judges a restaurant according to the quality and presentation of a restaurant's individual decor, cuisine, and the execution of their culinary point of view. Restaurant owners agree the new rating system is not only fair, but also constructive, allowing owners with less than three Ms room for improvement and to expand on their culinary expertise. And ponies no longer feel pressured to eat at restaurants with three Ms over others with one or two Ms. No matter where you dine, the cuisine on Restaurant Row is MMM-MMM delicious!" Mario, Rarity, and Diamond Tiara listened with warm smiles on their faces.

"What do think of that, Mario?" said Pinkie, "You're the new "King of Cuisine"!"

"Take a bow master," said Diamond Tiara, "Even before we were friends, I knew your cooking was something special." Mario just chuckled and gave a loud sigh.

"I'm honored and all," said Mario, "but all I did was change a few minds is all."

"No, Mario," said Rarity, "you did more than that. You reminded ponies, including myself, that you don't have to fit in to be accepted and that ponies will like you just for being you."

"And that ponies can make their own decisions about where to eat," said Pinkie.

"Very true," said Mario, "I'm glad I could make a difference."

"Master, if I might ask," said Diamond Tiara, "have you ever considered reopening your diner again? You could open it here in Ponyville?" Rarity and Pinkie chattered in agreement.

"No, no, no," said Mario, "I'm busy enough at it is and Spitfire is Captain of the Wonderbolts. Besides, I don't need my own restaurant anyway."

"You don't?" Diamond Tiara, Rarity, and Pinkie said in surprise.

"Nope," said Mario as he pulled them all in for a hug, "I've got my family and friends that I can cook for. That is all I need to feel like an iron chef." The others hummed in agreement.

After all, the best cuisine doesn't come from the perfect recipe or the best ingredients.

It comes from cooking with your heart and soul. And most importantly, especially in Mario's case,...

...a little love.

I hope you enjoyed a chapter that was filled with surprises. The Two Big Surprises were basically the following: The first surprise was that Shenran can now be summoned for Cutie Map missions from here on out! While he wasn't part of this mission, he'll have at least one Cutie Map mission in the future. The second surprise was the launch and creation of the SS Harmony. The Mane Nine's personal airship. And it is a parody to the Odyssey from Super Mario Odyssey. But you all probably figured that out when Pinkie did her little montage parody.

There were also some smaller surprises as well, such as the fact Mario graduated from culinary school, The Canterlot group made a return as well as Twilight's parents and even two of Mario's old bullies, Jet Set and Upper Crust, were willing to offer their support to Mario when he stood up to Zesty Gourmand.

Hope you all enjoyed my alternate ending, after all, the original ending gave fans nothing if Restaurant Row did change and if Zesty Gourmand got her just desserts. The only thing Season 9 has shown us is that the Tasty Treat is still going strong.

Next time: Rainbow introduces Shenran to two celebrities. The first being Daring Do. The second being a "ponified" Patton Oswalt.

Peace Pony Fans!