Abalone are known as the "Fu Fish" in China, where the animal's nutritional content and flavor are valued at such a high rate that for most, one serving of abalone costs two years' salary of pay. The appreciation that people have for it the world over is well-known, a fact which is reflected in consistently high prices pretty much anywhere you go.
As one of the world's most expensive types of food, abalone belongs to a very select group of culinary treats. Sharing the spotlight with abalone are things like truffles, caviar, kippers, and fine fresh imported Maine Lobster, but few things (with the exception of course, of the imported Maine Lobster), represent as much of a thrill in trying for the first time for something new as the abalone.