Hey Lance, what a nice post you made. It puts into words what so many here feel. At just over six months myself, I'm somewhere between sharing your feelings and those that Dee posted (much closer to you). I feel vulnerable when I walk into social situations without that warm feeling already started from priming up.
Dee pointed out that social skills are learned.....as a middle aged guy I'm learning how to interact completely sober. I've depended on alcohol to some degree for 30 years. I'm getting better at it and you will too. In fact, I'm beginning to find it exhilarating and empowering to get out of my comfort zone.
Having said that, I feel that there are a few social things that are just not in the picture for me anymore and that's ok. But Lance, I bet that you'll get to the point that fine dining ambiance will be as enjoyable as ever again, maybe even more so.
Thanks again for your post....I'll be out of town next weekend for business and will think about this thread.