If you like it, you try not to think about the cost too much. Am I aware that it's an expensive experience? Yeah. Rent, decor, seating, and service definitely contributes to the overall cost in addition to food. I'm not trying to be a snob, I'm just saying that it's what I like.
If I was a normie who wanted an ego boost from being "seen" I'd go to where celebrity-spotting normies go -- in London, those would be Zuma, Nobu, Duck and Waffle, Chiltern Firehouse, the Wolseley etc. And there's nothing wrong with the cooking and service at these places, I've been to all of these and they're great, but they feel far too crowded and lively for someone who is chronically lonely. I prefer restaurants where the ambience is as quiet and empty as possible. And I do get treated very nicely, so perhaps you're right, it is an ego boost, but it has nothing to do with whether someone else "sees" me.