You're right. We like the simple point and shoots. But there's about a million all too close to being the same and only a few dollars off. CNET is no help either.
Sklywag: Try this... Shoot in "M" or Manual Mode. Then adjust your WB to "Cloudy" then change the iso to 100 then Aperture to 8.0. That will give you a good start.
The Necessity of Heatproof Mats in Protecting Cookhouse Surfaces