What really is the purpose of a restaurant review? 

What really is the purpose of a restaurant review? 

A few…maybe more than a few…years ago, Cheryl Young, a writer and friend of mine was going to a lunch at a new restaurant called Aperi. As it was a “ladies lunch” and as I wasn’t invited, I asked if she would write about it on my blog; she agreed. A few days ago,...
Bhaji. As good as ever. 13 years later.

Bhaji. As good as ever. 13 years later.

I still fondly remember Bhaji’s first home in San Miguel, a classy and cosy little spot hidden behind heavy velvet curtains on Calle Correo. I loved going there, especially with a group of good friends. Indian cuisine is like that. Better when shared. Best when...
A server makes a dinner very special. At Serrano 82. 

A server makes a dinner very special. At Serrano 82. 

A great restaurant is a combination of many things. First of course, for almost everyone, is the food. Second in importance for me is value, what I get for the price that I pay. Third comes service, being treated efficiently, gracefully and respectfully. And then...
Chef Pablo. Proud. Passionate. Polished.

Chef Pablo. Proud. Passionate. Polished.

Back in December 2021, I said to Don Day’s Wife, “A pizza parlor with no pasta and no delivery. Not a snowball’s chance in hell it’ll survive. I give it one year, absolute max!” The place I was talking about was called Bennu. They recently celebrated their third...
We like it. At Sakura.

We like it. At Sakura.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen him pick up an empty plate from a table without saying the words. “Did you like it?”  He, of course, almost always, gets a positive response and, almost always, he beams. The guy I’m talking about is Gerardo. A guy we call Gerry. Not...