Not letting sleeping dogs lie

To rehash an old argument, if a blogger had got a top chef to cook for them for the sole purpose of writing a review on a restaurant that isn't yet in existence, it would have caused a right hoo-ha. There is no way any of us could replicate this meal as it is a one off specifically requested by Giles so he could write a review.  It also reignites the hoary issue of the anonymity of reviewers. 

Nonetheless, it did suitably whet my appetite for my imminent dinner at La Tainte Claire so I guess everyone wins: Giles for getting the master's attention and what sounds like a fantastic meal, the restaurant for the PR and the diner for being on tenterhooks. 

It reminds me that yes reviewers on national papers are in a priveleged position and no they may not experience the same meal as us.  But it doesn't make their copy worthless or any less interesting.

Comments

[youngandfoodish]

The reader seeking expert guidance (should I go?) and informed advice (when to go? where to sit? what to order?) loses.

[Anthony Silverbrow]

But I think the first bit about should I go is answered, the answer based on Giles' review is yes. Ditto what you should order. The other bits though obviously can't be answered.

[Krista]

Oh boy, but if that's not fantastic PR, I don't know what is. Ah, but still...service is a big part of any meal and service for four is a lot different than service for a lot more than four...

[Anthony Silverbrow]

Krista, you're right about service but lots of people are going to go to that restaurant to taste Koffmann's food, service (and the food) would have to be diabolical for them to snap out of their reverie. There will however be an equally large number who go for the whole experience and might be disappointed with food and or service. But I agree, brilliant PR.