Elizabeth B. (Cattriona) - reviewed on 4/25/2011 + 200 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

This was an interesting account of the author's experiences as Restaurant Reviewer for the New York Times. She often went to restaurants in disguise -- complete with wig, wardrobe, heavy makeup and a character back story -- so that she could see how an "ordinary" customer would be treated. The writing is skillful and there is a good deal of literary "food porn" as she describes the various meals and dishes she's tried. She includes the formal review for the restaurant she's dishing about along with her own reflections and story. Instead of photos, the author includes her favorite recipes. Ms. Reichl is not a snobby foodie -- she eats everything from street food and jelly donuts to the most expensive restaurants in NYC, and she appears to remain very openminded toward just about anything, including inexpensive places and exotic ethnic cuisines. I've never read a book like this, but Ms. Reichl is currently a judge on Top Chef Masters, so I tried it out and have really enjoyed it. Highly recommended.

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