Poll on Food Critics

The CJ used to have a strong wall between advertising and critical reporting. I have no real reason to doubt that they still do; you rarely see a negative review there, but I believe that's based more on Marty's positive nature than editorial intervention.

At the CJ? Editorial intervention? Say it ain't so! (Not related to Marty's page, but that other one, of course.)

[Robin Garr]

At the CJ? Editorial intervention? Say it ain't so! (Not related to Marty's page, but that other one, of course.)

I do wonder about the long-term environmental impact on the region from the constant subsonic hum caused by both Barry Bingham Sr. and Barry Jr. spinning in their graves.

While there are those times I find myself in personal disagreement with Mr. Garr, I believe he is a capable journalist and has made a reasonable attempt to keep a level playing field when reviewing local establishments.

Thanks Robin. Not to self serve, but I am the one that insisted that the rack go right back in the restaurant the minute we bought it back.

I don't read this for the political insight, though it is frequently posted. I have relied on "The Critic" for many years to guide me to the best restaurants in Louisville. The proof to me is "in the pudding". I like his recommendations and our food language is pretty well calibrated. So, my answer to the poll is, yes, I trust his reviews.

Having been on the advertising sales side of the biz for many many years for more than one publication I would like to weigh in on this matter. Payment of food critics differs from publication to publication. Some publications pick up the critics' dining tab, others don't even do that. Some are kept on retainer, others are free lance and paid by the piece. But I have not worked at any publication where the advertising sales staff was even allowed to confer with a reviewer. Talking with them was frowned upon. Granted, not diligently enforced but not accepted either. So I guess the short answer to your question is yes, I do trust a restaurant critics review to be unbiased . I may not always share the same taste in food but , at least here in Louisville, I know the critics are not receiving any kickbacks. (as much as I can "know")