Stars didn't align, so restaurant ratings system adjusted
Share with others:
A savvy reader recently pointed out that my star ratings don't entirely match up with their descriptions. She was right, and it's high time they were tweaked.
The following descriptions aren't really a change in how I rate restaurants, but rather a useful realignment between the descriptions and the ratings. I hope that these new versions will make reviews more transparent for restaurants and diners alike.
Keep in mind, price is taken into consideration for all reviews, particularly where high prices are not matched by high quality. Overall star ratings are an average of food, service and ambience, and diners should weigh each based on their particular needs.
Food:
Zero stars -- Unsatisfactory
Food that is poorly executed and unpalatable.
One star -- Satisfactory
Food that is palatable and prepared as described, but lacks interest; or food that is particularly uneven, with some promising dishes undermined by more disappointing ones.
Two stars -- Recommended
Good quality food, carefully prepared, but not particularly creative. Representative of its genre.
Three stars -- Excellent
High-quality ingredients treated with care and skill; offerings showcase a distinctive culinary viewpoint.
Four stars -- Outstanding
Highly creative and skillful cooking. Memorable food that distinguishes itself in terms of flavor, appearance and quality.
Atmosphere:
Zero stars -- Unsatisfactory
Space does not meet the basic needs of diners eating on the premises.
One star -- Satisfactory
Accommodations for dining on the premises, but without more than basic attention to style or comfort.
Two stars -- Recommended
Some effort is made to ensure a comfortable dining experience and a space that matches the style of food.
Three stars -- Excellent
A very comfortable dining experience is offered, in a space that complements and enhances the style of food.
Four stars -- Outstanding
A noteworthy space, remarkable in its own right. All elements of atmosphere have been considered, from flatware to music to staff uniforms.
Service:
Zero stars -- Unsatisfactory
Servers fail to perform basic tasks, even upon request.
One star -- Satisfactory
Basic table service; tables are cleaned appropriately, water and utensils are provided, and diners typically have to request basic items such as a spoon for soup, more water, or the check.
Two stars -- Recommended
Servers perform basic tasks efficiently and cordially, and ensure a smooth dining experience.
Three stars -- Excellent
Servers make diners feel welcome and well cared for, and adapt service to the needs of each particular table.
Four stars -- Outstanding
Servers anticipate guests needs and demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill, both in regard to service standards and the food and drink offered at the restaurant.
First Published January 26, 2012 12:00 am
