Why write a bad review?

Frank Bruni wrote an interesting blog entry today about why he bothers writing a "bad" review rather than just ignoring the less-than-stellar places and moving on to the good stuff.

An interesting little view into the mind of a professional reviewer.

Best,
Michael

Thanks for the link. I'll read that soon. I do want to note that here in Chicago both Time Out and The Reader don't spare any punches (SethZ, tell us what you really think about Logan Sq BBQ ), and of course no one's feeding us any Del Toro or Fred Grobster here on LTHForum. On the other hand, Phil Vettel is pretty notorious for not having bad reviews.

Now, yesterday, I had lunch at a taqueria that I thought would be good, based on sinage. I started taking pictures, but by the end of lunch, I was deleting what was on the camera and hurrying home (having stashed a bit of taco de cabeza in a napkin to not hurt feelings). I'm not gonna write about this place. Not every bad review needs to be written. Essentially, if it's a place that may get someone else's business, a review should be written.

Vital Information wrote:I'm not gonna write about this place. Not every bad review needs to be written.

Rob,

I disagree, LTHers are spread out all over the area, go into pretty much every little taqueria around, in fact we currently have the LTHFoum Taqueria Project running, which is all about listing places, good and bad.

You could save a fellow LTHers a couple of bucks and a bad meal by taking the time to write 75-words about the place.

Gary

Disclaimer time....I usually don't stick my face in these discussions because I consider myself a "learning contributor" to this forum......and I still feel weird using their real names....end of disclaimer.

I agree with BOTH VI and G Wiv on this issue but have to tilt my cap more towards G Wiv. While the place may not have provided you with a pleasant experience, it might have been an off night or a change in management. Documenting your experience helps others tremendously.

The insights each individual offers on an establishment differ greatly. I'm one of the folks who finds White Fence Farm utterly repulsive but others disagree. VI, you are the one I blame for my La Quebrada obsession. I *highly* value your opinion on places to eat and want to hear BOTH the good and bad.

There.....I've firmly planted myself into a debate. Here's hoping I don't get my @ss kicked!