Why I have sworn off Google restaurant reviews for good

Why I have sworn off Google restaurant reviews for good



As a journalist, I am sharing my perspective on the pitfalls of relying too heavily on online restaurant reviews. I have experienced the frustration of friends endlessly searching for the perfect highly rated spot, only to miss out on potentially great experiences due to skewed reviews.

Critics tend to be extreme in their reviews, either expressing total adoration or utter disdain. One-star reviews are often longer and more passionate than five-star reviews, leading to a lack of balanced perspectives. This is evident in recipe reviews as well, where most recipes are rated around four stars, making it difficult to distinguish between truly exceptional and average dishes.

Agreeing with restaurant reviews is rare, as everyone’s tastes and preferences are unique. Reviews can easily turn into a platform for unwarranted negativity or biased opinions, potentially harming businesses unfairly. A single bad review can deter future customers and damage a restaurant’s reputation, particularly if it is based on non-food-related factors.

Reading restaurant reviews can also spoil the dining experience, akin to skipping to the last page of a book. Embracing the uncertainty and exploring new dining establishments without preconceived notions can lead to unexpected and delightful culinary discoveries. Ultimately, taste is subjective, and reviews are merely opinions, not absolute truths.

I encourage readers to trust their instincts and curiosity when choosing where to dine, rather than solely relying on online reviews. By venturing into a restaurant without preconceived judgments, you may find hidden gems that become new favorite spots. Let go of the need for validation from online reviews and embrace the adventure of discovering new culinary experiences firsthand.

Article Source
https://nz.news.yahoo.com/never-read-another-google-restaurant-212300838.html