I love "best of restaurant lists." It helps me to plan a dining destination. And tourism marketers should know how important it is to the travel experience. I know that dining is expensive, and having written for Eater, Indy Monthly, Edible Indy and others, I know how consequential it is for a restaurant that employs several dozen people and the farms to be recognized, even for the city's pride, it helps. I also welcome reading food journalism by someone who has eaten well -- and can describe a life-altering dish. And food -- in its best moment -- can change a person. Hands down, the same way a movie scene, an aria, a stroke of a paintbrush, or a dancer in a musical can be inspirational. I want something other than counter service; I can go to a fast food joint or drive-through. That is fine too, but I want to make a reservation, be seated, and have an evening involving all my senses because it's far less expensive than hiring a caterer and a host person to set my table every night. While phone apps put out "best of...", it's difficult for newer restaurants to find that groove. Also, an app's "best-of..." focuses more on the popularity?than the execution. My favorite experience is a well-thought-out menu with delicious pairings and excellent service. I will travel for that experience, and I am looking for other food writers to help me select a destination. I don't need an event to head to a city for a great meal; I will likely support that eatery when the crowds disperse. I can talk about the buttery sauce and the delicate twirls of citrus with my friends and family, which they can also experience if they choose. Priceless. I look forward to visiting Cincinnati, Ohio's Wildweed and Vecino in Detroit when I see friends. Thanks, Jeff Gordinier, for this story. #food #foodwriting #freelancewriter #Midwest
Honored to bring you the 2024 iteration of Esquire magazine's Best New Restaurants in America, with great spots in Ohio and Colorado and Minnesota and Texas and Maine and Illinois and South Carolina and Georgia and Florida and Rhode Island and (yes) New York and California. Much gratitude to team members Amethyst G., Omar Mamoon & Joshua David Stein —?as well as the tireless Madison Vain —?for bringing this together. (You'll also find it in print in the new issue of Esquire with Denzel Washington on the cover.) Please let us know what you think.
