Food Critic Tom Sietsema Steps Down and Reveals His Identity
During a recent dinner, I found myself discreetly capturing images of the food on our table, a habitual part of my process when reviewing restaurants. A friend, observing my actions, posed an insightful question: “Do you ever take pictures of the people you’re eating with?”
Food Photography: A Crucial Part of the Review Process
In the world of restaurant reviews, photographing dishes has become almost second nature. With smartphones now an extension of our bodies, I’ve amassed a collection of thousands of food images, each telling part of a story about the dishes presented.
The Unseen Reality of Restaurant Reviews
While countless dishes have made it into my gallery, capturing the faces of those I dine with remains a rarity. Typically, personal snapshots occur only during memorable milestones or special occasions, when the focus shifts from the food to the people around the table.
A Subtle Dance of Observing and Reviewing
The main reason for this selective documentation is the desire for anonymity. Highlighting the purpose of my visit—work—often draws unnecessary attention. Remaining inconspicuous ensures that the dining experience is authentic and unaffected.
In the end, it’s about balancing the need to document and the need to preserve the natural dining atmosphere.
