Seattle users and budding critics can now weigh in and test their own reviewing skills.
Before the Internet and the subsequent unleashing of online review sites, the Holy Bible of city guides was the famed Zagat Guide. Founded in the late 1970s by New Yorkers who lamented the narrow scope of newspaper restaurant critics, the guides are now published in more than 100 countries, providing concise, detailed reviews of restaurants, shopping and other attractions.
For those unfamiliar with Zagat’s process, think of it as the more-refined, original Yelp!, or, as a spokesperson described: “democratic, yet curated.” User comments are employed in the review process, but editors synopsize them into concise descriptions which capture the essence of an establishment.
Now, after more than 30 years, Zagat is expanding its influence by inviting the world to share its opinions on added categories. Seattle users can now weigh in on five categories—Restaurants, Attractions, Food Shops, Nightlife, Shopping—which will be compiled by the Zagat editorial staff, and released as essentially a definitive guide to the Emerald City.
“Zagat has covered Seattle restaurants and hotels since the ‘90s,” says Tiffany Herklots, spokesperson for Zagat. “So we’re looking to make an extra push in Seattle this year to get avid Seattle diners and consumers to give their opinions.”
Additionally, two contests are running in conjunction with the Seattle survey, offering a chance for budding critics to test their own reviewing skills. After voting at the Seattle Zagat site, go here and sign up for a contest to win four tickets to the Capitol Hill Block Party. For the second contest, one winner will receive a night on the town and $200 towards their favorite Zagat rated restaurant. Act fast on the second one as it ends May 10th! Entries for the Block Party tickets will be accepted until June 8th, and winners for both will be chosen based on one criteria: the quality of written reviews.
