How does Eater rank restaurants?

Eater employs a unique and thoughtful approach to ranking restaurants, emphasizing not just the quality of food, but also the overall dining experience, cultural context, and relevancy within the culinary landscape. The restaurant rankings can vary by city, as Eater maintains localized guides that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of dining options available in each area. In assessing restaurants, Eater's editorial team considers several factors, including food quality, innovation, service, ambiance, and value for money. They take into consideration both established favorites and rising stars in the culinary scene. The rankings might also reflect broader trends in the food industry, such as shifts towards sustainability or particular cuisines that are gaining popularity. Eater places a high value on the expertise of its writers and editors, who are often deeply familiar with the local food scene. They conduct visits and tastings, engaging with chefs and restaurant staff to gather insights that go beyond just the food. Additionally, feedback from diners plays a role, as the team seeks to understand how well the restaurant resonates with the public. It is important to mention that the rankings are dynamic and can change frequently, as Eater updates them to stay current with new openings, closures, and shifts in quality. To see the latest restaurant rankings and methodologies, individuals can refer to the specific Eater city guides available on the current website. This ensures that diners have access to up-to-date information that reflects the evolving culinary landscape in their locale.