Meet The Washington Post’s New Food Critic: Reviving Star Ratings and Embracing Transparency!

Elazar Sontag is the new food critic for the Washington Post. He recently took over from Tom Sietsema, who held the role for over 25 years. In his first month, Sontag is shaking things up. Notably, he’s choosing to forgo anonymity and has announced he’ll revive the star rating system that was paused during the pandemic.

When asked about his familiarity with D.C. dining before moving, Sontag admitted he only had a basic understanding. His previous role at Bon Appétit involved trying new restaurants, but he hadn’t explored enough to truly know the city’s food scene.

His first impressions of D.C. restaurants? He finds them more accessible than in New York. Here, it’s easier to become a regular at spots without the intense competition that often characterizes New York dining. He appreciates the variety of dining options around the city.

Sontag’s primary focus will be D.C., despite his national background. He plans to incorporate broader dining trends into his reviews, seeking to connect local dining with what’s happening across the country.

His first review is due soon, as he’s spent the last month tasting and learning about the city’s food landscape.

The return of the star rating has stirred conversation. Many dining critics have moved away from stars, but Sontag believes they serve a purpose. He wants readers to quickly understand his view of a restaurant. He emphasizes that one star isn’t bad; it means a restaurant is decent but maybe not exceptional.

Sontag also wants to clarify his star system. While many see one star as a “participation trophy,” he insists it reflects restaurants worth visiting. He won’t review poorly performing places, but if a high-profile restaurant disappoints, it won’t earn stars.

Acknowledging his decision to remain a public critic, Sontag believes readers benefit from a visible critic who shares his journey. He’s excited to engage with the community on social media.

At 27, he’s quite young for this role but feels prepared. He’s aware of busy dining patterns and the importance of rest. Tom Sietsema advised him to find balance outside of restaurant reviews, emphasizing that cooking at home can enrich his work.

This role includes previous accessible forums for discussion, which Sontag is keen to revive due to their popularity.

As for his food preferences, he enjoys a diverse range of cuisines. He’s developed a love for Lao food and enjoys visiting local spots multiple times to really explore their offerings.

Sontag is ready to dive into the D.C. dining scene with a fresh perspective. For more on D.C. restaurants and updates, check out the Washington Post’s food section here.

As he continues to explore and critique, Sontag is poised to make a significant impact in the culinary world. Keep an eye on his journey!

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