If you are like me, you like to look at restaurant reviews to find new places to eat. Yet, when I read these reviews, I am left wondering if these writers had to go to Restaurant Review School in order to get a job with the paper. While they are undoubtedly good writers, versed in the use of adjectives to make their writing flowery, what does it all mean?

Take this section of a “recent” review: “Flying fish roe added undesirable pops to a delicate beurre blanc sauce that accompanied perfectly seared scallops ($28), parsnip purée and fennel slaw. A dry rub of togarashi, a Japanese seven-spice chili seasoning, obliterated its mild ahi tuna ($27) companion served with udon noodles, vegetables and seaweed salad. “ Beautiful writing, but couldn’t they just have said: “The sea scallops were excellent, you should try them (unless you don’t like fish eggs). I wouldn’t recommend the sushi because the sauce is overpowering.” At least you wouldn’t be exhausted when you were done reading.

The other issue with this level of detail is that menus change. When a review is done once every three years, even if you love roe, the dish will probably be different in 2010 than it is now (even if it’s Cheesecake Factory).

Finally, I always wonder how these people go and order 25 menu items and know exactly what the chef is doing in the kitchen, without the establishment knowing a review is being done. I’m not saying they are being dishonest or anything of the sort. It just seems like their experience might be a little different than yours or mine.

So, how does ASK SLC operate?

• We take a common person’s approach to a dining review. Minimal fluff about couscous.
• We look for the total experience. Service is just as important as food.
• We review a restaurant often and update ASK SLC frequently.
• We are tough but fair. Just because a restaurant is supposed to be great (Christophers), we give you our own impressions (Not so great).
• We look around and talk to people. What are people enjoying?
• Establishments don’t know we are doing reviews. We don’t get special treatment. We always pay for our meals.
• If you want us to try something, let us know. We’ll be happy to review it soon.

Above all, we hope ASK SLC makes your dining experiences better. An evening out is a terrible thing to waste.