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RICHARD HOLLIS's avatar

The Observer announced a new permanent restaurant critic who has no serious credentials as a food writer!

Andy Lynes's avatar

None of the national critics have any credentials as food writers. Tanya Gold has been a restaurant critic before, for The Spectator.

RICHARD HOLLIS's avatar

Fair enough; I only read Tanya’s columns in the Guardian

Andy Lynes's avatar

Two years! Congratulations. I'll be very interested in your plans for a print mag. As part of the forthcoming Brighton's Best brand renewal, the designer did a mock up of a stack of Brighton's Best Restaurants magazines and it made me think, I'd really like to make that a reality. The pic will be on the BBR Instagram on Friday if you are interested.

Andy Lynes's avatar

I spoke In haste. Sitwell of course edited Waitrose Food Illustrated for years before became the Telegraph's critic. He can't write for toffee though so maybe that's irrelevant. Also Tom Parker Bowles has written various food books, some of which may predate his position as the Mail's critic, I'm not sure.

Meg Houghton-Gilmour's avatar

Thanks Andy! I will certainly be interested

Fiona Beckett's avatar

Congratulations Meg. What you've achieved is quite a feat and well done you for paying your contributors

Meg Houghton-Gilmour's avatar

Always grateful for your support Fiona!

Simon Gardner's avatar

Certainly agree with observations regarding Substack. I have recently purchased the Vittles ‘influencer’ magazine (not read it yet), but cost over £20 with delivery. Very interested in all local food writing and there is some good stuff in all the free magazines although I am yet to find a copy of the 2026 B24/7 restaurant guide. I don’t always enjoy reading your content, but I’ll keep paying for it as it is relevant.