Ruth Reich writes Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise, chronicling her six years as a famous food critic. After a stint in L.A., Reichl is delighted to return to her New York roots and even to some of the same places she frequented as a child. To go to eateries undetected, over time, she develops six different disguises that take on their own personalities and personal histories. Using these costumes, Reichl is able to go to restaurants incognito. Her very believable masquerades become her best weapon against getting favored treatment in the finest restaurants of New York City and allow her to see the genuine quality of the service and food.
00:10 Happy Halloween—a day to celebrate tricks and treats
00:25 Intro to book, Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise by Ruth Reichl
00:35 Reichl uses disguises while a celebrated New York Times restaurant critic
00:45 She eventually leaves the Times to become editor of Gourmet, a long-standing magazine
01:00 Reichl’s six disguises transform her into different people with unique backstories
01:45 “Molly” disguise – conservative, Midwestern woman
02:00 “Miriam” disguise – Reichl’s mother personified
02:20 “Betty” disguise – frumpy, old lady ill-treated by New York restaurateurs
03:00 Book includes actual restaurant reviews, showcasing her exquisite writing
03:20 Small “taste” of her review of Daniel, a famous 4-star New York City restaurant
04:20 Mouth-watering critiques are an amalgamation of at least five visits
04:45 Reichl includes husband and son Nicky in her visits to restaurants
05:05 Takes Nicky on the prowl to discover the best potatoes in the world
05:40 Book includes recipes, including simple ones, such as one for hash browns
06:25 Recommendation: Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering by Joanna Gaines
BUY Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise
BUY Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering
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