No Reservations

Sent this to Michael Ruhlman after he ripped on Columbus during Anthony Bourdain's show last night.



Dear Michael,

After watching your appearance on No Reservations last night I have to let you know how uninformed you are about the wide variety of restaurants that are available in Columbus.

Columbus is not the "Land of Applebees" but a growing field of independent chefs who are using locally sourced foods to create spectacular dining. From Alana's to Latitude 41 to dessert at Jeni's Ice Cream - this city's dining establishments are earning the respect of many publications, including Gourmet Magazine, Food and Wine and the New York Times.

Where have you been? When you looked around at Kihachi, what were you looking for? A group of people eating McDonald's take out? For whatever reasons, I expected better from you.

Columbus is right down the road from where you live. Have you ever spend any length of time here experiencing the culinary culture? I know you have been invited by several people to come and eat here. Please take advantage of their generous invitations and you will change you mind about what Columbus has to offer.

Sincerely,

Me

Edited 9:45 AM

Michael Ruhlman just send me an apologetic email. Said he did not know how the show was edited and that he hates malls around interstates, and that is probably what he was referring to. Also said he has not spent enough time in Columbus to form an opinion and that he meant no offense.

I respect that.

That felt much better than spouting off and doing nothing about it. Problem. Reasonable complaint. Positive response. Group hug.