This Is TASTE 616: Meet Your New New York Times Restaurant Critic, Ligaya Mishan
Jul 1, 2025
Ligaya Mishan, co-chief restaurant critic at The New York Times, shares her journey from the Hungry City column to stepping into a prestigious role. She discusses the vital balance between personal taste and cultural context in reviews, as well as navigating the unique dynamics of NYC's dining scene. The conversation touches on the importance of thorough research, the emotional connections to food, and how the pandemic has transformed eating out. Ligaya also shares favorite running spots and the joy of culinary pleasures, making food critiques feel personal and relatable.
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One Star Ratings Matter
- Ligaya Mishan believes a one-star rating is respectable and meaningful in restaurant reviews.
- She aims to restore the value of a one-star rating in the New York restaurant scene.
Off-the-Clock Dining Spots
- Mishan often dines at characterful New York spots like Thai Diner and Golden Diner off the clock.
- She uses places like ABCV to reset with something light and fresh when needed.
New York and National Food Coverage
- Mishan and Tejal Rao share duties to provide a comprehensive picture of eating across cities.
- Their joint work is designed to reflect the diversity and stories behind restaurants nationwide.