Bickell's Blog
September 5, 2008

"But myself I can't deceive - I know it's only make believe" Conway Twitty

Editor's Note: For background on the Wine Spectator Award and Osteria L'Intrepido story, please see these links--as background is necessary for context on Bickell's piece.
Original blog post and story from Robin Goldstein
Consumers in Charge: Shaming Brands with Social Media

In a rather amazing coincidence, I inadvertently got involved with the recent Wine Spectator Award fiasco. On a recent trip to Milan, I had a memorable dinner at the infamous Osteria L'Intrepido. I suppose that it's now somewhat academic, but I highly recommend the Uovo in raviolo con ricotta, spinach, e tartufo bianco. The wine list was impressive, and I clearly remember the sommelier bragging about their recent Award of Excellence. I found out later (about $250.00 later) that I had dined in a restaurant that didn't exist.

It was particularly upsetting, because I had checked out the very positive reviews on the Chowhound web site, I have always made it a point to study those invaluable public reviews to make absolutely sure of enjoying a positive restaurant experience. If you dine out often enough, you are probably going to visit a restaurant that's not really there, at least once in a while. It's no big deal as long as the food and service are as good as advertised.

While this entire episode was embarrassing to the Wine Spectator, I have always wondered why the folks at the Five Diamond Awards never seem to be embarrassed. Maybe it's because they always seem to get it right.

I know this sounds ridiculous, but if the restaurant was actually there, I would definitely go back.

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