zagat

The City of Brotherly Love is also the city with the most-tipping love. Based on Zagat's newly released Philadelphia survey, the city's residents leave a generous 19.6 percent tip on average, compared to the countrywide average of 19 percent. Diners in New York — long considered the most expensive place to live in the US — only tip equal to the countrywide average, while those in Los Angeles tip below average at 18.4 percent.

Do Philadelphians really possess more love for their fellow citymen? Or is it because of Philadelphia's large number of BYO restaurants? I'm most surprised by the fact that New Yorkers tip such a meager amount. When I lived in Manhattan more than five years ago, it was considered standard to tip 20 percent due to the high cost of living there, and the fact that so many New Yorkers make a living in the service industry. Do these numbers surprise you? Are they in line with what you would normally tip, given decent service?

Source

I'm sure you've all seen the little burgundy stickers on restaurant doors, boasting businesses as Zagat rated. Tim and Nina Zagat founded the company in 1979, which got its start as a two-page typed list based on New York restaurant reviews from friends. It has broadened its critiquing wings to cover everything from Indian food to Thai massages, and they're sold worldwide in multiple languages. Can you guess how much this homegrown empire is worth? To find out just read more

I'm sure you're all familiar with Zagat ratings and reviews for restaurants, bars, hotels and attractions. Now that well-known consumer guide is teaming up with WellPoint to survey the world of doctors.

Beginning in January 2008, a new online survey tool will be launched where members of some of WellPoint's Blue Cross and Blue Shied plans will be able to rate, evaluate, and share their medical experiences with fellow members. They'll use the same 30-point scale Zagat approach that is used when reviewing restaurants. Instead of discussing food, atmosphere, prices, and service, patients will rate doctors on trust, communication, availability and environment. Patients will also be able to leave comments for a more personalized and specific review.

A doctor's rating won't be posted until ten members have reviewed him or her. Also, WellPoint and Zagat will carefully monitor the site for inappropriate allegations about a doctor, and members will also be able to report any suspicious comments.

I think this will be a great resource for people since good doctors can be so hard to find. I mean if you went online and read a patient review that said, "even though an appointment with Dr. Shanard can take weeks, it's well worth the wait," wouldn't you want to know?

Source

Summertime means summer fairs and fairs mean lots of eating! From the garlic festival in California to the blueberry festival in Maine, there's something for everyone to enjoy this summer. If you're looking for one in your area, be sure to check out this great list of summer food fests. - Zagat via Serious Eats

Yesterday the results to the Zagat/Today Show Fast-Food Survey were announced. The survey, which was taken by 5,535 people (really? that's all???), declared Wendy's, Panera Bread Company and Outback Steakhouse as their top fast-food destinations. Forty-five fast-food chains were scrutinized and then rated on their food, facilities and service - healthy options were also taken into consideration. In addition to scoring each restaurant, the survey also determined the best burger, fries, etc. So who won best burger and which fast-food place has the best fries? To find out the answers, read more