Sample interview questions: How do you handle situations where a restaurant’s wine or beverage recommendations are poor?
Sample answer:
Handling Poor Wine and Beverage Recommendations as a Food Critic
When a restaurant’s wine or beverage recommendations fall short of expectations, a food critic must navigate the situation with professionalism and integrity. Here are some strategies:
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Stay Calm and Polite: Maintain a composed demeanor, even if the recommendations are unsatisfactory. Avoid being confrontational or dismisive.
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Inquire Discreetly: Ask the sommelier or server for their rationale behind the choices. This will provide insights into their knowledge and understanding.
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Provide Specific Feedback: Clearly explain why the recommendations were not to your liking. Be specific about the flavor profile, body, or pairing that didn’t meet expectations.
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Suggest Alternatives: If possible, offer alternative wine or beverage selections that you believe would be more suitable for the meal or occasion. This shows your expertise and willingness to work together.
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Address the Issue in the Review: While it’s not always necessary to mention sp… Read full answer