What kind of training do food critics receive?

Receiving your high school diploma or GED and earning a degree in a field such as creative writing, journalism or communications can increase your chances of getting a job as a food critic. You can also attend a culinary arts school to expand your knowledge of food and its diverse preparation styles.

Food critics specialize

in visiting food establishments and rating their dining experience, including the food, ambience and service. You can also hone your writing skills by reading the work of other food critics to learn about their style.

Some people in this field begin their careers in the restaurant business or as journalists before becoming food critics. It's more common for food critics to work as freelancers, meaning that they sell their articles to websites, blogs, and magazines on a contract basis. Since food criticism is a competitive career, you'll likely need to complete a degree in English or journalism to develop a high-quality level of writing. They consider elements such as the quality of the food, the way it is presented, the service of the restaurant and the atmosphere.

Master Class reports that food critics must also maintain objectivity, meaning that they should not partner directly with specific food vendors or restaurants. This is to minimize the chance that restaurant owners will recognize food critics and give them special treatment. Excellent communication skills are one of the most essential assets for a food critic, as their work focuses on interacting with restaurant staff, including hostesses, waiters and managers. Food critics should pay close attention to details to ensure that they remember every aspect of their dining experience and report accurately on them later on.

They also frequently comment on service staff, such as whether waiters rush diners to eat. Later, present ideas for articles about food in your city's local magazine or newspaper, or in publications about food online. Food critics try to capture the gastronomic experience and relate it to readers, spectators or listeners. While food critics certainly enjoy good food at establishments with white tablecloths, they can also find themselves eating at family-owned restaurants and even balancing their food while standing in front of a food truck.

Familiarize yourself with the main food critics and dive into the food industry to gain important experience. On the other hand, food critics on radio and television must be able to transmit their gastronomic experiences through their spoken words.