[Happy Gourmand]

Originally Posted by camp guy

I have a question...what criteria do YOU use in determining your favorite restaurant?

Personally, my first impression with respect to cleanliness makes a big impact on me, and this includes walking up to the entrance door, the coat room area, and restrooms. Nothing, absolutely nothing, turns me off more quickly than having to navigate through a group of smokers standing outside a restaurant. This is a real deal breaker for me.

Secondly, a pleasant greeter who seems to be glad we are there, followed by an equally pleasant server who makes us feel comfortable.

After these two, any number of issues can come into play - atmosphere, noise level, waiting times. etc.

So, what does it for you, or, doesn't do it for you?

A great meal usually works for me. I can overlook a lot of other stuff if the actual meal meets or beats expectations.