Menuism Featured Reviewer: dhnoho
Menuism reviewers are truly awesome! Whether they found an unexpected tasty gem of a restaurant or took it for the team after having a terrible meal, we truly applaud all their efforts in giving us the scoop on where we should be spending our hard-earned money on. On that note, I’d love to introduce you to those reviewers who we feel really contribute quality content to the site as well as quality information to fellow Menuism’ers. Our Featured Reviewer today is Donna, better known as dhnoho. So let’s learn more about Donna from North Hollywood, CA.
1. How did you find out about Menuism?
I stumbled upon Menuism.com while googling a restaurant last year. Since I have been an avid reader of Yelp and Chowhound reviews, thought I’d check Menuism as well. Then I learned more about it through a friend and I now only post reviews on Menuism. I do hope this site will transcend worldwide.
2. What about Menuism first appealed to you?
As a reviewer, it is so easy to navigate as I am the most technically inept individual in this techy-kingdom era. I like the individual dish application and the ability to post pictures. As a reader, I also like the individual dish reviews and the price options as that will determine my budget sphere.
3. What restaurant did you write your first review about?
I believe it was Ahi Sushi in Studio City, CA. This is one of my personal favorite spots. I take comfort in knowing that the food will be done well, the staff and the owners, Jimmy and Brenda are very friendly and warm. I have only introduced Ahi to my friends and family members who truly appreciate food. I am hesitant to host any tasting events Ahi with strangers for the primary reason that some don’t know how to behave and I would be truly embarrassed.
4. What is your food philosophy?
My culinary heritage is Indonesian, Dutch, Chinese and East Texan. I have been so fortunate to have been exposed to these type of cuisines and have travelled and lived in different countries and sampled their fares. I also feel blessed that food is not just for sustenance for me and that I live in an area where ‘food ethnicities’ are diverse (Los Angeles). Our culture revolves around food, it brings people together, and I truly get excited when I am introduced to a new dish. I secretly try to decipher the ingredients and identify the spices and attempt to replicate it at home.
5. What are your favorite restaurants?
Well Ahi Sushi in Studio City as I mentioned above, Pizzaiolo in Oakland, La Cave and Le Jade in Cannes-France. I’m sure there’s plenty more, but can’t think of others right now.
6. What are your favorite cuisines?
All types but if it had to be just one, it would be across the board-Asian. Other choices are French, Italian and Southern Homestyle.
7. What are your favorite comfort foods?
Used to be both my mother and my grandmother(s) cooking, but since the grandmamas have passed, my mother and my aunty cook amazing dishes. There really is nothing comparable to a good home-cooked meal.
8. What is the best meal you ever ate and why?
My best meals are when I am surrounded by families and friends and of course home-cooked meals are the best. Even if we are at the worst restaurant with the worst ‘everything,’ the people I am breaking bread with will help me withstand the most dreadful experience – only for that moment though. That’s why we have Menuism.com to caution unsuspecting diners.
9. Do you have any favorite cookbooks (if any)?
My families’ collective recipes. I would like to find all of our ancestors’ cookbooks and one day incorporate them into one cooking “bible.” My cooking philosophy is; recipes are mere formulas or guidelines, but it’s up to us to experiment and design it to our tastes.
10. What words of encouragement would you give to first time Menuism reviewers?
Don’t be scared to write. At first I was hesitant since I am not a true food writer/blogger. I know what I like and don’t like and what you review is to your own proclivity. I personally rate the restaurants on if I will return or not. Don’t get discouraged either by “big words” that most food bloggers use. Just write how you would tell others of your experiences. Bon Apetit and “RATE WHAT YOU ATE!”
If you’d like to be able to keep up with Donna’s reviews, click here to check out her profile!
If there is a Menuism reviewer who has really helped you make great dining choices and you’d like to see him or her be a Featured Reviewer, than be sure to message me or send me an email at abby@menuism.com.
By Abby C. Abanes
Menuism Community Manager
