The Times has appointed Tejal Rao and Ligaya Mishan as its new co-chief restaurant critics, marking a historic first for the publication. This is not only notable for being a dual appointment but also for the transparency of the critics’ identities. Both critics will write full-length, starred reviews across the country, extending their reach beyond just New York City. Tejal, based in Los Angeles, and Ligaya, in Manhattan, discuss their excitement and concerns about the role, emphasizing the personal learning experiences it brings.
Tejal: It's exactly that: dreamy and daunting. I have a running list of all the things I'm worried about, and my therapist is on vacation this week I'll save it for her!
Ligaya: What I've always loved most in writing about restaurants is how much I learn. It's an entry point not only to a particular cuisine, but to a part of New York and, now, of America I might not otherwise have a chance to know.
As for worries: I want to do justice to every place I visit, and I hope I will. It doesn't matter that I've been a writer for years - the blank page is always slightly terrifying.
I'll try to keep in mind what the head of my daughter's school once told me: I don't worry. I do the work.
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