Closer Tables, Please

I am a big fan of S. Irene Virbila. I enjoy her writing and have confidence in her criticism. Unlike most restaurant reviewers, she seems much more in touch with trends in the world of wine.

However, two recent reviews of the New York restaurants Danube (June 22) and ‘ino (July 6) bothered me. Manhattan restaurants are not on the itinerary of the typical Southern Californian. It is difficult enough for local restaurants to get themselves reviewed.

I would have been happier had the reviews appeared in the Sunday travel section. Then it would be clear that readers wanting to explore New York City could enjoy a fine meal at Danube or ‘ino. And it would not deprive a local restaurant of hard-to-get press.

BERNARD ROTH

Santa Barbara

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